Car accidents can be stressful and overwhelming experiences.  But, it is nonetheless essential to know what to do in the aftermath. Appropriately reporting a car accident is a crucial step in ensuring that the proper authorities are notified and any necessary medical or legal assistance can be provided. In Miami, like other cities, there are specific legal requirements for reporting a car accident. In this blog, we outline some of the legal requirements for reporting a car accident in Miami and the importance of complying with these regulations.

Immediate Reporting to Law Enforcement

In Miami, Florida, you are required to report a car accident to law enforcement immediately under certain circumstances, including but not limited to if there are injuries, deaths, or significant property damage. The law mandates that the drivers involved in the accident must remain at the scene until law enforcement arrives and completes the necessary investigation.

Calling 911

If the car accident results in injuries or poses a threat to public safety, call 911 immediately to report the accident and request emergency medical assistance. Providing prompt medical attention to those injured is essential.

Exchange Information

After ensuring the safety of all parties involved, you should exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Gather their name, contact information, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance information. Provide your information as well.

Gather Evidence

While you may not be legally required to do so, you should typically gather evidence at the accident scene. Take photos of the vehicles’ locations, vehicle damage, skid marks, and any other relevant details. These photos can be valuable evidence when filing an insurance claim or seeking compensation for damages.

File a Police Report

If law enforcement officers are called to the scene, they will conduct an investigation and prepare an official police report. This report may contain crucial information about the accident, such as the date, time, location, parties involved, insurance information, and any witness statements. Obtain a copy of the police report for your records and insurance claim process.

Reporting to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV)

According to the the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV), Section 316.065, Florida Statutes, requires the driver of a vehicle involved in a crash involving injury or death to a person, or at least $500 estimated vehicle or property damage to immediately contact local law enforcement. You can also complete a “Driver Report of Traffic Crash (Self Report)” or “Driver Exchange of Information” on line, or download the form at https://www.flhsmv.gov/traffic-crash-reports/.

Notifying Your Insurance Company

Depending on the particular language in your automobile insurance policy, you will typically have some obligation to report any car accident to your automobile insurance company.  If you retain an attorney soon after a collision, that attorney will be able to assist you with notifying your insurance company of the car crash and complying with your obligations under the terms of your automobile insurance policy. It is critical that you do so.  Failure to comply with your insurance policy may result in delayed or denied claims.

Conclusion

Reporting a car accident in Miami is not only a legal requirement in some cases, but also a critical step in ensuring the safety and well-being of all parties involved and making sure you do not inadvertently jeopardize your coverage. Immediate reporting to law enforcement, exchanging information with the other driver(s), gathering evidence, and filing a police report are essential steps to take after a car accident. You will also likely want to contact a personal injury attorney if you are considering make an insurance claim of any kind.