The 10 Commandments After a Daytona Beach Accident: Legal and Practical Rules to Protect Your Injury Claim

Keith Petrochko, Esq. • June 6, 2025

Key steps for Central Florida residents to protect injury claims and access affordable legal help after an accident.

Essential legal and practical steps for Daytona Beach and Central Florida residents to protect their rights and secure affordable personal injury representation after an accident.
 
If you have been involved in an accident in Daytona Beach or anywhere in Central Florida, what you do next can affect your legal rights, your recovery, and your finances. Whether your injuries result from an automobile crash, a fall, or another personal injury incident, following these ten essential rules will help protect your claim and your peace of mind. 
 
At My Affordable Attorney, we offer straightforward guidance and legal representation at a flat 25% fee—significantly less than the typical 33% to 40% charged by many Florida law firms. Follow these commandments to protect yourself after an accident.
 1. Never Give a Recorded Statement to the Other Insurance Company
If the other party’s insurance adjuster contacts you, decline to give a recorded statement. These calls are designed to gather statements that may later be used against you. Politely refer them to your attorney and say nothing more. Always speak with a central Florida personal injury attorney before giving any formal statement.

2. Do Not Sign Anything Without an Attorney’s Review
Insurance companies often attempt to resolve claims quickly, before you fully understand the extent of your injuries. Never sign a settlement agreement, release, or any document without first having your lawyer review it. A single signature can permanently limit your rights, including your ability to pursue further compensation.

3. Seek Medical Treatment Within Two Weeks
Under Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP/No-Fault) law, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of a motor vehicle accident to preserve your right to your benefits. The sooner you are evaluated, the better. Inform your provider that the injury is related to an auto accident and give them your insurance information at your initial appointment. Prompt treatment not only protects your health but also strengthens your claim.

4. Be Honest About Your Injuries
Accurate communication with your doctors and your lawyer is essential. Do not exaggerate your symptoms, but also do not minimize them. Let your providers and legal counsel evaluate your case based on truthful information. Inconsistent or misleading statements can damage your credibility and reduce your compensation.

5. Follow the Advice of Medical Providers and Your Lawyer
Avoid diagnosing yourself or relying on advice from non-professionals. Google searches, social media forums, and well-meaning friends and relatives can be misleading. Trust licensed medical professionals and experienced personal injury lawyers. Their job is to protect your physical and legal recovery.

6. Be Transparent with Your Attorney—and Keep It Confidential
Honesty and confidentiality go hand in hand. Tell your lawyer everything relevant to your case, including any past injuries, medical treatments, or prior claims. Just as importantly, do not share your conversations with your attorney with anyone- not your doctor, not your friends, and not your family. Honesty helps your lawyer build the best case for you, and confidentiality preserves attorney-client privilege.

7. Stay Silent on Social Media
Avoid posting about your accident, your injuries, or any physical activity while your claim is active. Insurance companies, defense lawyers, investigators, and defendants monitor social media accounts looking for posts that contradict your claim. Set your accounts to private, but understand that even private posts can be discovered. The safest course is to avoid posting altogether until your case is resolved.

8. Preserve Evidence and Keep Records
Photograph the scene of the accident, your injuries, vehicle damage, and any other relevant conditions. Save medical bills, treatment summaries, repair bills, and communications from insurance companies. Strong documentation helps support your claim and shows that you took the injury seriously from the start.

9. Do Not Delay Seeking Legal Advice
Time is not on your side after an accident. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better. Early legal intervention can help preserve evidence, secure medical care, and prevent mistakes that might reduce your compensation. At My Affordable Attorney, we offer same-day consultations and serve clients across Volusia County, Flagler County, Seminole County, Orange County, and all of Central Florida.

10. Never Pay More Than 25 Percent for Legal Representation
Florida personal injury attorneys typically begin representation at 33% of your recovery if a settlement can be reached without filing a lawsuit, then charge up to 40 percent if a lawsuit is filed. At My Affordable Attorney, our fee is a flat 25%, giving you more of your compensation where it belongs- in your pocket. You deserve affordable legal help without compromising on quality or commitment. We are available 24/7 to discuss your case.
 
Injured in an accident in Daytona Beach, Sanford, Deland, Ormond Beach, Orlando, Deltona, Orange City, or anywhere in Central Florida? Protect your rights and your recovery. Contact My Affordable Attorney today at (866) 4-only-25 (866.466.5925) or visit www.MyAffordableAttorney.com to schedule a free consultation. We are available nights, weekends, and offer services in both English and Spanish.