Car crashes happen suddenly — and the moments that follow can feel overwhelming. Knowing exactly what to do after a car accident in Florida can protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to pursue compensation later. This guide walks you through each step so you can make informed decisions from the very start.
1. Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your first priority should be safety. If anyone is injured — even if the injuries seem minor — call 911 right away. Florida law requires drivers to report crashes involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage.
Additionally, a police report becomes a crucial piece of evidence for your insurance claim or personal injury case. Emergency responders can also document injuries that may worsen later.
2. Move to a Safe Location (If You Can)
If the accident is minor, your vehicle is blocking traffic, and it is safe to move, Florida law encourages you to carefully relocate your car to the shoulder or another safe area nearby. Always turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
However, do not move your vehicle if:
- The crash appears serious
- Someone is injured
- Your vehicle is not drivable or moving it could cause further damage
- Traffic conditions make moving the vehicle unsafe
In these situations, ensure everyone is as safe as possible, and wait for law enforcement to arrive. Do not leave the scene of the car accident before law enforcement arrives unless you are instructed to do so.
3. Exchange Information With the Other Driver(s)
Collect the following details from other individuals involved in the crash:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- Vehicle make, model, year, and tag number
- Insurance company and policy number
- VIN number (if possible)
During this process, avoid apologizing or making statements suggesting fault. Even polite comments can be misinterpreted later.
4. Document the Scene and Gather Evidence
Photographs and videos of the scene can be incredibly useful in a car accident claim. Use your phone to capture as much information as possible, including:
- Vehicle damage from all angles
- Road conditions and weather
- Nearby traffic signs and signals
- Skid marks and debris
- Injuries
- The other vehicle’s license plate
Additionally, gather the following if applicable:
- Names and numbers of witnesses
- Dashcam footage
- Notes about what happened while details are fresh
This documentation can be invaluable when dealing with insurance companies.
5. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel “fine,” it’s important to get evaluated following a car crash. Under Florida law, if you’re injured in an accident, you must seek medical care within 14 days to qualify for personal injury protection (PIP) insurance benefits.
Common delayed-onset injuries after a care accident include:
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Back or neck injuries
- Soft-tissue damage
Early treatment protects your health and early documentation can strengthen your case.
6. Report the Crash to Your Insurance Company
Florida is a no-fault insurance state, so you’ll start by filing a claim with your own car insurance company. Provide the basic facts about the accident and nothing more. Avoid giving recorded statements or speculative details before speaking with a legal professional.
7. Keep All Documentation Organized
Create a folder or digital file for all documentation related to the crash, including:
- Medical bills
- Car repair estimates
- Proof of lost wages (pay stubs, a written statement from your employer, tax returns, etc.)
- Receipts for out-of-pocket expenses
- Police reports
- Communications with insurance adjusters
Keeping thorough records may help maximize your compensation.
8. Contact a Florida Car Accident Lawyer
You don’t have to navigate the aftermath of a car crash alone. An experienced Florida car accident lawyer can:
- Investigate the crash
- Preserve critical evidence
- Handle insurance negotiations
- Identify liable parties
- Pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more
Having the right guidance from the start can significantly affect your case. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Florida, Collins Law Firm, P.A., is here to help. Our legal team is available 24/7 and will travel to meet with you at your home or at the hospital. Call us at 352-751-5674 or fill out our short contact form to get started with a free consultation. Let us protect your rights so you can focus on healing.