Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Florida

Ensuring your safety and protecting your interests are crucial steps to take immediately following a car accident in Florida. The first priority is to secure your safety and that of others involved. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic and activate hazard lights to alert other drivers. Emergency services should be contacted promptly if medical assistance is required.

What to Do Immediately After an Accident

Exchange of information is vital for future insurance claims and potential legal matters. Obtain the names, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle registration numbers of all parties involved. Gathering contact information from witnesses can also provide valuable support in clarifying the circumstances of the accident.

Documenting the scene of the accident can be invaluable. Use your smartphone or a camera to take photos of the vehicles involved, the position of the vehicles, any visible damage, and the surrounding environment. Additionally, note down the time of the accident, weather conditions, and any other relevant details that may help reconstruct the sequence of events.

It is advisable not to admit fault or make accusations at the scene of the accident. Leave the determination of fault to the insurance companies and legal authorities. Even if you believe you may be at fault, there could be factors or circumstances unknown to you that influenced the accident.

Seeking medical attention promptly, even if you do not appear to be injured, is essential. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not manifest symptoms immediately but can have long-term effects if left untreated. Keep a record of all medical visits, treatments, and expenses related to the accident, as this information may be necessary for insurance claims or legal proceedings.

Contacting your insurance company to report the accident as soon as possible is crucial. Be prepared to provide them with the information and documentation you have gathered. It is advisable to avoid discussing the details of the accident with anyone other than your insurance company, legal representative, or healthcare providers.

Consulting with an experienced attorney in personal injury and car accidents in Florida can provide valuable guidance and support. A qualified attorney can help protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and represent you in legal proceedings if necessary.

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident in Florida requires attention to detail and adherence to proper procedures. By taking these steps, you can protect yourself legally and ensure that you receive the necessary support and compensation for any injuries or damages incurred.

Michael Serrano

Founding Attorney

Candace “Cea” Hartley

Associate Attorney

Gathering Evidence to Support Your Claim

If you believe the other party was at fault, gathering evidence is critical. This includes obtaining police reports, witness statements, and opinions on the accident’s cause. An attorney can assist in collecting and presenting this evidence effectively to support your claim for damages.

Monitoring Your Physical and Emotional Well-being

Car accidents can have a profound impact on mental health, causing anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Seeking support from healthcare professionals or counselors can aid in coping with these effects and achieving full recovery.

Financial Considerations Post-Accident

Following an accident, financial concerns may arise, especially if injuries prevent work. Keeping records of lost wages and expenses related to medical treatment or vehicle repairs ensures proper compensation for these losses.

Considering Legal Action if Negotiations Fail

If negotiations with insurance companies are unsuccessful or unfair, consider legal action. Florida’s statute of limitations imposes a time limit on personal injury lawsuits, necessitating timely consultation with an attorney to protect rights and pursue justice.

Pursuing Wrongful Death Claims

In cases of fatalities from accidents, Florida law permits certain family members to seek compensation for financial support loss, companionship, and other damages due to another’s negligence.

Navigating the post-accident period in Florida demands patience, diligence, and thorough knowledge of legal rights. By proactively safeguarding and seeking support, the stress and uncertainty associated with such experiences can be minimized.

Mike Serrano’s law office was everything I needed after a very traumatic accident. He was always super up front and honest with me. I never got the feeling he was trying to sell me on something or to do something that I wasn’t comfortable with. He listened to my concerns and when it tough moments came that I needed to stand my ground. He backed me and made me feel 100% secure. He got me exactly what I needed in a settlement and I would never consider using anyone else. His office staff is also phenomenal.”

- Mary

Mike Serrano was a great attorney for my case!! He was very flexible with phone calls/ Zoom meetings. His staff are always friendly, whether it be on the phone or emails. They keep you updated during your entire case! They don’t leave you silent for months. if you call, they always call back with updates! Highly recommend!"

- Kylie Collier Border

I’ve never had to deal with a lawyer before but Mike has set the bar HIGH. He was always available to communicate my concerns and explain each step of the way. I know no other lawyer would have been able to achieve the same results because he jumped on an opportunity that was a little out of the ordinary and it paid off. He really fought for my case and over delivered. I really hope I never have another accident but if I do I’m running to Mike for help."

- Sandy Carter

The Role of Comparative Negligence

In Florida, the principle of modified comparative negligence applies to car accidents. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be entitled to compensation. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Understanding how comparative negligence works and its implications for your case is crucial, as it can significantly impact the outcome of any legal proceedings or insurance claims.

Dealing with Insurance Adjusters

After a car accident, you may be contacted by insurance adjusters representing the other party involved. It’s important to remember that their goal is to minimize the amount of compensation paid out. Avoid providing recorded statements or signing any documents without consulting with your attorney first. Insurance adjusters may use tactics to pressure you into accepting a settlement that is less than you deserve. Having legal representation can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive fair treatment from insurance companies.

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Navigating Legal Proceedings

If your case proceeds to legal action, understanding the litigation process is essential. This may involve filing a complaint, discovery (where evidence is exchanged), negotiations, and potentially a trial. Your attorney will guide you through each step, advocating on your behalf and working to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Seeking Compensation for Damages

In a personal injury case resulting from a car accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and more. Calculating these damages requires a thorough assessment of your injuries, treatment costs, and the impact on your life. An experienced attorney can help accurately evaluate your damages and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations

In Florida, there is a statute of limitations that restricts the time frame within which you can file a lawsuit after a car accident. Generally, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this time frame can result in losing your right to seek compensation. It’s important to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure compliance with this legal deadline.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Having legal representation is crucial in navigating the complexities of a car accident case. An attorney can provide valuable experience, negotiate with insurance companies, gather evidence, handle paperwork, and advocate for your best interests throughout the legal process. This support allows you to focus on your recovery and ensures that your rights are protected every step of the way.

Case Results

Car Accident

This client was injured in an auto accident with a driver who improperly merged into her lane. Her vehicle was totaled. She sustained an aggravation of her pre-existing disc herniations in her neck and new disc herniations in her lower back. We obtained the full limits of both the at-fault driver’s bodily injury coverage and our client’s underinsured motorist coverage, which were significant. The settlement was achieved without a law suit and within four months after the client finished treating.

Rear End Collision

This particular client was injured in an accident in late 2015 when she was rear-ended. She sustained an aggravation of pre-existing disc herniations in her neck and a new disc herniation which ultimately required a surgical fusion. By the time of trial, her medical bills exceeded $180,000.00. The Defendants’ offer pre-suit was $20,000.00. We were able to obtain a jury verdict of $441,000.00, plus attorneys’ fees.

Car Accident

A client was injured in a rear-end collision where he sustained an aggravation of a pre-existing disc bulge that developed into a herniation in his lower back. We obtained a jury verdict which was over 6 times what had been offered prior to trial.

Car Accident

In this case, our client injured her shoulder after being struck by a vehicle while she was performing volunteer services. The driver was traveling at such a high rate of speed entering a parking lot that he clipped another vehicle, hit a parking barrier and was launched into a tree. After the client attempted to negotiate with the insurance company prior to hiring us, we were able to obtain an amount that was over double the prior offer.

Intentional Torts

Our client was injured from an assault by a patron of a party while working security. His shoulder required multiple surgeries. He hired our office to pursue a claim to recoup his medical bills, which exceeded $130,000.00. After his assailant offered him $10,000.00 to resolve his case, we took the case to a jury to decide. The jury awarded our client all of his medical bills and tripled his award for pain and suffering.

Car Accident

This client came to us about a car wreck that occurred in 2014 where she sustained injuries. She approached our firm just one week before the statute of limitations was set to expire after being turned away by several other law firms. We filed a lawsuit and were able to obtain the limits of the at-fault driver’s bodily injury coverage and an additional settlement from the client’s insurance carrier.

Truck Crash

This couple was injured in an automobile accident after they were rear-ended in a seven-car pileup caused by a semi-trailer. Of the 15 people who made claims on the same insurance policy, our clients each received the second and third highest offers, which covered all of their past and future medical bills and their attorney’s fees.

Truck Crash

In this case, our client was injured from a rear-end collision with an eighteen-wheeler. Her original lawyer procured a settlement offer of $7,000.00 to settle her case. Because the offer did not approach the amount of bills she incurred from accident related treatment, she came to our firm for a consultation. She decided to hire us. We promptly filed suit and obtained a settlement for her.

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If you need assistance with a car accident case in Florida, Serrano Law is here to help. Our dedicated team of legal professionals focuses in personal injury cases and is committed to providing you with compassionate support and effective representation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you during this difficult time.