Injured in a Florida Car Accident? Here’s What to Do First
A car accident can happen in an instant, leaving you shaken, confused, and unsure of your next steps. From dealing with injuries to handling insurance companies, the hours and days following a crash can feel overwhelming. Knowing what to do immediately after an accident can protect your health, preserve your rights, and strengthen any future injury claim. At Shapiro Law Group, our car accident lawyer in Bradenton helps injured drivers and passengers throughout Tampa Bay and across Florida understand how to respond after a collision.
Step 1: Prioritize Medical Care
Your health should always come first. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some conditions, such as concussions or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away but can worsen over time. Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law requires accident victims to seek medical care within 14 days to maintain eligibility for insurance benefits. Documenting your injuries early also provides critical evidence for your claim.
If you’ve already received treatment, keep copies of all medical records and bills. These documents will help our personal injury lawyer in Bradenton calculate the full extent of your damages and support your case for fair compensation.
Step 2: Report the Accident and Document Everything
Florida law requires drivers to report accidents that cause injury, death, or significant property damage to law enforcement. Call 911 so that police can document the scene and prepare an official report. When it is safe to do so, gather your own evidence by taking photos of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
Exchange information with all involved drivers, including names, contact details, license numbers, and insurance information. Avoid discussing fault or admitting blame. Statements made at the scene can later be used against you. If witnesses are present, collect their contact information as well.
Our personal injury practice page explains how documentation plays a vital role in supporting a strong claim.
Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Company
Once you’ve addressed immediate medical and safety concerns, notify your insurance provider about the accident. Give them basic details but avoid recorded statements or speculation about who was at fault. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, so having our car accident attorney in Bradenton handle communications ensures that your rights remain protected.
If another driver’s negligence caused the collision, your insurer and the at-fault driver’s insurer will likely investigate the claim. Your attorney can coordinate with both parties to make sure deadlines are met, medical bills are correctly submitted, and you do not inadvertently weaken your case. If you have questions about your rights or the claims process, reach out to our firm for a confidential consultation.
Step 4: Understand Florida’s No-Fault System
Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning each driver’s insurance initially covers their medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. However, suppose your injuries are severe or meet specific legal thresholds such as permanent disfigurement, significant loss of function, or wrongful death. In that case, you may step outside the no-fault system to pursue a personal injury lawsuit.
Our medical malpractice and injury services page details how we help clients determine whether their injuries qualify for additional legal action. Consulting our auto accident lawyer in Bradenton early ensures you meet filing deadlines and fully understand your recovery options under Florida law.
Step 5: Preserve Evidence and Avoid Common Mistakes
After an accident, it’s easy to make errors that can hurt your claim. Refrain from sharing accident details on social media, as insurers may use posts to challenge your injuries or damages. Keep all receipts and correspondence related to the crash, including repair estimates, rental car costs, and out-of-pocket medical expenses.
Never accept an insurance settlement before consulting an attorney. Early offers often undervalue long-term medical needs and pain and suffering. Our about us page outlines our firm’s commitment to helping clients secure the compensation they deserve while avoiding these pitfalls.
Step 6: Contact Legal Representation Early
Car accident claims can involve complex insurance rules and time-sensitive procedures. Speaking with our car accident lawyer in Bradenton soon after the crash allows us to gather evidence, communicate with insurers, and ensure you meet all legal requirements. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.
At Shapiro Law Group, we also guide clients through medical treatment coordination, property damage claims, and settlement negotiations to relieve stress during recovery.
Protecting Your Rights After a Collision
The moments following a car accident can be chaotic, but the steps you take can make a lasting difference. Our firm helps victims in Bradenton, Tampa Bay, and throughout Florida pursue fair compensation for their injuries, losses, and emotional distress. The attorneys at Shapiro Law Group have decades of experience representing clients in complex personal injury matters and holding negligent drivers accountable.
If you or a loved one were hurt in a crash, contact us today to speak with our auto accident lawyer in Bradenton and learn how we can help you move forward with confidence.
