Would You Know What To Do?

Suppose you were in an automobile accident or injured as the result of a slip or fall. Would you know what to do? Whom to talk to and what to say? Let’s hope it never happens to you; but should you find yourself the victim of an accident, there are some important things you should know – and do – to protect your rights.

Slip and Fall Accidents

■ Immediately determine what caused you to fall and report the accident to management and/or security. If your do not know what caused you to fall, chances are your will not be able to pursue a claim.

■ Ask for a copy of the accident report (if they refuse, make a note of who took the report). Do not sign an accident report unless they agree to provide you with a copy.

■ You will need to document your injuries, so ask management to call EMS.

■ Once you have left the premises, do not speak to anyone before you consult an attorney, and do not allow your conversation to be tape-recorded.

■ Keep your shoes and clothing as evidence.

■ Offer the establishment, or anyone who calls you later on, the name and telephone number of your attorney.

■ Contact our office as soon as possible. The call is free, and there are no out-of-pocket expenses, if you choose to have us represent you.

■ If needed, a doctor will be recommended who will treat you and bill your insurance company or wait to get paid at the conclusion of the case.

Auto Accidents

■ Immediately call 911 to report the accident and any injuries.

■ Do not exchange information and leave the scene without a police officer filing an official report, under any circumstances.  Under Florida law, if a person is injured in a collision, or if there is significant property damage, the police must be called to investigate the accident. Even if the police do not come, it is essential that you obtain the name, address, insurance company and policy number of each person involved in the accident. You should also get the name and address of the owners of the vehicles in the accident and the tag numbers of all the vehicles in the accident.

■ Remain on the scene until a police officer arrives.

■ Stay calm, cooperate fully and tell the officer what happened.

■ If you are injured, or think you may be, request medical attention. The officer will most likely summon an ambulance, even for minor injuries, so do not be alarmed.

■ Contact your insurance company within 24 hours to report the accident.

■ Cooperate fully with your insurance adjuster, who may want to record your conversation, but remember – they must inform you they are recording your conversation and you have the right to have your attorney present when a recorded statement is given. Do not give a statement to the other party’s insurance adjuster under any circumstances, until you have consulted with your attorney.

■ If needed, a doctor will be recommended who will treat you and bill your insurance company or wait to get paid at the conclusion of the case.

Do you have the right coverage? Robert Gluck is pleased to offer a confidential, no-cost review of your insurance polices, to ensure that no matter what happens, you are fully covered.

Call today for a free consultation or visit our Website at www.robertgluck.com for valuable information.

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.


 

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