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4 Simple Steps to Handling a Car Accident

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As a driver in Florida, you should be aware of the procedures and protocols when it comes to getting into a road accident. Whether you’re a permanent resident, or you’re due to take a trip to the sunshine state in the coming months, it is best to be prepared and well-informed if you’re thinking of driving in a new place. There will always be a worry with regards to surging DUI cases, dangerous drivers and careless vehicle owners, but if you are well-prepared you will be able to handle any situation while out and about on the roads in Florida. Here are four simple steps to familiarize yourself with if you are due to hit the roads in Florida soon.

1. Reporting an accident

If you’re involved in an accident in Florida, you’re required by law to stop at the scene. The incident must then be reported to the local police force or sheriff if the damage exceeds five hundred dollars. If there are injuries, you are also required to stay on the scene. You may be wondering, what is considered a catastrophic injury, which is a valid question if you need to hire a lawyer after a vehicle incident. Looking into all of the varying avenues will help you to gain peace of mind and stay well informed when on the roads in Florida.

2. Contact details and proof of the incident

Florida protocols also encourage that all drivers at the scene of an incident exchange contact details such as names, addresses and vehicle registrations. Although this is not required by law, it can help speed up the process with regards to claiming damages on your insurance. You may also want to take photos of the damage to all of the vehicles involved so that they can be used as evidence to submit to your insurance company.

3. Insurance in Florida

When you plan on getting behind the wheel in Florida, it’s important to make sure you have the relevant insurance documents for driving in the state. Having proof of your insurance which is easily accessible in your vehicle is the most important thing, and the minimum cover for personal injury protection and property damage liability is ten thousand dollars. Florida doesn't place blame on drivers when it comes to an accident, so each person’s insurance company will be responsible for paying for their own expenses.

4. Statute of Limitations

If you are unlucky enough to be injured or your vehicle is damaged due to the negligence of another party, you are able to file a lawsuit as long as it is actioned within two years of the date it occurred. On the other hand, if your injuries are due to a government incident such as a subway, bus or taxi ride, this must be reported within ninety days of the incident.

Hopefully, these steps will help you to stay safe on the roads in Florida so that you can have peace of mind behind the wheel as a resident or visitor of the state.

What is the Statute of Limitations for reporting an accident in Florida? How much coverage do I have to carry on my car insurance in Florida? What do I need to do if I get into a car accident? Tips for handling a car accident, Transportation, Insurance

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