What to Do After a Car Accident in Miami — Step by Step

From the team at Pereira Law – Where Clients Become Family

A car accident can turn your day—and your life—upside down in an instant. At Pereira Law, we understand how overwhelming this experience can be. That's why we've created this clear, compassionate guide to help you through every step.

If you or someone you love has been in a crash, here’s what to do next:

Step 1: Check Yourself and Others for Injuries

Take a deep breath. Then assess your physical condition. Are you hurt? Can you move? Next, check on your passengers and anyone else involved. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s critical to treat them seriously.

Step 2: Call 911 Immediately

Even for a “small” accident, emergency responders should be notified. Florida law requires you to report accidents that involve injuries, fatalities, or significant vehicle damage. Police will help secure the scene, and emergency medical help can make a life-saving difference.

Step 3: Stay Calm and Avoid Arguments

Tensions run high after an accident. Stay calm. Don’t point fingers or admit fault—even if you think you might have contributed to the accident. These details will be sorted out later through investigation and evidence.

Step 4: Move to Safety (If You Can Do So Safely)

If your vehicle is drivable and it’s safe to do so, move it to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights. Set up cones or flares if you have them. Getting out of traffic can prevent further accidents and keep everyone safer.

Step 5: Wait for Emergency Responders

Once you've called for help and ensured everyone’s as safe as possible, wait. Use this time to stay composed. If you're able, begin documenting the scene (see step 8), but let trained responders take over once they arrive.

Step 6: Cooperate with Police and Request a Report

Tell the responding officers what happened, but stick to the facts. Ask for the officer’s name, badge number, and the police report number. This official report can play a major role in any future claim or legal action.

Step 7: Exchange Information with the Other Driver(s)

You'll need to collect these details:

• Full name and contact information

• Driver’s license number

• Vehicle make, model, and license plate number

• Insurance provider and policy number

Stay respectful. Don’t discuss fault. Just focus on getting the correct information.

Step 8: Document the Scene with Photos and Videos

Use your phone to capture:

• Damage to all vehicles involved

• Road conditions, weather, and lighting

• Traffic signs, signals, and lane markings

• Any injuries

• Debris, skid marks, or other physical evidence

These visuals can serve as powerful evidence later.

Step 9: Seek Medical Attention Promptly

Even if you feel okay, injuries like whiplash or internal trauma can show up hours—or even days—later. Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law requires you to get medical care within 14 days of the accident to be eligible for coverage.

See a doctor. Get a full evaluation. And keep records of every visit, prescription, and diagnosis.

Step 10: Notify Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance provider and report the accident. Share honest, accurate information—but avoid making recorded statements or accepting blame until you’ve spoken with an attorney.

Step 11: Contact a Trusted Car Accident Attorney

At Pereira Law, we guide accident victims through the legal process with care and dedication. We can help you:

• Understand your rights

• Investigate the accident thoroughly

• Deal with insurance adjusters

• Pursue full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress

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You deserve more than just a quick settlement—you deserve to feel whole again.

Step 12: Continue Medical Care and Stay in Touch with Your Attorney

Your recovery isn’t over once you leave the accident scene. Follow your doctor’s recommendations. Keep records of your treatment, out-of-pocket expenses, and missed workdays.

Your attorney will help you understand the next steps—whether it’s filing a claim, negotiating a settlement, or going to court. Stay involved, ask questions, and trust the process.

Why Choose Pereira Law?

At Pereira Law, we’re not just legal advocates—we’re people who care. We know what it’s like to be thrown into uncertainty, and we’ve made it our mission to guide our clients with compassion, integrity, and relentless effort.

When you work with us, you’re not just hiring a law firm—you’re joining a family that will stand with you and fight for what’s right.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Miami, reach out to Pereira Law today for a free consultation. Let’s get you the help—and the peace of mind—you deserve.