Best Car Accident Lawyers in Cape Coral, FL

FAQs

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

  There are two types of restitution that you can claim following a car accident in Syracuse. Economic damages refer to the direct financial losses you sustain as a result of the collision. These include disability accommodations, property damage and vehicle repairs, lost wages and lost future earnings, and all previous and future medical care. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, make up for non-financial losses. They might include mental agony, permanent disability, amputation and disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life.

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

  You can call the Police Department at 239-574-3223 or go to the page for the Police Department. Records are available on microfilm, imaging, paper, and CD/DVD.

• What is the procedure in Cape Coral for filing an automobile accident claim?

  First, in order to successfully pursue an automobile accident claim, you need to establish that the accident was caused by negligence. In Florida, which includes Cape Coral, courts employ comparative negligence to determine responsibility in auto accident cases. Other considerations include the severity of your injuries, property damage, the extent of your financial losses, and the impact of the injury on your personal life.

• What factors should one consider when choosing a lawyer in a Cape Coral automobile accident case?

  There are some crucial factors to consider before selecting a Cape Coral personal injury attorney. These include years of experience, concentration, and personal attention. You have the right to know who will be representing your case if a trial is unavoidable, as well as the number of cases that the firm handles at any given time. You may also ask if your lawyer is board certified by the Florida Bar.

• How much compensation can a passenger in a Cape Coral car accident get?

  Depending on the extent of your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, missed earnings, mental anguish, and property damage if you had personal belongings like gadgets that were in the car at the time of the accident. You must, however, submit a third-party injury claim with the liable party's insurance company. Get in touch with an experienced lawyer in Cape Coral to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if the at-fault driver in a Cape Coral car accident doesn't have car insurance?

  After a collision with an uninsured motorist, you have other financial recovery possibilities available. Judges may order the defendant to pay the accident victim monthly expenses. A Cape Coral attorney can also determine if the uninsured motorist has property, goods, or investments which can be liquidated to help you get paid. Another party may also be held responsible for your damages. For example, if the driver was operating a company car, their employer might be liable for their lack of insurance.

• Can one sue the Cape Coral government if poor road conditions caused the car accident?

  Yes, but holding the government liable for your motor accident differs from holding an individual accountable. File a claim first with your insurance carrier before lodging any sort of lawsuit against the government. Florida requires you to notify the Florida Department of Financial Services, but other individuals or organizations may also be required to receive the claim. There is a three-year statute of limitations in these types of cases. In wrongful death cases and federal government claims, however, the statute of limitations is two years.

• 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.