Immediately After the Accident
The moments after a serious crash are chaotic, but the actions you take can shape the outcome of your claim. First, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Call 911 for medical help and police response, even for injuries that seem minor. Do not move injured persons unless they are in immediate danger, and do not discuss fault at the scene.
Documenting the Scene
If you are able, take photographs of all vehicles from multiple angles, the surrounding road, skid marks, traffic signals, and weather conditions. Collect the names and contact information of witnesses. The police report will contain the officer's observations and any citations issued, which are valuable evidence in a later claim.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Some catastrophic injuries, including internal bleeding and brain injuries, may not produce immediate symptoms. Delaying medical care not only endangers your health but gives insurers a reason to argue your injuries were not caused by the accident. Keep every medical record, bill, and prescription receipt.
Understand Your Insurance Coverage
Florida's no-fault system means your own PIP coverage pays your medical bills first, up to $10,000. If your injuries meet the serious injury threshold, you can pursue a claim against the at-fault driver's liability coverage. Review your policy to understand your uninsured motorist coverage, which protects you if the at-fault driver has no insurance.
What Not to Say to an Insurance Adjuster
- Never admit fault, even partially
- Never give a recorded statement without an attorney present
- Never accept a settlement offer before treatment is complete
- Never sign a release of liability without legal review
When to Contact an Attorney
If your injuries are serious, require ongoing treatment, or are expected to cause permanent impairment, contact a Florida catastrophic injury attorney promptly. An attorney handles communication with insurers, gathers evidence, and ensures the full, lifetime value of your injuries is reflected in any settlement.
Independent educational resource covering Florida catastrophic injury law. This article was researched from Florida statutes and official sources and is provided for general informational purposes only.
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