What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Florida: A Step-by-Step Legal Guide
In a car accident in Florida? Here's what to do immediately after the crash to protect your health, rights, and future claim.
A car accident is one of those moments that can flip your entire day—and sometimes your entire life—upside down in an instant. Whether it’s a fender bender or a more serious crash, what you do immediately after an accident in Florida can make a big difference in how well you recover, both physically and financially.
At The Law Office of Adolphus Thompson, we help people every day who were caught off guard by an accident and are now trying to navigate the aftermath. This guide breaks down exactly what to do if you’re involved in a crash in Florida, step by step.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your safety and the safety of everyone involved comes first.
If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 right away.
Even if the injuries seem minor, call emergency services. Florida law requires law enforcement to be called if injuries or property damage exceed $500.
Don’t try to move anyone who is unconscious or severely hurt unless there’s an immediate danger (like fire or traffic hazards).
Tip: Florida is a no-fault insurance state, which means your own insurance (Personal Injury Protection or PIP) will initially cover medical expenses, no matter who caused the accident.
Step 2: Get to Safety and Prevent Further Accidents
If it’s safe and your car is drivable, move it to the side of the road. If not, turn on your hazard lights and stay inside until help arrives. This protects you from oncoming traffic and prevents further collisions.
Step 3: Exchange Information
You’ll need the following from the other driver(s):
Full name and contact information
Driver’s license number
License plate number
Insurance company and policy number
Important: Be polite, but avoid apologizing or admitting fault—it may seem natural, but it could later be used against you in a legal claim.
Step 4: Document the Scene
This step is crucial, especially if you end up filing a personal injury claim. Use your phone to gather:
Photos of all vehicles involved (from multiple angles)
Photos of visible injuries
Road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and weather
Names and contact info of any witnesses
Tip: Open your Notes app or voice recorder and capture your immediate recollection of what happened. Details fade quickly.
Step 5: Seek Medical Attention ASAP
Even if you don’t feel injured, get checked by a doctor within 14 days. This is not just for your health—it’s also legally important. Under Florida law, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days to be eligible for PIP benefits.
Common injuries like whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue damage may not show up immediately, but can worsen over time.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company
You are required to report the accident to your insurance provider—do this as soon as you are able. Stick to the facts, and don’t guess if you’re unsure about something. You are not obligated to speak to the other party’s insurer.
Step 7: Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney
Before agreeing to a settlement or signing any documents, consult with a personal injury attorney. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, and without representation, you may not receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.
At The Law Office of Adolphus Thompson, we offer free consultations and will walk you through your options—whether it’s negotiating with insurers or filing a lawsuit for damages such as:
Medical bills
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Future medical care
It’s imperative to understand Florida’s car accident laws as the decisions you make right after a crash can have long-term consequences. We know it’s a stressful time, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Our team is here to help guide you every step of the way.
Were you injured in a car accident in Florida? Schedule a free consultation with The Law Office of Adolphus Thompson today. Let us deal with the insurance companies while you focus on healing.
