What to Do After a Car Accident in Florida

Car accidents can be overwhelming and scary, especially when you’re not sure what to do next. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a more serious collision, staying calm and following the right steps will help protect your health, your rights, and your chances of recovering compensation. If you’ve recently been in a car accident in Florida, here’s a guide to the steps you should take.

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

The first thing you should do after a car accident is call 911. Florida law requires that accidents involving injuries or significant property damage must be reported. Even if you’re involved in a minor crash, it’s always a good idea to notify the police. The officer will create an accident report, which will be important when dealing with insurance claims or any potential legal matters later on.

When you call 911, tell the dispatcher your location and describe the scene. If anyone is injured, inform them about the extent of the injuries. If you’re able to move safely, stay where you are until the authorities arrive. Never leave the scene of the accident, as this can result in legal consequences.

2. Exchange Information with the Other Driver

Once the authorities are on the way, gather as much information as you can from the other driver. You should exchange the following details:

• Full name and contact information
• Driver’s license number
• Vehicle make, model, and license plate number
• Insurance company and policy number

If there are passengers in either vehicle, make sure to get their names and contact information as well. It’s important not to admit fault at the scene of the accident. Simply collect the information you need and leave the rest to the authorities and your insurance company.

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able to do so safely, take photos of the accident scene, including the vehicles, any visible damage, and surrounding conditions. Capture images of skid marks, road signs, traffic lights, and any other important details. Take clear photos of the damage to all involved vehicles, even if it seems minor. If you notice any injuries, make sure to document them too.

Also, if there are any witnesses who saw the accident, ask for their contact information and if they’re willing to provide a statement. These witness accounts can be invaluable when determining fault later on.

4. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s important to seek medical attention. Injuries from car accidents aren’t always immediately obvious. Adrenaline and shock can mask the pain, so it’s best to get checked out by a healthcare professional as soon as possible. A medical professional can also document your injuries, which will help support your case when dealing with insurance or pursuing legal action.

If you’re unable to go to the doctor right away, be sure to keep track of any symptoms that develop over the next few days. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, can take time to show up.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company

After your safety and health are taken care of, it’s time to contact your insurance company. Florida is a “no-fault” state, meaning your own insurance policy should cover medical expenses and some other costs, regardless of who caused the accident. However, if the accident resulted in serious injury or damage, you may need to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance.

Be honest when providing information to your insurance company. Do not exaggerate the details of the accident, as this could result in the denial of your claim. It’s also wise to avoid accepting any settlement offer without consulting a personal injury lawyer, especially if your injuries or property damage are significant.

Need Help After an Accident?

Car accidents can be life-changing, and it’s important to take the right steps in the aftermath. From calling 911 and exchanging information to seeking medical care and contacting your insurance company, the decisions you make in the moments following an accident can greatly impact the outcome of your case. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or need legal help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a personal injury attorney who can guide you through the process. At D2 Law, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Call D2 Law at (800) 790-5641 for a free case review. We’re ready to fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.