What Should I Do Immediately After A Car Accident In Florida?

Being involved in a car accident—even a minor one—can be terrifying and confusing. Whether you’re in Tampa, Riverview, Largo, or The Villages, knowing exactly what to do after a crash can protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to recover compensation.

At Mickey Keenan, P.A., we understand how overwhelming those first moments after an accident can be. That’s why we’ve created this step-by-step guide on what to do immediately after a car accident in Florida.

Step 1: Prioritize Safety First

Your health and safety are the top priorities. If the crash is minor and your vehicle is drivable, pull over to a safe area—ideally the shoulder of the road or a nearby parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

If the crash is more serious or your vehicle can’t be moved, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives unless there’s an immediate danger (like a fire or fuel leak).

Important: Florida law requires drivers to stop at the scene of any accident involving injury, death, or property damage. Failing to do so can result in criminal charges.

Step 2: Call 911 Immediately

Even if you believe the accident is minor, always call 911. A police officer will arrive to make an official report, which is critical for insurance claims and legal cases.

If someone is injured, request medical assistance immediately. Don’t try to assess injuries on your own—some serious conditions like internal bleeding or concussions might not show symptoms right away.

Florida Tip: A police report isn’t just helpful—it’s often required by insurance companies before they’ll pay out a claim. You can obtain a copy of your report from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

Step 3: Exchange Information The Right Way

While waiting for law enforcement to arrive, exchange the following details with the other driver(s):

Full name and contact information
Driver’s license number
Vehicle make, model, and license plate
Insurance company name and policy number

Avoid discussing fault or apologizing, even casually. Statements like “I didn’t see you” or “I’m sorry” can be used against you later.

Bonus Tip: If there are witnesses, politely ask for their contact info. Independent statements can be crucial in disputed claims.

Step 4: Document The Scene

Your smartphone is a powerful tool. Use it to take as many photos and videos as possible, including:

Damage to all vehicles involved
Road conditions, skid marks, and debris
Weather and lighting
Close-ups of license plates and damage
Injuries (if visible)
The surrounding area, traffic signs, and intersections

Visual evidence can help prove what happened and can be critical if the other driver changes their story or if liability is disputed.

Step 5: Seek Medical Attention—Even If You Feel Fine

Many injuries don’t show up right away, including whiplash, back injuries, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). In Florida, you have only 14 days to seek medical care after a car accident to qualify for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, even mild TBIs can have long-term effects if untreated.

Go to the ER, urgent care, or your primary care physician and let them know you were in a motor vehicle accident. Documenting your injuries immediately strengthens your legal and insurance claim.

Step 6: Report The Accident To Your Insurance Company

You should notify your insurance provider as soon as possible, even if you’re not at fault. Most policies have time limits for reporting accidents, and delaying can risk your eligibility for benefits.

Stick to the facts. Don’t speculate about fault or accept a settlement offer before speaking to an attorney—early offers often undervalue the true cost of your injuries and property damage.

Want to know how Florida’s no-fault system works? The Insurance Information Institute offers a helpful overview.

Step 7: Do Not Post About The Accident On Social Media

It may be tempting to share your experience, but anything you post can be used by insurance companies to minimize your claim. Avoid sharing photos, updates, or opinions about the crash until your case is resolved.

For more on the risks of oversharing, read this Forbes article on social media and legal cases.

Step 8: Contact A Florida Car Accident Lawyer Right Away

Even minor accidents can become major headaches when dealing with insurance companies. Our experienced Tampa, FL car accident lawyer can help you:

Understand your rights
Avoid common mistakes
Communicate with insurance adjusters
Secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
Fight back if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured

At Mickey Keenan, P.A., our team offers free consultations, and we don’t charge unless we win your case! We’ve helped hundreds of clients across Florida get the justice and compensation they deserve after car accidents.

FAQs About Florida Car Accidents

How Long Do I Have To File A Car Accident Claim In Florida?

In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit due to recent changes in Florida law. More on that from The Florida Senate.

Do I Need A Police Report To File An Insurance Claim?

Yes, in most cases. Even if you weren’t injured, a report helps prove the facts and is often required to process a claim.

What If I Was A Passenger In The Car?

Passengers have the right to file a claim against whichever driver was at fault—this includes the driver of the vehicle they were in or another vehicle.

Final Thoughts

Knowing what to do immediately after a car accident in Florida can protect your health, finances, and legal rights. From calling the police and gathering evidence to seeking medical care and legal help, taking the right steps sets you up for the best possible outcome.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash, don’t navigate it alone. Let our experienced attorneys at Mickey Keenan P.A. help you get back to living.

Call 813-871-1300 or Schedule a Free Consultation today.