Injured in a T-Bone Accident? Here’s What to Do Next

T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, can be devastating, leading to severe injuries and significant damage. If you’ve been involved in a T-bone accident in Florida, it’s crucial to take the right steps to protect your health, rights, and potential for compensation. At Feingold & Posner, P.A., we understand the turmoil and confusion that follow such an accident. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do next.

Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

• Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to a safe location to prevent further collisions. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
• Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. Common T-bone accident injuries include whiplash, fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and internal injuries.
• Call Emergency Services: Dial 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. Prompt medical evaluation is essential for diagnosing injuries that may not be immediately apparent, such as internal injuries or concussions.

Document the Accident Scene

• Photograph the Scene: Use your smartphone to take pictures of the vehicles involved, their positions, the damage, and any visible injuries. Capture the surrounding area, including traffic signs, road conditions, and any skid marks.
• Collect Witness Information: If there are witnesses, gather their contact information and ask for their account of the accident. Witness statements can be valuable evidence in establishing fault.
• Note Details: Write down the time, date, location, and weather conditions. These details can help reconstruct the accident later.

Exchange Information

• Driver’s Information: Obtain the other driver’s name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance details.
• Vehicle Information: Note the make, model, license plate number, and color of the other vehicle.

File a Police Report

• Speak with Officers: When the police arrive, provide an accurate account of what happened without admitting fault. Stick to the facts as you know them, and be truthful.
• Request a Copy: Obtain the police report number and request a copy for your records. This report will be crucial when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.

Notify Your Insurance Company

• Provide Facts: Give your insurance company a factual account of the accident and provide the police report number. Avoid speculation or admitting fault.
• Understand Your Coverage: Ask about your coverage and benefits, such as medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and lost wages.

Keep Records of Your Medical Treatment

• Medical Records: Keep copies of all medical records, including doctor’s notes, prescriptions, and treatment plans.
• Expense Records: Track all medical expenses, including hospital bills, therapy costs, and any out-of-pocket expenses.

Avoid Speaking About the Accident

• Insurance Adjusters: Be careful when speaking with insurance adjusters. Their goal is to minimize the payout, so avoid giving recorded statements without consulting your lawyer. Refer them to your attorney if you are unsure how to respond.
• Social Media: Do not post about the accident or your injuries on social media. It’s best to keep details private until your case is resolved.

Consult with an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer

• Free Consultation: At Feingold & Posner, P.A., we offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and evaluate your legal options.
• Legal Representation: Our experienced attorneys can handle all communication with insurance companies, gather evidence, and build a strong case to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Understand Florida’s Modified Comparative Negligence Law

• Comparative Fault: Florida follows the “modified” comparative negligence standard. Your damages will be reduced in proportion to your share of the fault. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages.
• Legal Strategy: Our attorneys develop a robust legal strategy tailored to your case, focusing on gathering compelling evidence to establish the other party’s fault. We will work to minimize any fault attributed to you, ensuring your compensation is not unjustly reduced.

Focus on Your Recovery

• Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to your doctor’s recommendations and complete your treatment plan.
• Support Network: Lean on friends and family for emotional support during your recovery. Recovery from a side-impact accident can be physically and emotionally challenging, and having a support system can make a significant difference.

Contact Feingold & Posner, P.A. Today For a Free Consultation

Being involved in a T-bone accident is traumatic, but knowing the right steps can significantly impact your recovery and ability to secure fair compensation. At Feingold & Posner, P.A., we assist accident victims in navigating the legal process and achieving the best possible outcome. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, reach out to us for a free consultation. We are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

Stay safe, and remember, you don’t have to face this alone. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.