Best Car Accident Lawyers in Deltona

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Deltona, Florida?

  386-248-1777 is the non-emergency line of the Volusia County Sheriff's Office District 4.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Deltona, Florida?

  You can request and obtain your car accident police report from the Records Section of the Volusia County Sheriff's Office online, in person, via mail, and through telephone. Requests are processed in the order in which they are received, and responses may be delayed depending on the nature of the request, the volume received, and the available workforce that processes the requests.

• What are some of Deltona's most frequent reasons for car accidents?

  Deltona's primary cause of car accidents is drivers' negligent behaviors such as distracted driving, drunk driving, speeding, and failure to wear seat belts. Another significant cause of Deltona car accidents is animal crashes. If you live in Deltona, drive cautiously around dawn and dusk as these hours are recognized for having the highest number of animal crashes.

• Who is responsible for a car accident in Deltona?

  In Deltona, the following parties may be held accountable for a car accident:

  • Other driver: Most of the time, an accident is at least substantially, if not entirely, the fault of another motorist.
  • Automobile manufacturer: The manufacturer may be held accountable if a car's safety features malfunction or have a known problem.
  • Rental car company: If your accident included a rented vehicle, it's critical to confirm that the provider took all necessary safety measures.

• What is the deadline for filing a Deltona car accident claim?

  If you were hurt in Deltona as a consequence of someone else's negligence, state law permits you to file a car accident claim within four years of the incident. Your case will be deemed void, and you won't be able to obtain compensation if you don't file your claim before the deadline. An experienced Deltona car accident attorney can assist you in navigating the legal system and meeting the filing date for your injury claim.

• Would you still be compensated if you contributed to a Deltona car accident?

  Because Florida is a comparative fault state, you can receive compensation even if you were partially to blame for a car accident in Deltona. Even if the evidence shows that you were 90% or more to blame, you may have a feasible claim against the other driver. That is why it is critical to consult with an experienced car accident attorney immediately following your accident.

• How much do Deltona car accident attorneys charge?

  The majority of car accident attorneys in Deltona operate on a contingency price basis, which means they provide legal services without charge up until the victims' case is settled, either through a settlement or a trial verdict. Once the case is resolved, the car accident attorney is compensated for their costs and a portion of the total recovery amount, usually 1/3 or 40%.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.