No one plans for a car accident. In the moments afterward it's normal to feel shaken and unsure of what to do. But the choices you make right now can protect both your health and your right to be compensated. Use the steps below as your guide.
Your health comes first. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt. If the vehicles are drivable and you're in traffic, move them to the shoulder. Turn on your hazard lights.
Always report the accident. A police report creates an official record of what happened, who was involved, and often who was at fault — evidence that becomes critical if the insurance company later disputes your claim.
If you're able, use your phone to photograph the vehicles, the damage, the license plates, the road conditions, and any visible injuries. Exchange names, phone numbers, insurance information, and license plate numbers with the other driver. Get the names and numbers of any witnesses.
Florida is a no-fault state. To use your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, you generally must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident. Wait too long and you can lose access to those benefits entirely — so see a doctor promptly, even if you feel "okay."
Adrenaline can mask serious injuries. Whiplash, concussions, and soft-tissue damage often don't show symptoms for hours or days. Getting checked out protects your health and ties your injuries to the accident in your medical records.
Don't apologize or admit fault at the scene, and be cautious when the other driver's insurance company calls. Adjusters are trained to minimize what they pay. You are not required to give a recorded statement before speaking with your own attorney.
Save your medical bills, repair estimates, receipts for out-of-pocket costs, and a note of any work you miss. This documentation is the backbone of a full-value claim.
Insurance companies often make a fast, low offer hoping you'll accept before you understand the full cost of your injuries. A quick call with an attorney costs you nothing and helps you understand what your claim is actually worth. At the Law Offices of Marshall E. Rosenbach, you speak directly with Marshall — not a case manager.
Marshall personally reviews every case and returns calls the same day. No fee unless we recover for you.
This article is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every case is different; for advice about your situation, contact a licensed attorney.