1. Ensure Safety and Call 911
Your first priority should always be safety. Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Prompt medical attention is crucial not only for serious injuries but also to create an official medical record that may support your insurance claim or legal case.
If your vehicle is creating a traffic hazard and it is safe to do so, move it to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.
2. Assess Injuries and Avoid Further Harm
Do not move anyone who appears seriously injured unless there is immediate danger, such as fire or oncoming traffic. If you are trained in first aid, provide assistance while waiting for emergency responders.
3. Document the Scene Thoroughly
Detailed documentation can make a significant difference in your claim. Use your phone to take photos and videos of:
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Vehicle damage (all angles)
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License plates
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Visible injuries
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Road conditions
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Traffic signals and signs
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Skid marks and debris
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Weather conditions
Thorough documentation helps create a clear record of how the crash occurred and the damage involved.
Exchange and Gather Important Information
Florida law requires drivers involved in an accident to exchange certain information. Make sure you collect:
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Full names and addresses
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Phone numbers
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Driver’s license numbers
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Vehicle registration numbers
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Insurance company names and policy numbers
If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information. Witness statements can provide unbiased support for your version of events.
Also, gather information from law enforcement, including:
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The responding officer’s name and badge number
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The police report number
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Instructions for obtaining a copy of the report
Keep receipts for all accident-related expenses, including towing, repairs, rental vehicles, and medical costs.
Florida Law: Staying at the Scene Is Mandatory
Under Florida law, drivers involved in a crash involving property damage, injury, or death must remain at the scene. Leaving the scene can result in serious criminal penalties, including fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record.
If the accident involves injury, death, or significant property damage, it must be reported to law enforcement. Call 911 and remain at the scene until officers arrive and complete their investigation.
Obtaining a copy of the police report is essential. It serves as an official record and includes key details such as:
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Date, time, and location
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Statements from drivers and witnesses
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Officer observations
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Preliminary fault assessment
Notify Your Insurance Company
Even if the accident was not your fault, you must report the crash to your insurance company promptly. Delays can complicate or jeopardize your claim.
When speaking to your insurer, be prepared to provide:
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Date, time, and location of the accident
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Contact and insurance information of all involved parties
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Police report number
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A brief description of what occurred
Before providing recorded statements to the other driver’s insurance company, it is wise to speak with an attorney. Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize payouts or shift blame.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel fine after the accident, seek medical care as soon as possible. Injuries such as whiplash, concussions, and internal trauma may not show symptoms right away.
Prompt medical evaluation:
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Protects your health
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Establishes medical documentation
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Strengthens your injury claim
Keep detailed records of:
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Emergency room visits
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Hospital stays
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Diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.)
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Prescriptions
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Physical therapy and rehabilitation
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Follow-up appointments
Following your doctor’s treatment plan is critical. Gaps in treatment may be used by insurance companies to argue that your injuries are not serious.
When Should You Hire a Florida Car Accident Attorney?
If you were not at fault, you may still face challenges recovering full compensation. You should strongly consider hiring an attorney if:
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You suffered significant injuries
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There is substantial property damage
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Fault is being disputed
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The insurance company offers a low settlement
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The accident involves multiple parties
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You are facing long-term medical treatment or lost wages
An experienced Florida car accident attorney can protect your rights and handle the legal complexities while you focus on recovery.
How an Attorney Can Strengthen Your Case
A skilled legal team will:
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Conduct a thorough investigation
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Collect police reports, medical records, and witness statements
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Secure accident scene evidence
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Consult experts when necessary
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Handle all communications with insurance companies
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Negotiate aggressively for maximum compensation
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Take your case to court if needed
Insurance companies often attempt to reduce payouts. Having experienced legal representation levels the playing field.
Avoid Common Mistakes After a Florida Car Accident
After a crash, many people unintentionally harm their claims. Avoid these common pitfalls:
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Giving recorded statements without legal advice
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Signing settlement documents prematurely
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Accepting the first settlement offer
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Delaying medical treatment
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Failing to review the police report for errors
An experienced attorney can review every aspect of your case and prevent costly mistakes.
Protect Your Health. Protect Your Rights.
A serious car accident can disrupt every aspect of your life. Medical bills, lost income, vehicle repairs, and emotional stress can quickly become overwhelming. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you deserve full and fair compensation.
At Applebaum Accident Group, our team understands Florida’s car accident laws and the tactics insurance companies use to minimize claims. We are committed to helping injured victims recover the compensation they deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term impacts on their quality of life.
If you were injured in a Florida car accident that was not your fault, contact Applebaum Accident Group today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward with confidence.
