A car accident is stressful — especially in the first hour, on the side of the road, in the Miami heat. Here's what to do, step by step and in plain language. This is general information, not legal advice.
Step by step
Get to safety and check for injuries
If you can, move out of traffic and turn on your hazards. Check yourself and everyone else for injuries. Call 911 if anyone is hurt — your health comes first.
Call the police and get a report
For anything beyond very minor damage, call the police. A police report is a neutral record of what happened, and it helps later — whether or not you decide to hire a lawyer.
Document everything at the scene
Take photos of the vehicles, the road, and any injuries. Get the other driver's name, license, insurance, and plate, plus the names and numbers of any witnesses. More is better.
Get medical care — and go slow with insurance
See a doctor even if you feel fine; some injuries show up days later. Keep every record and bill. An insurer may call quickly and ask for a recorded statement — you don't have to give one right away, and it's okay to stick to the facts.
Decide if you want a lawyer, and find one
If you're hurt, you may want to talk to a personal-injury attorney — most offer a free first consultation. You can ask people you trust, search, or use a free service like Justo: describe what happened in English or Spanish, see vetted Miami firms that can take it, and choose one. Justo is not a law firm — it connects you to one.
Common questions
Do I need a lawyer after a car accident in Miami?
- Not always — it depends on your injuries and the situation. Many people talk to a personal-injury attorney, who usually offers a free first consultation, to understand their options. This is general information, not legal advice.
What does a car accident lawyer cost?
- Many Florida personal-injury attorneys work on a contingency fee — a percentage of any recovery, set out in a written agreement before you hire them. Fees vary by firm, so ask each one. Finding a firm through Justo is free.
How soon should I act?
- Sooner is better — evidence fades and Florida sets deadlines for injury claims that can be shorter than people expect. If you're unsure, ask an attorney about your specific situation. General information, not legal advice.