By Michael E. Fenimore, P.A. | April 01, 2025
Car accidents happen in an instant, but the decisions you make right after can impact your health, safety, and ability to seek compensation. As a Pensacola car accident attorney with over two decades of experience, including years defending insurance companies, I’ve seen firsthand how the steps you take—or don’t take—can make or break your case. At Michael E. Fenimore, P.A., we’re here to guide you through the chaos. If you’ve been in a crash in Pensacola or Northwest Florida, here’s what to do immediately after.
1. Ensure Safety First
Your safety is the top priority. If you can, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further collisions—a common risk on busy Pensacola roads like Highway 98. Turn on your hazard lights and stay out of harm’s way. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately. Florida law requires reporting accidents with injuries, and prompt reporting protects your legal rights.
2. Seek Medical Attention—Even If You Feel Fine
Adrenaline can mask injuries like whiplash or internal trauma. I’ve worked with clients who felt “okay” at the scene, only to discover serious conditions later. Get checked by a doctor as soon as possible. This not only protects your health but also creates a medical record, which is critical for any personal injury claim. As a personal injury lawyer in Pensacola, I can’t stress this enough: delaying care can hurt your case.
3. Call the Police
In Florida, you’re legally required to report a car accident if it involves injuries, death, or property damage over $500. A police report provides an official account of the crash, which insurers and courts rely on. When the Pensacola Police or Florida Highway Patrol arrive, stick to the facts—avoid admitting fault, as this could be used against you later.
4. Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re able, document the accident. Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get the names, contact info, and insurance details of other drivers and witnesses. This evidence can be invaluable when building your case. At Michael E. Fenimore, P.A., we use these details to fight for the compensation you deserve.
5. Avoid Talking to Insurance Companies Without Counsel
Insurance adjusters may call you soon after the accident, often with a friendly tone. But as someone who’s worked on their side, I know their goal is to minimize payouts. Don’t give a recorded statement or accept a quick settlement without speaking to a Pensacola car accident attorney first. One wrong word could weaken your claim.
6. Contact a Trusted Personal Injury Lawyer in Pensacola
The sooner you consult an attorney, the better. Florida’s laws, like the statute of limitations (four years for most personal injury cases), impose strict deadlines. At Michael E. Fenimore, P.A., we offer free consultations to review your accident, explain your rights, and start building a strong case—drawing on my unique experience as a former insurance defense lawyer.
Why Local Experience Matters
Pensacola roads, from Scenic Highway to I-10, have their own challenges—tourist traffic, weather hazards, and more. A local firm like ours understands these nuances and knows how to navigate the courts of Escambia County. We’ve helped clients recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain after devastating crashes. You don’t have to face this alone.
Take the Next Step
If you’ve been in a car accident in Pensacola, don’t let confusion or insurance tactics stop you from getting justice. Contact Michael E. Fenimore, P.A. today at [insert phone number] or through our contact page for a free consultation. With our experience, we’ll fight to protect your rights and secure the compensation you’re entitled to.
About the Author: Michael E. Fenimore is the founder of Michael E. Fenimore, P.A., a Pensacola-based personal injury law firm. A University of Florida honors graduate and member of Top American Lawyers, Michael brings over 20 years of experience, including time defending insurance companies, to advocate for accident victims across Northwest Florida.