Best Car Accident Lawyers in Bonita Springs, FL

FAQs

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

  You can contact 239-337-2000 for non-emergency situations in Bonita Springs.

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

  In Bonita Springs, you can obtain a copy of a crash report through the Florida Crash Portal. You can also request an accident report in person or by mail. People requesting a crash record within 60 days of the incident must submit a Sworn Statement to Request Crash Report sent to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Crash Records, 2900 Apalachee Parkway, MS 28 Tallahassee, FL 32399.

• How long do you have to file a claim after a car accident in Bonita Springs?

  Car accident victims in Bonita Springs have four years from the date of the accident to bring a lawsuit seeking compensation from the motorist or entity responsible for the accident and injuries. The statute of limitations in Florida is two years for wrongful death claims and four years for product liability claims. Additionally, victims have three years to file a lawsuit against a state, county, city, or other government entity responsible for road maintenance.

• What if the other driver in a Bonita Springs car accident lacks insurance?

  If you have health insurance, you can expect at least some of your medical expenditures to be covered. When it comes to car accidents, Florida adopts a no-fault system. Drivers must carry PIP, which covers a percentage of medical bills and lost earnings. Without it, one must prove the other motorist was irresponsible, rendering one's vehicle insurance status irrelevant. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, given by the injured person's policy, is another possible source of compensation.

• Do you have to file a claim against your PIP policy after a car accident in Bonita Springs?

  Yes. You must file a PIP claim within two weeks of the accident. PIP coverage on your auto insurance policy covers up to 80% of your medical expenditures and lost income following a car accident, regardless of who was at fault. Consequently, if your injuries cost $10,000, PIP will only cover $8,000. Furthermore, if your accident is not considered an emergency, you will be eligible for only $2,500 in compensation. It is recommended to seek legal advice from a Bonita Springs car accident attorney.

• Should you seek medical attention after a car accident in Bonita Springs, even if you are not injured?

  Yes, even if you feel fine after the accident, you must see a doctor to ensure you have not sustained injuries that may surface later. According to studies, people involved in seemingly minor accidents can suffer injuries that do not manifest for several days. The 14-day PIP regulation in Florida makes sure that those injured in car accidents receive the medical care they need as soon as possible. You should also consult a Bonita Springs car accident lawyer to determine the possible legal precautions you should take.

• What if the insurance company denies your Bonita Springs car accident claim?

  If you were seriously injured and believe another party was at fault, you should not disregard a denial of your claim by an insurance company. When an injury or its severity is questioned, insurance companies deny claims. You compel them to reconsider when you present information that contradicts their conclusions. It is advisable to hire a Bonita Springs car accident lawyer to assist you in negotiating a settlement or filing a lawsuit. A car accident lawyer can advise you on your legal options based on your circumstances.

• 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.