What To Know About Car Accident Reports in St. Petersburg, Florida

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers | Car Accident

What To Know About Car Accident Reports in St. Petersburg, Florida

Florida, known for its vibrant cities and breathtaking natural landscapes, is not immune to the risks of road accidents. Understanding the state’s car accident reporting requirements is crucial. These rules help ensure safety and responsibility on Florida’s roads.

Should I Contact the Police After a Car Accident in Florida?

You may have many questions after getting into a car accident in St. Peterburg, Florida. Luckily, the law is clear about when to report car accidents. You must immediately report the accident to the Florida Highway Patrol or local police if:

  • Injuries or Deaths: If anyone is injured or killed in the accident.
  • Hit and Run: If the accident involves a driver leaving the scene.
  • Intoxicated Driving: If the accident involves a driver suspected of being under the influence.
  • Property Damage Threshold: If the accident results in property damage exceeding $500.

To report, you can dial 911 or directly contact the local police or Florida Highway Patrol. You can also report the incident in person if an officer is nearby. Gathering ample evidence at the scene is crucial, as it will be necessary for insurance claims or potential legal proceedings.

How To Document the Scene of a Car Accident in Florida

Don’t rush away from the scene after a car accident in St. Petersburg, Florida. Proper documentation is key. Here’s what you should do:

  • Take Photographs: Capture images of the vehicles involved, any visible damage, the surrounding area, traffic signs, and road conditions. Photos provide a clear record of the scene and can be invaluable evidence.
  • Make Notes: Write down everything you remember about the accident immediately. Note the time, weather conditions, and any factors you think contributed to the incident.
  • Gather Witness Information: If there are witnesses, get their contact details. They might provide crucial insights or corroborate your account of the event.
  • Sketch the Scene: A simple diagram showing the positions of the vehicles before, during, and after the accident can be beneficial. Indicate directions, street names, and other relevant details.

This documentation will be extremely useful for insurance claims, legal purposes, or interactions with law enforcement. Remember, the more detailed your account, the clearer the picture of what happened.

Should I Contact My Insurance After a Car Accident in Florida?

Florida is a “no-fault” state for car accidents. Drivers are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage. PIP insurance provides benefits after a crash regardless of fault, though they are limited in scope. 

Under Florida law, there are certain situations where you may pursue additional compensation from the at-fault party – such as if the case involves a DUI or if you’ve sustained a “serious injury” as defined by state statute. 

While you may notify your insurance company of the crash, it is best to consult with an attorney to get legal advice on how to proceed. At the least, do not agree to a recorded statement before speaking with a lawyer. 

You also should be careful not to apologize or accept any blame for the crash, as doing so could jeopardize your claim against the other driver (if you are eligible to file one). 

Seeking Legal Assistance After a Car Accident in Florida

Car accidents in St. Petersburg can be complex. Settling claims with insurance companies might only sometimes result in fair compensation. Consulting with an experienced Florida auto accident attorney is advisable. They can help ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses.

Contact the Pinellas County Car Accident Law Firm Of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers for Help

For more information, please contact the Clearwater and St. Petersburg car accident law firm of Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.

We serve Pinellas County and its surrounding areas:

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater
1875 N Belcher Rd. STE 201,
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 796-8282

Perenich, Caulfield, Avril & Noyes Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Petersburg
2560 1st Ave S,
St. Petersburg, FL 33712
(727) 349-1728