Getting into a car accident can be stressful, scary, and confusing—especially if you’re not sure what to do next. Whether it’s a small fender bender on or something more serious, knowing how to respond can make a huge difference when it comes to your safety, your finances, and your insurance claim.
At Brier Grieves Insurance, we’ve helped countless Florida drivers navigate the aftermath of an accident. In this guide, we’ll walk you through tips of what to do—step by step—from the moment the accident happens to the day your claim is resolved.
Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911
First and foremost, check to see if anyone is hurt—including yourself. If there are any injuries, call 911 immediately. Even if it seems minor, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Emergency responders can assess the scene and provide medical attention. Even in smaller accidents, having a police report helps with the claims process.
Step 2: Stay Safe and Avoid Further Damage
If the vehicles are drivable and it’s safe to do so, move them to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic and turn on your hazard lights. If you can’t move your car, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives.
Step 3: Exchange Information
This part is crucial. You’ll need the following from the other driver:
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Full name and contact info
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Insurance company and policy number
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Driver’s license and plate number
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Make, model, and color of their vehicle
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Location of the accident
Be polite and cooperative. The insurance companies (and possibly law enforcement) will determine who was at fault after reviewing all the information.
Step 4: Document the Scene
Thanks to smartphones, documenting the accident has never been easier. Take clear pictures of:
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All vehicles involved (including close-ups of the damage)
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The overall accident scene
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Any skid marks or debris
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Traffic signs, signals, or landmarks nearby
If there are any witnesses, get their contact information, too. Their statements could help support your claim.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Agent
Once you’re safe and things have calmed down, contact your insurance agent. At Brier Grieves Insurance, we’re here to walk you through the process and help file your claim. Having a local insurance agent who knows the area and the common accident scenarios can be a big help.
You’ll need to provide:
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Your policy number
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Date, time, and location of the accident
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A description of what happened
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Info about the other driver(s)
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Photos and any other documentation you gathered
Step 6: Understand Florida’s No-Fault Insurance
Florida is a no-fault state, which means your own auto insurance policy pays for your medical expenses and certain other costs, regardless of who caused the accident. This is done through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.
What PIP typically covers:
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Up to $10,000 in medical bills
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60% of lost wages
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Funeral expenses (if applicable)
If your injuries are serious and you exceed PIP limits, you may be able to file a claim against the at-fault driver.
Step 7: Get a Damage Estimate and Repair Plan
Your insurance company may send an adjuster to inspect the damage, or they might ask you to visit an approved body shop. It’s okay to get a second opinion if you’re not comfortable with the initial estimate.
Step 8: Follow Through and Ask Questions
Even after your claim is filed, don’t go radio silent. Stay in touch with your claims adjuster, provide any additional documents they ask for, and ask questions if anything seems unclear.
Here are a few good questions to ask:
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How long will the claims process take?
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Will my rates go up?
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Do I owe anything out of pocket?
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What repair shops do you recommend?
Bonus Tips for Tampa Drivers
Tampa is a unique city when it comes to driving. Between tourist traffic, afternoon downpours, and our ever-growing roads, here are some bonus accident-prevention and insurance tips:
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Watch for flooding in low-lying areas. Water damage from driving through flooded roads may not be covered without comprehensive coverage.
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Bundle your auto and home insurance for savings and better coverage.
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Consider increasing your liability limits. Florida minimums aren’t always enough in a serious accident.
The Bottom Line
Getting into an accident is never fun, but being prepared can make all the difference. By staying calm, documenting everything, and contacting your local insurance agent, you can make the process smoother and less stressful.
At Brier Grieves Insurance, we’re more than just a voice on the phone—we’re your neighbors in Tampa, ready to help when you need it most.
