After a car crash in Fort Lauderdale, your first steps can protect your health, your rights, and your case. I have seen how fast things can go wrong when people wait or trust the insurance company too soon. We want you to have clear facts before you make any big decisions.
A car crash can leave you hurt, shaken, and unsure of what to do next. Knowing what matters right away can make a real difference later.
Make Safety and Medical Care the First Priority
Your health comes first. Even if you feel fine, injuries can show up hours or days later. I tell clients not to guess how hurt they are.
Right after a crash, you should:
- Move to a safe place if you can
- Call 911 to report the crash
- Ask for medical help
- Accept transport to a hospital if advised
Head or back injuries are not obvious at first. Getting checked creates a medical record, which is also important for your claim.
Call the Police and Get a Report
A police report matters. It creates an official record of what happened.
Make sure you:
- Cooperate with officers
- Give clear and honest answers
- Ask how to get a copy of the report
I have seen cases hurt because there was no report or missing details. A police report can help confirm fault and protect you from false claims later.
Gather Evidence While You Are Still There
Collect evidence at the scene. Small details can matter weeks or months later.
Try to gather:
- Photos of all vehicles
- Photos of injuries
- Photos of the road and traffic signs
- Names and contact info of witnesses
We often rely on early photos when insurance companies dispute how a crash occurred.
Be Careful What You Say After the Crash
What you say after a crash can be used against you. I always warn clients about this.
You should avoid:
- Saying “I’m fine”
- Apologizing
- Guessing who caused the crash
- Giving recorded statements without advice
Insurance adjusters may sound friendly, but their job is to limit payouts. We prefer to speak on behalf of our clients once we are involved.
Florida Is a No-Fault State, but That Is Not the Whole Story
Florida uses a no-fault system, but that does not mean fault never matters. Personal Injury Protection, or PIP, covers basic costs. Serious injuries may go beyond PIP limits.
You may have a claim if you suffer:
- Broken bones
- Head or brain injury
- Permanent injury
- Severe scarring
We review each case to see if it qualifies for a claim beyond no-fault coverage.
Do Not Rush to Accept a Settlement
Insurance companies may offer quick money. This often happens before you know the full cost of your injuries.
I tell clients to be careful because:
- Early offers are usually low
- Future care may cost more
- Once you settle, the case ends
We look at medical needs, lost income, and long-term impact before discussing any settlement.
What to Remember After a Fort Lauderdale Car Crash
A car crash can change your routine, your health, and your finances. I have seen how stressful this time can be. Clear steps and good guidance help restore order.
After a crash, focus on safety, medical care, and protecting your rights. Getting the right information early can help you avoid costly mistakes and move forward with confidence.
