Best Car Accident Lawyers in Plant City, FL

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns in Plant City, call 813-757-9200.

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

  If you would like to request a copy of a collision report in Plant City, contact the Records Unit during the hours of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 813-757-9200, ext. 2226.

• How can a Plant City car accident lawyer help you with your case?

  If you figure in a car accident in Plant City, it is suggested that you hire a car accident lawyer to help you do all the necessary legwork required to file a claim so you can focus on healing and recovering from your injuries. A lawyer may gather evidence and compile your claim, investigate the accident, and develop a financial needs assessment for you. It is also ideal to work with a lawyer who can communicate with the insurance companies and fight for the compensation you deserve.

• What are the damages you can recover if you get injured in a car accident in Plant City?

  If you decide to file a lawsuit to obtain compensation for your injuries that resulted from a car accident in Plant City, you may be able to recover both economic and non-economic losses, including the following: -Current and future medical expenses -physical pain and suffering -depression, anxiety, and mental anguish -lost income and diminished earning capacity -your family’s loss of support, affection, companionship, and guidance Your lawyer can help you determine the other damages that you can recover under Florida law.

• If a car accident victim in Plant City dies, can a claim still be filed?

  It is possible to still file a claim in Plant City even if the accident victim has already passed away due to the severity of their injuries. But instead of a personal injury claim, the personal representative of the victim’s estate must file a wrongful death claim. Any damages awarded by the court will be distributed among the victim’s estate and certain eligible relatives.

• When is the deadline for filing a legal claim after getting injured in a car accident in Plant City?

  According to Florida’s statute of limitations, victims of car accidents in Plant City generally have four years from the date of the accident to file an appropriate claim for their injuries. For a wrongful death due to a car accident, the time window for filing a claim is shortened to two years, starting on the date of the victim’s death. Missing these deadlines may forfeit the victim’s or their estate’s right to recover damages from the accident.

• Are you required to get insurance for your car in Plant City?

  A minimum of $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and a minimum of $10,000 in Property Damage Liability (PDL) automobile insurance are required by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles before registering a vehicle with at least four wheels in Plant City. Any automobile with a current Florida registration must also have continuous coverage, even if it is not being driven or is inoperable.

• 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.