negligence. As a result, most victims are eligible to file a claim and receive compensation for their losses.
It’s vital to have a reputable and experienced attorney on your side to help you understand the ins and outs of the claim filing process, as well as advocate for your rights and the compensation you deserve.
“When it comes to a car accident claim, there’s no need to put additional stress on yourself by trying to navigate the process on your own. Our lawyers are here not only to help guide you through the legal processes, but also to be a friendly face during this difficult time.”
Scroll on to learn all you need to know about the filing process in Altamonte Springs from fault determination and liability to local laws and the impact being in a car accident can have on your life.
What to Know About Altamonte Springs Car Accident Claims
The aftermath of a Florida car accident can be overwhelming and many people find themselves unable to process all of the information that is thrown at them during the process.
It’s important to know that there are several things that can affect the outcome of your claim. For example, Florida has several laws surrounding car accidents that may come into play. Similarly, negligence plays a large role in car accident claims.
If you have been in a car accident that you think is the result of another driver’s negligence, it’s important to hire an attorney, like the ones at Florin|Roebig to review your case.
Common causes of accidents can include:
- Disobeying traffic laws – Many car accidents are due to a driver not following traffic laws. In Florida, accidents are often the result of a driver running a red light, running a stop sign, or merging illegally.
- Driving while distracted – Another common cause is distracted driving. Any activity that diverts your attention from the road can make a car accident more likely. This can include texting, talking on the phone, eating, checking maps, etc.
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol – Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is notorious for causing car accidents. Both substances can greatly impair your judgment and reaction time.
- Driving while fatigued – A sneakier cause of accidents is fatigued drivers. On long road trips, many people find themselves fighting off fatigue while on the road. This can slow your reaction time, impair your judgment, or cause you to doze off and lose control.
- Reckless driving – Aggressive or reckless driving such as weaving in and out of lanes, speeding, tailgating, or cutting other drivers off can result in an accident.
Auto Accident Rates In Altamonte Springs
Car accidents occur every day, and as a suburb of Orlando, Altamonte Springs is a hotspot for vehicle crashes.
In 2023, Altamonte Springs, Florida experienced:
- 6,254 vehicle accidents in Seminole County, where Altamonte Springs is located
- 47 of these accidents were fatal
- 4,374 people were injured in these car crashes
- 1,579 were hit-and-runs
How to File an Altamonte Springs Car Accident Claim Step-by-Step
1. Contact an Attorney
The first step in filing a car accident claim is contacting Florin|Roebig to set up a free case review with one of our highly qualified personal injury lawyers. It is vital to contact an attorney as soon as possible following your accident to ensure the claim filing process can be initiated early on and the statute of limitations does not expire.
You’ll also want to notify your insurance company of the accident right away. This will jumpstart the process of determining fault.
2. Gather Evidence
Arguably, the most important part of filing your claim is gathering evidence. This process should start at the scene of the accident and continue throughout the filing process.
Important pieces of evidence can include:
- Photos and videos of the accident and vehicles involved
- Medical records
- Medical bills
- Witness statements
- Police records
- Evidence of property damage
- Documents related to job loss
- Therapy/rehabilitation bills
The more evidence you have to prove the other driver’s negligence as well as the damages you’ve incurred, the stronger your claim will be.
Florin|Roebig attorneys are here to help you gather and organize evidence and guide you through the filing process.
3. Submit Your Claim
Once you have gathered all of the necessary information needed to file your claim, Florin|Roebig can help you successfully submit the claim.
Submitting a claim is only the start of the process, but not to worry, your attorney will be there for you every step of the way to advocate for what is right, offer guidance, and help you make decisions in your best interest regarding your claim.
Altamonte Springs Laws For Car Accident Cases
Much like other states in the country, Florida has specific laws regarding automobile accidents and lawsuits related to accidents. It’s important to be familiar with these laws as they can affect the outcome of your case.
Relevant Florida Laws include:
- Motorists are required to have a minimum of $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) coverage and $10,000 in property damage liability (PDL) coverage in Florida
- In Florida, car accidents are required to be reported to the police if the crash caused injury or death or at least $500 of vehicle or property damage
- Florida is a no-fault state, meaning no matter which driver is determined at fault, insurance companies are responsible for medical bills
- Florida also observes comparative negligence, meaning motorists can file for compensation regardless of the fault percentage they are determined responsible for
- The statute of limitations for car accidents in Florida is four years
The lawyers at Florin|Roebig can help you understand how these laws may play a role in your case and what impact they may have.
Fault In Car Accidents
As mentioned above, Florida is a no-fault state when it comes to car accidents. Whether or not you are considered at fault for your accident, you can receive compensation for your injuries through your PIP.
It’s important to note this refers mainly to minor injuries. If you or your passenger sustain severe injuries such as the loss of a limb, paralysis, death, or permanent disability, it is in your best interest to contact Florin|Roebig to file a car accident claim.
Many factors are considered when determining who is at fault for an accident.
Factors that may affect fault determination include:
- If you or the other driver disobeyed traffic laws (running a red light or stop sign, illegal merging, etc.)
- If you or the other driver were distracted while driving (eating, texting, talking on the phone, etc.)
- If you or the other driver were under the influence of alcohol or drugs during the accident
- If you or the other driver were driving recklessly (speeding, tailgating, swerving, etc.)
In some cases, both drivers can be determined at fault by different percentages. This is when comparative negligence comes into play. Under comparative negligence rules, you can file a claim to be compensated for your losses even if you are determined partially at fault, though your maximum compensation may be reduced.
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Liability In Car Accident Cases
Another important part of a car accident case to understand is liability. There are many factors that come into play when determining who is liable for a car accident.
To put it simply, whoever is determined at fault for an accident will be considered liable. If both drivers are considered at fault, their liability percentage is equal to their percentage of fault.
Fault is typically determined by insurance adjusters in Florida, which is not a fool-proof system. In many cases, insurance adjusters will try to lessen the fault percentage of their client, which can make getting compensation trickier. It’s important to have evidence that proves the other driver’s negligence and fault to avoid this. Florin|Roebig can help you gather such evidence.
Other important things to know about liability include principles such as theories of negligence, strict liability, and vicarious liability.
Theories of Negligence
Theories of negligence include duty of care, breach of duty of care, causation, and damages.
- Duty of care: The legal duty of drivers to operate their vehicles with care to avoid injuring other drivers.
- Breach of duty of care: When a driver breaches their duty of care by being negligent or reckless.
- Causation: Evidence that supports the breach of duty of care directly caused your damages.
- Damages: Evidence of the damages you incurred due to your accident.
All four of these elements are important in proving a driver’s negligence.
Strict Liability vs. Vicarious Liability
It’s also important to understand the difference between strict liability and vicarious liability.
Strict liability means the at-fault driver must be held responsible regardless of their intentions or negligence.
Vicarious liability means vehicle owners are responsible for damages caused by the driver, whether or not they’re the owner.
Ways The Accident Can Impact Your Life
A car accident can impact your life in several ways. For many people, the immediate consequence that comes to mind is injuries.
Injuries from an auto accident can range from mild to severe and some can have permanent impacts.
Common car accident injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Loss of limbs
- Paralysis
- Soft tissue injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Brain injuries
- Concussion
- Broken bones
- Organ injuries
- Sprains
- Strains
- Wrongful death
On top of physical consequences, car accidents can have long-lasting impacts on other areas of your life. Some of these consequences are indirect results of injury.
Other impacts of car accidents can include:
- Loss of wages or loss of job due to taking time off to recover
- Financial strain due to medical bills, property damage, etc.
- Loss of loved ones or loss of companionship
- Mental trauma
If you feel as though your car accident has impacted your life in any of these ways, call Florin|Roebig today to set up a free consultation with one of our experienced personal injury lawyers.
What To Do After A Car Accident in Altamonte Springs
After you are in a car accident, you may be in shock and unsure what to do next. It’s important to try to stay calm in your situation and keep the following steps in mind.
- Move your car out of the path of danger if possible
- Check yourself and your passengers for injuries, especially any that require immediate medical attention
- Seek medical attention if any injuries require immediate medical care
- Exchange information with the other driver and witnesses if possible
- Contact law enforcement if required
- Take pictures and videos of the accident and damages
- Call your insurance company to report your accident and review the terms of your insurance policies
- Get in touch with a lawyer at Florin|Roebig to discuss whether your case is eligible for a lawsuit
By keeping these steps in mind, you can set yourself up for success when pursuing legal action. It can be an overwhelming process, which is why hiring a car accident lawyer from Florin|Roebig is always in your best interest. Our lawyers are dedicated to winning your case and getting you the compensation you deserve.
Worst Intersections in Altamonte Springs
A car accident can occur on any roadway, but there are several intersections in Altamonte Springs, Florida, that are notorious for their high rates of crashes. Being familiar with dangerous intersections can help keep you vigilant.
- SR 436 at North Lake Boulevard to Palm Springs Drive: The eight lanes in this area are a recipe for disaster. With so many cars on the road and bumper-to-bumper traffic, accidents are bound to happen.
- I-4: I-4 is often called the country’s deadliest highway, but the worst stretch of it is in Seminole County. It’s important to drive with caution on this stretch of road.
- SR 434 at Ronald Reagan Boulevard to State Road 419: This intersection sees many accidents, particularly because of the nearby University of Central Florida (UCF) campus. With the added pedestrians and cyclists, auto accidents and pedestrian accidents are much more likely.
- Highway 17-92 from Semoran Boulevard to State Road 434: This stretch of the highway is also notorious for accidents. Do your best to drive with caution and watch out for others driving recklessly.
- Lake Monroe Drive and Magnolia Street: With several shopping centers around this intersection, the congestion and high levels of traffic increase the car crash rates.
- Semoran Boulevard and Colonial Drive: This intersection is a high-traffic area due to shopping centers, business centers, and even the Orlando Airport close by.
- Alafaya Trail and State Road 50: This intersection is another one close to the UCF campus, making the traffic congested.
Types Of Damages Awarded In Car Accident Claims
There are many types of damages you may be awarded in a car accident claim. The compensation you receive is determined based on the unique details of your case, but the legal team at Florin|Roebig can help you understand the types of damages you may be eligible for.
Types of damages can include:
- Compensation for medical expenses – Many people sustain injuries in their auto accidents. As a result, they often rack up medical expenses due to immediate care, doctor visits, ongoing maintenance, and even rehabilitation. You may be awarded compensation to help cover these costs.
- Damages related to lost wages – Another loss commonly associated with car accidents is lost wages. Many people miss work for at least a short period of time to recover from their accident, resulting in lost wages. In individuals with serious injuries, they may not be able to return to work at all.
- Damages for pain and suffering – Pain and suffering are common consequences of car accidents. In addition to the physical pain you may experience, many people struggle with emotional trauma following their accident. You may also be awarded for this.
- Compensation for ongoing changes to your personal life – Many people find their quality of life to be affected by their auto accident. Whether this is the result of lost independence, loss of companionship, or inability to live your life the way you did before, you may be eligible for compensation for this loss.
It’s important to have evidence of the expenses and losses you’ve incurred as a result of your accident to prove your eligibility for the above damages. Attorney Chad K. Florin says,
“Our personal injury lawyers are extremely knowledgeable in the types of damages awarded in car accident claims. We can help you determine your maximum compensation and ensure your rights are protected through our sound legal advice.”
We Are Nationally Awarded Lawyers
How Florin|Roebig Can Help With Your Car Accident Claim
The law offices of Florin|Roebig are highly qualified to help you with your personal injury case. Our attorneys have years of experience with personal injury claims and have the track record to prove their success.
Since 2010, Florin|Roebig has been named one of the “Best Law Firms in America” by U.S. News and World Report each year. We have 30 years of experience in advocating for our clients and getting them the compensation they deserve. Plus, our lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they don’t get paid unless they win your case.
Florin|Roebig can help you negotiate with insurance companies, provide legal representation and guidance throughout the filing process, evaluate your case through an expert’s perspective, and support you through the litigation process.
“There’s no better choice than Florin|Roebig when it comes to choosing legal representation for your car accident claim. Our lawyers are dedicated to fighting for our clients and ensuring they are compensated for their losses.”
Practical Advice for After a Car Accident
After a car accident, your head might be spinning trying to figure out what you need to do, who to talk to, and what the best step to take is. We’ve put together a list of a few practical tips to keep in mind following your accident.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible. This is for a few reasons, first and foremost, many injuries from car accidents require immediate medical attention, so it’s important to make sure you are taken care of in a prompt manner. On top of that, in Florida, you have 14 days to be medically evaluated following your accident for it to qualify as part of your case.
- Preserve evidence. At the scene of the accident, be sure to take photos and videos to provide evidence of the accident and any negligence. Also, be sure to talk to any witnesses who may be able to support your claim. Other types of evidence you’ll want to keep track of include medical bills, car repair bills, and other documents that may be relevant.
- Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. It is vital to inform your insurance provider that you’ve been in an auto accident. You’ll be asked for details of the accident, the other driver’s information, and any relevant evidence, so make sure to have your affairs in order before calling.
- Protect your legal rights by contacting Florin|Roebig. You should always contact an experienced lawyer as soon as possible following your accident. The personal injury attorneys at our firm can help you determine if you are eligible to file a claim, help gather evidence, and provide guidance going forward.
The bottom line is, that the more evidence you can gather, the stronger your case will be. Further, having an expert like Florin|Roebig on your side can ensure you receive as much compensation as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does an attorney charge for a car accident case in Florida?
The amount an attorney charges for a car accident case ranges. The lawyers at Florin|Roebig all work on a contingency fee basis. This means that they will not get paid unless they win your case.
Should I hire an attorney after a car accident in Florida?
Yes, you should always hire an attorney after a car accident in Florida if you believe it was the result of another driver’s negligence or you have incurred serious losses due to the accident.
The fact of the matter is, insurance companies do not have your best interest at heart. Many people find themselves being held responsible for an accident that wasn’t their fault and never seeing a penny for the damages they sustained.
Hiring a personal injury attorney can make the legal procedures of a car accident claim much less stressful and ensure that someone is fighting for your rights and the money you are entitled to.
How much can someone sue for a car accident in Florida?
The amount of money someone can sue for a car accident in Florida is dependent on several factors. The maximum compensation a victim is entitled to depends on the details of the accident, each driver’s percentage of fault, and the extent of damages.
For example, your maximum compensation can be affected by the extent of your injuries, loss of wages, extent of medical bills, loss of property, loss of companionship, or other damages.
Another important factor to keep in mind is the percentage of fault. If you are determined to be partially at fault for your accident, you can still file a claim, but your payout will likely be decreased.
How long do you have to get a lawyer after a car accident in Florida?
According to the Florida statute of limitations for auto accidents, you have four years following your car accident to file a case. That being said, it is of the utmost importance to contact a lawyer at Florin|Roebig as soon as possible following your crash.
If you wait too long to hire a lawyer, you may lose your right to file a case and, in turn, lose your right to hold the other driver responsible for the damages they caused.
How to Get Help from Florin|Roebig Attorneys
Florin|Roebig serves car accident victims across the country, including in Altamonte Springs, Florida. There are several ways to contact us to set up a free consultation.
Contact methods include:
- Call us anytime
- Email us at [email protected]
- Contact one of our Florida offices. Our practice areas include Clearwater, Tampa, Palm Harbor, Palm Beach, Jacksonville, Key West, and Fort Meyers.
Florin|Roebig: Top-Rated Altamonte Springs Car Accident Attorney
Car accidents can permanently affect your life, your health, your finances, and even your independence. Filing an auto accident claim can be scary and overwhelming, but with the help of Florin|Roebig it doesn’t have to be. Our attorneys are highly experienced and dedicated to helping you get the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one needs more information or guidance surrounding your car accident claim, give us a call today.
