Can You File a Police Report After an Accident in Florida? (And Should You?)

January 2, 2025

Accidents can be overwhelming, often leaving uncertainty about the appropriate next steps. In Florida, filing a police report is not only a legal requirement but also a vital measure to protect your rights and ensure coverage in the event of legal complications.

At The Leach Firm, P.A., we’ve supported clients in Florida and Georgia led by Carlos Leach, a former partner at a major plaintiff firm, we’re dedicated to securing justice for accident victims. With millions of dollars recovered, we’re here to help.

Florida’s Legal Requirements for Accident Reporting

Florida law has specific rules about when and how you need to report an accident. Let’s break it down into manageable steps:

You Must Report an Accident Immediately

Under Florida law, certain types of accidents must be reported to law enforcement right away. These include:

  • Accidents involving injuries or fatalities
  • Accidents causing property damage exceeding $500

In these cases, you’ll need to call 9-1-1 or contact the local police, sheriff’s office, or Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). Officers will respond to the scene, document the incident, and create an official report.

The 10-Day Reporting Window

If law enforcement doesn’t come to the scene, Florida law requires you to file a written report within 10 days. This is called the Driver Report of Traffic Crash. You can file this report in several ways:

  • Online: Visit the Florida Highway Patrol Crash Portal
  • In-person: Go to your local police station or FHP location
  • By phone: Call the non-emergency number of the agency in your area
  • By mail: Send the completed form to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). You can request the form from the FLHSMV website or a law enforcement office.

Failing to report an accident can lead to fines, penalties, and potential complications if you need to file an insurance claim later.

Why Filing a Police Report is Crucial in Florida

So, you’ve determined you need to file a report, but why is it so important? Here are a few reasons:

1. Staying on the Right Side of the Law.

Florida has strict reporting requirements, and skipping this step could result in fines or other penalties. Filing a report ensures you comply with state law and avoid unnecessary complications.

2. Smoother Insurance Claims.

Many insurance companies require a police report to process claims. This document serves as an official record of the accident, making it easier to prove what happened and get your claim approved.

3. Preserving Evidence.

Accidents can quickly become a game of “he said, she said.” A police report provides an unbiased, third-party account of what occurred. This can be vital if the other driver disputes your version of events.

4. Building a Strong Legal Case.

If your accident leads to a legal dispute, having a police report can significantly strengthen your case. It can help establish liability, document damages, and provide evidence that supports your claim.

How Can The Leach Firm, P.A. Help?

Handling the aftermath of an accident can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in. At The Leach Firm, P.A., we’re here to make sure everything is done correctly and on time.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

From filing reports to gathering evidence, we’ll walk you through the entire process. Missing deadlines or leaving out important details could hurt your case, but we’ll make sure everything is handled properly.

Protecting Your Rights

Insurance companies and opposing parties may try to take advantage of your situation. Our experienced team will fight for your rights and ensure you’re treated fairly.

Free Case Evaluations

Not sure where to start? We offer free consultations to evaluate your accident and help you decide the best course of action.

Don’t Face the Aftermath Alone – Contact Us Today

If you’ve been in an accident in Florida, don’t leave anything to chance. Filing a police report is just one step in protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. At The Leach Firm, P.A., we’re committed to helping accident victims like you every day.

Reach out to us for a free consultation. We’ll handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on getting back to what matters most. Call us today or fill out our online form to get started—we’re here to fight for you.

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