What Every Florida Driver Should Know After a Car Accident

Car accidents happen in a split second, but the consequences can last for months or even years. In the chaos that follows a crash, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but knowing what steps to take immediately afterward can protect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover compensation. If you’re a Florida driver, here’s what you should do after an accident.

1. Check for Injuries and Call 911

Your safety comes first. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt or if the accident caused significant damage, call 911 right away. Even if the crash seems minor, Florida law requires you to report accidents that cause injury, death, or property damage over $500.

Emergency responders will assess the scene, provide medical care, and create a police report, which can be important evidence later.

2. Move to Safety if Possible

If your vehicle is drivable and it’s safe to do so, move it out of traffic to avoid another collision. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

3. Document the Scene Thoroughly

Evidence fades quickly after a crash—skid marks disappear, debris gets cleared, and memories fade. Use your phone to:

• Take photos of vehicle damage from multiple angles
• Capture the accident location, road conditions, and weather
• Photograph visible injuries
• Get close-ups of license plates and insurance cards
• Snap pictures of traffic signs, signals, or obstructions

If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information.

4. Exchange Information

You’re required to exchange your name, address, driver’s license number, and insurance details with the other driver(s). Keep your conversation brief and factual. Never admit fault or speculate about what happened.

5. Seek Medical Attention Promptly

Even if you feel fine, some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, can take hours or days to appear. Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law requires you to seek medical care within 14 days of the crash to be eligible for benefits.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with the basic facts and avoid giving a recorded statement until you’ve spoken with a lawyer, especially if the accident involved serious injuries.

7. Know When to Call a Personal Injury Lawyer

In many cases, involving a personal injury attorney early can make a big difference. You should speak with a lawyer if:

• You suffered injuries or required medical treatment
• The other driver was uninsured or underinsured
• There’s a dispute about who was at fault
• You’re facing significant medical bills, lost wages, or long-term recovery

An experienced Florida personal injury lawyer can investigate the crash, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

The Nation Law Firm Is Here to Help

The bottom line for what to do after a Florida car accident is simple: stay calm, protect yourself, gather evidence, and know when to get help. The right steps taken at the right time can make all the difference after a Florida car accident.

And part of taking the right steps is having the right lawyer to call.

For decades, The Nation Law Firm has been protecting Florida drivers and fighting for accident victims. We understand how stressful and confusing the aftermath of a crash can be, and we know the tactics insurance companies use to try to minimize payouts. Our team works tirelessly to protect your rights and help you get back on your feet.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact us today for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal options.