Adulting, Legally

What to Do After an Accident

1. Check for injuries and call 911. Your safety comes first. Request medical assistance if anyone is injured and notify law enforcement.

2. Move to a safe location if possible. If the vehicles can be safely moved and are creating a hazard, move them out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights.

3. Exchange information. Get the other driver's name, contact information, driver's license information, vehicle information, and insurance information.

4. Document the accident scene. If it is safe to do so, take photographs and videos of the vehicles, damage, roadway, traffic signals, weather conditions, visible injuries, and surrounding area. Also collect contact information from any witnesses.

5. Do not admit fault. Avoid apologizing, speculating about what happened, or making statements about who was responsible. Simply provide the information requested by law enforcement and exchange the necessary information with the other driver.

6. Seek medical attention. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent after an accident. In Florida, prompt medical attention is also important for preserving eligibility for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits; Florida law generally requires initial medical care within 14 days for PIP benefits.

7. Notify your insurance company. Report the accident as required by your policy, but be cautious about providing recorded statements or signing documents before you understand your rights.

8. Keep your records. Save medical records, bills, prescriptions, repair estimates, photographs, insurance correspondence, police reports, and other documents related to the accident.

9. Avoid posting about the accident on social media. Photos, comments, or other posts may later become relevant to an insurance claim or legal case.

10. Contact Ochsenius and Dunlap. If you were injured or believe another person's negligence caused the accident, contacting an attorney early can help you understand your rights, protect important evidence, and determine what legal options may be available.