What to Do After a Car Accident in Florida — Especially If It’s Not Your Fault
Being involved in a car accident—especially one caused by someone else—can be overwhelming. In the moments after a crash, it’s easy to feel confused or unsure of what to do next. But what you do immediately after the collision can directly affect your physical recovery, financial well-being, and legal options.
At Applebaum Accident & Injury Lawyers, we’re here to protect your rights and help guide you through this difficult time. Below is a step-by-step guide on what to do after a car accident in Florida when you’re not at fault.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Call 911
After the accident, the first priority is your safety and the safety of others involved. Check for injuries and call 911 immediately, especially if anyone appears hurt. Even if injuries seem minor, having emergency medical services respond is crucial. It ensures injuries are treated and officially documented—a key piece of evidence for your claim.
If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights. Preventing further collisions protects everyone involved and helps emergency responders do their job more efficiently.
Step 2: Document Everything at the Scene
Start building your case right away:
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Photograph the accident scene, including all vehicles, damage, visible injuries, road signs, and traffic conditions.
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Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver:
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Full names
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Driver’s license numbers
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Phone numbers
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Vehicle registration details
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Insurance company and policy numbers
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Talk to witnesses. Get their names and phone numbers, and ask them what they saw. Independent statements may prove critical later.
The more detailed your records are, the stronger your case will be.
Step 3: Understand Your Legal Obligations Under Florida Law
In Florida, you’re legally required to stay at the scene of any accident involving injury or property damage. Leaving the scene—even in minor accidents—can lead to serious consequences, including misdemeanor charges.
You must:
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Remain at the scene
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Exchange required information
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Render aid if someone is hurt
Also, report the accident to the police if:
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There are injuries or fatalities
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Property damage exceeds $500
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A hit-and-run is involved
Always request a copy of the police report, which serves as an official record and can help substantiate your version of events.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Provider
Even if the accident wasn’t your fault, you still need to notify your insurance company. Most policies require prompt reporting. However, avoid giving a recorded statement or signing anything without legal guidance.
Better yet, speak with a qualified Florida car accident attorney before engaging with any insurance adjusters—especially the other driver’s insurer. Insurance companies are often more focused on minimizing payouts than doing what’s fair.
Step 5: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Don’t delay seeing a doctor—even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may take hours or days to surface. Medical documentation not only helps you heal, but it also strengthens your injury claim.
Keep detailed records of all medical care related to your accident:
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Emergency room visits
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Follow-up appointments
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Diagnostic tests (MRIs, X-rays)
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Therapy or chiropractic sessions
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Prescriptions and receipts
Thorough documentation is essential for seeking full compensation for your treatment, pain, and suffering.
Step 6: Keep Track of Expenses and Documentation
The aftermath of a car crash often comes with unplanned costs. Save all receipts and invoices for:
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Vehicle repairs or replacement
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Rental cars
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Towing and storage
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Lost wages
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Medical equipment or assistive devices
These costs can be included in your claim and recovered through settlement or verdict, depending on the circumstances.
Step 7: Know When to Call a Florida Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured or your vehicle has been significantly damaged, you may already be facing mounting medical bills, time off work, and pressure from insurance adjusters. That’s when you need Applebaum Accident & Injury Lawyers on your side.
Hiring an attorney ensures:
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Your rights are protected
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You don’t settle for less than you deserve
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All claims and paperwork are filed correctly and on time
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You avoid costly mistakes that could hurt your case
We handle all communication with insurers so you can focus on healing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Florida Car Accident
Our attorneys often help clients who made early missteps that harmed their case. Here’s how you can avoid the same pitfalls:
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Don’t delay medical treatment. Waiting too long can hurt both your health and your claim.
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Never sign anything without legal review. This includes waivers, releases, and settlement offers.
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Avoid giving recorded statements to the other driver’s insurance company without speaking to an attorney.
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Follow your doctor’s treatment plan. Gaps in care can be used against you in settlement negotiations or court.
We Fight for Florida Car Accident Victims — And We Win
At Applebaum Accident & Injury Lawyers, we know the toll a car accident can take on your life. Our experienced Florida car accident attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way—from collecting evidence and negotiating with insurers to taking your case to court, if necessary.
You may be entitled to compensation for:
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Medical expenses
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Lost wages
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Future medical care
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Property damage
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Pain and suffering
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
You don’t have to face this alone. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Florida car accident that wasn’t your fault, reach out today.
📞 Call [Applebaum Accident & Injury Lawyers] at [855-call-Paul]
📍 Serving clients across Florida
🕒 Available 24/7 — No fee unless we win
Let us help you secure the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
