What To Do After a Car Accident in Florida: A Step-By-Step Guide for 2026
Car accidents can be really stressful, confusing, and overwhelming. However, after a Florida car accident, you need to be keen on what you do. The steps you take following an accident can significantly affect not only your health but also your legal rights. Taking the right steps can help protect you physically and financially. Here is a straightforward guide on what to do after a car accident in Florida in 2026.
Step #1: Stay Put
Some people quickly leave the accident scene. However, this can be a huge mistake in Florida, especially if someone else is injured. If you leave an accident scene, you may face criminal charges. Even if you think no one was hurt, it’s best to remain at the accident scene.
Step #2: Check for Injuries and Report the Accident
Your top priority should be safety. Check yourself and others for injuries. If there are any injuries, don’t hesitate to report the accident. In Florida, you are legally obligated to report an accident if it results in injuries or property damage exceeding $500. Usually, the fastest way to report an accident is to call 911.
When you report the accident, ensure you request medical assistance even if injuries seem minor or everyone seems “fine,” as some injuries may not show symptoms right away.
Step #3: Move to Safety (If Possible)
If the vehicle can be driven and it’s safe, move it out of traffic to avoid further collisions. Turn on your hazard lights and, if you have them, use warning triangles or flares. If the vehicle is not drivable or it is unsafe to move the car, for instance, if there are severe injuries, remain inside and wait for help to arrive, unless doing so is dangerous.
Step #4: Exchange Information
Share names, contact details, driver’s license details, insurance information, and other necessary information with the other involved driver(s). This is not just an essential step, but a legal requirement under Florida law.
Step #5: Document the Scene
If possible, use your phone to take pictures and videos of:
- Vehicle damage
- The overall scene
- Road conditions
- Traffic signs and signals
- Visible injuries
Documenting the scene is vital for preserving evidence before it disappears, gets altered, or is destroyed.
Step #6: Gather Witness Information
If there are people who saw what happened, politely ask for their names and contact information. Witnesses can be valuable in your case, especially if liability is disputed later.
Step #7: Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel “fine,” ensure you see a doctor as soon as possible after your accident. After a Florida car accident, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is immediately responsible for covering your medical expenses. But, according to the law, to access benefits, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident. Seeking prompt medical attention is also crucial in case you file a fault-based claim. Timely medical records can help establish the severity of your injuries and the link between them and the accident.
Step #8: Contact an Attorney
Reach out to an attorney as soon as possible for guidance on reporting the accident to your insurance company and for help navigating the legal process.
Legal Help Is Available
Our West Palm Beach car accident attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm are here to help you. Don’t hesitate to contact us.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Miami, Tampa, Ocala, Orlando, Daytona Beach, Bradenton, Jacksonville, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Naples, and Melbourne areas.