When you are involved in an accident, you may be surprised to find that the other driver has asked you not to contact the police, with the promise of handling matters on your own. Though it may seem tempting to speed this process up, it’s critical to understand that you may be legally obligated to report the accident. Additionally, calling the police can help you recover the compensation you deserve when the other driver is to blame. To learn more about why you should report the collision, you’ll want to keep reading. You will also discover why working with an Orlando car accident lawyer is critical during these complex issues.

Am I Legally Required to Report a Car Accident in Florida?

Under Florida law, there are instances in which reporting a car accident to law enforcement is legally required. If someone is injured or there is damage to a vehicle or property estimated at $500 or more, you must immediately contact the police in your local municipality. If you fail to report the accident, you can face non-criminal consequences, including fines and fees.

What Are the Benefits of Calling the Police?

Unfortunately, you may find that agreeing to work out a deal with the negligent party can come back to negatively impact you. You may call the number the other driver provided only to find it’s not actually theirs, leaving you with no way to contact them. In other instances, they may pretend not to know what accident you’re talking about, while some may even try to hold you accountable. However, ensuring you contact the police immediately can help you avoid these issues.

When you call the police, several things will happen. First and foremost, they will arrive on the scene to help direct traffic around the collision which can help prevent additional damages. Next, they will complete a preliminary report of the accident, documenting where the collision occurred, the parties involved, and any additional relevant information. Having a formal report can help ensure the accident was documented and you have the correct contact information of the other party involved.

If I Have a Police Report, Do I Need a Lawyer?

Even though you may have a police report from the collision, it’s still imperative to work with an experienced attorney regarding these matters. The police report in and of itself is not enough to prove fault or damages in a collision. As such, an attorney can examine the information collected by the police, investigate the accident, and help you navigate the complex process of filing a claim against the negligent party for the compensation you deserve.

If you have been involved in an accident in which the other party is at fault, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney from the Tropical Injury Law Firm to guide you through this process. Our firm can help you navigate the complexities of a car accident claim to help you fight for the best possible outcome for your circumstances. Contact us today to learn more.