Brito Law Group · Blog

What to Do After a Car Accident in Florida: A Step-by-Step Guide

By Peter Brito, Attorney · Brito Law Group

A car accident is frightening, and it is hard to think clearly in the moment. The steps below are meant to help you stay safe, protect your health, and protect your rights under Florida law. This is general information, not legal advice about your specific situation.

What should I do first, right after the crash?

First, check for injuries and get to a safe place if you can. Call 911 so police and, if needed, paramedics respond. In Florida, you are generally expected to report a crash that involves injury, death, or significant property damage, and a police report creates an official record that can matter later.

Should I admit fault or apologize at the scene?

No — avoid saying anything that sounds like you are accepting blame, even a casual "I'm sorry." People often apologize out of politeness, but those words can be used against you later, and you may not yet know what actually caused the crash. Stick to the facts when you speak with police, and let the investigation and the evidence tell the story.

How do I document the accident scene?

Gather as much information as you safely can before you leave. Helpful things to collect include:

• Photos and video of all vehicles, damage, the road, traffic signs, and your visible injuries
• The other driver's name, phone number, license plate, and insurance information
• Names and phone numbers of any witnesses
• The responding officers' names and the crash report number

If anything is unclear or disputed later, this record can make a real difference.

What is the 14-day rule for medical care?

Florida's no-fault (PIP) system generally requires you to seek medical care within 14 days of the accident to be eligible for Personal Injury Protection medical benefits. Even if you feel "okay," some injuries — like injuries to the spine, concussion, or other injuries — show up hours or days later. Getting checked promptly protects both your health and your ability to have care covered. Florida law can be detailed here, so it is wise to act quickly rather than wait.

How should I handle the insurance adjuster?

Be careful and cautious — an adjuster, even a friendly one, works for the insurance company, not for you. You can report the basic facts, but you are generally not required to give a recorded statement or accept a quick settlement before you understand your injuries. Consider these general points:

• You do not have to guess about your injuries or accept blame
• A fast offer may not reflect the full picture of your medical care
• You can speak with an attorney before signing anything

When should I call a lawyer?

You can call a lawyer at any point, and sooner is often better — especially if you were injured, if fault is disputed, or if you are unsure how to deal with the insurance company. An attorney can explain your options, help preserve evidence, and handle communications so you can focus on recovering. Many personal-injury firms, including ours, offer a free consultation and work on a contingency basis, meaning generally no fee unless we recover for you.

How can Brito Law Group help?

At Brito Law Group in Coral Gables, we help injured people across Florida understand their rights and take the next step with confidence. We are happy to listen, answer your questions in plain language, and walk you through your options with no pressure. If you have been in an accident, reach out — we are here to help.

*Costs and expenses may apply. The information on this site is general and is not legal advice. Reading this article or contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. Brito Law Group, Coral Gables, FL.