Knowing what to do after a car accident in Florida can help protect your health, your rights, and your peace of mind. Florida lays out specific steps that drivers should follow, starting with checking for injuries and notifying law enforcement. In car accidents involving injuries or property damage, staying calm and following the proper procedures can make a big difference in how the situation is handled.
Immediate Actions You Should Take After a Crash
Florida requires drivers to take certain steps right away, especially when there are injuries or vehicle damage. What you do in the first few minutes can affect your health, how the scene is handled, and what comes next. Taking calm, clear action helps protect everyone involved and keeps you in line with your legal responsibilities.
Check for Injuries and Call 911 Immediately
Start by checking to see if you or anyone else is hurt. If anyone is injured, call 911 right away so paramedics and police can get to the scene. Under Florida Statutes § 316.065 you are required to report crashes involving injuries, death, or significant property damage.
Even if you feel okay at first, it is still a good idea to get evaluated by a medical professional and make sure there is a police report for your records.
Move Vehicles When Possible and Exchange Information
If your vehicle is blocking traffic but can be moved safely, try to pull off to the right side to prevent further accidents. Once the scene is secure, exchange information with the other driver. That includes names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information. Staying respectful and organized during this step helps everyone move forward more easily.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After Florida Car Accidents
It is easy to make decisions after a crash that feel helpful in the moment but create bigger problems later. Even small missteps can affect your ability to get the medical care or coverage you need. Some of the most common mistakes drivers make after an accident include:
- Admitting fault by apologizing
- Skipping medical exams
- Failing to call the police
- Neglecting to document damage
- Ignoring pain symptoms
- Leaving the scene too soon
- Not reporting minor accidents
Some of these mistakes are more than just problems for your insurance claim. Under Florida Statutes § 627.736 there is usually a 14-day deadline under the personal injury protection (PIP) system, which means you need to get medical care and report the crash quickly, even for motorcycle accidents that seem minor at first.
What Happens in the Days and Weeks After a Crash in Florida
The first few days after a crash can be overwhelming. Between dealing with car damage, medical visits, and calls from insurance adjusters, it is easy to miss something important. Knowing what to expect during this time can help you stay organized and avoid common delays.
Reporting the Crash to Insurance and Filing PIP Claims
Florida is a no-fault state, which means your own insurance generally pays for initial medical costs through your PIP coverage. To access these benefits, you need to file a claim and receive medical care within 14 days of the crash.
Covered expenses usually include emergency room visits, follow-up care, and a portion of lost wages. Missing this window could mean paying out of pocket even if the accident was not your fault.
Vehicle Repair, Medical Follow-Up, and Documentation
As things start to settle, it is important to keep track of every detail tied to the accident. Follow your doctor’s advice, keep copies of bills and reports, and take photos of vehicle damage or visible injuries. Having everything documented helps protect you later, especially if the claim becomes more complicated.