What to Do After a Car Accident in Florida
The first two weeks after a Florida crash decide most of what follows — your insurance benefits, your evidence, and your options. Here is the order of operations. General information, not legal advice.
Get safe and call 911
Florida law requires you to stop and render aid, and section 316.065 requires the driver to immediately report the crash to law enforcement by the quickest means when it involves injury, death, or apparent property damage of at least $500. A police report also creates the first neutral record of what happened.
Exchange information — and nothing extra
Share your name, address, registration, and insurance as required. Do not speculate about fault or apologize in a way that sounds like accepting blame.
Photograph everything at the scene
Vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, visible injuries, and the other driver's documents. Collect witness names and phone numbers before they leave.
See a qualifying medical provider within 14 days
Florida's PIP law generally pays medical benefits only if initial care happens within 14 days of the crash — from a hospital, EMT, physician, dentist, or chiropractor. This single step protects up to $10,000 in benefits. Details in our 14-day rule guide.
Notify your own insurer promptly
PIP is your own coverage, and policies require prompt notice. Report the basic facts. You are not required to give the other driver's insurer a recorded statement before getting advice.
Start a file
Keep the crash report number, medical records and bills, repair estimates, receipts, missed-work records, and a dated written timeline while memory is fresh.
Watch the other deadlines
Beyond the 14-day window, Florida generally allows two years to file a negligence lawsuit for crashes on or after March 24, 2023. See the full breakdown in our statute of limitations guide, and how the pieces connect in Florida no-fault insurance explained.
Avoid the classic mistakes
Posting online, leaving treatment gaps, and signing quick releases are the big three. The full list is in our 10-mistake checklist.
FAQ
Do I have to call the police for a minor crash in Florida?
Under section 316.065, crashes with injury, death, or apparent property damage of at least $500 must be reported immediately to law enforcement. For crashes below that threshold, a self-report to the FLHSMV may be an option — when unsure, call and let dispatch decide.
Should I see a doctor even if I feel fine?
If you have any symptoms, yes — soft-tissue and head injuries often surface days later, and the 14-day PIP window runs from the crash date, not from when pain starts.
Do I have to talk to the other driver's insurance company?
You generally have no obligation to give the other insurer a recorded statement. You can decline politely until you have had advice.
How long do I have to file an injury claim in Florida?
Generally two years from the crash for negligence lawsuits arising from crashes on or after March 24, 2023, with exceptions. Confirm your exact date with a licensed Florida attorney.