If you were injured in a car accident in Miami Beach, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. At Viñas & Deluca, our experienced car accident lawyers are committed to helping crash victims understand their legal rights and pursue full and fair compensation. We offer personalized guidance through every step of the legal process, backed by a track record of successful case outcomes. Call us today at (786) 460-1814 to schedule a free consultation.
Steps to Take Right After a Car Accident in Miami Beach
A car accident can happen in seconds, but what you do immediately after can impact your health, legal rights, and financial future. Whether you’re on Collins Avenue or stuck in traffic near South Pointe Drive, knowing how to respond can help protect you. The aftermath of a crash is often confusing and stressful.
Check for injuries and move to safety if possible
The first thing to do is check for injuries. If you or anyone else involved is hurt, call 911 right away. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get medical help. Some conditions—like whiplash or internal injuries—aren’t immediately obvious. Emergency responders can assess the situation and transport people to the hospital if necessary.
If your car is drivable and it’s safe to do so, move it out of traffic to avoid further danger. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If moving the vehicle isn’t possible, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives, unless you are in immediate danger.
Call the police and wait for them to arrive
Under Florida law, you’re required to report any accident that involves injuries, death, or property damage exceeding $500. In most cases, it’s best to call the police regardless. An officer will document the scene, take statements, and file an official crash report, which is crucial if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.
When the officer arrives, provide accurate and concise information. Avoid speculating or assigning blame. Let the facts speak for themselves. Ask for the police report number so you can obtain a copy later.
Exchange information with the other driver
You’ll need to exchange basic details with the other driver. This includes:
- Full name and contact information
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Vehicle make, model, and color
If there are any witnesses nearby, try to get their contact details as well. Their statements can be helpful if the case becomes disputed.
Document the scene with photos and notes
Take clear photos of the vehicles, any visible damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and the general scene of the accident. If you have visible injuries, document those too. These images can provide valuable evidence later.
It also helps to jot down your memory of the event while it’s still fresh. Include the time, weather conditions, location, and a step-by-step description of what happened. These notes may be useful if you need to recall specific details days or weeks after the accident.
Seek medical attention as soon as possible
Even if you don’t think you’re hurt, see a doctor within 24 to 48 hours of the crash. This is important for both your health and your legal claim. Some injuries develop slowly or have delayed symptoms. A medical professional can identify these issues early and provide a record linking your injuries to the accident.
Under Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident to be eligible for PIP benefits. Delaying care can hurt your chances of receiving compensation.
Report the accident to your insurance company
Let your insurance provider know about the crash as soon as you can. Stick to the facts when explaining what happened. Avoid making assumptions or admitting fault. Most insurance companies require prompt notification after an accident, and failing to report it may lead to delays or a denial of your claim.
Keep records of all conversations with your insurance company, including names, dates, and summaries of what was discussed. Save emails and letters related to your claim as well.
Avoid discussing the accident on social media
It may be tempting to share updates about your accident online, but doing so can hurt your case. Insurance companies and opposing attorneys may review your social media activity to find statements or photos that contradict your claim. Even a seemingly harmless post can be taken out of context.
Until your case is resolved, it’s best to avoid posting anything related to the crash, your injuries, or your recovery process.
Be Cautious About Early Settlement Offers
Insurance adjusters may reach out with a quick settlement offer. While this can seem like an easy way to move on, the amount offered is often less than what you may be entitled to. Once you accept a settlement, you typically can’t go back and ask for more—even if new injuries or expenses come up later.
Before agreeing to anything, consider speaking with a personal injury lawyer who can evaluate the offer and help determine what your case is really worth.
Speak with a car accident attorney if needed
If your accident involves serious injuries, questions of fault, or uncooperative insurance companies, it’s smart to consult a car accident attorney. A lawyer can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering.
A car accident can disrupt your life in many ways. Knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath can reduce confusion and put you in a better position to recover—physically, emotionally, and financially. Prioritize your safety, seek medical attention, document everything, and protect your legal rights.
Speak with a Car Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash, the legal team at Viñas & Deluca is ready to help you move forward with confidence. Our experienced car accident attorneys in Miami Beach are committed to pursuing the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. Do not navigate the aftermath of an accident alone—call us today at (786) 460-1814 to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can support your recovery