Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lakeland

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Lakeland Police Department is (863) 834-6900.

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

  Copies of police reports for car accidents in Lakeland can be obtained from the Records Section of the Lakeland Police Department, located at 219 North Massachusetts Avenue. Additionally, police reports for car accidents handled by the Florida Highway Patrol may be obtained at BuyCrash.com.

• How common are car collisions in Lakeland?

  In 2022, there were more than 386,000 car accidents in Lakeland and across the state, according to data published by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. These crashes resulted in approximately 3,500 fatalities and over 245,000 injuries. According to preliminary data, 14 crashes occurred in January 2023, but no fatalities were recorded.

• What are the circumstances where the deadline for filing car accident claims in Lakeland can be stalled?

  The statute of limitations for car accidents in Lakeland and across the state of Florida can be stalled when the at-fault party has fled the state. Meanwhile, people injured in car accidents involving government entities have less time to file a lawsuit, but victims of car accidents usually have four years to file a lawsuit after the accident.

• What types of serious injuries allow Lakeland car accident victims to sue negligent parties under Florida's Motor Vehicle No-Fault Law?

  Car accident victims in Lakeland suffering from broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and lost limbs can file lawsuits against the at-fault parties under the state’s Motor Vehicle No-Fault Law. What the law categorizes as serious injuries are those that are permanent, have resulted in scarring or disfigurement, or have caused the loss of important bodily functions.

• What are the most dangerous intersections for motorists in Lakeland?

  The intersections that pose a high level of danger to motorists in Lakeland include U.S. 98 North and Griffin Road, Memorial Boulevard and Massachusetts Avenue, and West Edgewood Extension and South Florida Avenue. These have plenty of motor vehicle and pedestrian traffic from students, commuters, and nearby businesses. Lack of signage and road markings also contribute to motor vehicle accidents in the area.

• How do Lakeland car accident victims qualify for personal injury protection auto insurance (PIP) benefits?

  Individuals injured in car accidents in Lakeland must seek medical treatment within 14 days to be eligible for PIP benefits. In addition, to qualify for PIP insurance benefits in excess of $2,500, they must receive treatment for an "emergency medical condition." According to Florida law, a medical condition is considered an emergency if it requires immediate medical attention and could result in serious harm to a patient's health.

• 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.