Minor crashes should never be taken lightly, and now there is a new law centered on amount of damage and claims. The car accident lawyer in Miami, Jonathan Perazzo, has learned that as of October 1, 2026, a Florida driver must notify law enforcement of a crash only when someone is hurt or killed or the damage is in an apparent amount of at least $2,000, up from $500, according to Fla. Stat. 316.065(1) as amended by SB 488. Below that line, you may be the one documenting the crash. If you were hurt, a Florida car accident lawyer can explain your options at 888-PERAZZO.
What changed on October 1
SB 488 is a broad transportation bill. The Florida Senate’s bill page shows it was approved by the Governor on April 21, 2026, as Chapter 2026-39, with an effective date of October 1, 2026. The part that matters here is the enrolled text of Section 7, which replaces “$500” with “$2,000” in the crash-notification statute.
Why a “scratch” can pass $2,000
The statute looks at the apparent amount of damage, and modern bumpers can make that number climb. WWSB reports that blind-spot monitors, radar sensors, and backup cameras sit inside plastic bumper covers, so a scrape that looks cosmetic can cost several thousand dollars to repair and recalibrate.
A Fort Myers mechanic gave WINK News an example: about $3,500 for the repair plus another $450 to $800 to calibrate, for what he called a small gouge. That is one shop’s estimate, not a rule for every vehicle.
What to do at the scene
- Stop and stay. Fla. Stat. 316.061 requires a driver in a property-damage crash to stop at the scene and remain there, without obstructing traffic more than necessary.
- Exchange information. Fla. Stat. 316.062 requires each driver to give a name, address, and vehicle registration number, and to show a driver’s license on request. It also requires reasonable assistance to anyone injured.
- Document everything. Photograph all vehicles, plates, the road, and every damaged area, including parts that look fine. You may be the only record-keeper.
- Do not guess at the damage. You cannot price a sensor bumper by eye. If the damage looks close to $2,000, a shop estimate is a better guide than a guess.
- Get checked if you feel any pain. If a symptom appears hours or days later, see a medical provider and note when it started.
When police are still part of the picture
WWSB’s coverage relays officials’ guidance that law enforcement should still be called for an injury or pain complaint, a suspected hit-and-run or intoxicated driver, a disabled vehicle blocking traffic, or a commercial vehicle or government property. The statute points the same direction: Fla. Stat. 316.066(1)(a) describes crashes an investigating officer reports on the long form, including any indication of complaints of pain or discomfort, a vehicle that needs a wrecker, and a commercial motor vehicle.
If no law enforcement report is required, Fla. Stat. 316.066(1)(e) says the driver must submit a written crash report to the state within 10 days of the crash, on a department-approved form.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need to call police after a small crash in Florida?
Under Fla. Stat. 316.065(1), notice is required when there is injury or death, or damage in an apparent amount of at least $2,000. Below that, with no injury, the statute does not require you to call.
What if I report no injury and feel pain later?
Get medical care and keep records of the date symptoms began. A car accident attorney can review what your situation may support.
Does the new threshold change who is at fault?
The sources above address only when drivers must notify law enforcement, not fault. Fault depends on the facts of each crash.
Talk to us about your crash
Call 888-PERAZZO or request a free case review online 24/7 after an accident in Florida, Georgia, and Texas.
Car Accident Lawyer in Miami Advertising. The Perazzo Law Firm maintains bona fide offices in North Miami Beach, Florida, and Atlanta, Georgia. Jonathan Perazzo, Esq., is the attorney responsible for this content. This page is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.