What to Do After a Car Accident in Florida

At the Scene

Your first priority is safety and health. If anyone is hurt, call 911 — a police report creates an official, neutral record of the crash. Move to a safe spot if you can, and turn on your hazards.

Exchange names, license, registration, and insurance information with the other driver.
Photograph everything: vehicle damage, the position of the cars, the road, traffic signals, skid marks, and any visible injuries.
Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
Do not admit fault or say "I'm fine" — you may not feel an injury for hours or days.

See a Doctor Within 14 Days

This is the step people most often miss. Florida is a no-fault state, and your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage only pays if you are evaluated by a qualifying medical provider within 14 days of the crash (F.S. § 627.736). Miss that window and you can lose up to $10,000 in benefits.

Beyond the deadline, prompt treatment also protects your health and ties your injuries to the accident — a gap in care is the first thing an insurer uses to argue you weren't really hurt.

Be Careful With Insurance Companies

⚠ The adjuster is not on your side. The other driver's insurer may call quickly, sound friendly, and ask for a recorded statement or a quick settlement. Early offers are routinely far below what a claim is worth, and a recorded statement can be used against you.

You generally must report the crash to your own insurer. You are not required to give the other side a recorded statement. When in doubt, talk to an attorney before signing anything or accepting money.

Protect Your Right to Recover

Keep a simple file: the crash report number, photos, medical records and bills, and a note of missed work and how the injury affects daily life. If another driver was at fault, you may be able to recover beyond PIP for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Florida changed key personal-injury deadlines in 2023 (HB 837). For most negligence claims arising on or after March 24, 2023, the deadline to file is two years; some older claims and special situations differ. Deadlines are strict — confirm yours with a Florida attorney right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to call the police after a Florida car accident?

Florida law requires reporting crashes involving injury, death, or significant property damage. Even for minor crashes, an official report creates a neutral record that protects you later — calling 911 is almost always the right move.

Why do I have to see a doctor within 14 days?

Florida's no-fault PIP law (F.S. § 627.736) only pays medical benefits if you receive initial care within 14 days of the accident. Waiting longer can forfeit those benefits and gives insurers a reason to dispute your injuries.

Should I give the other driver's insurance a recorded statement?

Usually no. You are generally not required to, and recorded statements are often used to minimize or deny claims. Speak with an attorney first.

Can I still recover if the accident was partly my fault?

Possibly. Under Florida's comparative-negligence rule (F.S. § 768.81), you may recover reduced damages if you are 50% or less at fault, but recovery is barred if you are more than 50% at fault.

The Truestead Takeaway

The strongest car-accident claims are built in the first few days: a police report, photos, prompt medical care within the 14-day PIP window, and caution with insurers. If someone else caused your crash, a free review will tell you what you may be owed — and the deadline to act is short.

Sources

Fla. Stat. § 627.736 (Florida Motor Vehicle No-Fault Law / PIP)
Fla. Stat. § 768.81 (comparative negligence)

Talk to a Florida Attorney

Every family’s situation is different. Schedule a consultation with Arthur Simpson, Esq. to review your plan and your options under Florida law.

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This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice, nor does reading it create an attorney-client relationship. Florida estate, elder, probate, and real estate law are fact-specific and change over time. Consult a licensed Florida attorney about your individual circumstances. Arthur Simpson, Esq. is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida. Attorney advertising.