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A car accident can turn an ordinary day upside down, leaving you unsure what comes next. Knowing what to do after a car accident in Florida gives you the clarity to protect your health and rights. Drivers in Boca Raton must follow specific steps and legal requirements that make a real difference in how claims are handled. Whether you require medical care right away or need the support of a Boca Raton car accident lawyer, being prepared can help ease the stress of an unexpected crash. Hersh Kirtman is ready to guide you through each stage of the process.
After a car accident in Florida, focus on safety first. Move people and vehicles out of danger if possible, then call the police when there are injuries, significant damage, or a hit-and-run. Exchange details with the other driver, take photos, and gather insurance information. Get checked by a doctor within 14 days to protect your PIP benefits, and notify your insurer quickly to start the claims process.
Your first concern is always safety. Move to a secure location, check yourself and others for injuries, and call 911. Emergency responders can provide medical assistance and prepare a report, which becomes vital evidence later.
Even if injuries appear minor, it is best to have trained professionals evaluate the situation. A police report also helps establish the facts of the crash for later claims.
When vehicles block traffic or create further danger, Florida law allows you to move them if they can be safely driven. Clearing the roadway helps prevent additional collisions and protects you from further harm.
Use hazard lights, cones, or flares to warn approaching traffic. These small steps reduce the risk of secondary accidents and demonstrate that you acted responsibly after the crash.
Florida law sets clear rules for reporting crashes. According to Section 316.065, Florida Statutes, a driver must immediately contact local law enforcement if the accident results in injury, death, or at least $500 in property damage. In less severe cases, drivers may complete a “Driver Report of Traffic Crash (Self Report)” or exchange information online. Failing to comply with these requirements can result in penalties that may affect your ability to pursue compensation later.
Florida’s system ensures that accidents are correctly documented. Reporting keeps you compliant with the law and provides essential proof for insurance claims and potential lawsuits. Many drivers underestimate how quickly a situation can escalate legally if reporting duties are ignored.
Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law is crucial in medical coverage after a crash. Under Section 627.736, Florida Statutes, individuals must seek initial treatment within 14 days to qualify for benefits. PIP covers 80 percent of necessary medical expenses, including hospital visits, surgery, rehabilitation, and ambulance services. Delaying treatment may jeopardize your health and your ability to recover these benefits.
Even injuries that seem minor at first, such as whiplash or concussions, may become serious over time. Seeking care quickly not only preserves your eligibility for benefits but also ensures that you receive a proper medical record linking your injuries to the crash. This documentation is invaluable when negotiating with insurers or pursuing legal action.
Building a strong record of the accident can make a meaningful difference when dealing with insurance companies or preparing a legal case. Take clear photos of the cars, the roadway, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Try to capture expansive views of the entire scene and close-ups of specific damage.
Ask witnesses for their contact information and a brief account of what they saw, since their perspectives may support your version of events. Hold on to every document you receive, from medical records to repair estimates and the official crash report.
Many people forget to write down their own memories right after the collision. Putting your thoughts on paper while fresh can be helpful later, especially if details are challenged. Staying organized helps your attorney work more effectively on your behalf and makes your claim more persuasive.
Promptly informing your insurance provider is part of protecting your rights. Provide factual information about the crash, but avoid speculation about fault or injuries. Insurers may use statements against you to reduce compensation. Your attorney can help guide communication to prevent missteps that could limit recovery.
In Florida, most insurers impose strict deadlines for reporting accidents. Missing these deadlines could delay or even forfeit coverage. Timely notification demonstrates good faith and ensures your claim moves forward without unnecessary obstacles.
After serious accidents, consulting with an attorney ensures your rights remain protected. A lawyer can evaluate the circumstances, guide you through insurance negotiations, and represent you in court if needed. For Boca Raton residents, legal counsel provides peace of mind while you focus on recovery.
Legal representation also levels the playing field against well-resourced insurance companies. An attorney can calculate the full extent of your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and future care needs. Victims risk accepting settlements that fall short of actual damages without this guidance.
After experiencing a crash, the path forward may feel uncertain. You protect your health and future claims by taking the proper steps quickly. To learn more about what to do after a car accident and how your rights apply in Florida, contact Hersh Kirtman today at 561.208.3700.
Our team is committed to helping injured individuals across Boca Raton pursue justice and confidently move forward. We take time to understand your situation, explain your legal options, and seek the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and the challenges ahead. With the proper support, you can focus on recovery while knowing your case is handled with care and determination.
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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