Accident towing in Miami, FL

What should I do right after a crash in Miami?

Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt. If the crash is property damage only and the car can move, Florida law says to move it out of the travel lanes. Turn on hazard lights, exchange information and photograph the scene.

That rule is section 316.061 of the Florida Statutes. Moving the cars does not affect who was at fault. It keeps a second crash from happening behind you, which on I-95 or the Palmetto is a real risk.

On the expressways you can also dial *347 for the Florida Highway Patrol. Road Rangers may reach you first and help clear the lane.

Who chooses the tow company after an accident?

If your car is drivable or safely off the road, you choose, and you can call (786) 284-6998. If the car is blocking traffic and police need it cleared, the officer may call a tow from the agency's rotation list, and the car goes to that company's lot.

Either way, ask where the car is being taken and get the address before the truck leaves. Take your registration, garage opener, toll transponder and anything valuable with you.

Where should a wrecked car be towed?

Tow it to the body shop that will repair it if you already know which one. If you do not, towing it to your home avoids daily storage charges while the insurer decides. A car at a storage lot costs money every day it sits.

Your insurer may cover the tow or have a preferred shop, so call the claims line early. Keep the towing receipt.

What if the car is totaled?

If the insurer declares it a total loss, they usually take the car as part of the settlement. If you have no collision coverage, or you keep the car, you can sell it as it sits. Wrecked cars are bought for parts and scrap.

That is the other half of this line. See cash for junk cars for how an offer on a wrecked car works.