A devastating head-on collision occurred on the morning of August 23, 2023, in Arlington, leaving three people hospitalized. Authorities from the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office confirmed that the accident involved two drivers and a child.
The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department reported that both the child and one of the drivers sustained serious injuries from the accident. The second driver involved suffered injuries, but they were not considered life-threatening.
The incident took place around 8 a.m. on Cesery Boulevard, near Columbine Drive. According to the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, both vehicles were traveling northbound when a southbound minivan veered into the northbound lanes, colliding head-on with the lead vehicle.
The investigation led to the closure of Cesery Boulevard for an extended period, lasting over four hours, while law enforcement officials conducted their inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
What to Do After a Serious Car Crash in Florida
The aftermath of a serious car accident can be chaotic and disorienting. Understanding the crucial steps to take in this difficult time can not only help ensure your immediate safety but also protect your legal and financial interests down the line.
Prioritize Immediate Safety
First and foremost, assess yourself and any other passengers for injuries. If you determine that there are severe injuries, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. If it's safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road and activate your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Contact Emergency Services
Regardless of the perceived severity, you should dial 911 to involve law enforcement. Police will create an official accident report, which may later be essential for insurance claims or potential legal action. Wait at the scene until emergency services arrive, as leaving prematurely could lead to legal ramifications.
Collect Evidence and Witness Information
Use your smartphone to capture photographs of the damaged vehicles and any visible injuries. These photographs can serve as vital evidence later on. If there are witnesses, get their contact information. Their statements could be important in determining fault.
Seek Immediate and Follow-Up Medical Care
Even if you feel fine initially, it is crucial to get medical attention. Some injuries don't manifest symptoms immediately and may become apparent only after a period. In addition to ensuring your well-being, medical records can provide essential documentation for your insurance claim or legal proceedings.
Consult an Attorney Before Speaking to Insurance Adjusters
Before talking to any insurance adjusters, especially those representing the at-fault driver, consult a personal injury attorney. Florida’s auto insurance laws can be complex and speaking to an adjuster without legal advice may inadvertently harm your claim or future lawsuit.
File an Insurance Claim
Contact your own insurance company to report the accident.
Summary
Navigating the aftermath of a serious car crash is never easy, but knowing what steps to take can significantly alleviate the associated stress and uncertainty. Prioritize your immediate safety, gather essential evidence, consult medical and legal professionals, and proceed with caution when dealing with insurance companies.
