If you’ve been in an auto accident in Orlando or anywhere else in Orange County, Florida, you should report your accident to the authorities. The best way to report your accident is by calling the authorities to the scene of the crash so that they draft a report immediately. There are several ways to report your crash, but the easiest way is to dial 911 as soon as possible.
Reporting a Crash in Orlando
After a car crash in Orlando, Florida, you have a few options. You can call 911 to contact emergency authorities. Another way to report your crash is to call the Florida Highway Patrol. Both of these options will get authorities out to the accident scene to help you.
If anyone is injured or if anyone may be injured, you should dial 911 immediately to get emergency medical personnel to the scene. Safety is the most important thing after a crash.
Option 1: Dial 911
If there is an emergency, dial 911 immediately. This will get emergency personnel to the scene as soon as possible, and this is what the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles recommends.
Option 2: Call Florida Highway Patrol
If you have been in a traffic crash and you need to report it, you should reach out to the Florida Highway Patrol. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office in Orlando, FL instructs folks to contact the Florida Highway Patrol at (407) 737-2200 to report a traffic crash. The FLHSMV says to dial *FHP / (*347) from your mobile phone.
Why You Should Report an Orlando Car Accident
After a car crash, it is essential to report to the Florida Highway Patrol or police immediately. Reporting is not just a legal requirement in Florida but is also a fundamental responsibility that helps ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved in a traffic incident. Under the Florida law for crash reports, the driver of a vehicle must report a crash immediately if the crash involves the following:
- Death or injury. One of the most critical reasons for immediate reporting is when an accident results in death or injury. The safety and health of all parties involved in the accident are paramount. Prompt reporting allows for swift medical assistance and legal intervention, helping to address the consequences and potential liabilities associated with such accidents.
- Hit-and-run accident. Hit-and-run accidents, where a driver leaves the scene without stopping to provide necessary information or render aid, pose a significant threat to public safety. Reporting these incidents is crucial for law enforcement to track down and apprehend the responsible party. This ensures accountability and justice for the victims.
- Accident caused by an intoxicated driver. Accidents caused by intoxicated drivers are particularly dangerous and often result in severe injuries or fatalities. Reporting such accidents immediately enables law enforcement to conduct sobriety tests and gather evidence necessary to prosecute the intoxicated driver, discouraging drunk driving and potentially saving lives.
- Property damage over $500. While property damage is not as severe a problem as injuries or fatalities, it can still have significant financial and personal implications for those involved. Reporting accidents that result in property damage over $500 is essential for insurance claims, determining fault, and ensuring that responsible parties cover the costs of repairs or replacements.
If a crash doesn’t meet any of the criteria listed above, a driver may be eligible to self-report the crash instead of calling law enforcement to complete go to the scene and complete a report. However, best practice is to always report a crash immediately. That way, you have documentation of the accident, which can help you with your property damage and personal injury claims later on.
Self-Reporting a Traffic Crash in Orlando, Florida
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides that drivers in minor crashes may be able to self-report a motor vehicle collision. This option should be reserved for the least severe types of crashes.
You can self-report a crash online. Alternatively, you can fill out the form on the FLHSMV’s website and mail it to the following address:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Crash Records
2900 Apalachee Parkway, MS 28
Tallahassee, FL
Remember to always keep a copy of any documents you mail in. You’ll need this in case something gets lost in the mail, but you’ll also need it for any insurance claims.
The time to Report an Accident in Orlando
According to Florida Statute Section 316.066, you must submit your report within 10 days. If law enforcement completed the report, they must submit it to the department within 10 days after completing the investigation. Although you should be available to obtain your report within 10 days, sometimes it may take the police department longer, depending on how busy they are.
Consequences of Not Reporting a Crash in Orlando
If you don’t report an auto accident, it could cause you problems down the road. For example, you may not be able to get your insurance company to pay for property damage repairs. Also, if you choose to pursue a personal injury claim, the insurance company will be much more difficult to work with if you don’t have a police report.
Overall, you’ll have difficulty getting the insurance company to pay for anything if you don’t get a report. The insurance company's goal is to minimize or deny your claim, if possible. If you don't have a report proving that the accident occurred, it will be harder to get the insurance company to pay proper value for your case.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer at Our Office
You can call our law firm anytime at 321-LAWSUIT to get a free legal consultation with an attorney. Also, when you work with us, you don't have to pay anything upfront, and there are no retainer fees. We only get paid if we get money for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reporting an Auto Accident in Orlando, Florida
Can You File a Police Report Online?
Yes — many Florida law-enforcement agencies allow you to file certain non-emergency incident or crash reports online. For example, the Orange County Sheriff's Office offers an online system when there is no suspect, no injuries and the crash is within the limits of unincorporated Orange County. However, serious crashes (involving injury, death, DUI, or unknown suspect) still require a full police response.
How Do I File A Police Report Online in Florida?
If the crash is eligible (e.g., minor damage, no injuries, no suspect present), you can go to the website of the local sheriff’s office or police department, select the “file online report” option, complete the required information (your details, date/time/location of crash, involved vehicles, etc.), and submit. For example, some counties require you to be over 18, ensure no suspect is known, and confirm it's not an emergency. If the crash is not eligible for online reporting, you will need to call 911 or the non-emergency line so law enforcement can respond or direct you properly.
How Do I Get A Police Report for a Florida Car Accident?
You obtain a copy of the crash or police report from the law-enforcement agency that responded, or through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) Crash Portal. One guide notes that crash reports are public records (after a confidentiality period) and can be requested online for a nominal fee (about $10.00 + convenience fee of $2.00). For timely insurance or legal use, request the report as soon as the department confirms it’s ready, as processing time may vary.
What Do I Do After a Car Accident in Orlando?
First, ensure safety: check for injuries, call 911 if anyone is hurt, and if possible move the vehicle out of traffic or turn on hazard lights. Next, document the scene: take photos of damage, vehicle positions, road conditions; gather names and contact information of other drivers and witnesses. Then seek medical attention (even if you feel fine) and notify your insurer. Doing these steps promptly helps protect your health and any legal or insurance claims.
How Long Does it Take to Get an Accident Report in Florida?
The time varies by jurisdiction and the complexity of the accident. Some guidance indicates that crash reports may become available for request in about 3–5 business days after the agency finalizes them. In other cases (especially for minor accidents or when handled through online portals), processing by the agency may take a few weeks, particularly if review is required.
Are Car Accidents Public Record in Florida?
In Florida, crash reports are not immediately available to the general public. They are confidential for the first 60 days under Florida Statute § 316.066, during which only the parties involved, their legal representatives, insurers, and certain government/security entities may access them. After the 60-day period, the reports become public records and may be requested by anyone, though some personal information may be redacted for privacy.