Florida Car Accidents: What to Do After a Crash
Florida consistently ranks among the worst states for car accidents. The new year seems poised to continue that trend. In the first 9 days of 2025, Florida experienced 4,317 car accidents, resulting in 17 fatalities and 2,784 injuries, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles’ Crash Dashboard. With the high rates of Florida car accidents projected this year, it is essential to know what to do after a crash. Being prepared can help protect your rights and ensure your well-being. Schwed Law is here to guide you through the process.
Immediate Steps After a Florida Car Accident
After any accident, your first priority is to check for injuries. Assess yourself and anyone involved. If there are injuries, call 911 immediately. If you are able, it is crucial to move to a safe area. Moving your vehicle out of traffic can help to prevent additional accidents.
Even if the accident seems minor, it is essential to call the police. This goes for Florida car accidents, as well as a car crash in any state. They will provide an official report and scene documentation, which is usually required by your insurance company. This report may become critical if you need to file a future personal injury claim.
Gathering Information and Reporting the Accident
Now that everyone involved is safe and the authorities are on their way, it’s time to gather information. Exchange contact information with the other driver, passengers, and any witnesses. Make sure to document the other driver’s license and car insurance details. Take photos of the scene, including all vehicle damage (to all vehicles involved), road conditions, and any visible injuries. Include photos of any property damage as well. This evidence can be invaluable for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.
Most insurance companies require you to report accidents promptly, so make sure you call them next. Share with them all of the information you’ve collected. Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, seeing medical attention is a crucial next step. Some injuries, like whiplash, may not manifest right away. Your body may be in shock, masking additional pain. These injuries, while not immediate, can have long-term effects.
Contact Schwed, Adams & McGinley
After addressing the immediate aftermath of a car accident, it’s wise to consult with a legal expert to understand your rights and compensation options. Schwed, Adams & McGinley, PA, understands you and the hurdles you face after a car accident. We offer a free consultation to help you navigate the complexities of personal injury law. With over 200 years of combined experience, our team is ready to support you in many practice areas including Florida car accidents, slip and falls, and wrongful death claims.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 877-694-6079 or contact@schwedlawfirm.com. We are here to help you secure the maximum compensation you deserve.