Florida Car Accident Lawyer 

A Florida car accident lawyer can help you by analyzing the specific details of your case, evaluating the evidence and liability, helping protect your legal rights, negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf, and if needed representing you in court.

How to Know if You Need a Car Accident Attorney

If you have been in an auto accident, the best way to know if you need a car accident attorney is to review your specific facts and circumstances with a lawyer. A qualified car accident attorney can provide expert legal advice on the applicable laws that could help you recover compensation for your losses, depending on your state's laws.

Some signs you might need an experienced attorney are:

• You have suffered severe injuries or losses as a result of the accident.
• You are missing work due to the accident.
• There is an insurance company that denies your claim for benefits.
• The other driver’s insurance company is not negotiating in good faith to resolve your claim.
• You are being asked to sign documents without reading them or having a car accident lawyer review them first.

Florida is a Pure Comparative Fault State

A Pure Comparative Fault State is a type of "modified comparative fault" system for dividing liability for an accident among the responsible parties. Under this system, each party’s negligence is taken into account, but each party can still recover damages even if that individual was more than 50% at fault for the incident.

Causes of Car Accidents in Florida

Many car accidents are the result of negligence on the part of another driver or a vehicle manufacturer. Some of the most common causes of car accidents are:

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is any activity that diverts a driver's attention away from the primary task of driving. Examples of distracted driving activities include:

• talking or texting on your phone
• eating and drinking
• talking to people in your vehicle
• playing with the radio
• using navigation systems
• and engaging in other activities that take your attention away from the road

Dangerous Roads

Dangerous roads can lead to accidents in many ways. Poor lighting, debris on the road, inadequate signage, potholes, and other unsafe conditions can cause drivers to lose control of their cars, increasing the risk of an accident. Additionally, slippery or icy roads can make driving more difficult and increase the chances of an accident.

Drunk Drivers

Drunk drivers cause accidents when their impaired judgment and poor coordination lead them to make mistakes while driving such as speeding, not braking in time, or failing to observe traffic laws. Additionally, drunk drivers may have slower reaction times which can prevent them from responding quickly to emergencies.

Poor Weather

Conditions Florida is known for severe thunderstorms and hurricanes. These poor weather conditions can cause many car accidents. Other causes of car accidents in Florida are: Speeding Failure to stop at red lights, intersections, or stop signs.

Car Accident FAQs

Do I Have a Car Accident Lawsuit Case?

If another driver caused your accident, you are entitled to seek financial compensation for the damages you suffered. If your accident was caused by a defective part, product, or mechanical failure, our attorneys can help you seek compensation from the manufacturer. Product liability law holds carmakers accountable for any known or foreseeable safety hazards in their vehicles. Car companies have a responsibility to make sure their vehicles are crash-worthy and safe. This means implementing federally mandated safety features to minimize injuries, prevent ejections, and reduce fire risk. When a manufacturer doesn’t do this, and someone is injured, the victim may be entitled to compensation for their injuries.

Types of Injuries From Auto Accidents

If you’ve been the victim of a car accident, we may be able to help you recover damages for injuries such as:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Neck injuries
• Head injury
• Partial/complete paralysis
• Burns
• Dental damages/tooth loss
• Broken bones
• Internal injuries
• Organ damage
• Internal bleeding
• Disfigurement
• Soft tissue injuries
• Wrongful death
• Scrapes or abrasions
• Cuts/gashes/scratches
• Bruising
• Emotional Injuries
• Anxiety
• Fear of driving
• Mental anguish
• Loss of consortium
• Confusion
• Trouble concentrating
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Nightmares
• PTSD
• Depression
• Guilt
• Insomnia

If you or a family member suffer from any of these injures after a car wreck, you might have a claim.

What To Do After You've Been in a Car Accident

If you have been in a car accident, the trauma can be overwhelming. However, taking the right steps afterward can help guarantee you get the compensation you deserve.

Call the Police

It is essential to speak with the police. A police officer will make an official report and document damages and injuries. This police report can be used for your car accident lawsuit.

Exchange Information with the Other Driver

Make sure you exchange information with other driver. The information you need would be their name, number, and the insurance company.

Talk to Witnesses

Additionally, if there are witnesses present at the scene of the crash, it is essential to ask for their contact information. This can be an invaluable tool in the future when filing a claim or seeking legal action.

Do NOT Talk to The Insurance Company

Remember that the at-fault driver's insurance company will do everything they can to settle for far less than you deserve.  Call our personal injury law firm today for help with insurance. 

Call An Experienced Florida Car Accident Attorney

An experienced car accident lawyer will be able to help talk to insurance and get you a settlement that covers all your costs.

Florida Car Accident FAQs

What is the Statute Of Limitation for Car Accidents in Florida?

Generally, a lawsuit must be filed within four years from the date of the car accident in the state of Florida.

What Kinds of Damages Can I Pursue After a Car Accident?

There are many types of damages you can pursue after a car accident. Some of those are:

Economic Damages

Economic damages are losses that arise from an injury or harm to another’s property, business, or finances. Economic damages include:

• Past medical expenses (related to the accident)
• Future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Repair costs for damaged property
• and lost income

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are types of damages in personal injury cases that cannot be quantified or measured. These include:

• pain and suffering
• emotional distress
• inconvenience
• destruction of one's quality of life
• scarring or disfigurement

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are a type of legal damages that a court will award in order to punish the wrongdoer for egregious misconduct or to set an example for other potential violators. They are generally in addition to any other compensatory damages that were awarded.

Special Damages

Special damages, also known as consequential damages, are those that do not occur directly from a breach but are considered a consequence of that breach. They include economic losses such as lost profits or the cost of repair or replacement. They may also include other losses such as emotional distress due to the breach.

Can I Sue If My Loved One Died in a Car Accident?

Yes, you may be able to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. This is a civil action that seeks compensation from someone whose negligence or misconduct led to the death of your loved one. It is important to retain an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible so they can investigate the incident and advise you about legal options before the statute of limitations for filing runs out.

What Happens When You Are At Fault in a Car Accident?

When you are at fault for a car accident, you may face legal liability for any damage caused. You may be required to pay damages or fines, depending on the circumstances and the severity of the accident. Additionally, your car insurance may be affected, as well as your driving record. Our experienced personal injury law firm can help you, even if you are partially at fault. 

As a Passenger, Can I Sue After a Car Accident?

Yes, you can sue after a car accident as a passenger if any negligence or wrongdoing was involved in the incident. You may also be able to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

How Long Does a Car Accident Case Take to Settle?

The length of time it takes to settle a car accident case varies greatly depending on the details of the case, such as the severity of the injuries, damages, insurance coverage available and the complexity of any legal issues. On average, cases can take several months to years to complete.

How Is Fault Determined in a Car Accident?

Fault in a car accident is determined by analyzing the evidence, including police reports, eyewitness testimony, and physical evidence such as skid marks or vehicle damage. Depending on the situation, the fault may be shared among both drivers involved or assigned to one driver alone. Insurance companies also typically play an essential role in determining fault as they investigate the case and use their findings to decide who is liable for damages.

Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer for a Minor Accident?

It may be a good idea to hire a car accident lawyer for a minor accident, as they can ensure that your rights are protected and can guide you through the legal process. Additionally, if you have suffered any damages or injuries as a result of the accident, having an experienced attorney on your side will help you obtain fair compensation.

How Much Will It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?

We work on a contingency basis for personal injury claims such as a fatal car accidents. A contingency fee basis means we do not charge you anything unless we win a settlement in or out of court. This fee structure ensures we work hard for your case and that you don't have even more out-of-pocket expenses during a stressful time. We also offer contingency fee schedules for other practice areas, such as:

• Personal Injury lawyer
• Nursing home abuse lawyer
• Fatal truck accident lawyer
• Premises Liability
• and more

How Much Is My Car Accident Worth?

The value of a car accident is typically determined by the type of damages that were caused, including medical expenses, property damage, and pain and suffering. Calculating the exact worth of a car accident is difficult without the help of an experienced car accident attorney.

What Is a Good Settlement Offer for a Car Accident?

A good settlement offer for a car accident varies depending on the situation and severity of the accident, such as injury or other damage caused. Generally, it is best to seek legal advice to determine an appropriate amount of compensation.

What is Negligence?

Negligence is the failure to take reasonable care to avoid foreseeable harm or loss to another person. It can include not just physical harm but economic or emotional damage. Negligence can result in civil penalties or criminal charges, depending on the severity of the negligence and how it affected another individual.

If I Hire a Personal Injury Attorney, Will I Have To Go to Court?

Whether you will have to go to court or not depends on the specifics of your case and the outcome of negotiations with the other party. An auto accident attorney can guide you through the process and help ensure you get the best financial compensation regardless of whether or not it involves going to court.

Who Is At Fault for a Rear-End Car Accident in Florida?

In the state of Florida, the driver of the rear-ending vehicle is typically at fault for a rear-end car accident. This assumes that the driver of the vehicle that was rear-ended was not driving negligently or in a reckless manner.

Should I Agree to a Taped Statement to the Insurance Company?

It is generally not recommended to agree to a taped statement to the insurance company regarding an auto accident, as the statements made can impact your personal injury claim and lead to an unfavorable outcome. It is best to seek legal advice from an experienced lawyer before agreeing to any taped statement.

How Do I Obtain a Police Report after a Car Accident?

To obtain a police report after a car accident, you should first contact the police department in the jurisdiction where the accident happened. You will likely need to show proof of identification in order to view or receive a copy of the police report. Depending on where the accident occurred, you may be able to request and access the report online, or you may need to fill out an application at your local police station and wait for them to process it.

Are my Medical Bills Paid in an Injury Settlement?

It depends on the type of settlement. In some cases, medical bills are paid through the settlement, while in other cases, they will need to be paid separately.

How Is Fault Determined in A Florida Car Accident Case?

Fault in a Florida car accident case is typically determined by analyzing the negligence of each driver involved. Negligence can be evaluated based on factors such as speed, road conditions, and even weather. It’s ultimately up to the court to decide who is at fault after examining all the evidence and determining which party neglected their duty of care on the road.

Contact A Florida Car Accident Lawyer

After an accident, you may be in a state of disbelief. This makes it difficult to think and handle everything that needs to be done. At Heintz Law, we have years of experience helping victims in Bradenton, Sarasota, and all over Florida recover millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements. We succeed because we place a strong focus victim’s rights and personalized compassionate service.

The auto accident attorneys at Heintz Law pride themselves on their extensive evidence-gathering skills and meticulous investigation experience. We recreate your accident with help from qualified engineers and industry experts to show who is accountable. The financial aftermath of an accident can last a long time, and the physical and emotional effects can last even longer. Don’t struggle with medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, or costly vehicle repairs. Let the car accident lawyers at Heintz Law in Bradenton and Sarasota to help you maximize your recovery. Call us today at 941-748-2916 to schedule a free consultation.