Injured in a Car Crash: What to Do Next? | Perkins Law Offices, Miami FL

Car accidents happen in a matter of seconds — yet the aftermath can affect your health, finances, and future for years. If you’ve been injured in a car crash, knowing what to do next is critical to protect your rights, secure compensation, and avoid costly mistakes.

At Perkins Law Offices in Miami, we represent victims of car crashes throughout South Florida, helping them navigate the complex legal and insurance processes that follow an accident. Whether you were hit by a negligent driver, involved in a rideshare collision, or injured as a passenger, our firm can help you take the right steps immediately after an accident to strengthen your potential injury claim.


1. Prioritize Safety and Medical Care

The first and most important step after being injured in a car crash is to seek medical attention immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries — like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions — may not show symptoms right away but can worsen if untreated.

Call 911 and request a police and medical response. Follow all treatment recommendations and keep detailed records of doctor visits, imaging tests, medications, and recovery progress. These medical records often serve as key evidence in proving your car accident injury claim later.

If possible, photograph your injuries and the scene. Collect the other driver’s contact and insurance information, and ask for witness details. These early steps form the foundation of your case.


2. Report the Accident and Document Everything

Under Florida law, all car crashes involving injury, death, or property damage over $500 must be reported to law enforcement. Even if the crash seems minor, always ensure an official police report is filed.

The report provides an objective record of the event, which can be crucial when dealing with insurance companies or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.

If you’re wondering how to report a car accident injury, the process starts with contacting the Miami-Dade Police Department or local jurisdiction where the crash occurred. Be factual when describing the events — do not speculate or admit fault.

Keep copies of:

  • Police reports

  • Photos of the accident and vehicles

  • Witness names and numbers

  • Medical bills and diagnoses

  • Insurance correspondence

Every piece of documentation can make a difference when proving negligence or damages later.


3. Notify Your Insurance Company — But Be Cautious

After a crash, your insurance company will require you to report the accident promptly. However, it’s important to understand that insurance adjusters — even from your own provider — are trained to minimize payouts.

Avoid giving recorded statements or signing documents without legal advice. Instead, contact a car crash injury lawyer near you who can communicate with the insurance companies on your behalf.

At Perkins Law Offices, we ensure that every conversation and document exchange supports your case and prevents insurers from taking advantage of your situation.


4. Consult a Miami Car Accident Injury Lawyer

If you are injured in a car crash, one of the most important steps you can take is to speak with a local personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.

Florida’s personal injury law gives victims the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering — but the process is time-sensitive and evidence-dependent.

Attorney Alex Perkins and his team at Perkins Law Offices specialize in representing car accident victims in Miami and throughout Florida. They have recovered millions for clients by identifying liable parties, negotiating aggressively with insurers, and, when necessary, litigating in court.

Legal representation not only increases the chances of receiving full compensation but also allows you to focus on healing while your lawyer handles the legal complexities.


Understand Your Legal Options After a Car Accident Injury

Understand Your Legal Options After a Car Accident Injury

5. Understand Your Legal Options After a Car Accident Injury

Many accident victims wonder, “Who do I call after a car accident injury?” or “How do I know if I can sue?”

The answer depends on the details of your case. In Florida, you may have a claim against:

  • The at-fault driver for negligence

  • A commercial company (if it involved a rideshare or delivery vehicle)

  • A vehicle manufacturer (in defective parts cases)

  • Government entities (if poor road conditions contributed)

A Miami car accident injury attorney will evaluate your situation and determine if your injuries qualify for a personal injury or negligence claim.

The car crash injury claim process typically includes:

  1. Investigation and evidence gathering

  2. Filing insurance claims

  3. Negotiating settlements

  4. Filing a lawsuit if necessary

Each step requires careful handling to avoid mistakes that could reduce your compensation.


6. Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Crash

Even small errors can jeopardize your ability to recover damages. Victims often unintentionally hurt their own cases by:

  • Not getting immediate medical care

  • Failing to document the accident scene

  • Admitting fault at the scene

  • Posting about the crash on social media

  • Accepting quick settlements without legal review

Insurance companies are skilled at using these mistakes to deny or devalue claims. Before you speak to any adjuster, contact a Miami car crash attorney who can guide you through the process ethically and effectively.


7. Types of Injuries That Commonly Occur in Car Accidents

Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries — from minor bruises to life-changing trauma. Common examples include:

  • Whiplash and neck injuries

  • Back and spinal cord injuries

  • Head trauma and concussions

  • Broken bones and fractures

  • Internal bleeding or organ damage

  • Soft tissue injuries

Even if your pain seems manageable, always get evaluated by a doctor. Early diagnosis is vital both for your health and for building a strong car accident injury compensation claim.


8. Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Depending on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of your crash, you may be eligible for compensation for:

  • Medical bills (past and future)

  • Lost income and reduced earning capacity

  • Pain and suffering

  • Property damage

  • Rehabilitation costs

  • Emotional distress

An experienced car accident lawyer in Miami will calculate the full extent of your damages and fight to ensure that you receive fair compensation for every loss.


9. Why Choose Perkins Law Offices

Perkins Law Offices has built its reputation on integrity, professionalism, and results. Led by Attorney Alex Perkins, the firm has successfully represented accident victims against large insurance corporations, trucking companies, and negligent drivers across Florida.

Our commitment is simple: protecting the injured and holding negligent parties accountable. Every case is handled with personalized attention, aggressive advocacy, and a deep understanding of Florida’s personal injury laws.


Injured in Car Crash what to do next?

Injured in Car Crash what to do next?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What should I do immediately after being injured in a car crash?
Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, and report the accident to the police. Then contact a personal injury attorney before speaking to insurance adjusters.

2. How long do I have to file a car accident injury claim in Florida?
Under Florida law, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.

3. Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages if you were less than 50% at fault, but your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

4. How much is my car accident case worth?
The value depends on factors like the severity of injuries, medical expenses, loss of income, and the degree of negligence involved. A lawyer can provide an accurate case evaluation after reviewing all evidence.

5. Do I need a lawyer for a minor accident?
Even minor collisions can lead to long-term injuries or disputes with insurance companies. Consulting an attorney early helps protect your rights and ensures fair compensation.


Contact Perkins Law Offices Today

If you’ve been injured in a car crash in Miami, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Perkins Law Offices is here to help you navigate the legal system and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call (305) 741-5297 or visit PerkinsLawOffices.com to schedule a free consultation.

Our team will guide you through every step — from medical documentation to settlement or trial — with the dedication and experience your case deserves.

Perkins Law Offices | Miami Office:

1728 Coral Way, Suite 702
Miami, FL 33145
(305) 741-5297

Perkins Law Offices | Boca Raton Office:

6560 W. Rogers Circle, Suite 15
Boca Raton, FL 33487
(561) 621-1776