If you get involved in a car accident in St. Petersburg, Florida, you may be dealing with painful injuries, costly medical bills, and extensive property damage. Unfortunately, your recovery process can be hindered by a car insurance company that attempts to pay you less than you need and deserve.
The attorneys at Bailey & Glasser, LLP are committed to helping crash victims and their families pursue just case results. We can push back against an insurance company and guide you through each step of the car accident claims process. Contact us today to start with a free case consultation.
Why Choose Us?
- We can handle even the most complex and high-stakes car accident cases. We know what it takes to win and will work relentlessly to pursue optimal results on your behalf.
- Our lawyers have used their experience, skill, and technological resources to obtain over $2 billion in settlements and judgment awards for past clients.
- We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay your car accident attorney at Bailey & Glasser, LLP unless we win your case.
When to Contact a Car Accident Attorney
A car accident case in Florida can be complex and difficult to navigate on your own, especially if you are already dealing with serious injuries. Hiring an attorney can give you greater peace of mind and the ability to focus on your physical recovery while we pursue a financial one on your behalf. Your lawyer can handle every aspect of your case, from crash investigation to settlement negotiations with an insurance company.
A lawyer will have an in-depth understanding of Florida’s car accident laws and the tactics that car insurance companies often use to take advantage of injured individuals. Your lawyer can use this knowledge to aggressively litigate for the case results that you deserve. A car accident attorney will advocate for your rights and best interests at every turn.
Your attorney will work closely with you to develop a comprehensive understanding of your case, including what caused the crash, the severity of your injuries, and the financial impact the accident had on your life. He or she will then use this information to build a strong claim, in addition to an extensive network of experts such as accident reconstructionists and medical experts.
Is Florida a No-Fault Car Accident State?
Yes, Florida operates under a no-fault car insurance law. Drivers in Florida must initially seek coverage for their medical bills and property damage from their own car insurance providers, regardless of fault. All drivers in the state are required to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. This provides coverage for hospital bills and lost wages to the policyholder, regardless of who caused the car accident.
However, PIP coverage has limits. If you only purchase the minimum required amount, it will offer up to $10,000 in coverage. It will not pay for your vehicle damage or pain and suffering. You may be eligible for greater financial compensation through a third-party claim against the other driver. This could be an option if your injuries are serious enough to meet Florida’s tort exemption threshold.
Florida Statutes Section 627.737 states that a plaintiff may recover damages for pain, suffering, mental anguish, and inconvenience if the injury involves significant or permanent loss of an important bodily function, a permanent injury, significant scarring or disfigurement, or death. This means that with a serious or catastrophic injury, you have the right to hold the other driver accountable for your car accident and related losses, both economic and non-economic.
Common Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents
If you wish to file a claim against someone outside of Florida’s no-fault insurance system, you or your attorney will need to prove fault. Most car accidents are caused by human error, such as driver fatigue or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. You or your attorney will need to establish fault or negligence during your claim to qualify for third-party insurance coverage.
Common causes of car accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Texting while driving
- Drunk driving
- Driving drowsy
- Speeding
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Making unsafe lane changes
- Following too closely
- Defective vehicle parts
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Road hazards and defects
The party that can be held liable, or financially responsible, for your car accident will depend on the circumstances. If you get injured by a driver who was on duty at the time of your crash, for example, such as a truck driver or delivery driver, you may be able to hold the company liable. Otherwise, you may have a claim against the individual driver’s insurance company.
Compensation Available
As a car accident victim, you are most likely suffering from painful injuries and expensive losses. Your injuries may prevent you from going to work and performing the duties of your job. Your vehicle may require costly repairs before you can drive it again. Medical bill collectors may be contacting you and your family about unpaid treatment you received after your crash. A successful car accident claim can help you cover these costs and rebuild your life.
You could be eligible for the following types of damages for your car accident case:
- Past and future medical bills
- Property repairs
- Lost wages
- Disability
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Attorney’s fees
- Wrongful death damages
- Punitive damages, in some cases
The potential value of your car accident case will depend on the circumstances, such as the severity of your injuries. Our lawyers can carefully review your case to determine how much it could be worth. Then, as your attorneys, we can go up against insurance corporations on your behalf to demand fair and full compensation for the full extent of your losses.
Injured in a Car Accident? Contact Bailey & Glasser, LLP for Help
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in St. Petersburg, FL, it’s crucial to remember that you don’t have to face the intricacies of the legal process on your own. Our adept team of attorneys is prepared to shoulder your case from start to finish. Not only will we relentlessly pursue your legal goals, but we will also ensure you’re fully supported during these challenging times. Besides cases related to car accidents, we extend our services to those who’ve suffered due to truck accidents, cases where a wrongful death has occurred, as well as instances of medical malpractice.
Contact Bailey & Glasser, LLP to schedule a free consultation with one of our car accident attorneys. We are here to help you get the compensation you need so that you can focus on your recovery and move forward with your life. Contact our St. Petersburg office directly at (727) 894-6745.
We are located at 360 Central Avenue Ste. 1450, St. Petersburg, FL 33701.