Snowbird Checklist: Before You Head North

If you were injured in Florida or are in the middle of a condo, HOA, or insurance dispute, take care of these items before you return to New England. For background, see Injured in Florida While Wintering There and Florida Condo and HOA Disputes for Seasonal Owners.

If You Were Injured

• Get copies of all Florida medical records, imaging, and bills.
• Get the police or incident report number and a copy if available.
• Photograph the location again if it is safe to do so.
• Collect names, phone numbers, and northern addresses of witnesses.
• Ask in writing that the property owner or business preserve video.
• Schedule follow-up care in Massachusetts before you leave.
• For car accidents, confirm you were seen by a provider within 14 days for Florida PIP purposes.

Insurance

• Report the incident to every insurer that may apply: auto, homeowners or condo, health, Medicare or Medicare Advantage, and travel.
• Get claim numbers and adjuster contact information.
• Do not give a recorded statement before getting advice.

Condominium and HOA Matters

• Update your mailing and email addresses with the association.
• Request copies of the latest milestone inspection, reserve study, budget, and minutes.
• Respond in writing to any assessment, collection, or violation letter.
• Arrange for someone local to check the unit after storms.

Your Massachusetts Property

• Confirm when any winter tenant’s lease ends and that required notices have been sent.
• Confirm security deposit and last month’s rent records are in order.
• See Your Massachusetts Home While You Are in Florida.

Deadlines to Calendar

• Florida: two years for most negligence lawsuits arising after March 24, 2023
• Cruise injuries: often one year under the ticket contract, with earlier notice requirements
• Massachusetts: three years for most personal injury lawsuits; 30 days for some notices
• Insurance policies: prompt notice requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important thing to do before leaving Florida after an injury?

Get your medical records, the incident or police report, photographs, and witness contact information before you go. These are much harder to get from Massachusetts.

How do I make sure I get notices while I am up north?

Update your mailing and email address with your condominium association, insurers, and medical providers, and opt in to electronic notice where available.

Do Florida deadlines keep running after I leave the state?

Yes. Leaving Florida does not stop the two-year deadline for most negligence claims or any shorter insurance or notice deadlines.

Talk With Us in Massachusetts or Florida

If you have an open Florida injury claim or dispute, call Muggeo & Associates at (978) 741-1177, text the same number, or request a consultation online. We answer calls 24/7 and can meet by phone or video wherever you are spending the season. Email: jared@ljmassoc.com.

This page provides general information, not legal advice. Laws in Massachusetts and Florida change, and every situation is different. Contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee future outcomes. Last reviewed November 2026.