What to Do After an MVA
What to Do After a Car Accident in Florida
A car crash can happen in seconds — and the moments after are often confusing. Knowing what to do can protect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover compensation later.
At Chomat Whitt Injury Law, PLLC, our Florida car accident attorneys have guided countless clients through the aftermath of a collision. Here’s what to do if you’ve been in a crash.
1. Check for Injuries, Call 911, and Get Medical Care
Safety comes first. Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 right away. Don’t move anyone seriously hurt unless they’re in immediate danger. Even if you feel fine, get medical attention as soon as possible — some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not appear immediately. Prompt care protects both your health and your right to Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits in Florida.
2. Stay at the Scene
Never leave, even after a minor accident. Move vehicles out of traffic if it’s safe to do so and turn on your hazard lights. Staying put helps avoid legal problems and keeps everyone safe.
3. Exchange Information
Get the other driver’s name, contact details, license number, and insurance information. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers too. When police arrive, request the driver’s exchange form, police report number, and the name of the responding law enforcement agency. Stay calm and avoid arguing or admitting fault — just gather facts.
4. Document the Scene
Use your phone to take photos and videos of:
- Vehicle damage (both cars)
- Skid marks, debris, and traffic signals
- Weather and road conditions
- Visible injuries
The more details you capture, the stronger your case will be later.
5. Don’t Give a Recorded Statement
If an insurance company contacts you for a recorded statement, politely decline until you’ve spoken with a lawyer. Adjusters often look for ways to minimize payouts — an attorney can ensure your words aren’t used against you.
6. Call a Car Accident Lawyer
A knowledgeable Florida car accident lawyer can handle every step of your case — investigating the crash, collecting evidence, and negotiating with insurers — so you can focus on recovery.
At Chomat Whitt Injury Law, PLLC, we represent clients across Florida who’ve been injured in all types of car crashes, from fender benders to serious collisions involving commercial vehicles. We handle the legal work so you can focus on healing.