If you or someone you love was just involved in a hit-and-run accident in Florida, first take a deep breath. Feeling overwhelmed, confused, or even frightened is completely normal. Accidents are traumatic enough, but when the other driver flees the scene, it can leave you feeling even more helpless.

This guide is here to help you take the next steps clearly, calmly, and in the order that makes the most sense for your safety, health, and rights. We’ll walk you through what to do right now, how to file an insurance claim, and where to turn for support.

Step 1: Check for Injuries and Call 911

Even if you think you’re okay, adrenaline can mask serious injuries. Check yourself and others in your vehicle.

• Call 911 immediately. Report the accident and let the dispatcher know it was a hit-and-run.
  
• If you’re helping someone else, stay calm and wait for emergency responders.
  

Helpful Tip: If you’re in a safe location and able to move, turn on your hazard lights and stay inside your vehicle until help arrives especially if you’re on a busy road.

Step 2: Document Everything You Can

The more details you can gather now, the stronger your insurance claim may be later.

• Take photos of the scene, your vehicle, and any injuries.
  
• Write down anything you remember about the other vehicle (color, make, damage, license plate even partial).
  
• Ask any nearby witnesses for their contact info and what they saw.
  

Helpful Tip: Use your phone’s voice recorder to quickly note what you remember, especially if you’re shaken and typing feels hard.

Step 3: Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel “fine,” some injuries like concussions, internal bleeding, or soft-tissue damage don’t show up right away.

• Go to the ER, urgent care, or a medical provider you trust as soon as possible.
  
• Be honest about your symptoms and let them know it was a car accident.
  

Helpful Tip: Florida is a no-fault state, meaning your insurance will cover your initial medical bills through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) up to $10,000 even if the at-fault driver fled.

Step 4: File a Police Report

In Florida, it’s required to file a crash report for any accident involving injury or significant damage. If officers respond to the scene, they’ll file the report. If not, you can file one online through the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) website.

Helpful Tip: Ask for the police report number you’ll need when filing your insurance claim.

Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company

You’ll need to file a claim through your own insurance provider under your uninsured motorist coverage or PIP, depending on what’s available in your policy.

Here’s what to do:

• Call your insurance company or use their app to start the claim.
  
• Provide the police report number, photos, and medical records.
  
• Keep track of all communications and get everything in writing when possible.
  

Helpful Tip: If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, it can help cover damages beyond your PIP limits like pain and suffering or lost wages.

Step 6: Speak With a Florida Personal Injury Attorney

Florida hit-and-run cases can be complex. A licensed attorney can:

• Help you understand your insurance options
  
• Investigate the hit-and-run (even if police haven’t found the driver yet)
  
• Make sure you’re fairly compensated for your injuries and damages
  

Note: Consultations are often free, and you’re under no obligation to hire anyone. It’s simply a way to understand your rights and options.

You’re Not Alone Help Is Available

If you’re feeling shaken, that’s normal. You don’t have to navigate this alone.

At Hurt Aid, we connect injured people in Florida with compassionate, experienced medical providers and licensed personal injury attorneys who can help guide your recovery physically, emotionally, and legally.

Whether you’re the one injured or you’re trying to help someone else, support is just a call or click away.

Your Next Step: Get the Right Help Now

If you or someone you care about is dealing with a hit-and-run accident in Florida, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the more protected your rights and recovery will be.

Connect with trusted Florida medical providers and licensed attorneys through Hurt Aid. We’re here to help you move forward.