Loune-Djenia Askew, Esq.
Dec 5, 2025
Getting into a minor car accident can be confusing—especially when it seems small enough that calling the police feels unnecessary. Maybe you exchanged information, didn’t feel any pain, and drove away thinking everything was fine. But days or even weeks later, new pain or stiffness starts to show up. Now you’re wondering: Can I still file a claim if I never got a police report?
Getting into a minor car accident can be confusing—especially when it seems small enough that calling the police feels unnecessary. Maybe you exchanged information, didn’t feel any pain, and drove away thinking everything was fine. But days or even weeks later, new pain or stiffness starts to show up. Now you’re wondering: Can I still file a claim if I never got a police report?
The short answer: Yes, you can file a car accident claim in Florida even without a police report. But there are important things you need to know about how it affects your case and what steps you should take next.
Is a Police Report Required to File a Claim?
Florida law does not require a police report for every car accident. And insurance companies cannot deny your claim solely because you didn’t call the police. You are still within your rights to seek compensation for injuries or property damage.
However, a police report often strengthens your claim because it serves as an unbiased account of what happened. Without it, proving fault becomes more challenging—and it may turn into a situation where both sides have conflicting stories.
Think of the police report as a reliable piece of documentation. It’s not always legally required, but it can make the claims process smoother.
How Do You Prove Fault Without a Police Report?
Florida is a no-fault state, which means your own PIP (Personal Injury Protection) coverage pays for your initial medical treatment and certain losses—regardless of who caused the crash. But if your injuries are serious and you pursue compensation beyond PIP, the issue of fault becomes important.
Without a police report, building a strong case depends heavily on the evidence you can gather. A personal injury attorney can help you collect and organize proof that supports your version of events. This may include:
Speaking with witnesses who saw the accident
Collecting repair estimates and photos showing vehicle damage
Reviewing medical records that link your injuries to the crash
Working with expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists
Evaluating any photos or videos from the scene
Gathering phone records, dash cam footage, or nearby surveillance if available
An experienced attorney knows what evidence insurance companies take seriously and how to present it effectively. Even without a police report, you still have a path to financial recovery.
When Are You Required to Call the Police in Florida?
Although minor accidents do not always require a police report, Florida law does require one in certain situations. You must report the accident if:
Injuries or death occurred
A vehicle cannot be safely driven
A tow truck is required
The crash caused more than $500 in property damage
The accident blocked traffic
Alcohol or drugs were involved
In these cases, a written crash report must be filed within 10 days.
If you’re ever unsure, it’s safer to call the police. Besides helping establish what happened, the report can protect you later if injuries appear or the other driver changes their story.
Should You Call the Police After a Minor Accident?
Even if the accident seems insignificant, calling the police is almost always a smart idea. Injuries don’t always show up right away, and vehicle damage can be worse than it looks.
A police report:
Documents the accident details
Helps establish fault
May speed up your insurance claim
Protects you if the other driver disputes the facts
While you can still file a claim without one, having a report gives you stronger support from the start.
Final Thoughts
Yes—you can absolutely file a car accident claim in Florida without a police report. But having one can make your claim easier and more credible. If you’re facing injuries, unexpected pain, or complications after a crash, it’s important to get legal guidance as soon as possible.
A personal injury attorney can help you gather the right evidence, deal with the insurance company, and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you need help with a claim, reach out today for a free consultation. Protecting your health and rights should always come first.
For more information, contact our office at Askew & Associates, P.A. by calling 954-546-2699.
Disclaimer: this blog post is not intended to be legal advice. We highly recommend speaking to an attorney if you have any legal concerns.