Best Car Accident Lawyers in Palm Bay

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Palm Bay Police Department is (321) 952-3456.

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

  You can request a copy of the police report for your case by emailing PDRecords@pbfl.org.

• What are the common causes of car accidents in Palm Bay?

  Overspeeding, carelessness, substance abuse, and reckless behavior are the usual causes of car accidents in Palm Bay. Driver fatigue and personal physical conditions are factors, too. Unexpected hazards like a loose nail on the road or a huge splash of water covering the windshield lead to accidents as well. Accidents can also stem from the influx of visitors to Palm Bay's local attractions, which adds to the volume of people and cars in the area.

• What influences a car accident settlement amount in Palm Bay?

  In order to determine how much money you will be able to collect as a result of a car accident settlement, you must have specific information about the accident that can be used as a guide. You should take photographs of the scene as soon as possible. Make sure you write down as many details as you can about the accident. After seeking medical treatment, forward every piece of documentation to both your insurance provider and car accident lawyer.

• What is the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim in Palm Bay?

  Under Florida Statutes Section 95.11(3)(a), if you have been injured in a car crash, you have four years from the date of the accident to file a suit. However, in fatal car accidents, the statute of limitations is shorter. Florida Statutes Section 95.11(4)(d) gives only two years from the date of a loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. If you fail to file a suit within these timeframes, you could lose your right to recover compensation for your losses.

• How often do car accidents occur in Palm Bay?

  Palm Bay, the the largest city in Brevard County, is home to major highways such as US 1 and Interstate 95. This means that there are many congested roads in the area, as well as a high risk of car accidents. More than 6,900 motor vehicle crashes were reported in Brevard County in 2021, resulting in more than 4,700 injuries and 65 fatalities.

• What are the most dangerous intersections in Palm Bay?

  Four road corridors are considered the most dangerous intersections in Palm Bay. The one on Babcock Street and Palm Bay Road sees almost 61 crashes a year, and Malabar Road corner Babcock Street records nearly 50 crashes per year. The crossing of Palm Bay Road from Minton Road to Hollywood Boulevard has 140 crashes annually, while Babcock Street from Palm Bay Road to U.S. 192 gets 146.

• 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.