Florida Car Accident Attorneys
Lake Mary Car Injury Lawyers
The aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. Physical injuries, vehicle damage, lost wages, and emotional distress can leave you feeling lost and unsure of how to move forward. If you have been involved in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you deserve fair compensation for your losses.
At Chubb Law, our compassionate and experienced Lake Mary car accident attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial burdens you face. We are dedicated to providing personalized attention and aggressive legal representation to help you secure the maximum compensation you deserve. Our team will help you understand the complexities of car accident law in Florida, the crucial role of an experienced personal injury lawyer, and the steps you can take to protect your rights.
FLORIDA AUTO ACCIDENT STATISTICS
The Florida Department of Health reports that more than 2 million people are injured, and 32,000 are killed each year in motor vehicle accidents across the country. In Seminole County alone, there were 6,254 motor vehicle accidents in 2023. Of these crashes, there were more than 4,370 injuries and 50 fatalities.
UNDERSTANDING FLORIDA’S NO-FAULT CAR ACCIDENT LAWS
Florida’s car accident laws differ from those of many other states due to its no-fault system, which aims to streamline the claims process for minor injuries and ensure that injured parties receive prompt medical care and compensation, regardless of who is at fault. Personal injury protection (PIP) coverage is mandatory for all drivers in Florida. It acts as a first-layer insurance coverage, covering some of your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.
Florida law requires drivers to carry a minimum of $10,000 in PIP coverage. This coverage applies to the policyholder, household relatives, and certain passengers, regardless of whether or not they own a vehicle. PIP benefits cover reimbursement for a portion of lost wages due to the inability to work because of a car accident and reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to injuries sustained in the accident up to the policy limit.
Under Florida law, injured parties must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident to qualify for PIP benefits. PIP benefits are subject to certain limitations, including medical expenses and lost wage benefits. Specific individuals are excluded from PIP coverage under Florida law, including those who intentionally cause their own injuries in a car accident, those injured while committing a felony, and those injured while operating a vehicle in a race or speed contest.
FLORIDA’S KEY LEGAL CONCEPTS FOR CAR ACCIDENT CLAIMS
- Duty of care: Drivers have a legal duty to act reasonably and safely to avoid collisions.
- Negligence: A car accident occurs when a driver or other party breaches the duty of care.
- Comparative negligence: Florida follows a comparative negligence system for car accident claims. This means that the compensation you receive may be reduced based on the percentage of fault you share for the accident.
- Damages: You must have suffered actual recoverable damages as a result of your car accident.
DAMAGES RECOVERABLE IN LAKE MARY CAR ACCIDENT LAWSUITS
If you have been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover various damages through a personal injury claim. Recoverable damages in a car accident claim can include:
- Medical expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs associated with your injuries
- Lost wages: Compensation for wages lost due to time missed from work as a result of your injuries
- Property damage: The cost of repairing or replacing your damaged vehicle
- Towing and rental car expenses: Costs associated with towing your car from the accident scene and renting a car while yours is being repaired
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional pain caused by the accident
- Emotional distress: Compensation for the emotional impact of the accident and its aftermath
- Loss of enjoyment of life: Compensation for the loss of your ability to engage in activities that brought you pleasure or fulfillment
- Loss of consortium: Compensation for the loss of companionship, intimacy, and support that results from the injuries sustained in your accident
- Scarring and disfigurement: Compensation for visible scars or permanent physical impairments resulting from the accident
- Punitive damages: Rare compensation only awarded in cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct
The specific damages recoverable in your Lake Mary car accident lawsuit will depend on the unique facts of your case, the severity of your injuries, and the impact on your life. Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement to resolve your claim quickly. It is wise to consult a qualified car accident attorney before accepting any settlement offer to ensure it adequately covers your damages.
COMMON CAUSES OF CAR ACCIDENTS IN LAKE MARY
In 2023, 6,255 motor vehicle accidents in Seminole County resulted in 50 fatalities and 4,375 injuries. Understanding the most frequent causes of car accidents in Lake Mary, Sanford, Altamonte Springs, and other surrounding areas in Seminole County can help you stay alert and avoid potential collisions. Car accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving occurs when a driver’s attention is diverted away from the task of driving due to various activities or stimuli, significantly increasing the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the road. Distracted driving can take many forms, including:
- Texting and driving
- Talking on the phone
- Using GPS devices
- Eating and drinking
- Adjusting controls
- Talking to passengers
- Daydreaming
- Grooming
- Looking at something outside the car
Florida has laws and regulations to address distracted driving and promote safe driving habits. For example, in July 2019, Florida enacted the Wireless Communications While Driving Law, which categorizes texting while driving as a primary offense. This means law enforcement officers can pull you over solely for texting and driving without needing another reason for the traffic stop.
Speeding
Speeding contributes to a significant number of traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities each year, posing serious risks to drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), speeding was a factor in nearly 30% of traffic fatalities in 2022, killing more than 33 people a day.
Impaired Driving
Florida law prohibits individuals from operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Florida is 0.08% for individuals 21 and older, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and 0.02% for individuals under 21. According to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), alcohol was confirmed in more than 475 accidents in the state, causing 41 deaths and 41 serious injuries.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the percentage of adults in Florida who admit to driving after drinking too much is higher than the national average. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs causes impaired perception, cognition, coordination, and attention. These effects increase the risk of causing car accidents and related injuries and fatalities.
Reckless Driving
Florida Statutes § 316.192 defines reckless driving as operating a motor vehicle in a way that demonstrates a deliberate disregard for the safety of yourself and others on the road. Reckless driving is a crime in the Sunshine State and can result in imprisonment, fines, driver’s license suspension, points on your license, and collisions. Examples of reckless driving that can lead to car accidents include:
- Speeding excessively
- Ignoring traffic signals
- Erratic or aggressive driving
- Street racing
- Driving while impaired
- Passing illegally
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions can significantly impact road safety and increase the risk of car accidents in Lake Mary. While Florida is known for its sunny and mild climate, it is also susceptible to weather phenomena that can create hazardous driving conditions. Here is how different weather conditions can cause car accidents in Seminole County:
- Rain
- Strong winds
- Fog
- Sun glare
Road Hazards
Road hazards can contribute to car accidents in several ways, including sudden maneuvers, tire blowouts, reduced visibility, and distracted attention. Despite efforts to maintain roads and infrastructure, the following various hazards can arise that pose risks to drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists:
- Potholes
- Uneven pavement
- Debris on the roadway
- Construction zones
- Lack of maintenance
- Wildlife crossings
- Flooding and water accumulation
- Lack of shoulder space
- Faded or unclear pavement markings
- Poor road design
If you are involved in an accident caused by a road hazard, document the scene with pictures or videos, report the accident to the police, and contact your insurance company to initiate the claims process. Our Lake Mary car accident lawyers can help you navigate the process after a collision.
Vehicle Defects
Defects in vehicles can occur due to design flaws, manufacturing errors, or inadequate maintenance. Vehicle defects can cause accidents in Seminole County in the following ways:
- Brake failures
- Tire blowouts
- Steering and suspension issues
- Airbag malfunctions
- Faulty safety systems
- Fuel system defects
- Electrical system failures
- Inadequate maintenance
If you are a victim of a car accident caused by vehicle defects, you may be entitled to compensation for damages. Product liability laws allow injured parties to hold manufacturers, distributors, or sellers of defective vehicles or vehicle components liable for damages resulting from accidents. You may pursue legal action through a civil liability lawsuit or claim against the negligent parties to seek financial compensation for your injuries and losses.
STEPS TO TAKE AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT IN LAKE MARY
If you are involved in a car accident in Lake Mary, Casselberry, Longwood, or a surrounding area, it is essential to take certain steps to ensure your safety, protect your rights, and navigate the process effectively. Here are the steps you should take after a Seminole County car accident:
- Check for injuries: After a car accident, the priority is to check yourself, your passengers, and others involved in the accident for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance.
- Move to safety: If it is safe, move your vehicle to the side of the road or a safe location to avoid blocking traffic and reduce the risk of further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to the accident.
- Call law enforcement: Even if the accident is minor, it is important to report it to the local police department or the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. Call 911 to report the accident and wait for law enforcement officers to arrive at the scene.
- Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved in the accident, including names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance policy details. Be polite and cooperative, but avoid admitting fault or discussing the details of the accident beyond exchanging basic information.
- Document the scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. This documentation can serve as valuable evidence when filing an insurance claim or pursuing a legal case.
- Gather witness information: If there are any witnesses to the accident, obtain their names, addresses, and phone numbers. Witness testimony can provide crucial support for your version of events and help establish liability.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you do not feel seriously injured, seeking medical attention promptly after a car accident is important. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent but can worsen over time.
- Report the accident to your insurance company: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident and provide them with accurate information about the incident. Follow their instructions for filing a claim and provide any documentation or evidence they request.
- Consult with an attorney: If you have been injured in the accident or if there are disputes over fault or compensation, consult with one of our experienced car accident lawyers. Our team can help protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and pursue legal action if necessary.
- Keep records: Keep detailed records of all expenses and losses related to the accident, including medical bills, repair estimates, vehicle rental costs, lost wages, and other out-of-pocket expenses. This documentation will help support your insurance claim or legal case and ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages.
Following these steps and seeking professional guidance when needed can increase your chances of a smoother recovery and ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses after a car accident in Lake Mary, Oviedo, Winter Springs, or another area in Seminole County.
HOW CHUBB LAW CAN ASSIST YOU AFTER YOUR CAR ACCIDENT IN SEMINOLE COUNTY
- Case evaluation: We offer free, no-obligation consultations to evaluate your case, discuss the details of the accident, and explain your legal rights and options. We will review the circumstances surrounding your accident, assess liability, and provide guidance on the best course of action.
- Investigation: We conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of your accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, accident reconstruction reports, and surveillance footage. We will work with accident reconstruction experts and other professionals to determine liability and build a strong case on your behalf.
- Legal representation: We provide comprehensive legal representation throughout the claims process, from negotiating with insurance companies to litigating in court if necessary. We will advocate vigorously, seeking maximum compensation for your damages.
- Medical care: We assist you in accessing the medical care and treatment you need to recover from your injuries. We work with healthcare providers, specialists, and rehabilitation professionals to ensure that you receive the best possible care and that your medical expenses are properly documented for your claim.
- Negotiation and settlement: We negotiate with insurance companies to reach a fair and equitable settlement that fully compensates you for your injuries and losses. We have extensive experience handling negotiations and know how to effectively advocate for your interests to achieve the best possible outcome.
- Litigation: If we cannot reach a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to trial and present it before a judge and jury. We are skilled litigators who are not afraid to fight for your rights in court and pursue the compensation you deserve.
STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS IN FLORIDA PERSONAL INJURY CASES
A recent tort reform bill in Florida has changed the state’s personal injury statute of limitations. Injured parties now have two years from the date of their car accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage. Failure to file a lawsuit within this timeframe may result in forfeiture of your right to seek damages.
CHOOSE CHUBB LAW TO HELP YOU AFTER YOUR LAKE MARY CAR ACCIDENT
Our dedicated team of car accident lawyers at Chubb Law is committed to providing compassionate support and aggressive representation to individuals injured in car accidents in Lake Mary, Florida, and surrounding areas. With our extensive experience and proven track record of success, we are here to help you navigate the complex legal process and recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation and learn how we can help you after your car accident.
CAR ACCIDENT FAQ
What are some Common Car Accident Injuries?
Remember, we have car insurance for a reason. Insurance is there for when an accident occurs. If you were in a car accident and it wasn’t your fault, we can help you make an insurance claim. If you’re hurt in a car accident, you will likely incur medical expenses, medical bills, loss of income, property damage to your car and pain and suffering. We can help you receive all that you are entitled to.
- Fractured or broken bones
- Herniated discs
- Spinal injuries
- Whiplash
- Brain Injury
- Closed head injuries
- Headaches
- Paralysis
How is Chubb Law different?
We could list all the awards we’ve received or tell you how much better our results are than other law firms– but that’s not what makes us different. We are different because we truly care about our clients. Because we care, you won’t feel like you’re one of 10,000. You will feel heard and prioritized. You will feel confident in your legal team. You will feel like you’re in the right place.
How much does it cost to start a case? I heard it’s free? How do you make money?
It doesn’t cost anything to start your case and you will never pay us anything out of your own pocket. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay us only if we win your case. Our fee comes in the form of a percentage of the settlement or verdict amount we obtain.
Do I really need an attorney or should I just work things out with the insurance?
We tell people all of the time, “if insurance companies would just treat people right there would be no need for what we do.” Unfortunately, most of the time insurance companies don’t treat people right. The only way to ensure you are protecting your rights is to consult with an attorney.
Should I take an insurance offer?
No. Not without consulting an attorney. We make all clients an “Increased Offer Guarantee.” If there is an offer on the table from the insurance company at the time of hiring us, we guarantee we will increase it, or we will waive our fee.
I already have an attorney, can I change attorneys?
Yes. In the state of Florida, you can change attorneys mid-case. In fact, you can fire your current lawyer for practically any reason. The Florida Supreme Court has set out “10 Basic Rights” that every client is entitled to from their lawyer. Read more about those here.
Mitch’s 8 Promises
1
Full-story, free consultation.
Our initial conversation does not have a time limit. We want to connect and hear your full story.
2
110%
We are selective in the cases we take so we can give 110% to those we do.
3
$0 out-of-pocket fees.
You will never pay us anything out of your own pocket. There are never upfront costs on your case. We only get paid if we win your case.
4
Unlimited.
Our clients are guaranteed unlimited communication with their legal team.
5
Proactive communication.
We consistently communicate with you to keep you updated on your case.
6
You call the shots.
You call the shots, we lead the way. We never make decisions against your desires.
7
Increased offer guarantee.
If there is an offer on the table from the insurance company at the time of hiring us, we guarantee we will increase it, or we will waive our fee.
8
The “why should I hire an attorney guarantee.”
When you hire us, not only will we handle everything, but the result we get will leave you with more in your pocket— even after attorney’s fees.
Contact Us Today for a Free Case Evaluation
Do not wait to seek legal help if you or a loved one has been injured in an accident. Contact our Seminole County personal injury law firm today to schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation. During your consultation, we will review the details of your case, explain your rights and legal options, and provide you with honest and straightforward advice about how to proceed.
Remember, you do not have to face this difficult time alone. Let Mitch and Christopher fight for you so you can focus on your recovery and move forward with your life.
