Best Car Accident Lawyers in Panama City, FL

FAQs

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

  Dial 850-872-3112 for non-emergency calls in Panama City.

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

  Mail your requests to or visit the PCPD Records Department in person at 1209 East 15th Street, Panama City, Florida 32405. You can also email requests to fhines@panamacitypolice.gov, call (850) 872-3121 during office hours, and fax your requests to (850) 872-3198.

• Do car accident cases in Panama City go to trial?

  The majority of car accident cases settle before going to trial. However, there are some cases that need to be taken to court to be resolved fairly, such as those involving catastrophic injuries caused by the negligence of another party. Litigation may be needed to pursue justice for victims of car accidents in Panama City and hold negligent parties accountable.

• What can a driver do if they get injured in a hit-and-run accident in Panama City?

  The driver can consult with a lawyer to explore their own insurance avenues for compensation. Hit-and-run accidents are complex since the fleeing driver has yet to be identified and there is a possibility that they would flee the scene if they have no insurance. Getting a lawyer can help hit-and-run accident victims in Panama City navigate legal options for attaining compensation.

• What does mediation mean in a Panama City car accident case?

  Mediation is a kind of alternative dispute resolution method that aims to resolve car accident lawsuits without the need for litigation. According to state laws, the court must refer mediation to any car accident lawsuit in Panama City if one party requests mediation. Although it is not required by law, mediation can help settle cases between opposing parties under the guidance of a neutral third party.

• How often do car accidents occur in Panama City and Bay County?

  According to the FLSHMV, there were 4,462 car accidents recorded in Panama City and Bay County in 2021. Out of these accidents, 47 and 2,257 resulted in fatalities and injuries, respectively. In the same year, there were 124 confirmed crashes related to alcohol with 3 fatalities and 67 injuries, while 12 were related to drugs with 3 fatalities and 5 injuries.

• What are some possible causes of car accidents on Panama City's Highway 98?

  Texting while driving, tourist congestion, and constant road construction are some of the possible causes of car accidents on the Highway 98 portion of Panama City. Drunk driving is a problem owing to the number of bars along the Florida Panhandle’s Highway 98. Traffic to and fro visitor spots such as Crab Island, Pier Park, and The Boardwalk at Okaloosa Island contribute to congestion and, ultimately, car accidents.

• 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.