Best Car Accident Lawyers in Sarasota

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Sarasota Police Department is (941) 316-1199.

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

  Victims may obtain a copy of the police report for their accident at the Records Section of the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, located on the first floor of the Criminal Justice Center, 2071 Ringling Blvd. Records request may also be made online at

• How often do car accidents occur in Sarasota?

  In 2021, there were 4,785 recorded traffic accidents in Sarasota city, with 2,725 resulting in injuries and 33 fatalities. In the whole of Sarasota County, there were more than 9,280 reported car accidents and 41 fatalities in 2021. Car accidents occur more often in the summer, due to afternoon thunderstorms, and during speak break, as Sarasota sees an influx of vacationers in the area.

• What are the common types of Sarasota car accidents?

  One of the most common causes of car accidents in Sarasota is impaired driving, with marijuana, opiate, cocaine, and amphetamines as the most reported controlled substances in the region. Hit-and-run crashes in the metro are also common, with the majority occurring at dawn, dusk, and night. Additionally, the area sees frequent distracted driving accidents, with more than 660 reported incidents these recent years.

• Which intersections in Sarasota see the most car accidents?

  According to data collected by the Sarasota-Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization, the most dangerous intersections in Sarasota for motorists are 14th Street West and 53rd Avenue West, 14th Street West and Cortez Road West, and State Road 70 and Lockwood Ridge Road in Bradenton. These intersections see a high volume of traffic, from 50,000 to 80,000 vehicles daily.

• How can car accident victims in Sarasota obtain compensation for their losses?

  Car accident victims in Sarasota must recover compensation for their medical expenses and other losses from their own personal injury protection insurance coverage. In cases involving serious injuries and extreme negligence, however, victims may pursue damages from the at-fault parties. Car accident attorneys can help review a victim's case and determine the best course of action.

• What types of damages can Sarasota car accident victims recover?

  Victims of car accidents in Sarasota are entitled to compensation for their medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, loss of earning capacity, and pain and suffering. Surviving family members of car accident victims may also recover damages for loss of support and services, as well as parental companionship, instruction, and guidance.

• 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.