What if the Police Don’t Show Up After a Florida Auto Accident?
After a Florida auto accident, one of the first crucial things to do is call the police. Once the police arrive at the accident scene, they will conduct a preliminary assessment of the incident and create a traffic crash report. However, sometimes, the police may be unable to show up after an auto accident. In a situation where the police don’t show up after a Florida auto accident, you may be left wondering about their next course of action. So, what should you do if the police do not come after a Florida auto accident?
Why Would the Police Not Come to the Scene After a Florida Auto Accident?
It is not common for the police to fail to show up at the scene of an auto accident, but cases of the police not showing up after an auto accident do occur. One of the main reasons the police may fail to show up at the scene of an accident is if there are not enough available units to respond to all reported incidents. Second, the police may fail to show up at an accident scene if they are dealing with a more urgent emergency. Another thing that can affect police response times is adverse weather conditions, such as fog, heavy rains, or hurricanes.
What To Do if the Police Don’t Show Up at the Scene of Your Accident?
If you’ve been involved in an auto accident and the police have not shown up, you may be wondering what your next steps should be. The following are some of the crucial steps to take if the police don’t show up after a Florida auto accident;
- Take Pictures and Videos
One of the most vital things to do if the police don’t come to the scene is to take pictures and videos of the accident scene. Capture as many details as possible, including damage to the vehicles, debris on the road, skid marks on the road, road conditions, traffic signals and signs, and weather conditions.
- Exchange Information
Regardless of whether or not the police show up at the accident scene, if you are involved in an auto accident because of another party’s negligence, you should exchange information with the other party. This includes names, contact information, addresses, driver’s license, and insurance information.
- Talk to Witnesses
If any people witnessed your accident, talk to them and get their names and contact information so you can follow up with them later.
- File a Traffic Crash Report
If the police don’t come to the accident scene, you need to file a traffic crash report yourself. In Florida, if the police do not show up after an auto accident and file a report, involved parties are required to file a report with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) within ten days.
- Seek Legal Advice
Last but certainly not least, you should seek legal advice if you are involved in a Florida auto accident and the police fail to show up at the scene. A skilled attorney can help you understand your legal rights and obligations, navigate legal complexities, gather evidence, and deal with insurance companies.
Contact a Lakeland, FL, Car Accident Lawyer
At Darla K. Snead. P.L., our qualified Lakeland car accident attorneys, have experience handling car accident cases. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
