Hurt in a
CAR ACCIDENT?
Car Accident Attorney
Lake Mary Car Accident Attorney
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.
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
While Florida is a no-fault state, injured parties still have the right to pursue damages from the at-fault party’s insurance company. The PIP benefits referenced above will not cover all of your damages. Your damages include both economic damages and non-economic damages. Economic damages are things like medical bills and lost wages. Non-economic damages include things like pain and suffering and inconvenience. To pursue a claim against the at-fault party for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, the injured party must meet the “serious injury” threshold defined by Florida law. A breakdown of key legal concepts relating to Lake Mary car accident claims includes the following:
- 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.
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.
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.
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.
HOW CHUBB LAW CAN ASSIST YOU AFTER YOUR CAR ACCIDENT IN SEMINOLE COUNTY
At Chubb Law, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can have on you and your family. Our car accident attorneys in Lake Mary are dedicated to providing personalized attention, compassionate support, and aggressive advocacy to help you recover from your injuries and rebuild your life. Here is how we can assist you:
- 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.
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.
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.
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.
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Mitch’s 8 Promises
Car Accident FAQ
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Client Success Stories
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Mitch and his team at Chubb Law did such a great job on my case. I never had to pick up the phone to call for an update because Mitch was always in touch with one before I needed one. Mitch and his team made the process much easier by keeping me informed, and everyone at Chubb law is super friendly and professional. They made an unfortunate situation much more bearable. They really care about every one of their cases, and they work hard to get their clients what they deserve. 100% recommend.
- Colynn
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Attorney Mitch Chubb and his staff are extremely professional and thorough. They treat you like family and will do everything they can to maximize the value of your case. I highly recommend them.
- Jon
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If I could give 100 stars I would!! Chubb Law team is extremely efficient, professional, down to earth, caring and is right there every step of the way. Attorney Mitch helped me get set up with the proper care and steps to take immediately after I got into an accident. He always checks in, gives updates and reminds me that I need to focus on getting better and he will take care of everything else! Chubb Law has been a blessing and I cannot thank them enough for all that they’ve done to help me!
- Maricel
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I had an abrupt change of quality of life. My whole world was turned upside down. Mitch was beyond helpful. Aside from the spectacular legal advice and representation, he genuinely cared. He reached out after each and every surgery to see how I was doing. He was just great. I couldn’t recommend him and his colleagues enough. I hope you never need legal representation, but if you do, these are the guys you want.
- Ethan
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10 OUT OF 5 STARS!!! I had the pleasure of working with Mitch & his team after an awful experience with my 1st lawyer. I came across Mitch and let me tell you, BEST DECISION EVER!! I never knew a lawyer could be such a friend! Mitch was there for me through every step of the way! It was over a 2 year process with lots of doctors & procedures & pain, but he was constantly there with words of encouragement and hope. I don’t think I would have made it through if it wasn’t for Mitch. I never felt pressured or rushed, just like a friend was there, looking out for me. He even offered to bring me food after one of my surgeries! I’m telling you, you will not find a more caring, kind, thoughtful team then Mitch and his people!
- Lynn
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My husband was in a terrible semi truck accident. Initially my husband was blamed for the accident, but our lawyers at Chubb Law was able to prove what actually happened. Chubb Law became our second family. They stayed in contact with us as we dealt with the numerous aspects of the accident including working with other lawyers, dealing with doctors, insurance paperwork, and many other parts of our ordeal. They were easy to talk to, candid, honest, compassionate and upfront about legal issues. We appreciated these valuable characteristics throughout our difficult time. I would highly recommend Chubb Law to anyone who needs help from this great team of lawyers.
- Tammy
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I was injured and didn’t know how to handle what came next. Mitch stepped in and took care of everything he possibly could. He was so helpful and so professional, yet very personable and friendly. He always walked me through everything that happened and kept me up to date on my case. When I got discouraged and felt like walking away he would tell me that I deserved this. He was amazing through the whole process and got me a great settlement. I couldn’t have been happier with the results. His number is definetly saved in my phone!!!
- Cheredy
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When I came to Mitch I had just been in a horrible crash with a drunk driver. My car was totaled, insurance companies were calling me and I was trying to manage all of this despite being hurt from the crash. During my first call with Mitch he comforted me, assured me they would take care of everything, and told me my only job was to do whatever I needed to heal from my injuries. He took the time to listen to what I had to say and was very confident that they would make sure everything would be ok. He and his team communicated with me every step of the way, made sure all of my questions were answered, and made sure I had everything I needed. After fighting with the insurance company for me, Mitch was able to get them to pay much more than I expected!
- Linda
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I waited for years had no response out of my original lawyer once Mitch took over my case it was the best thing that could’ve happened he moved Aggressively on getting The matter at hand Resolved Very down to earth extremely Easy to work with would highly recommend using his services
- Chris
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Mitch did a great job with my motorcycle accident. He even went to another state to the manufacturer of the product with an expert to document the faulty hub. He got me the best settlement he could based on the manufacturer’s poor insurance policy. Thanks Mitch…Richard.
- Richard
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.
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