Car accidents are a common cause of serious injuries in Lakeland. If you get involved in an automobile accident, you may not know how to obtain the financial compensation that you deserve from an insurance company. You need assistance from an attorney at Bailey & Glasser, LLP. We provide individualized legal services to our clients to help them achieve the best possible case results. Contact us today to begin with a free consultation.
What to Do After a Car Accident
You may feel overwhelmed and not know how to protect yourself or your rights after a car crash. There are certain steps you should take to ensure your car accident claim is treated fairly by a car insurance company. First, call 911 to report the car accident. While you wait for the police to arrive, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
Take photographs and videos of the scene before you leave. Then, go to a hospital for medical care right away. Before you begin the car insurance claims process, consult with an attorney in Lakeland. An attorney can make sure a car insurance company does not take advantage of you.
Is Florida a Fault or No-Fault State?
Florida is one of only a handful of no-fault states in the country. This means that after a car accident, all drivers seek benefits from their own car insurance policies, regardless of fault. Under this rule, proving someone else’s fault or negligence is not required. A driver can receive no-fault benefits to cover losses such as medical bills through personal injury protection insurance, otherwise known as PIP, without proof of negligence.
PIP is a type of first-party coverage from the driver’s own insurer rather than a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. However, there are some exceptions to the no-fault rule. For example, if the accident results in serious injuries or death, the injured party or the victim’s family may be able to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver.
Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle
At Bailey & Glasser, LLP, our Lakeland car accident lawyers have represented clients in a wide range of cases, including the following types of car accident claims:
- Chain reaction car accidents
- Commercial truck accidents
- Drowsy driving accidents
- Drunk driving crashes
- Fatal car accidents
- Head-on collisions
- Hit-and-runs
- Intersection accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Multi-vehicle collisions
- Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
- Rear-end collisions
- T-bone accidents
- Texting and driving accidents
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist claims
No matter what type of car accident injured you, our attorneys will work relentlessly to hold the responsible parties accountable and obtain the compensation you need.
What Is the Statute of Limitations?
In Florida, you only have four years from the date of a car accident to file a related personal injury claim under the statute of limitations. This is a strict law that, if not adhered to, could lead to the loss of your ability to seek compensation. In general, if you fail to bring a cause of action within four years, the courts will refuse to hear your case. There are some exceptions to the rule, however. Speak to an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet your deadline.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney for Free Today
At Bailey & Glasser, LLP, we understand that dealing with a car accident can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. Our attorneys are here to offer compassionate and personalized legal services. We will work closely with you to understand the unique aspects of your case and provide tailored legal representation. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Lakeland, contact us as soon as possible.
We also offer legal help with cases involving truck accidents, wrongful death, and medical malpractice.