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Immediately After the Incident
- Get medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries don't show symptoms right away.
- Report the incident to the police, property management, or a store manager, and ask for a copy of any report.
- Photograph the scene, any hazards, vehicle damage, and visible injuries.
- Get names and contact information for witnesses.
If You Were in a Car Accident
- Get medical treatment within 14 days. Under Florida's PIP law, you generally must seek initial treatment within 14 days of the crash to receive PIP benefits.
- Exchange insurance information with the other driver, and note whether a commercial or rideshare vehicle was involved.
In the Days and Weeks After
For a full list of what to keep, and why consistency matters if the insurer later disputes your injuries, see our guide on evidence and documentation in an injury claim.
- Follow your treatment plan and keep every appointment. Gaps in treatment give insurers a reason to question your injuries.
- Keep records of medical visits, bills, missed work, and every communication with insurers.
- Don't give a recorded statement to the other party's insurer before you understand how it may be used.
- Don't sign broad medical authorizations, which can give an insurer access to unrelated medical history.
- Avoid posting about the accident or your injuries on social media.
- Keep the deadline in mind: most negligence claims must be filed within two years of the injury.
