Jeffrey M. Braxton Personal Injury Law Blog on Lawyers.com

If you are in a car or truck accident, what you do and say afterward are important.  As experienced St. Lucie County car accident attorneys, the Law Office of Steven E. Slootsky in Florida recommends that you try to avoid making the following mistakes after your accident:

Failing to keep emotions in checkFocus on the present.  Stay calm and keep anger and frustration from boiling over.

Not contacting the police
Report the accident to the police as soon as possible. The police will file a report and may issue tickets. 

Leaving the scene
Do not leave the scene of the accident.  By law, you must stay.  If you leave you could be charged with "hit and run" or "leaving the scene of the accident."

Moving your car
Do not move your vehicle until the police arrive at the accident scene, unless you are in danger.  The police will make a record of the locations of the vehicles.

Lying or speaking to the other party or witnesses
Tell the truth, but tell it only to the police. Stick to the facts and be careful not to admit any fault since what you say may be used against you.  Be respectful to the police and do not interfere with their work.  Do not go over what happened with the other party to the accident or with witnesses.

Thinking your insurance company is on your side
Do not cooperate with the insurance company until you are represented by a personal injury law firm.  If you make damaging statements, they may be used against you.  Do report the accident, but do not accept a settlement before you speak to your auto accident lawyer.  Do not sign anything without legal advice.

How experienced personal injury lawyers can help
Experienced car and truck accident attorneys will know the area and the roads where your accident happened. If in southern Florida, for example, hiring a St. Lucie County personal injury law firm will give you the advantage of having injury attorneys who are familiar with the South Florida area when gathering evidence for your claim.  In addition, an experienced attorney will be familiar with local court procedures, local police, and all local laws and regulations, which will keep your case flowing smoothly.  A local attorney will know which experts to hire to present the best case possible.