Lakeland is a city in Florida that is close to two major metropoles, Orlando and Tampa, in the state. The city’s ideal location thus makes it a prime neighborhood for people who prefer living in a small neighborhood but still have access to significant sites. Since Lakeland is not too far from the metros and fun attractions like Walt Disney World in Orlando, the majority of the residents drive to get in and out of the city. Given that driving is the dominant mode of transportation in Lakeland, car accidents may sometimes happen when on the road. Getting into a car accident is frightening, especially if it’s your first time. However, protecting your rights and interests is essential and should be the top thing in your mind. Below, you will find some of the steps that you should take if you get into a car accident. From taking pictures of the scene to calling a car accident attorney in Lakeland, there are essential things that you must do to protect yourself.
First and foremost, do not panic. Panicking may cause you to make impulsive decisions or do things that will eliminate significant evidence or something similar. If an accident happens, stop driving, and as much as possible, try to stay as calm as you can and proceed to the critical matters.
2. Call the police
Regardless of the gravity of the accident, make sure to contact the police to file an official report. The police report will serve as an important record, which you may need to receive compensation from your insurance company. Also, try to preserve the scene by not moving anything, unless they are disrupting the road, so the police can inspect accurately.
3. Take pictures
Using your phone or any device with a camera to take photos of the scene, including your car and other visible areas or things. If you got any injuries from the accident, make sure to take pictures of that as well. These photos will serve as evidence of the scene of the accident, which will help with your claim. If there is property damage, make sure to capture the position and location of the cars as accurately as you can.
4. Call your attorney
Since every car accident case is different, it is essential to contact your attorney to help you investigate the matter. Having a car accident attorney in Lakeland will help you protect your rights, get proper and fair compensation, and the like. Many times, insurance companies try to give the lowest compensation possible, so you need to make sure you receive legal advice before talking to them.
5. Report to insurance company
Contact your insurance company and notify them about the accident. Ask about the extent of your coverage, and if you have injuries from the accident, ask if you have medical coverage. Make sure to ask about your medical benefits because this is part of what you pay in your policy and should thus be used if needed. The specific process may differ based on your insurance provider, but generally, you will need to submit your medical bills from the accident.
Conclusion
Statistics show that many car accidents happen along I-4, where Lakeland, Orlando, and Tampa are all connected. Thus, staying focused while driving is so essential to prevent getting injured or getting into an accident in the first place. If an accident happens, however, then you must be knowledgeable about the steps that you can take to protect yourself and your rights.
