What To Do After a
Car Accident in Florida
The steps you take in the minutes, hours, and days after a Florida car accident can significantly affect your health, your insurance benefits, and your legal rights. Follow this guide carefully.
Critical: Florida PIP 14-Day Rule. You must seek medical care within 14 days of your accident to preserve up to $10,000 in PIP benefits. Call 407-486-6147 for a free referral now.
Ensure Safety First
Move to a safe location if possible without leaving the scene. Turn on hazard lights. Check yourself and passengers for injuries. Do not move anyone who may have a spinal injury unless there is immediate danger.
Call 911
Call 911 to report the accident. Request medical assistance if anyone is injured. A police report creates an official record that is critical for insurance claims and any legal proceedings.
Document the Scene
Take photos and video of all vehicles, damage, license plates, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Document from multiple angles before vehicles are moved.
Exchange Information
Get the other driver's full name, address, phone number, insurance company, policy number, driver's license number, and license plate. Get contact information from any witnesses.
Do Not Admit Fault
Do not apologize or admit fault at the scene. Fault determination is complex and involves many factors. Statements made at the scene can be used against you later.
Seek Medical Care Within 14 Days
Florida PIP law requires you to seek a medical evaluation within 14 days of the accident to preserve your PIP insurance benefits of up to $10,000. Call PIP Pain Injury at 407-486-6147 for a free referral to a PIP-accepting doctor.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your own insurance company promptly. Provide factual information only. Do not give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company without legal guidance.
Preserve All Evidence
Keep all accident-related documents: police report, medical records, photos, repair estimates, and any correspondence with insurance companies. Do not repair your vehicle until it has been properly documented.
Common Questions
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Florida?
Ensure safety, call 911, document the scene with photos, exchange information with the other driver, get witness contact information, and seek medical care within 14 days to preserve your Florida PIP benefits.
How long do I have to see a doctor after a car accident in Florida?
Florida law requires you to seek medical care within 14 days of the accident to preserve your PIP insurance benefits of up to $10,000. Missing this deadline can result in losing your coverage.
Should I call the police after a minor car accident in Florida?
Yes. Florida law requires you to report accidents involving injury, death, or property damage over $500. A police report also creates an official record that is important for insurance claims.
What if I feel fine after an accident — do I still need to see a doctor?
Yes. Many serious injuries — including whiplash, herniated discs, and internal injuries — may not produce immediate symptoms. Seeing a doctor within 14 days protects both your health and your PIP benefits.
Need a Doctor After Your Accident?
Our free 24/7 hotline connects you with PIP-accepting doctors throughout Florida.