What to do after a car accident in Florida: a step-by-step checklist

At the scene

Move out of traffic if you can do so safely, turn on hazard lights, and check on everyone involved. Florida law requires drivers in a crash to stop. Call 911 when there is injury, death, or meaningful property damage — under Florida Statute § 316.065, crashes with apparent damage of at least $500 must be reported.

Photograph vehicles, damage, skid marks, signals, and the roadway. Collect names, phone numbers, insurance, and plate numbers. Write down witness contacts and the officer’s name, agency, and crash report number.

Police report and medical care

Ask the investigating agency how to get the Florida Traffic Crash Report. You can request a CrashAid referral before the report is ready.

Florida is a no-fault state. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is meant to pay initial medical bills. Under Fla. Stat. § 627.736, initial care from a qualifying provider — such as a hospital, emergency department, licensed physician, osteopathic physician, dentist, or chiropractor — generally must begin within 14 days of the crash, or the insurer can deny PIP medical benefits.

• Keep copies of discharge papers and appointment records
• Follow up even if soreness appears a few days later
• Tell providers the injuries are from a motor vehicle crash

Insurance and when to call a lawyer

Report the claim to your own insurer as your policy requires. Be careful about recorded statements to the other driver’s insurer before you understand your rights.

Call a lawyer — or CrashAid for a free referral — when someone is hurt, fault is disputed, the other driver left or is uninsured, a commercial vehicle or rideshare is involved, or the insurer delays or lowballs. Soft-tissue injuries and missed work still deserve a serious look.

CrashAid is a free attorney referral service. Call (941) 770-2727 or use the form on this site. English and Spanish help is available, and attorney referrals through CrashAid cost you nothing.