Car accidents happen in an instant, but the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Between injuries, medical bills, and insurance calls, it’s easy to make mistakes that can hurt your health or your case. Knowing what to do immediately after a crash in Florida can make all the difference.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, we help accident victims across Cocoa Beach, Melbourne, and Brevard County take the right steps to protect themselves. Here’s what you should do if you’ve been involved in a car accident.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your health and safety come first. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately. Florida law requires you to report accidents that result in injury, death, or significant property damage【Florida Statutes § 316.065】. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s better to have medical professionals on the scene.
Never assume you’re fine because you feel “okay” at the moment—adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries (like concussions or whiplash) don’t show symptoms right away.
Step 2: Move to Safety if Possible
If the vehicles are creating a hazard and can be safely moved, relocate them to the side of the road. If not, turn on your hazard lights and stay inside the vehicle until help arrives. Avoid standing in traffic or near blind spots, especially on highways or busy intersections.
Step 3: Document the Accident Scene
If it’s safe, start gathering evidence while you’re still at the scene:
- Take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, and weather conditions.
- Get close-up shots of license plates and wide shots showing the entire scene.
- Collect names and contact information for witnesses.
This documentation can be critical later when insurance companies or attorneys evaluate your case.
Step 4: Exchange Information
Florida law requires drivers to exchange names, addresses, vehicle registration details, and insurance information. Be polite but cautious—do not admit fault or speculate about what happened. Something as simple as saying “I’m sorry” could be twisted into an admission of liability later.
Step 5: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Under Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law【Florida Statutes § 627.736】, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident to be eligible for PIP benefits.
Even if you don’t think you’re badly hurt, see a doctor. Internal injuries, soft tissue damage, and head trauma often don’t appear right away. Prompt treatment not only protects your health but also creates documentation that supports your injury claim.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company
Most policies require prompt reporting of accidents. Contact your insurer, but keep your statements factual and brief. Do not provide recorded statements or accept settlement offers without speaking to a lawyer first. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, even when their policyholder is clearly at fault.
Step 7: Keep Records of Everything
Start a file for all documents related to the crash, including:
- Medical bills and treatment records
- Prescription receipts
- Lost wage documentation
- Correspondence with insurance companies
- Photos, police reports, and witness statements
The more organized your records, the stronger your case will be if you need to pursue compensation.
Step 8: Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
Car accident cases in Florida can get complicated quickly, especially with the state’s no-fault insurance laws. A skilled attorney can:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence.
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies.
- Determine if your case qualifies to step outside PIP and pursue a liability claim.
- Fight for full compensation, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, we know how to take on insurance companies and fight for our clients’ rights.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident
Just as important as knowing what to do is knowing what not to do:
- Don’t leave the scene without calling law enforcement.
- Don’t admit fault, even casually.
- Don’t delay medical treatment—waiting can hurt both your health and your case.
- Don’t post about the accident on social media—insurers may use it against you.
Call Today to Get a Skilled Car Accident Attorney Fighting for You
A car accident can leave you shaken and unsure of what comes next, but the steps you take immediately afterward can have a lasting impact on your recovery and legal options. By prioritizing your health, documenting the scene, and getting experienced legal help, you can protect your rights and build a strong claim.
At DeGraff Hicks Law Group, we’re here to stand with accident victims every step of the way. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Cocoa Beach or anywhere in Brevard County, call us today at (321) 44-SHARK to schedule a confidential consultation.
