What to Do After a Car Accident in Florida: A Personal Injury Lawyer’s Guide

If you are involved in a car crash, your world can be turned upside down in an instant. From health concerns to insurance complications, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Which is why it’s so important to learn what to do right and, by contrast, what to avoid. This easy-to-follow guide, crafted by a Personal Injury Lawyer,  covers everything you would need to do after a crash to ensure that you protect your health, legal rights, and any possible compensation.

Cease and Ensure Safety

Step one is to keep your vehicle from moving. No matter the severity of the accident, you are not allowed to leave the scene. Activate your hazard lights and, if you can, get to a safe space away from traffic. Your preference must always be for the safety of all concerned.

Contact the Cops and Make It Official

Often, especially when there has been serious damage or injury, you are supposed to file a police report. The responding officers will make a report on the incident, interview witnesses, and create an objective account of the scene—all very important recourses for a potential claim.

Trade Valuable Details

At the scene, exchange names, phone numbers, driver's license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information with the other party. Also, get contact information from witnesses. This evidence is the cornerstone of your insurance or personal injury case.

Here Are Some things you Can Do at the Scene: Take Photos and Videos

Visual evidence can be extremely valuable in any accident claim. Take clear photos of:

• Vehicle damage

• The immediate surroundings (traffic signals,  skid marks, hazards)

• Road and weather conditions

• Any visible injuries

Do short videos if you can, too. This serves to record the immediate aftermath,  keeping important information alive.

Do Not Admit Fault

It’s instinctive to say “I’m sorry”  after you get into an accident — but don’t. Acknowledging guilt, even unintentionally,  can come back to haunt you. Keep your conversation limited to getting-to-know-you type information. Let your Florida Car Accident Lawyer deal with the tedious correspondence with insurance adjusters or defense counsel.

Go to the Doctor Immediately

Even if you feel all right, see a doctor as quickly as possible. Florida is a no-fault state, meaning to be eligible for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits per state law, you must have treatment within 14 days of the accident. Medical records will also be key in determining the severity and source of your injuries.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance company to document the crash and give them the basics. Be factual but cautious. Don’t offer recorded statements or provide detailed information to anyone until you’ve spoken with a Personal Injury Lawyer, particularly if you think you might seek compensation for other injuries or damages.

Start Documenting Everything

Organize all records from the time the accident occurred. This includes:

• Medical records

• Doctor’s notes

• X-rays, MRIs, diagnostic procedures

• Estimates for repair of the vehicle

• Proof of lost wages

• Out-of-pocket costs for medication and travel

Also, keep a personal injury journal to note pain levels, emotional stress, sleep problems, and other limitations in your daily life. This record will help your lawyer present a strong, coherent case.

Get the Official Accident Report

Order an official police report. This report will likely contain important details such as time, place, witness accounts, and officer observations (all of which can help substantiate your personal injury case).

Gather Witness Statements

To the extent possible, have those witnesses provide signed, written statements of what they saw. Notarized affidavits can be especially helpful if your case ends up in court. The credibility of witnesses can provide an enormous boost to your side of the story.

Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney

A competent Accident Lawyer will be able to help you, and could make the difference between a denied car accident claim and a settlement you can live with. Your attorney will:

• Advise you on your rights

• Speak to insurance providers

• Collect additional evidence

• Negotiate on your behalf in settlement discussions or litigation

You Have Legal BackingIt’s important to have a lawyer so you’re not taken advantage of during a vulnerable time, and let every aspect of your claim be taken care of in a professional manner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long after a car accident can I file a personal injury claim?

Two-year Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in Florida. Personal injury claims in the Sunshine State expire in four years from either the date of the occurrence giving rise to the cause of action or from the date of discovery of the occurrence, whichever is later. Speaking to an attorney without delay ensures that there are no missed deadlines.

Q:  What if the other driver is uninsured?

Your own PIP insurance might pay for some of your medical bills. An attorney can also assist you in examining other doors you may be able to open, such as uninsured motorist coverage.

Q: Should I speak with the other party’s insurance company?

No. The best bet is to call a Personal Injury Lawyer before speaking to any insurance agents on the other side. They can use what you say to minimize the order of your claim.

Q: Will I be able to recover any lost wages if the accident renders me unable to work?

Yes. If you are unable to work due to your injuries, you may claim money damages for lost earnings and future earning capacity. Document things from your employer and your medical providers.

Q: How much is my car accident worth?

Every case is unique. Other considerations in determining value include:

• How bad are the injuries?

• How much are the medical bills?

• How long were you out of work?

• How bad is the emotional damage?

• How bad is the car wrecked?

Protect Your Rights Through the Proper Legal Advocacy.

Coping with a car accident is never easy, but the actions you take in the moments, days, and weeks following a wreck can make the process of recovery physically and financially easier. If you’re looking to establish a claim for medical costs, loss of wages, or emotional distress, it’s important to keep up to date, keep documents in order, and reach out to a personal injury lawyer.