What to Do After a Car Accident in Florida: Step-by-Step

A comprehensive guide on what to do immediately after a car accident, including claims, medical treatment, and legal considerations.

A car accident is stressful even when nobody is seriously hurt. The decisions you make in the first hour can affect your medical care, your property damage claim, and your long-term insurance rate. Here is the simple checklist we share with our Palm Beach County clients. 1. Move to safety and call 911 If the vehicles can be driven and nobody is injured, move them off the travel lanes. Turn on your hazard lights. Call 911 even if the damage looks minor — Florida law requires a police report for any crash involving injury or significant property damage, and a report makes your claim go much faster. 2. Document everything Photograph all vehicles, license plates, the scene from multiple angles, and any debris or skid marks. Exchange driver's license, insurance card, and license plate information with the other driver. Get the names and phone numbers of any witnesses. Note the responding officer's name, badge number, and the report number. 3. Seek medical attention within 14 days Florida is a no-fault PIP state. To use your Personal Injury Protection benefits, you must be evaluated by a qualifying medical provider within 14 days of the accident. Even if you feel fine, get checked — soft tissue injuries often surface a day or two later. 4. Notify your insurance company promptly Call your agent before you call the other driver's carrier. We will open the claim, walk you through your coverages, line up a rental car if you have rental reimbursement, and coordinate the appraisal. You do not have to negotiate with the other carrier alone. 5. Be careful what you sign or post Do not sign a release from the other driver's insurance company without reviewing it. Avoid posting accident details on social media until the claim is closed. If injuries are significant, consider speaking…