What To Do After A Car Accident In Tampa (2025)

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Sarah Edwards

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Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.

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Summary

  • Taking the right steps after a car accident can protect your rights
  • Speak with the police and gather evidence from the scene before leaving

The aftermath of a crash can be stressful and confusing. But knowing what to do after a car accident in Tampa can protect your right to recover losses.

Florida laws are complex when it comes to auto accidents, so being able to prove the type of injuries you suffered and how the crash occurred could mean the chance to file a claim not just with your own personal injury protection insurance, but also against the other party’s.

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Check for Injuries and Contact Emergency Services

The first thing to do is to assess whether you or anyone else in your vehicle is hurt. If you’re actively bleeding, experiencing significant pain or think you have hit your head or spine, you should avoid moving. Otherwise, get out of the vehicle if you can to wait for paramedics.

As soon as emergency services arrive, have them assess you fully. Some injuries might not be apparent right after the crash, so getting medical care is important. Aside from receiving quick help, this begins a record of your medical needs, which could be important for a future legal claim.

Speak With Police and Get a Report Number

When considering what to do after a car accident in Tampa, ensure that police officers get to the scene. They will likely create a crash report for the accident that you might find helpful later. If you’re not certain how to get a police report for a car accident, know that you can do so at your local station or online via the Traffic Crash Reports portal.

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Gather Evidence From the Scene

If you’re able, take pictures and videos of the vehicles, your injuries, road conditions and anything else that clearly shows how the crash occurred. You should get contact information and statements from witnesses, too.

Let Your Insurer Know of the Accident

Tell your insurance company that you have been in an accident. Until you speak with a Tampa car accident lawyer, however, you should not offer too many details about how the crash occurred. This includes taking the blame for the wreck.

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Contact an Attorney to Represent You

You will also want to make sure you hire a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. This is especially important if you sustain losses that go beyond what your insurance covers.

Trust ConsumerShield After a Tampa Car Accident

Not sure how to find a trusted local lawyer for your accident claim? At ConsumerShield, we can help you connect with a dependable and experienced attorney in Tampa. Contact our team to learn more about your options today.

Free Car Accident Case Review

Preparing Case Review Form. ConsumerShield is transforming the way consumers experience law.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • You can step outside of Florida’s no-fault insurance laws if you have sustained serious injuries.

  • Florida has modified comparative negligence laws. These laws permit accident victims to still recover losses as long as they don’t hold the majority of the blame.

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