Like everywhere, car accidents in St. Augustine happen when you least expect them. They’re random and oftentimes harrowing. One moment you’re driving along I-95 or US-1, and the next you’re dealing with confusion, stress, and uncertainty about what to do next.
While you can’t always prevent an accident, you can be prepared. Knowing the right steps to take can protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to recover compensation.
Mowrey Law Accident Preparedness Guide
Being prepared before an accident happens can make all the difference.
Our custom Accident Preparedness Guide is designed to help you stay organized and ready in case of an emergency.
It includes:
- Space to document your accident for insurance and legal purposes
- Storage for your insurance and vehicle registration
- A clear outline of everything you need to do after a car accident
Click here to download or request via mail
A Step-By-Step Guide: What To Do After a Car Accident
1. Get to Safety and Call 911 Immediately
No matter the severity, being involved in a car accident can be frightening and anxiety-inducing. Your first priority should always be your safety.
If possible:
- Move your vehicle out of traffic
- Turn on your hazard lights
- Check yourself and others for injuries
Even if the accident seems minor, call 911 right away. Emergency responders can assess injuries and ensure the scene is safe.
2. Seek Medical Help
In cases of immediate injury, an ambulance will be called to the scene. If that is not your situation, it is still important to seek medical treatment after a car accident, even if you don’t feel bad at first.
Injuries like concussions, whiplash, and soft tissue damage may not be immediately obvious but still require proper care.
Going to a hospital or emergency room may feel unnecessary, but when your well-being is on the line, it is always better to be cautious. Getting medical care not only protects your health, but also creates important documentation for your personal injury claim.
If you’re near I-95 or US-1 in St. Augustine, consider the new HCA Florida St. Augustine Emergency (along State Road 16) for full-service emergency care.
3. Call Law Enforcement & Report the Crash
Officers will document the scene, gather statements, and create an official crash report. This report becomes key evidence for your insurance claim or any personal injury claim.
4. Exchange Contact and Insurance Information
Collect the following from all involved parties:
- Name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- Auto insurance information (company and policy number)
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate
If there are witnesses, get their contact information as well.
It is incredibly important that you do not admit fault, even casually or apologetically. Any statements you make can be used against you later.
5. Document the Scene
Take photos and videos of any vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs/signals, skid marks, weather conditions, visible injuries, and anything else of relevance. This documentation may become invaluable during insurance negotiations or litigation.
6. Report the Accident to Your Insurance
You’ll need to notify your car insurance company as soon as possible.
When speaking with them:
- Stick to the facts only
- Do not speculate or admit fault
- Avoid giving recorded statements without legal guidance
7. Track Everything (Medical & Financial)
Keep records of:
- Medical visits and treatments
- Bills and prescriptions
- Lost wages or missed work
- Pain levels and recovery progress
Keeping detailed records will not only help you manage your recovery, but also strengthens your personal injury case.
8. Contact a Local Automobile Accident Attorney
Recovering from a car accident is stressful enough—mentally, physically, and financially. You don’t want to deal with insurance adjusters or negotiate on your own, you want a qualified St. Augustine car accident attorney to do that for you while you focus on healing.
An experienced personal injury attorney in can:
- Handle insurance negotiations
- Build your case
- Maximize your compensation
- Allow you to focus on recovery
Have more questions? Here are some Frequently Asked Questions we get about hiring an attorney following a car accident:
How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
Florida’s statute of limitations is typically 2 years, though exceptions may apply. The sooner you get an
attorney involved, the more options they will have to help.
What if I’m partially at fault?
Florida follows a comparative negligence system.
This means:
- You may still recover compensation
- Your recovery may be reduced based on your percentage of fault
How much will it cost me to hire a lawyer after a car crash?
At Mowrey Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs and no fees unless we win your case.
Contact Mowrey Law Firm Today
At Mowrey Law, we understand how car accident cases in St. Johns County are handled. With knowledge of local courts, relationships within the legal system, and insight into accident patterns, we are equipped to pursue the best possible outcome for your case.
If you or a loved one has been in an accident, don’t wait. Contact Mowrey Law Firm at (904) 824-7799 for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced St. Johns County Personal Injury Attorney. We’re available 24/7.
At Mowrey Law, we serve people when and where it matters most.