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Getting into a car crash can be a major disruption, especially when the accident wasn’t your fault. Knowing what to do after a car accident not your fault can significantly impact the outcome of your claim and your ability to recover the compensation you’re owed.
At Hersh Kirtman, we help drivers in Boca Raton take smart legal steps after collisions caused by others. If you’re looking for a Boca Raton car accident lawyer, our team is here to guide you through every stage of the process. Below, we walk through exactly what you should do right after the crash, how Florida law applies, and how to protect your rights in the days and weeks that follow.
First, take a deep breath. Your safety comes first. According to DMV Florida, if your vehicle is blocking traffic after an accident, you must move it or get help, such as calling a tow truck—your car should never obstruct traffic under any circumstances. Once safe, check yourself and any passengers for injuries and avoid moving anyone who may be seriously hurt.
Drivers involved in a crash should immediately call 911 and stay at the scene, especially if the accident involves injuries, fatalities, suspected DUI, a hit and run, a commercial vehicle, a wrecker, or visible property damage. Law enforcement will create an official report, which can be critical later on. For minor collisions that don’t meet these criteria, drivers may have the option to self-report the incident instead.
Once emergency needs are handled, speak with the other driver. Get their name, license number, insurance company, and contact info. Keep the interaction polite but brief. Avoid discussing fault or saying you’re sorry; even casual comments can be used against you later.
Use your phone to take clear photos of the vehicles, damage, license plates, skid marks, and traffic signals. These images can provide context about how the crash happened. Make notes about weather conditions, the time of day, and anything unusual that might have contributed to the collision.
If anyone saw the accident, approach them and ask for their name and phone number. A third-party account of the crash can support your version of events, especially if the other driver later tries to shift blame.
Founding Partner
A passionate advocate for injury victims, Michael transitioned from corporate law to fighting for individuals after a pivotal case defending an elderly couple. With over $100M in verdicts and settlements, he specializes in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases, using his Trial Lawyers College training to powerfully tell clients’ stories.
Years of experience – Over 15 years
Elite Trial Advocate – Graduate, Trial Lawyers College
$35M Record Verdict – Catastrophic auto accident case
Yes, in many cases, you do. Under Florida law, drivers must stay at the scene and notify law enforcement if a crash involves injuries, fatalities, DUI, hit and run, commercial vehicles, a wrecker, or apparent damage of $500 or more. Minor crashes that don’t meet these criteria may be self-reported by the drivers involved.
Yes, notify your insurer promptly. Even though you didn’t cause the accident, your policy likely requires that you report all incidents. Be factual, stick to the basics, and avoid statements about who was at fault. Let the claims adjusters investigate liability.
There are a few common missteps drivers make after a crash:
Florida’s insurance rules can be confusing, but you still have options. Because Florida is a no-fault state, your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage pays for your medical bills, regardless of who caused the crash. But if your injuries are serious, you may also pursue a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance.
That means you could recover compensation for:
To qualify for these types of claims, your injuries must meet Florida’s serious injury threshold, so medical documentation is key.
After an accident, having the right legal support can make all the difference. Our team at Hersh Kirtman has helped many Boca Raton drivers navigate the aftermath of crashes caused by others’ negligence. From gathering evidence to negotiating fair settlements, we guide you through each step with clarity and purpose.
Need help figuring out what to do after a car accident not your fault? Contact us today at 561.208.3700 and let us walk you through your next steps with confidence and clarity.
Personal Injury Lawyers in Boca Raton
At Hersh Kirtman Injury Law, we turn adversity into justice through trust and relentless advocacy. With decades of experience, we don’t just handle cases—we redefine outcomes. Your recovery starts with a conversation. Call us today for a free, no-obligation consultation—because you deserve a team that fights as hard as you do.
This page was written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers in accordance with our comprehensive editorial guidelines. It was approved by Attorneys Michael Hersh and Ian Kirtman, who have more than 20 years of experience as personal injury attorneys.
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