Clearwater Car Accident Lawyer
If you are a car accident victim, you should speak with one of our Clearwater car accident lawyers as soon as possible. Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers has helped several Clearwater car accident victims get the money they need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and more. We serve accident victims in Clearwater, Largo, and the surrounding Pinellas County. Contact one of our top rated Clearwater auto accident attorneys today for a free consultation.
What Should I Do If I Am Involved In A Car Accident?
Motor vehicle crashes are very common in Clearwater. Many of these crashes often result in injuries that one of our Clearwater car accident lawyers can help you receive compensation for.
While they have decreased slightly since 2018, car accidents still occur throughout Clearwater and Pinellas County averaging approximately 43 per day, with over 17 of those crashes resulting in injuries. According to preliminary data from the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles division, there were 15,666 crashes, with 6,372 of them being injury crashes in Pinellas County in 2022, home to Clearwater. Therefore approximately 4 out of every 10 crashes across Pinellas County in 2022 were injury crashes.
Given how often they occur, it is best to know what to do should you find yourself involved in one and are injured. Many of our car accident lawyer clients get injured and wonder what to do after a car accident. You may feel overwhelmed and will likely be in shock. It’s important to remember these steps following the accident.
- Call Clearwater Police Dept – The first thing you should do after an auto accident is call 911. This will ensure that emergency personnel are alerted to the accident scene.
- Check for Injuries – If you don’t have serious injuries and need immediate treatment, check for other non-fatal injuries such as cuts, bruises, or lacerations.
- Wait for Help to Arrive – Once the police get there, you will have to file an accident report. This will help document the accident and could be used in court.
- Gather Evidence and Witness Statements – To prove fault and file a successful motor vehicle accident claim, you will need any evidence you can after the accident. This includes pictures of the scene, damages to your car, and eyewitness statements. You can also get a copy of the accident report by visiting the Clearwater Police Dept @ 645 Pierce Street Clearwater, FL between 8 AM – 4 PM or going to the Clearwater Public records site to request the report.
- Seek Medical Treatment – Seek medical attention for your injuries. Do not wait to see if the injuries will go away. Many injuries do not show symptoms until days or weeks after the accident.
- Contact Your Insurance Company – Contacting your insurer as soon as you can after the accident will allow them to start investigating the accident and determine if they will cover your damages.
- Contact a Clearwater car accident lawyer – The best way to protect your rights is to contact an experienced Clearwater car accident lawyer at Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers. Our car accident attorneys will help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. We will help you gather evidence and file a claim on your behalf.
How To Choose The Best Clearwater Car Accident Lawyer For Your Case
Choosing the right car accident lawyer is crucial for your case. Prioritize expertise by selecting an attorney with a proven track record in car accident law and positive client testimonials. Emphasize clear communication, accessibility, and transparent fees. Look for a lawyer who provides a free initial consultation to ensure a strong attorney-client relationship. With a focus on experience, communication, and transparency, you can confidently select the best Clearwater car accident lawyer for your case.
How Do I Know If I Have A Car Accident Case?
The best way to know if you have an auto accident case is to speak with an experienced Clearwater car accident attorney at Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers. Our car accident lawyers will review your case and let you know what your legal options are.
What Can I Do To Help My Case?
There are several things car accident victims can do to help their case if they have been involved in a motor vehicle accident.
First, document everything. Take pictures of the accident scene, record witness names and contact information, and keep track of all expenses related to your medical treatment.
Second, don’t sign anything from the insurance company without talking to an attorney first. They may try to get you to sign a release or waiver that waives your rights to sue.
Third, speak with a Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers Clearwater auto accident attorney as soon as possible. We can help you file a claim and negotiate with your insurer.
Why Should I File A Car Accident Claim?
There are many reasons to file an auto accident claim, including receiving compensation for your injuries, covering your medical expenses and lost wages, and to hold the other driver responsible for their actions, and getting justice for their negligence against you. Contact a Clearwater car accident attorney at Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers today to learn more.
How Do I Prove Negligence In Clearwater, Florida?
To prove negligence in Florida, you must show that the other driver failed to use reasonable care while driving. This can be done by showing that the driver was speeding, driving drunk or under the influence of drugs, or using their cell phone while driving. You may also be able to show that the driver caused the accident through their negligent actions.
No-Fault Insurance in Florida
Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Rule means that you are entitled to certain benefits after a car accident, regardless of who is at fault. The benefits include payment for medical treatment and reimbursement for lost wages.
“Greater Percentage of Fault” Comparative Negligence in Florida
Comparative fault is a legal doctrine that allows injured parties to recover damages from other parties who are partially responsible for their injuries.
As a result of HB 837, Florida has adopted a “greater percentage of fault” system, which means that a party who is found to be more than 50% responsible for their own injury is ineligible to recover damages.
This model can create challenges for the victim in demonstrating the other party’s liability. If you file a claim and it is found that you were 50% at fault for the accident, you will not be able to recover any damages under the new fault system in Florida. You could be left with significant medical bills and damages due to your accident. The need for a proficient car accident attorney to represent the victims interests is greater than ever before.
Uninsured and Underinsured Vehicle Owners Accidents?
If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, you may be able to file a claim against your own insurance company. The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the terms of your insurance policy.
Can I Recover Compensation If I’m Partially Responsible For My Clearwater Car Accident?
Yes, you can recover compensation even if you are partially responsible for the accident. The amount of compensation you receive will depend on your percentage of fault in the accident. An experienced Clearwater car accident lawyer can help you determine who is at fault and what type of compensation you may be able to receive.
Can I File A Lawsuit If I Am Injured In A Car Accident?
If you are injured in a car accident, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the other driver. Car accident lawyers review your case and let you know your options. The best way to find out is to speak with an experienced Clearwater car accident lawyer.
Types Of Claims You Can File After A Car Accident
There are several types of claims you may be able to file after a car accident. The most common types of claims are:
Personal injury claims – this is the most common type of claim and can include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Property damage claims – This includes the cost of repairing or replacing your car.
Wrongful death claims – This is a claim filed by the family of someone who died in a car accident. The family can receive compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and pain and suffering.
Can I File A Wrongful Death Claim For A Car Accident?
You may be able to file a wrongful death claim if there is a fatal crash. Clearwater experiences several fatalities per year. Per the Florida Highway Safety Motor Vehicle division, 2021 was a five year high for crash fatalities in Pinellas County with 158. Preliminary data for 2022 saw that number decrease to 121, which is still on the higher end of the last several years. So while there have been fewer crashes in recent years, a greater share of them involve fatalities.
The damages available in a wrongful death case vary depending on the state but can include funeral and burial expenses. The statute of limitations for a wrongful death claim is two years. Be sure to contact a Clearwater car accident attorney at Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers to learn more about filing a wrongful death claim.
Who Is Liable For My Medical Bills?
First, it’s important to determine whether or not your case falls under Florida’s no-fault insurance system. If your case falls under this no-fault system, then your injury protection insurance will cover at least part of your expenses.
How Does Personal Injury Protection Insurance (PIP) Work?
Personal injury protection insurance, also known as PIP insurance, is a type of auto insurance that covers a certain amount of costs after a motor vehicle collision.
PIP insurance covers the costs of medical treatment and lost income after a car crash. Under this system, PIP insurance will cover 80% of your medical bills up to $10,000 and 60% of lost earnings. In Florida, all drivers are required to carry PIP insurance. Your health insurance will assume responsibility once your auto medical bill insurances are tapped out.
How Much Compensation Can I Expect If I File A Car Accident Claim?
The amount of compensation that you can receive will depend on the severity of your injuries and the damages caused.
Some factors that will be considered include:
- The cost of rehabilitation – This includes both past and future costs of medical bills, medications, physical therapy, transportation, and follow-up visits.
- The cost of property damage – This includes the cost to repair or replace your vehicle
- The loss of income – If you are unable to work due to your injuries, you may be able to receive compensation for lost wages.
- The pain and suffering caused by the accident
What Is My Car Accident Case Worth?
The value of your Clearwater car accident case will depend on the nature of your injuries, the amount of damages you have suffered, and the amount of liability insurance coverage available. An experienced lawyer can help you estimate the value of your case.
What Types Of Damages Can Be Recovered In A Clearwater Auto Accident Claim?
In an auto accident claim, you may be able to recover damages for your injuries, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Three types of damages may be available to you, non-economic, economic, and punitive damages.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are damages that are not limited to economic losses. Non-economic damages can include pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of consortium.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are damages that are limited to economic losses, such as medical expenses and lost wages. Economic damages can include property damage, repair costs, and loss of income.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are damages that are awarded to punish the defendant for their actions. Punitive damages are not common in car accident cases, and you will likely need an experienced lawyer to help you file a claim for punitive damages.
Can I Get a Rental Car If My Car is Totaled in a Clearwater Car Accident?
If your car is totaled in a car crash, you may be able to get a rental car. The terms of your insurance policy will determine whether or not you are eligible for a rental car.
What is The Process of Filing a Car Accident Claim?
The process of filing an automobile accident claim can be complex and may require the assistance of an experienced lawyer. The lawyer can help you file your claim with the insurance company and, if necessary, file a lawsuit.
You can file a car accident lawsuit when the insurance company has denied your claim or reached an impasse in negotiations. Your Clearwater car accident lawyer will need to investigate the accident and gather evidence before filing a lawsuit.
How Long Does it Take to File Car Accident Lawsuits?
It can take several months to file a lawsuit after an auto accident. Your Clearwater car accident attorney will need to investigate the accident and gather the evidence before filing a lawsuit.
Can I File an Auto Accident Claim Without a Car Accident Attorney?
You may be able to file a car accident claim without an attorney, but it is advisable to speak with an experienced lawyer to learn about your options. The lawyer can help you file your claim with the insurance company and, if necessary, file a lawsuit.
The experienced Clearwater car accident attorneys at Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers charge a contingency fee. This means that our lawyers will only receive a fee if you win your case. There are also no up front costs to you. We can discuss fees with you in more detail once we have reviewed your case.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations In Florida?
The statute of limitations for a car accident in Florida is two years. This means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the other driver. However, it is important to speak with an experienced Clearwater car accident lawyer as soon as possible, as the statute of limitations may vary depending on the nature of your case.
Common Injuries After A Car Accident
A car accident injury can range from non-fatal to more serious injuries. As mentioned earlier, the share of crashes involving injuries over the last five years in Pinellas County, where our Clearwater car accident lawyers represent accident victims, is around 41% on average so many of our clients that are hurt experience one or more types. The most common injuries are:
Neck and Back Injuries – These are the most common type of injuries suffered in a car accident. They can be very painful and may require extensive treatment.
Chest Injury – A chest injury can be very serious and may lead to death if not treated properly.
Arm and Leg Injuries – These types of injuries are common in auto accidents and can often require surgery.
Whiplash – Whiplash is a neck injury caused when the head is thrown forward and then back. It often causes pain, stiffness, and headaches.
Brain Injury – A brain injury can be very serious and may lead to long-term damage.
Spinal Cord Injury – A spinal cord injury can be very serious and may lead to paralysis.
Broken Bones – Broken bones are common in car crashes and can often require surgery.
Death – Motor vehicle accidents can often result in death. If you have lost a loved one in a car accident, you should immediately contact an auto accident attorney.
The most serious types of auto accident injuries are those that involve brain damage or spinal cord injuries. These injuries can require extensive medical therapy and can have a lifelong impact on the victim.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Car Accident?
The time it takes to recover from a car accident varies from person to person. Some people may experience only minor injuries and return to work within a few weeks. Others may suffer more serious injuries and may not be able to return to work for months or even years.
Common Causes Of Auto Accidents
While Clearwater is a place full of sunshine and warm weather, it’s also a city with many car accidents. In 2021, there were 16,462 motor vehicle accidents in Pinellas County, with 155 fatalities. A Dangerous By Design 2021 | Smart Growth America also ranks the Tampa-St. Pete-Clearwater at number eight in the top ten areas for pedestrian fatalities. There are various causes of automobile accidents. The most common include:
- Distracted Driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents. Drivers who are distracted can lose control of their vehicle and cause an accident.
- Speeding is another common cause of car accidents. When drivers speed, they may not be able to stop in time if there is a sudden stop ahead, and they can cause an accident.
- Drunk Driving is a leading cause of car accidents and can lead to serious injuries or death. Drunk drivers should not get behind the wheel and should find a safe way home.
- Texting While Driving is one of the most dangerous things a driver can do. It can lead to a loss of vehicle control and cause an accident.
- Running a Red Light is against the law and can cause an accident. Drivers who run red lights may not have time to stop if another car is coming through the intersection.
- Defective Car Parts can also lead to car accidents. If a part is faulty, it can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident.
These are just some of the common causes of car accidents. If you have been involved in a car accident, speaking with an experienced lawyer is important to learn about your rights. Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers has a team of experienced car accident lawyers who can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Should I Accept a Clearwater Accident Settlement?
It would be best to speak with an experienced Clearwater car accident lawyer at Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers before accepting an accident settlement. Our lawyers can review your case and help you make the best decision for your situation.
What Do I Need to File a Personal Injury Claim?
To file a personal injury claim, our Clearwater car accident attorneys will need the following information:
- Your name and contact information
- The name and contact information of the insurance company
- The policy number of the insurance company
- The date and time of the car accident
- The location of the car accident
- The name and contact information of the other driver
- The name and contact information of any witnesses
- The name and contact information of your doctor
- The type of injury you sustained
- The amount of money you have spent on medical treatment so far
Contact A Clearwater Car Accident Lawyer At Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers Today
Our legal team has actively supported the community for over 20 years and are members of Amplify Clearwater, the Clearwater Chamber of Commerce. Our clients span Pinellas County and include citizens of Clearwater Beach, Largo, Dunedin, Oldsmar, Pinellas Park, Safety Harbor, Seminole, and St. Petersburg among others. Founded in 1915, Clearwater is home to over 115,000 residents, and with the Gulf of Mexico to the west and Tampa Bay to the southeast, it is a popular city for spring breakers and tourists. In particular, Clearwater Beach and Pier 60, Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and Cleveland Street District, which is known for its shopping, dining, bars, and nightlife, were all listed among the top things to do in Clearwater by U.S. News & World Report Travel.
Home to popular tourist destinations such as Pier 60, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and Baycare Ballpark, spring training home to Major League Baseball team Philadelphia Phillies, Clearwater is a growing city. BayCare Health System, Bausch & Lomb Surgical, and Lincare Holdings are some of the largest employers in the city and with 45 higher education institutions within a one-hour drive from the city, the workforce and population continue to strengthen.
With growth comes traffic, and with traffic comes accidents. If you’ve been injured in an accident, it’s important to know your rights. You may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Don’t hesitate to contact our top rated Clearwater car accident lawyers for a free case review. Our law firm can help you determine if you are eligible to file a lawsuit and what type of compensation you may be able to receive. At Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers, we represent victims of car accidents and other types of personal injuries. Contact a car accident lawyer today for a free consultation.
