Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers | March 5, 2025 | Car Accidents
If you have been involved in a car accident in Florida, you may not know whether your license can be suspended after an accident. In some cases, an accident can lead to a license suspension, but this depends on the circumstances of the crash, liability, and compliance with state laws. Understanding the situations that may result in a license suspension can help you take the necessary steps to protect your driving privileges.
Situations That Can Lead to a License Suspension After an Accident
Several factors may result in the suspension of a driver’s license following a car accident in Florida. These include:
Failure to Provide Proof of Insurance
Florida law requires all drivers to carry minimum auto insurance coverage, including:
- $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
- $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL)
If you are unable to provide proof of valid insurance at the time of an accident, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) may suspend your license.
Unpaid Judgments for Damages
If you are found at fault in an accident and fail to pay for damages awarded in a civil lawsuit, your license may be suspended under Florida’s Financial Responsibility Law. The state requires drivers to compensate victims for losses, and failing to do so can result in legal consequences, including suspension.
Leaving the Scene of an Accident (Hit and Run)
Under Florida law, drivers involved in accidents must remain at the scene, provide information, and offer aid if necessary. Leaving the scene of an accident, especially one involving injuries or fatalities, can lead to criminal charges and an automatic suspension of your license.
DUI-Related Accidents
If you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash, you may face severe penalties, including license suspension. Florida law imposes strict penalties for DUI offenses, and a conviction can lead to a suspension ranging from six months to several years, depending on prior offenses and the severity of the accident.
Accumulation of Points on Your Driving Record
Florida operates on a points-based system, where certain traffic violations result in points being added to your driving record:
- 12 points in 12 months: 30-day suspension
- 18 points in 18 months: 3-month suspension
- 24 points in 36 months: 1-year suspension
If the accident was caused by reckless driving, speeding, or other traffic violations, the accumulated points may lead to a license suspension.
How to Reinstate Your License After Suspension
If your license has been suspended due to an accident, you may be able to reinstate it by fulfilling certain requirements. These may include:
- Providing proof of valid auto insurance
- Paying outstanding fines or judgments
- Completing a defensive driving course (if applicable)
- Satisfying any court-ordered conditions related to the suspension
Individuals can check their license status and the specific reinstatement requirements through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website.
Impact of a License Suspension on Your Daily Life
Losing driving privileges after an accident can significantly disrupt someone’s daily routine. A suspended license may make it difficult to commute to work. Not having a license can also make appointments and errands feel impossible.
Relying on public transportation or rideshare services is costly and inconvenient. A suspension can also increase insurance rates, which may lead to higher premiums once the license is reinstated. Taking prompt action to resolve the issue can help minimize these challenges.
Let a Florida Attorney Protect Your Rights After a License Suspension
If you are facing a potential license suspension after an accident, consulting with an experienced Florida car accident attorney can help you understand your legal options. A lawyer can assist you in disputing fault, negotiating settlements, and ensuring compliance with Florida’s legal requirements to prevent or minimize the impact of a suspension.
Contact the St. Petersburg Car Accident Law Firm of Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact the legal team of Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers for a free initial consultation with a car accident lawyer in St. Petersburg. We have convenient locations in Florida: St. Petersburg, Safety Harbor, Clearwater, New Port Richey, and Tampa.
We serve throughout Pinellas County, Hillsborough County, Pasco County, and its surrounding areas:
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Clearwater Office
1811 N. Belcher Road, Suite I-1
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Congress Ave Office
2360 Congress Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33763
(727) 591-5610
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Tampa Office
6601 Memorial Hwy Suite 202
Tampa, FL 33615
(813) 686-7588
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – New Port Richey Office
2515 Seven Springs Blvd.
New Port Richey, FL, 34655
(727) 815-8442
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – St. Petersburg Law Office
840 Beach Dr NE Suite 202
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(727) 787-2500
Roman Austin Personal Injury Lawyers – Safety Harbor Law Office
202 9th Ave S Suite A-2
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
(727) 787-2500
