5 Things to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Florida

5 Things to Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Florida

by | Sep 6, 2025 | Criminal Defense Law

Injured in a Crash? Here’s What to Do Next

A car accident can be a shocking and chaotic experience—especially if you or someone else is hurt. What you do in the moments and days after a collision can significantly affect your health, your ability to file a claim, and your legal rights. At The Law Office of Michael Glasser, P.A., we help accident victims in Fort Lauderdale navigate the aftermath of serious crashes.

Here are the five most important steps to take immediately following a car accident in Florida.


1. Ensure Safety and Call 911

Your safety and the safety of others comes first. If you’re able to do so:

  • Move vehicles to a safe location if they’re blocking traffic

  • Check yourself and passengers for injuries

  • Call 911 to report the accident, even if it seems minor

The police will create an official accident report, which is often crucial for insurance and legal claims. Don’t leave the scene—doing so could lead to criminal charges.


2. Seek Medical Attention Right Away

Some injuries (like whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding) don’t show symptoms immediately. Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) laws require you to seek medical care within 14 days to be eligible for insurance coverage.

Go to the ER, urgent care, or your doctor—even if you think you’re okay. Medical documentation is key to proving your injuries later.


3. Document the Scene and Exchange Information

If you’re physically able:

  • Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, street signs, and debris

  • Get contact and insurance info from all drivers involved

  • Collect witness names and numbers, if any

  • Record the police officer’s name and report number

This evidence may support your claim and protect you from being blamed for something you didn’t do.


4. Report the Accident to Your Insurance—But Be Cautious

You should notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible, but be careful with your words:

  • Stick to the facts

  • Don’t admit fault

  • Don’t minimize injuries (“I’m fine” can hurt your claim later)

Avoid giving a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance without speaking to a lawyer first. Their job is to protect their company, not you.


5. Contact a Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Attorney

Before signing anything or accepting a settlement, speak to an experienced car accident lawyer. Insurance companies often offer lowball settlements that don’t cover your full medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or future care.

At The Law Office of Michael Glasser, P.A., we handle every step of your case so you can focus on recovery. We:

  • Investigate the accident and gather evidence

  • Handle all communication with insurance companies

  • Calculate the full value of your claim

  • Fight for the maximum compensation you deserve—at the negotiation table or in court

You pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case.


Know Your Rights Under Florida Law

Florida is a no-fault insurance state, meaning your own PIP insurance pays for initial medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident. However, you may still sue the at-fault driver if:

  • You suffered serious or permanent injuries

  • Your expenses exceed PIP coverage

  • The at-fault party was grossly negligent (e.g., drunk driving)

That’s why speaking to a qualified personal injury lawyer is essential—even in a no-fault state.


Common Car Accident Injuries We Handle

Our firm represents clients suffering from a range of auto accident injuries, including:

  • Neck and back injuries (whiplash, herniated discs)

  • Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

  • Broken bones and fractures

  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis

  • Internal bleeding or organ damage

  • Psychological trauma like PTSD or anxiety

These injuries can disrupt your life, career, and family. We work with medical experts to document the full impact of your accident and seek the compensation you truly need.


Protect Yourself—Call Michael Glasser Today

Don’t let an insurance company undervalue your injuries or delay your claim. Whether your car accident happened on I-95, US-1, or anywhere in Broward County, we’re ready to help.

📞 Call (954) 242-1951 or contact us online for a free consultation.

We’ll explain your rights, evaluate your claim, and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.