Every year, an estimated 200,000 car crashes occur in the state of Florida alone, an average of 500 per day. After an auto accident, it’s important to remain calm, pull away from traffic, contact the proper police department to file a report, take photos, and collect any other information, such as independent witnesses names and numbers, that will be helpful should you need it in the future.

The next step is to receive medical care. Oftentimes, symptoms from a car accident are not evident for days or even weeks or months afterward. An evaluation to ensure you do not have undiagnosed injuries may be in order.

Finally, assuming you’re injured, the final step is evaluating your claims worth. Without an attorney, the other party’s insurance company may want to settle with you quickly to pay as little as possible before your injuries are fully known. Your personal injury attorney can help ensure you follow the proper steps to maximize your compensation for physical injury and emotional distress.