Car accidents are unfortunately common on Florida’s roadways, including throughout Venice and North Port. Whether it’s your first crash or you're dealing with the aftermath of another collision, knowing what steps to take after a car accident can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim.
At Harris Law, we help injured victims in Venice, Englewood, $area4, $area5, and North Port get the compensation they need and deserve. Here are the six key things you should do immediately following a car accident in Florida:
1. Call 911 or Local Law Enforcement
Always contact emergency services after a crash, even if injuries appear minor. A police report can serve as vital evidence if you pursue an injury claim.
2. Exchange Information with All Involved Drivers
Collect names, phone numbers, driver's license numbers, insurance policy information, and license plate numbers from everyone involved in the crash.
3. Document the Scene
Use your smartphone to take photos and videos of the vehicles, road conditions, injuries, and any other relevant details. This documentation can be powerful in establishing
fault
.4. Gather Witness Information
If anyone saw the accident happen, get their contact details. Eyewitness accounts can support your version of events.
5. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, visit an emergency room or your primary care provider. Injuries like whiplash or internal trauma may not show symptoms right away but can have serious effects if untreated.
6. Contact a Venice Personal Injury Lawyer
Before speaking with the insurance company, consult an experienced car accident attorney. David Hughes Harris at Harris Law can help you understand your legal rights and handle communication with insurers.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Florida
Many car crashes in Venice and North Port result from:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving
- Driver fatigue
- Reckless driving
Florida’s No-Fault System and PIP Coverage
Florida requires drivers to carry
Personal Injury Protection
(PIP) as part of their auto insurance. PIP provides coverage for medical expenses
and lost wages after an accident—regardless of who caused the crash.However, PIP benefits are often limited and may not fully cover serious injuries. You may be able to pursue a claim against the at-
fault
driver if your injuries meet Florida’s serious injury threshold.Can I Still Recover Damages If I Was Partially at Fault?
Yes. Florida uses a comparative
negligence
system. As long as you're less than 51% responsible for the crash, you may still recover damages
—though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault
.What If the Other Driver Was Uninsured or Underinsured?
If the other driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage, you may be able to file a claim through your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) policy. Harris Law can help you navigate this process and pursue full recovery under your coverage.
What If I Was a Passenger in the Crash?
If you were a passenger injured in an accident, you may file a claim against the at-
fault
driver's insurance. If the driver is underinsured or uninsured, you may also pursue coverage through your own auto policy.If you were riding in a rideshare vehicle, Florida law requires the rideshare company to provide up to $1.5 million in
liability
coverage for passengers injured during a trip.How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Florida?
Florida law generally gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a
personal injury
lawsuit. Starting sooner strengthens your case by preserving evidence and avoiding potential complications.Do Car Accident Cases Go to Trial?
Most claims settle out of court, but some require litigation to achieve fair compensation. Harris Law prepares every case as if it will go to trial, which provides leverage during negotiations.
Get Help from a Venice Car Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash, don’t deal with insurance companies on your own. David Harris is an experienced
personal injury
attorney based in Venice who will fight for fair compensation while you focus on healing.Harris Law proudly serves injured clients throughout Venice, North Port, $area4, Englewood, and surrounding areas.