Bradenton Car Accident Lawyers
Have you been injured in a car accident in Bradenton, Florida? If so, you are not alone. Thousands of people across the state experience injuries due to car accidents each year. From minor scrapes and bruises to life-altering injuries, being involved in an auto collision can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience for all parties involved.
That's why it is essential to understand your rights as an accident victim and explore your options for seeking compensation for any damages or losses incurred. With the right legal guidance, you can ensure that justice is served and get the financial relief needed to move forward with your life after such a devastating event.
At Herman & Wells, our lawyers are dedicated to advocating on behalf of car accident victims all over Florida. We understand the complexities of car accident cases and have extensive experience helping clients pursue maximum compensation for their losses.
With our highly-skilled personal injury team in your corner, you can rest assured that your rights will be protected and your best interests will be kept at the forefront of any proceedings.
The Cliff Notes: Key Takeaways From This Page
- After a motor vehicle crash, individuals should seek medical attention, contact an experienced attorney, document the incident, and follow their doctor's treatment plan if injured.
- Florida laws to be aware of include the Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims, Comparative Fault Law, and No-Fault Insurance Law.
- Common causes of car crashes in Bradenton are reckless driving, distracted driving, speeding, and poor road conditions.
- Common injuries caused by car accidents include broken bones, traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord damage, internal organ damage, whiplash, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- It is important to see a doctor even if you don’t think you were injured as some injuries can worsen over time if left untreated.
- Questions to ask an attorney before hiring them include past experience handling car accident cases, references from past clients, fee structure for services, communication preferences, and strategy for handling this type of case.
- Hiring an experienced lawyer with trial experience is beneficial when filing a lawsuit or negotiating settlements with insurance.
Why You Should Contact Our Experienced Bradenton Car Accident Lawyers ASAP
At Herman & Wells, we are proud to serve the people of Bradenton and the rest of Florida in their time of need. Our experienced car accident attorneys can help you get the compensation you deserve after being involved in an auto collision.
Whether you’ve been injured in a single-car crash or a multi-vehicle pileup, our team will work hard to ensure that your rights are protected and that you get the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and more.
What To Do After A Car Accident In Bradenton
Seek Medical Attention
After an accident, your primary concern should be to seek medical attention. Even if you don’t think that you have been injured, it is still important to get checked out by a doctor to ensure that any unseen injuries or complications can be treated.
Contact An Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
Once you’ve received medical attention, the next step should be to contact an experienced car accident lawyer. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and fight for your rights. At Herman & Wells, our attorneys have years of experience handling car accident cases in Florida and will make sure that you get the compensation you deserve.
Document Everything
In order to prove your case, it is important to have documentation of the accident. This can include pictures of the vehicles involved, police reports, medical records, and more. By having accurate documentation, you will be able to strengthen your case and get the compensation you need.
Follow Doctor's Treatment Plan
After you’ve been injured in a car accident, it is important that you follow your doctor's treatment plan. This includes taking medications as prescribed and going to all of the recommended appointments. Following your doctor's instructions will help ensure that your recovery is successful and will also provide evidence of the effects of the accident on your life.
What If You’re Severely Injured?
If you have been severely injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering. This includes physical and emotional distress that can result from a serious injury. Our experienced attorneys will fight hard to make sure that you get the compensation you need to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
Do You Need To File A Lawsuit To Recover Damages After A Car Accident In Bradenton?
If you've been injured in a car accident in Bradenton, Florida, you may be entitled to financial compensation for damages. Depending on the circumstances of the crash and who was at fault, filing a lawsuit may be necessary to ensure that you receive proper compensation.
Florida Laws That Car Accident Victims Should Know About
In the state of Florida, there are several laws that apply to car accident claims:
Florida’s Statute Of Limitations For Car Accident Claims
The statute of limitations for car accident claims in Florida is two years from the date of the accident. This means that you must file a claim within 2 years of the crash or you will lose your legal right to pursue damages.
Florida’s Comparative Fault Law
In some cases, the courts may find both parties partially at fault for an accident. Under Florida’s comparative fault law, damages are awarded based on the percentage of fault that each party is determined to be responsible for.
No-Fault Insurance Law
Under Florida’s no-fault insurance law, each driver's own insurance policy will cover the cost of medical expenses and lost wages up to a certain amount. This is regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
Common Causes Of Motor Vehicle Crashes In Bradenton
Car accidents are a leading cause of injury and death in Bradenton, Florida. Below are some of the most common causes of motor vehicle crashes in Bradenton:
- Reckless Driving: Drivers who speed or disregard traffic laws put themselves and others at risk on the road.
- Distracted Driving: Texting while driving or any other form of distracted driving reduces reaction time and increases accident risks.
- Speeding: Exceeding posted speed limits increases crash severity as well as chances for an accident to occur.
- Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, debris on roads, and bad weather conditions can all lead to fatal crashes if drivers aren’t careful enough when navigating them.
Most Common Injuries Caused By Car Accidents In Bradenton
Car accidents in Bradenton, Florida can cause a range of serious injuries. The most common injuries caused by car accidents include:
Broken Bones
Broken bones are one of the most common types of injury resulting from a car accident. Common fractures associated with auto collisions include ribs, arms, and legs.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBIs can be caused when your head makes contact with the steering wheel or other objects inside the vehicle during an accident. Symptoms of TBIs may include confusion and memory loss as well as headaches and dizziness.
Spinal Cord Damage
Spinal cord damage is another type of injury that can occur due to impact during a crash. This type of injury may result in paralysis or permanent disability depending on the severity of the damage sustained during impact.
Internal Organ Damage
Internal organs such as the heart, lungs, or liver can become damaged when the body is exposed to traumatic force during an accident. This type of injury can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Whiplash
Whiplash occurs when your neck is thrown forward and backward due to a sudden impact, such as during a rear-end collision. Symptoms of whiplash may include headaches, dizziness, and neck pain.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD can be caused by a traumatic event such as being involved in a car accident. Symptoms of PTSD may include difficulty sleeping, flashbacks or nightmares related to the crash.
Why You Should See A Doctor Even If You Don’t Think You Were Injured
It is important to see a doctor even if you don’t think you were injured in an accident. This is because some injuries may not be apparent right away and could worsen over time if left untreated. Some injuries don't manifest for days or even weeks after an accident. Also, if you are filing a claim for compensation from the responsible party, a medical report detailing your injuries will be required in order to prove your case.
Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Car Accident Attorney In Bradenton
Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience that leaves you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. If you have suffered injuries or damages due to the accident, it is essential to consider hiring a car accident attorney in Bradenton.
However, with so many lawyers to choose from, it can be challenging to know which one to hire. To help you make an informed decision, here are some questions to ask before hiring a car accident attorney in Bradenton:
What Is Your Experience In Handling Car Accident Cases?
It's essential to hire an attorney who has experience handling car accident cases. Ask how long they have been practicing and how many cases they have handled. You want someone who has a good understanding of the law and has a track record of success in handling cases similar to yours.
Can You Provide References From Past Clients?
Talking to past clients can give you valuable insight into the attorney's abilities and how they handled their cases. It's a good idea to ask for references and contact them to get an idea of how the attorney works.
How Do You Charge For Your Services?
Most car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. However, it's essential to clarify the fee structure before hiring an attorney to avoid any surprises later on.
How Will You Communicate With Me Throughout The Case?
Communication is essential when it comes to working with an attorney. Ask how they plan to communicate with you throughout the case and how often you can expect updates.
What Is Your Strategy For Handling My Case?
Ask the attorney how they plan to handle your case, including their strategy for negotiating a settlement or taking the case to trial. You want an attorney who is proactive and has a clear plan for moving forward with your case.
Do You Have Experience Working With Insurance Companies?
Insurance companies can be difficult to work with and often try to minimize their liability. Ask the attorney if they have experience dealing with insurance companies, how they plan to handle negotiations, and what strategies they may use to ensure you get a fair settlement.
Why Bradenton Car Accident Lawyers With Extensive Trial Experience Are Better For Your Case
If you've been in a car accident in Bradenton, Florida, it's crucial to hire a car accident lawyer with extensive trial experience to represent you. A lawyer with trial experience understands the intricacies of the legal system and knows how to navigate the complexities of the court system. They have a better understanding of what it takes to build a strong case and present it effectively in court.
Additionally, lawyers with trial experience are better equipped to negotiate with insurance companies and ensure that you receive a fair settlement for your injuries and damages. With their experience, they can anticipate potential roadblocks and develop strategies to overcome them, increasing your chances of a successful outcome.
What Are Your Options If You Lost A Loved One In A Car Accident?
If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, you have legal options available to you. One option is to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault party. In a wrongful death lawsuit, you can seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral expenses, lost income, and other damages resulting from your loved one's death. Another option is to pursue a settlement with the insurance company of the at-fault driver.
It's important to speak with a skilled and compassionate car accident lawyer in Bradenton to understand your legal options and determine the best course of action for your situation. While no amount of money can bring back your loved one, seeking legal recourse can help provide closure and financial support for you and your family during this difficult time.
Talk To One Of Our Bradenton Car Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one have been in a car accident in Bradenton, Florida, it's essential to speak with an experienced and compassionate car accident lawyer. At Herman & Wells, we understand the complexities of the legal system and are dedicated to helping our clients obtain justice for their losses.
We will work tirelessly on your behalf to ensure that insurance companies provide fair settlements and that those responsible for causing accidents are held accountable. Don't wait — call (727) 821-3195 for a free consultation today!