Best Car Accident Lawyers in Riverview

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Florida Highway Patrol in Tampa is 813-558-1800. If there is little property damage or the accident is not posing a danger to others, or obstructing traffic, non-emergency contact lines may be phoned in the event of a car accident.

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

  A copy of the police report for the accident in Riverview may be accessed at the Public Records Section of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO). One may get in touch with the office by calling HCSO's record section at (813) 247-0960, by emailing the HCSO Public Record Center at rec_request@hcso.tampa.fl.us, or through an in-person visit at HCSO Freddie Solomon Annex, Record Section, 1900 East 9th Avenue, Tampa.

• What should you do if you are involved in a crash in Riverview?

  It is advised that those involved in a crash injury, fatality, hit and run, or DUI in Riverview must stay at the accident site and call 911 as per section 316.065 of the Florida Statute. The statute also requires the same for car accidents where apparent damage is at least $500, a crash with a commercial vehicle, or those requiring a wrecker to remove the vehicle. Accidents of this nature need to be filed by law enforcement.

• What should you do when you see other drivers in Riverview involved in minor crashes?

  Drivers in crashes that are not covered by Section 316.065 of Florida Statutes may self-report a crash in lieu of law enforcement officer completing the crash report. As per the stature, drivers can self-report if the car crashes does not involve:

  • A fatality
  • A DUI
  • Apparent damage of at least $500 on the vehicle or property
  • A crash with a commercial vehicle
  • A wrecker to remove the vehicle

• How to self-report a car crash in Florida?

  A self-report of a car crash may be filed to the Florida department concerned in person, by mail or online where the driver will be required to complete an accident report form, and show identification. In-person reporting is at nearest Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles office, while online reporting is at Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website. Those submitting self-reports through the mail should address them to: Self-report submitted through mail are sent to: Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Bureau of Records 2900 Apalachee Parkway MS 90 Tallahassee, Florida 32399-0575

• How much money do you need to hire a car accident lawyer in Riverview?

  Generally, a personal injury lawyer won't get paid until the victim receives the compensation required to cover the patient's necessary care. Additionally, the legal fees are not charged against the fees for doctors and therapists. Legal fees, medical costs, and compensation for the victim's pain and suffering are derived from case wins from settlements and damages.

• What is counts as personal injury protection insurance in Riverview? Per

  Riverview follows Florida's rule regarding personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, which provides readily available medical coverage to injured drivers. The funds are immediately accessible to accident victims, regardless of who is at fault, and they do not need to go through a legal process. Passengers in the accident-involved vehicle may also avail of the PIP as long as the driver is covered by the insurance.

• 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.