If you have been involved in a minor car accident in Clearwater, FL, you might be confused about what actions to take. 

Suppose that another car collides with the back of your vehicle. Following the accident, there appears to be no major damage. You and the other driver both feel just fine.

Do you really need to file an accident report? Should you call a car accident lawyer? Can you just go about your day?

Below, we will discuss the reasons that you should hire an attorney after a minor traffic accident. 

Reporting the Accident

You should never simply drive away after an accident. This is even true for minor collisions.

Some states, including Florida, require certain kinds of car accidents to be reported. If you fail to report some accidents, you may violate the law.

It is also important to get a traffic accident report if you plan to pursue a claim for damages. 

It can be very difficult to remember the details of your crash after you have left the scene. Reporting the accident will ensure that there is a record of the collision. Even if you do not think you will file a claim, you may change your mind at a later date.

Possible Injuries

Some drivers think that they do not need a lawyer if they are not injured after their crash. But some injuries do not show signs or symptoms until much later.

For instance, back injuries may not start to hurt or bother you until days after the collision. That’s why you should get a medical assessment immediately following any type of traffic collision.

If a hidden injury shows up, a skilled personal injury attorney can help. You may be able to file a claim for any medical costs or ongoing expenses.

Failing to report an accident or call an attorney will result in missed financial compensation.

Other Steps to Take After a Minor Car Accident

While it is important to report the collision and seek attention for any possible injuries, you should take additional steps following a minor traffic collision. 

After a traffic accident:

Do Not Admit Fault

You should never say or do anything to imply that you were at fault for a collision. Even if you believe that you caused an accident, you might be wrong.

Statements of liability will be used against you in any car accident claim that you make. While you’re at the scene of the crash, keep your conversations polite and brief. If you provide a recorded statement or a statement to the police, avoid making statements about who is to blame.

Provide factual information and do not speculate about legal liability.

Collect Evidence

Take photos and gather evidence about the circumstances surrounding the crash. The more time that passes, the harder it will be to gather information about the incident.

Collect the following types of information:

  • Photos of resulting injuries
  • Photos of vehicular damage
  • Names and contact information of other drivers
  • Names and contact information of witnesses
  • Names and badge numbers of police officers on the scene
  • Detailed notes about your own experience
  • Weather conditions
  • Other factors that contributed to the accident

These are only a few examples. A knowledgeable attorney will use any evidence that you collect to build a strong legal case for you.

Do Not Speak with Insurance Companies

You should not speak with an insurance provider’s representative without the advice of a legal professional. Insurance companies are not working in the best interests of car accident victims.

This is even true in minor accidents. When you hire a skilled personal injury attorney, they will speak to the insurance adjusters on your behalf.

This will ensure that you have the best chance of recovering all of the damages that you are owed. Even in the case of a minor car accident, it is a good idea to call a lawyer.

Contact the Clearwater Car Accident Law Firm of Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today

For more information, please contact the legal team of Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers for a free initial consultation with a car accident lawyer in Clearwater. We have four convenient locations in Florida: Clearwater, New Port Richey, and Tampa.

We serve throughout Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Pasco County, and its surrounding areas:

Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater Office
1811 N. Belcher Road, Suite I-1
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 787-2500

Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Congress Ave Office
2360 Congress Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33763
(727) 591-5610

Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Tampa Office
6601 Memorial Hwy Suite 202
Tampa, FL 33615
(813) 686-7588

Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – New Port Richey Office
2515 Seven Springs Blvd.
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
(727) 815-8442