Crashed on Florida Turnpike? Your Guide to What's Next

Experiencing a crash on Florida Turnpike can be incredibly overwhelming. Florida Highway Patrol handles investigations for incidents occurring on this major roadway. Understanding your rights and options is essential, and often requires consulting with a personal injury attorney. Proper documentation, particularly your official police report, will significantly aid any claim or legal process following a crash on Florida Turnpike. Navigating insurance claims with companies like State Farm often follows.

Image taken from the YouTube channel CBS Miami , from the video titled Fatal crash shuts down southbound Florida Turnpike lanes in Davie .

Navigating the Aftermath: A Guide to a Crash on Florida Turnpike

This guide provides a step-by-step overview of what to do if you experience a crash on the Florida Turnpike. We aim to offer clear and concise information to help you understand the immediate actions, reporting procedures, and potential legal ramifications.

Immediate Actions After a Crash

The safety of yourself and others is the priority. Follow these steps immediately after a crash on the Florida Turnpike:

1. Ensure Safety:
   • Assess yourself and passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
   • Move your vehicle out of the flow of traffic if possible. If the car is undrivable or moving it poses a risk, activate your hazard lights.
   • Be aware of your surroundings. Watch for oncoming traffic and secondary collisions.
2. Call for Help:
   • Contact 911 to report the crash. Provide the location, including mile marker or nearest exit, and details about any injuries.
   • If needed, request medical assistance.
3. Document the Scene:
   • Take pictures of the damage to all vehicles involved.
   • Photograph the accident location, including any relevant road signs, lane markings, and environmental factors.
   • If safe, record a video of the scene, narrating what you see.

Gathering Information & Exchanging Details

Once safety is secured, focus on gathering necessary information:

Exchanging Information with Other Parties

• Exchange information with all involved drivers. This includes:
  • Full name and address
  • Driver's license number
  • Vehicle registration information
  • Insurance company and policy number

What To Do If The Other Driver Doesn't Have Insurance

• Collect as much information about the driver as possible. Their name, address, and license plate number can be used to investigate the possibility of insurance coverage later.
• Document all injuries and vehicle damage. This will be important if you need to pursue legal action.
• Speak with an attorney about uninsured motorist coverage. Your own insurance policy may offer coverage for crashes caused by uninsured drivers.

Information to Obtain from Law Enforcement

• Obtain the police report number and the officer's name and badge number. This will be crucial for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.
• Request a copy of the police report. Understand that it may take several days or weeks to become available.

Witness Information

• Look for potential witnesses. If anyone witnessed the accident, collect their name, phone number, and email address.
• Witness statements can be extremely valuable in determining fault and liability.

Reporting the Crash

Different reporting requirements apply depending on the severity of the crash.

When is a Police Report Required?

A police report is typically required in Florida if the crash involves any of the following:

• Injuries
• Fatalities
• Vehicle damage exceeding $500

How to Obtain a Copy of the Police Report

1. Contact the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) or the local law enforcement agency that responded to the crash.
2. Provide the crash report number, date, and location of the incident.
3. Follow their instructions for obtaining a copy, which may involve an online request, in-person visit, or mail-in application. There may be a fee associated with obtaining a copy.

Understanding Insurance and Liability

After a crash, understanding the insurance claims process and potential liability is critical.

The No-Fault System

Florida is a no-fault insurance state. This means:

• Your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance covers your injuries and medical expenses, regardless of who was at fault.
• PIP coverage typically covers up to 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost wages, up to the policy limit.

Filing an Insurance Claim

• Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the crash.
• Provide all relevant information, including the police report, photographs, and witness statements.
• Cooperate with the insurance adjuster and provide any requested documentation.
• Understand your rights and responsibilities under your insurance policy.

When Can You Sue After a Crash?

• In Florida, you can sue the at-fault driver for damages if your injuries are considered "serious." This generally means:
  • Significant and permanent loss of an important bodily function.
  • Permanent injury within a reasonable degree of medical probability.
  • Significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement.
  • Death.

Protecting Your Legal Rights

Navigating the legal complexities after a crash can be challenging.

Consulting with an Attorney

• Consider consulting with a personal injury attorney, especially if:
  • You sustained serious injuries.
  • The other driver was at fault.
  • The insurance company is denying or undervaluing your claim.
  • There are complex legal issues involved.
• An attorney can help you understand your rights, negotiate with the insurance company, and pursue legal action if necessary.

Evidence Preservation

• Preserve all evidence related to the crash, including:
  • Photographs and videos
  • Medical records
  • Repair estimates
  • Correspondence with the insurance company
• Do not discard any evidence, as it may be needed to support your claim.

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