What to Do After a Minor Car Accident?

After a minor car accident, it’s common to feel uncertain about the next steps. Should you contact your insurance company? Who’s responsible, and do you need to consult a lawyer? Knowing what to do after a minor car accident can make a difference.

In Florida, your insurance typically covers damages up to your policy limits, including repairs and medical bills. However, if you feel your insurer isn’t addressing all your damages fairly, seek guidance from a Florida car accident lawyer.

A free consultation with our legal team offers valuable insights at no cost. We’ll discuss your options, answer your questions, and help you decide on the best path forward. Let us provide the clarity you need to make informed choices.

Understanding Minor Car Accidents in Florida

At our firm, we often categorize an accident as minor when no serious injuries are present, no commercial vehicles are involved, and property damage is minimal, usually under $500. Typically, these cases are handled within your insurance policy limits.

However, even in minor incidents, consulting a Florida personal injury lawyer can help determine the best course of action for your situation.

Common minor car accidents include:

• Fender benders: Small, low-speed collisions, often involving minor bumper damage.
• Parking lot incidents: Scratches or slight dings from low-speed bumps in parking areas.
• Side-swipes: Minor side contact, usually occurring at reduced speeds.
• Rear-end collisions: Light impact from behind, often resulting in slight damage.

With a history of strong case results, our team provides clarity on what actions can support your case, helping you move forward confidently. We’re here to answer questions and guide you toward an informed decision based on your unique circumstances.

Common Causes of Minor Car Accidents

Minor car accidents happen frequently on Florida roads, often due to:

• Distracted driving: Even a moment of inattention can lead to a fender bender.
• Backing into an unseen vehicle: Sometimes, blind spots lead to unexpected collisions.
• Turn signal errors: Miscommunication on the road can easily cause minor crashes.
• Sliding on wet roads: Rainy conditions can lead to unexpected skidding into other cars or property.
• Parallel parking mistakes: Misjudging space can result in slight scrapes or bumps.
• Bumper–to–bumper traffic: Heavy traffic can lead to low-speed impacts.

While these situations may seem minor, insurance issues can add frustration. If you feel your insurance provider isn’t handling your case fairly, seeking guidance from a car accident attorney can help you protect your interests.

Steps to Take After a Minor Car Accident in Florida

If you’ve been in a minor accident, following a few key steps can make a difference:

• Call 911: Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Even if you feel fine, consider a medical evaluation—some injuries, like whiplash, may develop later.
• Move to a safe spot: When possible, move your car to a safe location, keeping yourself and others out of further harm’s way.
• Collect evidence: Snap photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and surroundings. These details can be valuable later.
• File reports: Florida requires you to report accidents involving injury or damage over $500. Notify the police and your insurance promptly.

If you’re unsure about your rights or facing insurance issues, consulting a Florida car accident attorney can provide clear direction and support for your case.

Recognizing Hidden Injuries

After a car accident, injuries may not be immediately apparent. It’s common to feel fine initially, especially with adrenaline masking pain. However, as days go by, symptoms can emerge, revealing injuries that may impact your life more than anticipated.

Hidden injuries can include whiplash, strained tendons, stretched ligaments, and deep bruising. These often appear even in minor accidents and might not show symptoms until days later.

When an insurance adjuster calls, avoid saying you feel fine. Instead, mention that you’ll consult a personal injury lawyer. A police report also strengthens your claim by documenting the incident for future reference.

When the Other Driver Makes a Claim

After an accident, be prepared for the other driver to potentially file a claim against you. At times, drivers may exaggerate damages or injuries, which could impact your insurance rates and liability.

To protect yourself, exchange information with the other driver, take thorough photos, and report the accident promptly. These steps help safeguard your interests and establish clear documentation of the incident.

If you’re dealing with an exaggerated claim, consider seeking advice from experienced car accident lawyers in Florida. They can provide the guidance you need to address the situation confidently.

Understanding Florida’s No-Fault Law

Under Florida’s no–fault insurance law, Florida Statute § 627.7407, drivers must initially seek coverage from their own insurance after a minor car accident, regardless of who caused it.

In Florida, drivers are required to carry specific minimum coverages: $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) and $10,000 in property damage liability, as outlined in Florida Statute § 627.736. These are intended to cover minor accidents through your own insurance.

For more serious injuries or significant property damage, however, you may need to file a claim with the other driver’s insurance. Keeping detailed records of expenses and lifestyle changes after the accident can support your compensation claim, whether with your or another party’s insurer.

Knowing Your Options with a Florida Car Accident Lawyer

Knowing what to do after a minor car accident can help you protect your rights and make informed decisions. While some accidents seem straightforward, dealing with insurance claims or unexpected injuries can add stress to the situation. That’s where having legal support becomes valuable.

At The Schiller Kessler Group, we’ve successfully helped secure compensation for over 30,000 Florida injury victims. Our team understands Florida’s unique insurance laws and the best approach to protect your interests, even in minor accidents.

If you’re looking for a Florida car accident lawyer who can provide clear guidance and fight for what’s fair, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a consultation to explore your options and get the peace of mind you deserve.