Imagine you’re driving down the streets of Plantation, Florida, when an unexpected collision occurs. As you pull over to assess the situation, you’re relieved to find no visible damage to either vehicle. Both you and the other driver appear unharmed, and it’s tempting to simply exchange contact information and continue with your day. However, this seemingly minor incident requires more attention than you might think.

Even in accidents where damage isn’t immediately apparent, there are important steps you should take to protect yourself. These situations can have hidden consequences that may only surface days or weeks later. Let’s walk through what you need to do if you’ve been in a car accident with no damage.

Take a Moment to Check Things Out

After a car accident, even a minor one, it’s crucial to assess the situation carefully. Don’t rush to assume everything’s fine just because you can’t see obvious damage. Start by checking yourself and your passengers for any pain, discomfort, or visible injuries. Remember, adrenaline can mask pain. 

Next, examine your vehicle closely. Look for subtle dents, misalignments, or any operational issues. Observe the other driver and their passengers, noting any signs of distress or injury. Take stock of your surroundings, including your exact location and current traffic conditions. By taking these moments to carefully assess the situation, you’re protecting yourself from potential oversights that could become problematic later.

Contact the Police

Even in situations where there’s no visible damage, contacting law enforcement after a car accident in Plantation is advisable. While Florida law requires reporting accidents that cause injury, death, or property damage over $500, it’s often difficult to accurately assess damage or potential injuries immediately after an incident.

Requesting police presence serves several important purposes:

• It provides an official, unbiased record of the incident, which can be invaluable if unforeseen issues arise later
• Officers can assist in safely managing traffic around the accident scene
• Their presence can help mediate any potential disagreements between parties involved

When law enforcement arrives, provide a factual account of the incident. Don’t speculate about fault or making commitments regarding insurance involvement. Remember, even minor accidents can lead to unexpected issues, and a police report can help if you need to deal with insurance or legal matters later.

Exchange Information with the Other Driver

While you’re waiting for the police, exchange information with the other driver. Get their:

• Full name and contact details
• Insurance info
• Driver’s license number
• License plate number
• Car make and model

Be polite, but keep it factual. Avoid chatting about whose fault it might be or making any agreements about handling it privately.

Document the Scene

Even if you don’t see any damage, it’s important to document everything about the accident. Here’s what to do:

• Take plenty of photos. Capture images of both cars from different angles, especially where they made contact. Make sure to include pictures of the entire scene, including any nearby road signs or traffic signals.
• If anyone witnessed the accident, politely ask for their contact information. Their account might be helpful later.
• As soon as you can, write down exactly what happened from your perspective. Do this while the details are still fresh in your mind.

This might seem like a lot of work for an accident with no obvious damage, but having this information can be incredibly helpful if any issues come up later.

Get Checked Out by a Doctor

Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Some injuries, particularly whiplash or internal injuries, may not manifest symptoms right away. Visit your primary care physician or an urgent care center for a thorough evaluation. Inform the healthcare provider about the accident and describe any symptoms you’re experiencing, no matter how minor they may seem. 

Follow their recommendations for follow-up care and monitoring. This medical check-up not only safeguards your health but also establishes a medical record that links any potential injuries to the accident, which can be vital for insurance or legal purposes.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Reporting the accident to your insurance company is important, even if it appears minor. Contact your insurer promptly and provide a detailed account of the incident. Inquire about your policy’s specific requirements for accident reporting and claims processing. 

Your insurance company can offer valuable guidance on how to proceed and help protect your interests if any issues arise later. Remember, prompt reporting ensures you comply with your policy terms and allows your insurer to start the claims process if necessary.

Keep an Eye on Your Car

Vehicle damage from an accident isn’t always immediately apparent. In the days following the incident, pay close attention to your car’s performance. Listen for any new or unusual noises, and be alert to any vibrations or changes in handling while driving. Regularly inspect the area where you park for any fluid leaks. 

If you notice anything out of the ordinary, no matter how minor it may seem, have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic. Identifying and addressing potential issues early can prevent more serious and costly problems down the road.

Pay Attention to How You’re Feeling

Just as vehicle damage can be delayed, injury symptoms may not appear immediately. Over the weeks following the accident, be vigilant about your physical and emotional well-being. Take note of any new aches, pains, or stiffness that develop. 

Be aware of changes in your mood, sleep patterns, or cognitive function, as these can be indicators of accident-related stress or injury. If you experience any new symptoms or worsening of existing ones, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. Your health should be your top priority, so it’s essential to address any changes promptly.

Know When to Contact an Attorney

While many minor accidents are resolved without legal intervention, there are situations where consulting a South Florida car accident attorney becomes advisable. Consider seeking legal counsel if you start experiencing pain or injuries after the accident, if the other driver’s account of the incident changes, or if they claim you caused damage that wasn’t initially apparent. 

Additionally, if you encounter difficulties with your insurance company or receive unexpected medical bills related to the accident, an attorney can provide valuable guidance. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, navigate complex insurance processes, and address any unexpected issues that may arise from what initially seemed to be a minor incident.

By following these steps, you protect yourself legally and physically, even in accidents that seem minor at first. While it might seem like extra effort for a “no damage” accident, taking these precautions can save you from potential headaches down the road. 

Get Help After Your Car Accident in Plantation

Even if your accident seemed minor, you may face unexpected challenges. At Cohen & Juda, our Plantation car accident lawyers have been assisting South Florida clients with all types of accident cases since 1999. Our experienced attorneys, Harvey Cohen and Gary Juda, understand the complexities that can arise from seemingly minor incidents.

We’re here to listen to your story and offer the guidance you need. Take advantage of our free consultation to discuss your case. We work on a contingency basis, so you won’t pay any attorney fees or costs unless we win your case. Our team is available seven days a week, and we handle cases throughout Florida and the U.S., working tirelessly on your behalf.

Contact Cohen & Juda today at (954) 424-1440 to schedule your consultation with a Plantation personal injury attorney. If more convenient, you can visit our website to complete our confidential online form. 

Copyright © 2024. Cohen and Juda, P.A. All rights reserved.

The information in this blog post (post) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

Cohen and Juda P.A.
8211 W Broward Blvd, Suite 310
Plantation, FL 33324
(954) 424-1440
https://www.cohenandjudaflorida.com/