Getting rear-ended can be a jarring and stressful experience, whether you’re stuck in rush-hour traffic on I-75 or sitting at a quiet red light in Gainesville. In Florida, rear-end collisions are among the most common types of car accidents, and while they may seem straightforward, the legal and insurance implications can quickly become complex. If you’ve just been rear-ended or want to be prepared just in case, here’s what you need to know about what to do next and, just as importantly, what not to do.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Rear-End Collision

Check for injuries.
Your safety and the safety of your passengers come first. Call 911 if anyone is injured, no matter how minor the injuries seem. Rear-end crashes often cause whiplash, which may not be obvious right away.

Move to a safe location.
If your car is still operable and you’re not seriously hurt, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid additional accidents or hazards.

Call law enforcement.
In Florida, you’re legally required to report any accident involving injury, death, or apparent vehicle damage over $500—which includes most rear-end crashes. Request an officer at the scene to file an official accident report.

It is always a good idea to call the police and get a report of the crash. This is the best way to document what happened right away. 

Exchange information.
Get the other driver’s name, contact details, driver’s license number, vehicle plate number, and insurance information. Be polite, but don’t admit fault or apologize; it can be misinterpreted as accepting responsibility.

Document everything.
Take photos of vehicle damage, the accident scene, any skid marks or road conditions, and visible injuries. If there are witnesses, get their contact information and ask what they saw.

Seek medical attention.
Even if you feel fine, get checked out as soon as possible. Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law requires that you seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident to qualify for insurance coverage.

Contact your insurance company.
Report the accident promptly. Provide facts, but avoid speculation or assigning blame. If the other driver’s insurer contacts you, speak with an attorney before giving a statement. It is also a good idea to consult with an attorney before contacting any insurance company so that you are prepared for what you will need to have ready when you call the company. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even well-intentioned drivers can make errors that harm their injury claims or legal standing. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Leaving the scene too soon. Florida law requires drivers to remain at the scene of an accident involving damage or injury. Leaving prematurely could result in criminal charges.
• Not calling the police. A police report can be a crucial piece of evidence. Without it, proving fault or damages may be much harder.
• Downplaying injuries. Saying “I’m fine” might seem polite in the moment, but it can be used against you later if you develop symptoms. If you are hurt, stick to the facts and get checked by a doctor. Never over-exaggerate your symptoms. But also, do not downplay your injuries. 
• Talking too much. Avoid admitting fault, blaming others, or speculating. Let the evidence and your attorney do the talking for you.
• Failing to document the scene. Memory fades, but photos and notes don’t. The more evidence you collect, the stronger your case will be.
• Skipping legal advice. Many people assume rear-end accidents are “open and shut” and don’t seek legal counsel. However, even seemingly minor crashes can become complicated if the at-fault driver disputes liability or if injuries are delayed.

How Fault Is Determined in Rear-End Accidents in Florida

In rear-end collisions, the rear driver is usually presumed at fault, based on the idea that drivers must maintain a safe following distance. However, this presumption is rebuttable. For instance, the front driver may share liability if:

• They suddenly slammed on the brakes without reason.
• Their brake lights weren’t working.
• They reversed into you.
• They stopped in a travel lane without activating hazard lights.

Because shared fault can reduce the damages you’re entitled to under Florida’s comparative negligence laws, it’s important to have legal guidance if the circumstances are unclear.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Rights After a Rear-End Collision

Being rear-ended is often sudden and disorienting. But knowing what to do (and what to avoid) in the aftermath can make a big difference in your health, recovery, and financial protection.

If you’ve been rear-ended in Florida and aren’t sure what your next step should be, it may be time to speak with a personal injury attorney. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your rights, communicate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing.

Call Glassman and Zissimopulos and our team of dedicated attorneys today. (352) 505-4515 or Toll-Free at (844) 787-2543. When you call, you will be able to speak with a lawyer. This is our commitment to you.