What to Do After a Car Accident in Miami: A Step-by-Step Guide
The minutes and days after a crash shape your entire claim. Here’s exactly what to do at the scene, the Florida deadlines that can quietly cost you money, and the mistakes that hand the insurance company an advantage.
1. At the scene — protect people first, then evidence
Once everyone is safe, the goal is to preserve what happened before memories fade and cars are moved.
- Call 911. Report injuries and get a police report started — it becomes a key document in your claim.
- Move to safety if the vehicles are drivable and blocking traffic; otherwise stay put with hazard lights on.
- Photograph everything — all vehicles, damage, license plates, the road, traffic signals, skid marks, and visible injuries.
- Exchange information — names, phone numbers, insurance details, and vehicle info. Do not discuss fault.
- Get witness contacts. A neutral witness can decide a disputed claim.
2. Seek medical care within 14 days — a Florida rule, not advice
Florida is a no-fault state. To access your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits — up to $10,000 in medical and wage coverage — you generally must be evaluated by a medical provider within 14 days of the crash. Miss that window and you can lose PIP benefits entirely, even if you were badly hurt.
Adrenaline hides injuries. Whiplash, concussions, and soft-tissue damage often surface days later. Getting checked promptly protects both your health and your claim.
3. What NOT to do
- Don’t admit fault — not to the other driver, not to the police, not in a social media post. Fault is a legal conclusion, not a courtesy.
- Don’t give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer. You are not required to, and it is used to minimize your claim.
- Don’t accept the first settlement offer. Early offers are almost always below what your case is worth, made before the full extent of your injuries is known.
- Don’t wait. Evidence disappears and deadlines run.
4. Know the Florida deadline
Under changes to Florida law in 2023, the deadline to file most car-accident negligence lawsuits was shortened to two years from the date of the crash. After that, your right to sue is generally lost. Because building a strong case takes time, waiting is one of the most expensive mistakes an injured person can make.
5. When to call a Miami car accident lawyer
If anyone was injured, fault is disputed, or an insurer is already contacting you, talk to an attorney before you talk to them. A Miami car accident lawyer preserves evidence, handles the insurance company, and pursues both your PIP claim and a claim against the at-fault driver — so you can focus on recovering.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to call the police after a minor accident in Miami?
Florida law requires reporting crashes that involve injury, death, or apparent property damage of $500 or more. When in doubt, call — the police report is valuable evidence and most accidents meet that threshold.
The accident wasn’t my fault. Why do I still use my own PIP insurance?
Florida’s no-fault system requires your own PIP to pay initial medical bills regardless of who caused the crash. If your injuries are serious, you may also pursue a separate claim against the at-fault driver for damages beyond PIP.
How long do I have to see a doctor?
Generally within 14 days of the accident to preserve your PIP benefits. Sooner is better — both for your health and your claim.
The insurance company offered me a settlement already. Should I take it?
Be cautious. Early offers are typically made before the full cost of your injuries is known and are usually far below fair value. Have it reviewed before you sign anything or cash a check.
How much does a car accident lawyer cost?
At Vega Legal Group, nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee — you pay only if we recover for you.
This article is general information about Florida law and not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different. For advice about your specific situation, speak with a licensed Florida attorney.
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