Your Experienced Florida Car Accident Attorneys Serving Clearwater, St. Pete And Tampa

In Florida, driving is not just a personal convenience; it’s a shared commitment to ensuring road safety. Each driver has a duty to uphold this commitment, and when negligence leads to a motor vehicle accident, legal accountability is crucial. At Thacker and Mulvihill, PLLC, our Clearwater car accident lawyers understand the complexities of auto accident and other personal injury claims, providing the necessary legal support to ensure justice for crash victims.

Who Is At Fault After A Florida Auto Accident?

Determining fault in a car accident can be complex, especially when both drivers may share some degree of responsibility. In Florida, the legal principle of comparative negligence applies, meaning that each party involved in the accident may be assigned a percentage of fault based on their actions leading up to the collision.

Even if you believe you are partially at fault or were issued a citation by law enforcement, it’s crucial to consult with us. Our experienced Florida personal injury lawyers have encountered numerous cases where initial perceptions changed after a thorough investigation. Law enforcement errors can occur, and we have the expertise to help prove your innocence or mitigate your percentage of fault.

By understanding the nuances of comparative negligence and leveraging our legal knowledge, we can advocate for your rights and work to ensure that you are not unfairly held responsible for more than your share of the accident’s fault.

What Types Of Injuries Do Personal Injury Victims Suffer In An Accident?

Car accidents can cause visible injuries, like fractures or scarring, but some are internal or mental, such as herniated discs, depression, anxiety or traumatic brain injuries. Despite appearing normal externally, these injuries can be severe and permanent and warrant compensation. Seeking medical treatment from skilled providers is crucial, and we can connect you with qualified doctors experienced in treating traumatic injuries.

The Types Of Auto Accidents We Can Handle

At Thacker and Mulvihill, PLLC, our seasoned team has extensive experience managing a diverse range of auto accidents. As personal injury attorneys, we offer unwavering legal representation in cases involving:

Car accidents: With car accidents being a prevalent occurrence on Florida roads, we focus on addressing the complexities that arise, ensuring our clients receive the support they need.
Truck accidents: Collisions involving commercial trucks introduce intricate legal challenges, and our team is well-equipped to navigate these complexities.
Motorcycle accidents: Recognizing the vulnerability of motorcyclists on the road, we are dedicated to safeguarding their rights.
Bicycle accidents: Our firm passionately advocates for cyclists’ rights, offering strategic legal support when cyclists are involved in accidents.
Pedestrian accidents: We believe in providing strong advocacy in cases where pedestrians suffer injuries due to others’ negligence.
Uber and Lyft accidents: Navigating the complexities of ride-sharing accidents demands a nuanced approach, and our team is well-versed in developing effective strategies.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist accidents: When dealing with claims involving uninsured or underinsured at-fault drivers, we guide our clients through the intricacies of the legal process.

These examples showcase the breadth of cases we handle. Our commitment is to deliver comprehensive legal support tailored to the unique circumstances of each client’s situation.

The Do’s And Don’ts After A Florida Car Crash

Navigating the aftermath of a car crash is a crucial period that demands informed decisions. Understanding the do’s and don’ts is paramount to protect your rights and ensure a smoother legal process. Below, we outline essential guidelines on what to do after a Florida car crash, empowering you with the knowledge to make informed choices during this critical time.

Do seek medical attention: Your health is the top priority. Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor.
Do gather evidence: If possible, document the accident scene, take pictures and collect contact information from witnesses.
Do contact law enforcement: Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the police report.
Do exchange information: Share contact and insurance information with the other party involved.
Do notify your insurance company: Promptly inform your insurance company about the accident.
Don’t admit fault: Avoid admitting fault at the scene. Let the investigation determine responsibility.
Don’t delay medical attention: Don’t postpone seeking medical help, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Don’t neglect to gather information: Failing to collect witness information or document the scene may hinder your case.
Don’t avoid reporting to the police: Always report the accident to law enforcement, as their report is valuable for insurance claims.
Don’t discuss the case with others: Refrain from discussing the details of the accident with others, especially the other party’s insurance.

Following these guidelines can help protect your rights and build a stronger case.

What Are The Most Common Causes Of Car Accidents In Florida?

Car accidents in Florida can be attributed to various factors, including:

Distracted driving: Using phones or other distractions while driving contributes to numerous accidents.
Speeding: Exceeding speed limits reduces reaction time, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Reckless driving: Aggressive and reckless behavior on the road poses a significant risk.
Drunk driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a leading cause of accidents.
Weather conditions: Florida’s unpredictable weather, including heavy rain, can lead to hazardous road conditions.
Failure to obey traffic signals: Disregarding traffic signals and signs often results in collisions.

Understanding these common causes empowers drivers to take preventive measures, promoting road safety for all.

How Does Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance Work?

In Florida, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance covers medical expenses and, in some cases, lost wages resulting from a car accident. Key points about PIP insurance include:

No-fault system: PIP operates on a no-fault basis, meaning your own insurance covers your medical expenses regardless of fault.
Coverage limitations: PIP typically covers 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost wages up to the policy limit.
Time constraints: Seeking medical treatment within 14 days of the accident is crucial to qualify for PIP benefits.
Exemptions: Motorcyclists and certain individuals may be exempt from mandatory PIP coverage.

Understanding how PIP works is vital for navigating the aftermath of a car accident in Florida and maximizing available insurance benefits.

Let A Free Consultation Be Your Next Step

If you’re injured in a car accident, contact us immediately. We’ll evaluate your case, secure evidence and handle the legal aspects while ensuring you receive the necessary medical treatment. Care, compassion and preparation – this is injury law as it should be. For an experienced car accident lawyer in Clearwater, call us at 727-222-1570 or contact us online for a free consultation today. From our Clearwater office, we can serve car accident victims throughout Tampa, St. Petersburg and the surrounding areas.