What to Do After a Car Accident in Florida: Your 2025 Roadside Legal Checklist

Florida’s roads are unpredictable—between distracted drivers, tourist traffic, and daily rush hour chaos, accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Whether it’s a fender bender on I-4 or a serious crash on US-1, knowing exactly what to do next can make or break your injury claim.

Prioritize Safety and Medical Help

First things first—check yourself and others for injuries. Even if you feel “fine,” some injuries (like whiplash or internal trauma) might not show symptoms right away. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. In Florida, you’re legally required to report any accident involving injury, death, or property damage over $500 (Florida Statutes § 316.065).

Move to a Safe Location

If your vehicle is drivable and no one is seriously injured, move to a safe location to avoid blocking traffic. Turn on your hazard lights. Florida law requires drivers involved in a crash to “make every reasonable effort” to avoid obstructing traffic after the collision (Florida Statutes § 316.071).

Exchange Information

Swap information with the other driver(s) involved, including:

Names and contact details 

Driver’s license numbers

License plate numbers

Insurance company and policy number

If there are witnesses, grab their contact info too—witness statements can make a huge difference when proving fault.

Document the Scene

Whip out your phone and start snapping pictures. Capture:

Damage to all vehicles

Road Conditions

Skid marks or debris

Traffic signs or signals

Visible injuries

These photos will be crucial when dealing with insurance adjusters or presenting your case in court.

File an Official Report

Even if law enforcement responds to the scene, it’s wise to obtain your own copy of the Florida Traffic Crash Report later. You can request it online at flhsmv.gov. This report often becomes a key piece of evidence.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, which means your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for your medical treatment—but only if you seek care within 14 days of the accident (Florida Statutes § 627.736). Don’t wait, even if your injuries seem minor.

Contact a Florida Car Accident Attorney

Here’s the reality—insurance companies are not on your side. They may offer lowball settlements or deny valid claims altogether. A skilled personal injury attorney can help you:

Protect your rights

Handle the paperwork

Deal with the insurance companies

Fight for the compensation you truly deserve

Get in touch with a Car Accident Lawyer!

Accidents are stressful enough. Don’t let legal confusion or insurance games add to your headache. At the Dewitt Law Firm, we’ve helped countless individuals recover after car crashes. From minor injuries to major claims, we’re ready to fight for you.

Injured in a crash? Call the Dewittt Law Firm today—because when it matters most, you need a lawyer who answers.