Sometimes law enforcement agencies become overwhelmed with both minor and severe car crashes during stretches of bad weather when the roads are slick and dangerous. The Florida Highway Patrol recommends that drivers assess the accident and make an informed decision about whether it's necessary to call police to the scene.
The Florida Highway Patrol leads approximately 110,000 crash investigations each year.
"We prioritize crashes with injuries, then crashes with roadblocks and then the minor fender-benders," said FHP spokeswoman Sergeant Kim Montes. "You are unfortunately going to be waiting a lot longer in those (minor) cases."
When Is It Necessary To Dial 911?
Anytime a driver is involved in a car accident, however minor, they should call to notify the police. Having a viable legal record of the accident will help you in case the other driver avoids paying for damages or you have any insurance problems. Be wary that many drivers without insurance will push to not involve the police to avoid being at fault.
Drivers in Florida are required by law to report any accidents resulting in over $500 of damage or if anyone is injured or killed. Drivers are responsible for doing everything in their power to help anyone injured in the accident before help arrives.
If no one has been severely injured or killed in the crash, drivers are required to move any functioning vehicles out of the right-of-way. In Florida, those charged with fleeing the scene of an accident with injuries or death may be sentenced to up to 30 years in prison.
When Is It Necessary To Wait At The Scene?
If your vehicle is still functioning after you've been involved in a minor crash, you are not required to wait for police. In these cases, you can choose to download and complete a crash report from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicle's web site.
However, in order to complete the driver's crash report both drivers must have a valid driver's license, registration and proof of current insurance. If the other driver cannot show you these things immediately after the accident, call the police and wait for them.
Ultimately, when making the decision to wait for police or file your own crash report, be cautious and make sure that everyone has all of the necessary documents.
