Best Car Accident Lawyers in Largo

FAQs

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

  You can report your non-emergency concern by dialing 727-587-6730 to reach the Largo Police Department.

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

  Visit the Largo Police Department or call (727) 587-6717 to request a copy of the accident report. Provide proper identification. These records are only available for parties directly involved or their appointive representatives within the initial 60 days after the incident. Documents with fewer than four pages are not subject to fees.

• What happens to your Largo car accident claim if you reside in a no-fault state?

  A driver's no-fault auto insurance, also known as Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, covers 80% of your medical costs, 60% of your lost wages, and some out-of-pocket expenses, limited to $10,000 coverage. This guarantees that each Largo driver will receive financial help, regardless of fault. However, victims' expenses usually exceed their insurance limits, which is one of the reasons why they are likely to pursue adequate compensation against the liable parties to cover other damages and losses incurred.

• What should you do if you hit your car into an unattended vehicle or property in Largo?

  You must notify law enforcement about the accident, even if no one was hurt. Failure to do so is considered a misdemeanor. Largo residents must abide by Florida Statutes 316.061 and 316.063 in car collision incident cases involving unattended vehicles or properties. The statutes state that you must remain at the accident site until you have made every attempt to inform the other party about the collision. If you cannot locate them, you are advised to securely affix a written notice with your name, address, and car registration number in a visible location for them to be able to contact you.

• Is eating while driving a car in Largo illegal?

  There is no existing legislation that forbids eating while driving in any state of the United States. However, Florida has a law prohibiting distracted driving, and Largo drivers must adhere to it. Eating can be perceived as one of the most distractive, careless, and reckless actions while driving, as the driver's hands should not be occupied, and his attention to the road should not be halved. This situation can significantly increase the likelihood of car collision accidents, thus endangering their own and other people's lives.

• What type of doctor should you visit following a vehicle accident in Largo?

  The type of medical attention you will need from a doctor depends on the severity of your injuries. The majority of car accident victims are taken to the emergency department, where they receive immediate assessments and care. Once evaluations are done, the trauma center doctor will refer you to a specialist to treat your injuries, for instance, neurologists for TBI cases and general surgeons for internal injuries. These experts will fill out and complete your medical records, which will be utilized to support your claim for compensation based on your present and future needs.

• Is it recommended to see a chiropractor after a car accident in Largo?

  You should first seek medical assessment and confer with the attending physician if chiropractic care is appropriate for your treatment plan after the car accident. A victim can sustain disablements, such as whiplash, chronic soreness, and soft tissue or ligament injuries that may require chiropractic care. In most cases, it is advised to visit a chiropractor within 72 hours of the accident.

• 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.