West Palm Beach Car Accident Guide: What to Document in the First 48 Hours

Aaron Feuer

In the first 48 hours after a crash in West Palm Beach, the documentation you collect can make a major difference in your injury claim. Focus on these key steps immediately:

  • Take photos of the vehicles, injuries, and the crash scene
  • Get the other driver’s insurance and contact information
  • Request the police report details
  • Document medical visits, symptoms, and treatment
  • Write down witness names and what happened while it’s fresh

At Aaron Feuer Law, we help accident victims across West Palm Beach and Palm Beach County protect their rights and pursue full compensation after serious crashes.

 

Why the First 48 Hours Matter After a Crash in West Palm Beach

 

After a car accident, things move fast. Insurance companies begin building their case immediately, often looking for ways to reduce what they pay.

 

That’s why the first two days are so important - the more clearly you document what happened, the easier it is for a West Palm Beach car accident lawyer to prove fault, injuries, and damages later.

 

Step 1: Photograph Everything at the Scene

If you are physically able, take as many photos as possible before vehicles are moved.

Capture:

  • Damage to all vehicles
  • The intersection, road, or traffic signals
  • Skid marks or debris
  • Weather and lighting conditions
  • Visible injuries like bruising or cuts

West Palm Beach crashes often happen on busy roads like Okeechobee Boulevard or I-95, where evidence can disappear quickly once traffic clears.

 

Step 2: Collect Driver and Insurance Information

Make sure you have:

  • The other driver’s name and phone number
  • License plate number
  • Insurance company and policy details
  • Driver’s license information

Even if the driver seems cooperative, documentation prevents confusion later.

 

Step 3: Get Police Report Details

 

Always call law enforcement after a serious accident.

Ask for:

  • The responding officer’s name
  • The report or case number
  • Where and when the report will be available

A police report is often one of the strongest early pieces of evidence in a Palm Beach County injury claim.

 

Step 4: Document Medical Care Immediately

 

Some injuries do not show up right away, especially:

  • Concussions
  • Whiplash
  • Back injuries
  • Internal trauma

Seek medical attention as soon as possible and keep records of:

  • ER or urgent care visits
  • Diagnosis paperwork
  • Prescriptions
  • Follow-up recommendations

Delaying care gives insurers room to argue that you weren’t truly hurt.

 

Step 5: Write Down Your Own Timeline

 

Within 24–48 hours, write a short account of what happened.

Include:

  • Where you were coming from and going
  • What you remember seeing and hearing
  • Any statements the other driver made
  • Pain or symptoms that developed afterward

These personal notes help preserve details while they’re still clear.

Step 6: Gather Witness Information

 

If anyone saw the crash, their testimony may be critical.

 

Try to get:

  • Full names
  • Phone numbers
  • A brief statement of what they observed

Independent witnesses often make the difference when fault is disputed.

 

Step 7: Avoid Insurance Mistakes Early On

Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly and ask for a recorded statement.

 

Be cautious.

 

Before signing anything or accepting a settlement offer, speak with a lawyer who understands West Palm Beach motor vehicle accident claims.

 

You can learn more about injury cases involving crashes here

 

Common Question: What If I Don’t Have Everything Documented?

 

Don’t panic.

 

Many clients come to Aaron Feuer Law unsure of what they should have collected. The key is acting quickly now.

 

Our team can help obtain:

  • Traffic camera footage
  • Medical documentation
  • Accident reconstruction evidence
  • Insurance policy details

The sooner you reach out, the more we can preserve.

 

Talk to a West Palm Beach Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you were injured in a crash in West Palm Beach or anywhere in Palm Beach County, you don’t have to handle the aftermath alone.

 

Aaron Feuer Law provides focused, trial-ready representation with personal attention from the start.

Schedule a free consultation today: