Sarasota Car Accident Lawyers
Have You Been Injured In A Sarasota Car Accident?
If you live in the Sarasota area and have been involved in a car accident that resulted in injury, you may be feeling overwhelmed. The process of dealing with insurance companies, medical bills, missed work hours, and other repercussions can be exhausting and frustrating – especially if you don't have professional help.
That's why it's important to get in touch with a Sarasota car accident lawyer who can assist you throughout the legal process. Having an experienced team of car accident lawyers on your side can provide you with invaluable knowledge and experience, helping you obtain compensation for your losses associated with the accident.
Why You Should Contact Our Experienced Sarasota Car Accident Lawyers ASAP
At Herman & Wells, our Sarasota car accident lawyers understand how challenging it can be to navigate the aftermath of an auto accident. We are committed to helping Sarasota residents get the legal representation they deserve so that their rights and interests are adequately represented.
Our Sarasota car accident lawyers have the knowledge and experience to help you build a strong case and maximize the amount of compensation you can receive for your claim.
Do You Need To File A Lawsuit To Recover Damages After A Car Accident In Sarasota?
If you’ve been in an accident in Sarasota, Florida and have suffered damages as a result, you may be wondering if you can file a lawsuit to recover those damages. The answer is it depends on the circumstances of your accident.
To determine whether or not filing a lawsuit is the best option for recovering your damages it’s important to speak with a Sarasota car accident attorney who will be able to review your case and advise you on the best course of action for recovering compensation.
When determining whether or not to file a lawsuit, some key factors to consider include the following:
- The extent of your injuries and associated medical expenses
- Whether or not the other driver was at fault
- Whether or not there is sufficient evidence to prove liability
- Whether or not any insurance policies relevant to the accident can cover your damages
An experienced Sarasota personal injury attorney will be able to review all of these factors and more in order to determine if a lawsuit would be the most beneficial option for you.
What Laws In Florida Impact Car Accident Victims
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Sarasota, Florida, it's important to understand some of the laws that can impact your case. Understanding these laws can help you better prepare for what to expect after an accident occurs.
Florida Statute of Limitations
The first law to take note of is the Florida Statute of Limitations, which states that any injury claim must be filed within two years of the date of the accident. If you fail to file your claim by this time, your case could be dismissed.
Comparative Negligence
Florida also has a comparative negligence rule when it comes to determining who is responsible for an accident and how much compensation they should receive. This means that each party involved in the accident is assigned a percentage of fault based on their contribution to the incident. There may be more than two parties, and any compensation awarded is adjusted according to each party’s percentage of fault.
No-Fault Insurance
Additionally, Florida is a no-fault state when it comes to auto insurance. This means that your own insurance policy will pay for some of your damages regardless of who is at fault. However, if you have severe injuries and your medical bills exceed the amount covered by your insurance policy, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the other driver for additional compensation.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist
Finally, Florida has strict laws when it comes to uninsured drivers. If an uninsured driver is responsible for the accident, they are liable for any damages they cause. However, if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy, you may be able to file a claim against your insurance provider for additional compensation.
Florida’s Statute Of Limitations For Filing A Claim After A Car Crash
As mentioned earlier, it is important to be aware of the state's statute of limitations for filing a claim. In Florida, people who are injured in a motor vehicle accident have two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit and seek compensation for any damages suffered. If you fail to file your lawsuit within two years of the accident, then you may be barred from ever recovering any damages for the injuries and losses that you have suffered.
Furthermore, it is important to note that the statute of limitations can vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case. If, for example, an injured party is a minor or mentally incapacitated at the time of the accident, then extra considerations may apply. It is best to seek legal advice from an experienced car accident lawyer about your situation.
What To Do After A Car Accident In Sarasota
If you've been involved in a car accident in Sarasota, Florida, you may be feeling overwhelmed and confused about what to do next. It's important to understand your rights and take the right steps after an accident so that you can protect yourself and get the compensation you deserve:
Seek Medical Attention ASAP
The first thing you should do is seek medical attention. No matter how minor your injuries may seem, you should get them checked out and make sure that everything is okay. Your health and well-being are the most important things.
Document The Accident
You should also take pictures of the scene of the accident and any damage done to your vehicle. Make sure to keep any medical bills, repair receipts, and other documentation related to the accident as these will be important when filing a claim.
Contact a Sarasota Car Accident Lawyer
Once you have taken care of your medical needs, you'll need to contact a Sarasota car accident lawyer as soon as possible. A Sarasota car accident lawyer will be able to advise you on your legal rights and options, help you gather evidence, and represent you in court if necessary. An experienced Sarasota car accident lawyer can also negotiate with insurance companies to get maximum compensation for your losses.
What If You’re Severely Injured?
If you or someone you love has been severely injured in Sarasota, Florida due to the negligence of another party, then you may be entitled to financial compensation. Depending upon the severity and circumstances of your injury, you could potentially receive damages to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and more.
Common Causes Of Motor Vehicle Crashes In Sarasota
Motor vehicle crashes are unfortunately all too common in Sarasota, Florida. According to the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, there were a total of 5,907 motor vehicle accidents reported within Sarasota County during 2019 alone and the numbers have risen since then.
That being said, it is important to understand what some of the most common causes of car accidents are. Knowing this information can help you be more aware of your surroundings and take the necessary precautions to avoid a crash as much as possible.
Distracted Driving
One of the most common causes of car accidents in Sarasota, Florida is distracted driving. Whether it’s talking on a cell phone, texting while driving, or simply daydreaming, distracted driving can cause serious accidents. The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has noted that 1 in 10 drivers in Sarasota was involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver.
Speeding
Another common cause of car accidents is speeding. Many drivers are in a hurry and fail to obey the speed limit, putting other drivers on the road at risk. Sarasota County law enforcement officers have noted that over 30% of motor vehicle accidents in Sarasota are speeding-related.
Drunk Driving
Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is also a major problem in Sarasota, Florida. Despite the serious consequences associated with drunk driving, many people still get behind the wheel after having too much to drink. Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has reported that over 20% of motor vehicle accidents are caused by drunk driving in Sarasota.
Most Common Injuries Caused By Car Accidents In Sarasota
If you've been involved in a car accident in Sarasota, Florida, it's important to know the most common injuries that can result. Car accidents can have serious consequences and can leave victims with physical, emotional, and financial damages that can last for years. It is essential to be aware of these potential risks so that you are best prepared to seek the appropriate legal counsel if necessary
Some of the most common injuries that result from car accidents involve long-term physical trauma such as:
- broken bones
- neck and spine injuries
- facial fractures
- torn ligaments and tendons
- brain trauma
It is also not uncommon for victims of car accidents to suffer from psychological effects such as:
- post-traumatic stress disorder
- depression
- anxiety
- emotional distress
It is important to seek professional legal counsel if you have been injured in a Sarasota car accident. An experienced Sarasota car accident lawyer will be able to explain your rights and help you understand the complexities of the law as it applies to your case. They can also assist in securing financial compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the car accident.
Why You Should See A Doctor Even If You Don’t Think You Were Injured
The initial shock of an accident may make it difficult to assess your own injuries or pain. That’s why it’s important to see a doctor soon after a car accident, even if you don’t feel any pain right away. A medical professional can better diagnose any existing injuries or conditions and provide treatment as necessary.
Even if you don’t think your symptoms are serious, they could be more indicative of an underlying problem that requires immediate attention. A doctor will also be able to provide a comprehensive assessment of the accident and its impact on your body, including assessing potentially invisible soft tissue injuries.
Seeing a doctor is also important if you decide to seek compensation for your car accident-related expenses, such as medical bills and lost wages. By having comprehensive medical records that document the extent of your injuries, you can get the legal support and representation you need from an experienced Sarasota car accident lawyer.
Don’t try to tough out the pain or handle any medical issues on your own after a car accident. Make sure you seek medical attention right away and, if necessary, get the help of a Sarasota car accident lawyer who can fight for justice on your behalf. Doing so will ensure that you’re fully prepared should an injury from the accident lead to long-term complications or require legal action.
Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Car Accident Attorney In Sarasota
If you’ve been in a car accident and are considering hiring a Sarasota car accident lawyer, there are certain questions you should ask to make sure they’re the right fit for your case.
Here are some of the most important inquiries:
- What experience do you have handling car accident cases?
- Have you handled a case similar to mine before?
- What are the potential outcomes of my case?
- How long have you practiced in Sarasota, Florida?
- What are your fees and payment options?
- Do you need me to provide any additional documents or information for my car accident claim?
- Are there any other legal options or resources I should be aware of?
These questions can help you get a better understanding of the Sarasota car accident lawyer you’re thinking of hiring. It’s important to take the time to research and find an attorney who is experienced in this type of law and has a successful track record. Doing so will ensure you have the best chance of obtaining a favorable outcome in your car accident case.
Why Sarasota Car Accident Lawyers With Trial Experience Are Better For Your Case
If you have been involved in a car accident, Sarasota car accident lawyers with trial experience can make all the difference. Experienced Sarasota car accident attorneys understand Florida’s personal injury laws and are well-prepared to take a case to court if necessary.
Sarasota car accident attorneys with trial experience have a greater understanding of how cases should be handled in the courtroom. They are well-versed in negotiating with insurance companies and can help you sort out complex legal issues that may arise during the course of your case. Sarasota car accident lawyers know how to prepare for a trial and have access to expert witnesses who can testify on your behalf.
When you have an experienced Sarasota car accident lawyer on your side, you can be sure that they will fight hard to get the best possible outcome for your case. They understand all the legal strategies and tactics to ensure that you are awarded the fair compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering.
When looking for a Sarasota car accident lawyer to represent you, ask them about their experience in the courtroom. It’s important to have somebody who is capable of representing your interests and protecting your rights if it comes time to take your case to trial. Sarasota car accident attorneys with trial experience are better equipped to handle the complexities of a personal injury lawsuit.
What Are Your Options If You Lost A Loved One In A Car Accident?
If you’ve lost a loved one in Sarasota, Florida due to a car accident, the last thing you want to think about is pursuing legal action. However, it can be critical for supporting yourself and your family during this difficult time.
The experienced Sarasota car accident lawyers at Herman & Wells law firm understand the emotional toll these cases can take, and can help you navigate the legal process to seek compensation for the loss of your loved one.
Our Sarasota car accident lawyers have extensive experience handling wrongful death cases in Sarasota, Florida. We’ll fight hard to make sure you get the compensation that you deserve, while making sure that your case is handled with sensitivity and compassion. We know that this time can be difficult, and we’ll work closely with you throughout the process to ensure that your rights are fully protected.
Talk To One Of The Car Accident Lawyers At Herman & Wells
If you have been in a car accident in Sarasota, Florida, and need legal assistance, it is important to contact a qualified car accident lawyer who has experience dealing with the state’s laws. Herman & Wells has experienced Sarasota car accident lawyers with decades of combined experience.
Our attorneys understand the complexities of Florida personal injury law and are here to provide you with the guidance, advice, and support you need. From claims negotiations to litigation, our Sarasota car accident lawyers will work diligently on your behalf every step of the way.
Call (727) 821-3195 today for a free consultation and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.