Best Car Accident Lawyers in Tallahassee

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Tallahassee is +1 850-891-4200.

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

  You can obtain a copy of the police report for a car accident in person at 234 East 7th Avenue or online. Additionally, you may phone the Tallahassee Police Department at 850-891-4221 or send a fax via 850-891-4556. You can also submit a request by mail to the following address: Records Tallahassee Police Department, 234 East 7th Avenue, Tallahassee, Florida 32303.

• What are some things to consider before hiring a Tallahassee car accident lawyer?

  When hiring a Tallahassee car accident attorney, consider their years of trial experience, car accident claims or cases handled, legal fees, and communication methods. You can also search on the Florida Bar Association's website for attorneys in good standing and eligible to practice in Tallahassee. In addition, try to inquire about the lawyer's certification—specialists are often more involved in a practice area of their choice.

• Can Tallahassee car accident lawyers help you with insurance claims?

  A Tallahassee car accident lawyer can bring a perspective to your case that could help you obtain a favorable insurance claim settlement. If you are unable to reach an agreement with the other party, an attorney can represent you in insurance litigation and fight for your rights in court. An experienced car accident lawyer can also assess whether filing your claim is a good idea or not.

• How long after a car accident in Tallahassee can you file a claim for compensation?

  In Tallahassee, you have up to four years from the date of a car accident to submit a claim, pursuant to Florida's statutes of limitations. Furthermore, Florida law compels drivers to report accidents and consequential damages within 10 days. A car accident lawyer can advise you on the legal options for maximizing the compensation for your injuries and losses.

• What are the most common causes of fatal car crashes in Tallahassee?

  More than a hundred serious and fatal car accidents in Tallahassee and the rest of Leon County involved alcohol or drug usage. The other factors that contributed to catastrophic car accidents in the area are speeding, distracted driving, and failure to obey traffic signals and stop signs. Eating and drinking, chatting with people, and fiddling with the stereo while driving are some distractions that could also lead to an accident.

• What kind of information should be exchanged by the parties involved in a Tallahassee car accident?

  In the event of a car accident in Tallahassee, the at-fault driver is required by Florida law to provide the necessary insurance information to the victim. This includes the driver's policy number and the name and contact details of their insurance provider. You and the other driver should also exchange license plate information, driver's license numbers, and vehicle identification numbers. These details will be useful to you and your lawyer when dealing with your insurance company or filing a claim.

• 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.