What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a Car Accident

Get to safety and call 911

Your health comes first. If you can move, get yourself and your vehicle out of traffic, then call 911. A police report creates an official, time-stamped record of the crash that is difficult for an insurer to dispute later.

Even if you feel fine, ask to be evaluated. Adrenaline masks injuries, and conditions like whiplash or concussions often surface hours or days later.

Document everything at the scene

Photograph all vehicles, license plates, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. Capture wide shots and close-ups.

Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver, and collect names and phone numbers of any witnesses. Their account can be decisive when fault is contested.

Be careful what you say

Do not apologize or admit fault, even casually. Statements made at the scene can be used to reduce or deny your claim.

Stick to the facts when speaking with police, and decline to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer until you have spoken with an attorney.

Seek medical care and keep records

See a doctor within 24 hours. In Florida, you generally must seek treatment within 14 days to preserve PIP benefits.

Keep every bill, prescription, and discharge instruction. This documentation is the backbone of your damages claim.

Call an attorney before the insurer calls you

A brief, free consultation helps you understand your rights and avoid the early mistakes insurers count on. The sooner counsel is involved, the better your evidence is preserved.