What Information Should I Gather at the Accident Scene in Clearwater, FL?

Being involved in a crash is a stressful experience. But the actions you take at the scene matter — both for your safety and for preserving evidence. In Florida, knowing what to collect can strengthen your claim later and protect your rights.

Key Details to Collect Immediately in Clearwater, FL

When you’re able, try to gather the following:

• Photos and videos — Capture wide shots and closeups of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signals, signage, debris, and the overall scene from multiple angles.
• Contact information — Get full names, phone numbers, addresses, and email addresses of all drivers, passengers, and any witnesses.
• Driver and vehicle info — Record license plate numbers, driver’s license numbers, vehicle make/model/year, and insurance details (insurer name, policy number).
• Insurance and registration — Take photos of the insurance cards and vehicle registration documents.
• Witness statements — Ask witnesses what they saw. Write or record their account and obtain their contact information so you can follow up later.
• Police report — Call 911 and ask law enforcement to file a report. Get the officer’s name, badge number, and the report number.
• Sketch or notes — Draw a basic diagram showing where vehicles were positioned, direction of travel, traffic controls, and distances.
• Your observations and health notes — Note your own symptoms (headache, soreness, dizziness) even if mild. Write down what you remember about the crash — time, weather, lighting, speeds, distractions.

Collecting this evidence helps create a clear, contemporaneous record before memories fade or the scene changes.

Why Getting Medical Attention Matters — Even If You Seem Fine

After a crash, you might feel okay — but not all injuries show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain. Hidden injuries may include:

• Whiplash or soft tissue damage — Neck, back, and shoulder pain and stiffness might not emerge until hours or days later.
• Concussions or traumatic brain injury — You may experience headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, or memory issues that surface later.
• Internal injuries — Bleeding or organ damage may worsen without obvious signs at first.
• Spinal or disc injuries — Herniated discs or nerve damage may develop gradually.
• Delayed psychological effects — Shock, anxiety, or emotional trauma can appear later.

Seeing a doctor quickly after the crash does two critical things: it protects your health, and it links any injuries you later discover to that collision. A medical record close in time to the crash is strong evidence that your injuries were caused by the accident, not something else in your life later.

Our Clearwater Attorney Can Help You After Your Crash

If you've been in a crash in Clearwater, FL, gathering solid evidence at the scene and getting medical attention are essential first steps. The team at Tragos Law understands the importance of every photo, witness, and medical note in building your case. Our experienced Clearwater attorneys will help you collect all necessary information, coordinate medical care, and fight to recover your rightful compensation.

Don’t wait — contact Tragos Law today for a free consultation. We’ll put our resources, legal experience, and dedication to work for you — and you won’t pay unless we recover for you.