Insurance is one purchase that most people buy with the hope that they’ll never have to use it.
However, accidents do happen. Car accidents are a common occurrence on the road, and it’s only a matter of time before you find yourself involved in a collision.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the important steps of what to do after a car accident to make the claims process quicker and easier.
What To Do After a Car Accident
Whether it’s a fender bender or a multiple car pileup, it’s important to take a few key steps after a car accident to make the claims process easier.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you should do after an accident.
1. Get to Safety
The most important thing after a car accident is to stay calm. Take a moment to collect yourself and assess your surroundings. If there are no serious injuries (and it is safe to do so), turn on your hazard lights and move your vehicle to the side of the road. Florida law requires you to make “every reasonable effort” to move accident vehicles so that they don’t restrict the flow of traffic.
Safety comes first—before you call anyone, exchange info, or gather information, make sure you’re out of harm’s way.
2. Call 911
Once you’re safe, the next step is to call 911. This applies even if the accident seems minor.
In Florida, you’re legally required to call the police after a crash if there are any injuries or if you suspect the damage exceeds $500—which is often the case, even in low-speed collisions.
When the officers arrive, they’ll create an official accident report. This documentation is a key piece of your insurance claim and may be requested by your adjuster. If you’re unsure whether the police need to respond, it’s still a good idea to make the call and let dispatch determine the next steps.
3. Exchange Information
After ensuring everyone is safe and emergency services are on the way, it’s time to exchange information with the other driver(s). Be polite, but keep the conversation focused—avoid admitting fault or speculating about what happened.
Make sure to collect the following:
- Full name and phone number
- Driver’s license number
- Vehicle make, model, and color
- License plate number
- Insurance information, including the name of their insurance company and policy number
If the other driver refuses to cooperate or seems like they might leave the scene, try to write down their license plate number right away. Having this info will make it easier for your agent to follow up during the insurance claim process.
4. Document the Scene
Your insurer will handle most of the legwork involved in processing your claim, but you do have a responsibility to gather information. Before vehicles are moved or towed, use your phone to take both photos and videos of the scene from multiple angles. Be sure to capture:
- Visible damage to all vehicles
- Road conditions, skid marks, or debris
- Traffic signs or signals nearby
- Any visible injuries
- Wide shots that show the overall location and how the accident occurred
It’s also a good idea to write down the time, date, weather, and any immediate details you remember while they’re still fresh. This documentation can be critical for your insurance claim, especially if there’s a dispute later on.
5. File an Insurance Claim
As soon as you’re able, it’s a good idea to start filing a claim with your insurance company. Many insurers have mobile apps or 24/7 hotlines to help get things moving quickly.
If you’re a Darr Schackow client, don’t hesitate to reach out directly to your agent. We’re here to help guide you through the insurance claim process, answer your questions, and advocate for you with the carrier.
Having a local agent on your side can make a big difference—especially when compared to the experience of working directly with a large insurance company’s call center.
6. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine right after the accident, it’s still a good idea to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries—like whiplash or internal strains—don’t show symptoms right away. Under Florida law, drivers are required to carry at least $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which helps cover your medical expenses after a crash.
To be eligible for PIP benefits, you must seek care within 14 days of the accident. That means scheduling an appointment with a doctor, chiropractor, or urgent care facility as soon as possible.
Be sure to keep all your medical records, including visit summaries, prescriptions, and receipts. These documents may be needed when filing a claim with your insurance company.
What To Do After a Car Accident That’s Not Your Fault
Because of Florida’s No Fault system, if you’ve sustained injuries in the accident, the immediate steps to take after a car accident are roughly the same no matter who is to blame for the crash.
Under Florida law, drivers turn to their own auto insurance policies to cover medical bills first. This allows the claims process to go much quicker, as neither party has to spend time providing proof that they were not at fault.
When it comes to damage to your car after an accident that was not your fault, you’d want to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance carrier. Property Damage Liability is part of car insurance coverage, and it covers damages to another person’s car or property.
If that driver does not have PDL coverage or doesn’t have enough to cover your damages, you can then file a claim with your insurance to cover the rest.
This is where uninsured motorist coverage is extremely important. You will have to pay your collision deductible, but in some cases you may be able to get that reimbursed after the fact.
How Darr Schackow Can Help
Filing an insurance claim can be confusing—especially if you’re already dealing with vehicle damage or medical concerns. That’s why working with a local, independent agency like Darr Schackow makes such a difference. We’re not just here to sell policies; we’re here to support you when it matters most.
Our team can walk you through the claims process, help you understand your insurance coverage, and make sure your insurance company has everything it needs to process your claim efficiently. Unlike calling a national hotline or navigating a confusing app, DSI clients get direct access to knowledgeable agents who care.
Need help collecting the right contact information? Want advice before submitting photos or medical records? Just give us a call—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Stay Prepared—So You’re Not Caught Off Guard
Getting into a car accident is never easy—but having a plan can make the aftermath a lot less overwhelming. By following the steps above, you’ll be in a better position to protect yourself, your vehicle, and your finances.
At Darr Schackow Insurance, we’re here to help you feel confident in your coverage and supported when it matters most. If you’re ever in an accident and not sure what to do next, just reach out. That’s what we’re here for.