How Long Do You Have to Report Hit-and-Run Accident in Central Florida?

In Central Florida, you must report a hit and run accident within 10 days if the crash caused property damage over $500, serious injuries, or death. Following this deadline is important to protect your rights and strengthen your position during the insurance claims process or legal proceedings.

At Todd Miner Law, we understand how stressful a hit-and-run accident can feel. Our lawyers assist you in reporting accidents, preserving key evidence, and meeting all legal deadlines. With 30+ years of experience and a deep knowledge of Florida’s legal system, we fight to protect your rights and maximize your recovery. Call us at 407-894-1480 and let our legal team build a strong claim on your behalf.

What’s the Time Limit to Report a Hit and Run Accident in Florida?

Under Florida law, you have just 10 days to file a police report after a hit-and-run incident. This time limit applies in both situations, whether you fill out a Driver Self Report or the officer files an official crash report on your behalf. Here’s why you should take this deadline seriously:

• Filing on time is necessary to access benefits like Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and uninsured motorist coverage. Insurance companies may reject your claim if you can’t prove the crash was reported within the required timeframe.
• Quick reporting helps police track down the at-fault driver while the evidence is still fresh and witnesses remember key details.
• When you report an accident in a timely manner, your statement is seen as more reliable. It shows you took the incident seriously, which helps establish credibility if the case goes to legal proceedings.
• If your condition worsens over time due to traumatic brain injuries or other serious complications, a properly dated accident report helps link those medical issues directly to the crash.

How Can You Report a Car Accident In Florida?

To report a car accident in Florida, call 911 or notify local law enforcement. If no officer responds, download the Driver Self-Report of Traffic Crash Form from flhsmv.gov and fill in the required details. Then, send it to the Florida Department of Highway Safety by email (SelfReportCrashes@flhsmv.gov) or mail.

If police respond to the accident scene, they will file an official crash report. In that case, you don’t need to fill out a separate form. However, if no officer arrives, Florida law requires you to submit the self-report form within 10 days of the accident. In the form, you must document details, like the date and location of the incident, the extent of vehicle damage, and any potential injuries. You should also keep a copy of the form, as the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles may request it during the legal process.

What Are the Next Steps After Reporting a Hit and Run Crash?

After reporting a hit-and-run crash, get a copy of the police accident report, inform your insurance company, and consult a Florida car accident attorney to protect your legal rights. You should also document the accident scene, check for injuries, and seek immediate medical attention. Here is a detailed look at the key steps to take after reporting the crash:

Request a Copy of the Police Report

In Florida, you can access police reports in three ways:

• Online through the FLHSMV Crash Portal
• By visiting a Florida Highway Patrol Troop Station in person
• By sending a request via email

Each report costs $10.00, as outlined in section 321.23 of the Florida Statutes. Make sure you have the crash report number when submitting your request.

Begin the Insurance Claims Process

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process. Many insurers require notice within 24 hours, while others allow up to 30 days. Since these timelines vary, you must act quickly to avoid delays or denial of coverage. When filing the claim, provide the crash report number, photos of the vehicle damage, medical records, and any other documentation your insurer requests. This is especially important if you plan to use uninsured motorist coverage, which applies when the at-fault driver cannot be identified.

Contact a Car Accident Attorney

After notifying your insurance company, your next step should be contacting a Florida car accident attorney. They can help you explore every available legal option based on the facts of your case. For example, if the driver is found, they can file a personal injury claim. If not, they will help you seek damages through the uninsured motorist policy. Furthermore, an experienced lawyer will handle all communication with insurance officers and prevent them from undervaluing your losses.

How Does a Police Report Benefit Your Claim?

A police report strengthens your claim by providing an official, unbiased record of the crash. It documents when and where the motor vehicle accident happened, who was involved, and what the officer observed. This helps determine liability, reduces disputes, and gives your insurance company a reliable foundation to process your claim. Here are some additional benefits of a police report for your claim:

• Police reports may also include statements from witnesses, which can assist law enforcement agencies in locating the at-fault driver.
• The report’s initial assessments of injuries and vehicle damage help your attorney build a stronger personal injury or property damage case.
• In some cases, the report may list traffic citations issued at the scene. This can further support your claim by showing the other party violated traffic laws.
• One of the most important elements in a police report is the officer’s assessment of fault. They use key details to determine liability. Your attorney can reference their findings as credible, third-party support when negotiating with the insurance company.

How Do Insurance Companies Handle Hit-and-Run Accident Claims?

Insurance companies review police reports, eyewitness statements, and available evidence to determine fault. If the responsible party is not found, they may process your claim under collision or uninsured motorist coverage. However, if the at-fault driver is identified, their personal insurance will cover damages for accident victims.

Once you file a claim, your insurance adjuster will likely request supporting documents. This includes medical records, repair estimates, proof of income loss, and receipts for other related expenses. They use this information to calculate your total damages and verify the validity of your claim. Some carriers also review past claims history and surveillance footage to confirm that the accident occurred as reported. If the documentation clearly shows the other party was at fault and supports your losses, the insurance company will approve your compensation.

In hit-and-run cases, the claims process often becomes more complex. Insurance companies may try to shift blame or offer less than what you’re owed. At Todd Miner Law, our attorneys are former insurance officers who understand these tactics. We know how to challenge unfair claim denials, present clear evidence, and push for full compensation under your policy. Contact us today for a free case consultation.

Why Is It Important to Report an Accident on Time?

You should report an accident timely, as it helps preserve key evidence, meets legal requirements, and supports a stronger claim for insurance purposes. If you delay, key details can be lost, and it will be more challenging to prove fault. Your insurer will also question the validity of your claim to reduce or deny coverage.

In fact, with reporting delays, you might risk more than a weakened claim. According to the Florida Senate, failing to file a required accident report is classified as a non-moving violation. While it won’t add points to your license, it can lead to a $30 fine, additional court fees, and a record of legal violation.

Reach Out to Todd Miner Law to Report Your Hit and Run Accident Before the Deadline!

If you were involved in a hit-and-run crash with a commercial vehicle, you’re likely dealing with pain, confusion, medical bills, and lost wages with no clear path forward. You may not know who hit you, and the insurance company will try to shift the blame onto you. Moreover, Florida law gives you a limited time to act. Missing the reporting deadline could prevent you from recovering fair compensation.

At Todd Miner Law, our attorneys will help you report the accident, gather evidence, file your claim on time, and fight for your legal rights. In one case, we recovered $1 million for a young Deltona motorcyclist. He suffered severe leg injuries after a hit-and-run drunk driver crashed into him. Call us at 407-894-1480 today for a free consultation. You won’t have to pay us unless we win your case.

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