Best Car Accident Lawyers in Destin

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact numbers for the local police in Destin Florida are 850 689-5705 for North Okaloosa and 850 651-7400 for South Okaloosa.

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

  You can obtain a copy of a police report for a car accident, in person, by phone, or by email. You can send a request to recordsrequest@sheriff-okaloosa.org or call 850-651-7434. The Central Records office is located at the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters at 50 2nd Street, Shalimar.

• How long does it take you to settle a car accident lawsuit in Florida?

  It takes around four to six weeks to receive a personal injury settlement check in Destin. However, the duration it takes to receive a settlement check for car accident claims will be influenced by the settlement offer amount, the severity of the injuries sustained, and the complexity of the claim.

• Can you get pain and suffering claims for a car accident in Destin?

  Yes, car accident victims in Destin can file a claim for pain and suffering. According to state laws, pain and suffering are considered non-economic injuries where there is no clear monetary value. There are four criteria to be met in order to file for pain and suffering claims:

  • The injury sustained resulted in a significant loss of function of a body part.
  • The injury will result in a permanent disability like a herniated disk.
  • The victim was disfigured.
  • There was wrongful death.

• What is the statute of limitations in Destin?

  The statute of limitations in Destin and the entire state of Florida is four years from the date of the accident. If a victim's party fails to file within the limit, it will result in the dismissal of the case. However, there are rare times when the courts would overrule such a deadline when the victims are minors or there was a late onset of symptoms from the injuries sustained during the accident.

• Who will shoulder the damages in a car accident in Destin?

  Your insurance coverage will pay for the damages incurred in a car accident in Destin. Florida is a no-fault state, which means that regardless of who caused the accident, your insurance will have to shoulder your expenses. If the damages exceed your coverage limit, you may file a third-party liability claim or a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

• Can you blame bad weather when you get involved in an accident in Destin?

  Bad weather conditions cannot be blamed entirely during a Destin accident but can play a factor in the police report. According to section Section 316.185 of the Florida Statutes, a driver must reduce speed in order to adjust to weather and other roadway conditions. While you can never sue God or nature, you are held to a higher degree of responsibility during a weather disturbance. Since Florida is a no-fault state, you will be covered by your own insurance through your personal injury protection coverage.

• 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.