No matter how careful you are when you drive, accidents are still possible. In many cases, these accidents result in financial and personal losses that can impact your life for years.
If you were involved in a car accident caused by another driver and received minor to severe injuries, you may be entitled to compensation. Filing a car accident claim in Fort Pierce can be tricky, but the attorneys of Florin|Roebig are prepared to assist you through the process.
Accident Statistics for St. Lucie County, Florida
The following are accident statistics for St. Lucie County, Florida, the county in which Fort Pierce is located.
- There were 5,675 total accidents in St. Lucie, Florida in 2023.
- There were 47 deaths that occurred as a result of an accident.
- 3,317 injuries were caused by being in an accident.
- There were 1,491 hit-and-run accidents in St. Lucie.
- A total of 175 motorcycle accidents occurred.
- In St. Lucie, there were 120 pedestrian-involved accidents in 2023.
Fort Pierce’s Worst Intersections
All roads can contain hazards that make things difficult for even the most experienced driver. While no roads can guarantee 100% safety, there are roads in Fort Pierce that residents should proceed with caution. Be sure to obey any and all traffic laws. Fort Pierce contains some of the most dangerous intersections in St. Lucie County which are listed below:
- Okeechobee Road (SR 70) & S Jenkins Road: This intersection has experienced issues with visibility due to overgrown vegetation or obstructed signs, which could lead to accidents. Drivers should pay extra attention to traffic signs and signals, wet roads, and be prepared for sudden stops or turns by other motorists.
- Virginia Avenue & 25th Street: This intersection has been known for its confusing traffic light signals and inadequate signage, making it challenging for drivers to navigate safely. Be cautious when approaching this intersection, pay close attention to traffic signals and signs, and ensure you have a clear understanding of the right-of-way rules.
- US-1 & Avenue D: At this intersection, road defects such as potholes, uneven surfaces, or poor road maintenance have contributed to accidents in the past. Drivers should remain vigilant when navigating this intersection, maintain a safe following distance, and be prepared to react to sudden changes in road conditions.
The Car Accident Claim-Filing Process
Compensation for car accident victims can be sought to cover the cost of their injuries or property damage. In legal terms, this is a car accident claim, which can be filed to receive damages for the car crash. The types of damages that can be claimed can be either monetary or non-monetary.
The following are common misconceptions regarding car accident claims:
- If you have insurance, you will not need a lawyer
- Claims can only be filed if there are serious injuries
- The at-fault driver’s insurance will cover everything
- You have as long as you need to file a claim
- You will never be able to afford a personal injury attorney
- You have to accept whatever settlement they offer you
- The only way to get compensation is to file a lawsuit
“In many cases, car accident claims are filed and paid out quickly. However, there are times when car accident victims are left waiting for their insurance company to send a settlement that may not be coming. It is important to seek advice from a trusted personal injury attorney if you are in this situation,”
–Chad K. Florin, esteemed attorney of Florin|Roebig.
The following are the basic steps you should take when you are ready to file a claim:
- Collect evidence for your claim: Collect pictures and recordings of the accident while you are at the scene.
- Review your insurance policy: Take some time to familiarize yourself with it so you understand what it says.
- Contact a Florin|Roebig accident attorney: Even if your accident was not serious, it is important to have an attorney on your side to review your claim and the settlement offer.
- Get a copy of the police report: A police report is an important document because it is the official opinion of who is responsible for the accident.
- Call your insurance representative: When you can, you need to call your insurance agent and begin the claims process. Once you call them, they will send you the appropriate paperwork.
Fort Pierce, Florida Laws For Car Accident Cases
While there are many different laws surrounding car accidents in Florida, the most important ones to know about include the statute of limitations for personal injury claims and the laws about defining fault in an accident.
The first thing you should know is that Florida is a no-fault state. This means every registered Florida motorist is required to have personal injury protection insurance (PIP) to cover injury and property damage expenses, no matter who caused the accident.
The second thing to know is that Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is four years. A statute of limitations is the length of time you can bring your claim against the at-fault driver. If you do not file your claim before time runs out, you may forfeit the right to compensation.
Fault and Liability in Car Accident Cases
When a driver does something that directly causes an accident, it is known legally as negligence.
Fault in car accidents can be determined by a number of different factors, including:
- Negligent drivers
- A motorist driving under the influence of a substance
- Condition of the roads
- Weather conditions
- Whether or not a vehicle malfunction occurred
It is possible for a person to cause an accident but not be liable for it. For example, a car may have malfunctioning brakes that were flawed because of a manufacturing error that caused it to brake improperly. The motorist would be at fault but may not be liable for the accident, while strict liability would be assigned to the maker of the brakes.
“The idea of someone causing your accident but not being held responsible for it can be a frustrating concept. It is important that Floridians feel comfortable contacting a qualified attorney for answers in these situations. ”
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Consideration Of Negligence, Degree Of Fault
Negligence in personal injury claims refers to any behavior or activity that causes injury, property damage, or other corresponding results.
The following types of negligence in most car accident claims filed by victims include:
- Gross negligence: Refers to the serious disregard for the well-being of other drivers and the lack of respect for traffic laws.
- Comparative negligence: Refers to each party being assigned a percentage of fault, and the damages awarded are adjusted accordingly.
- Contributory negligence: Refers to the fact that a claim cannot be filed to pursue compensation if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident.
Unfortunately, car accidents are rarely the fault of just one party, so courts frequently assign varying percentages of fault based on various factors.
This is what’s important to know about fault in auto accidents:
- You may still be able to recover damages in no-fault states.
- Your degree of fault may reduce your settlement.
- Fault may prevent you from claiming damages in some states.
What To Do After A Car Accident in Fort Pierce
If you or a family member has experienced an auto accident in Fort Pierce, Florida, the following steps should be taken immediately.
1. Seek Medical Care
It is important to call 911 after an accident in case of serious injuries. You need to be properly assessed for minor to serious injuries. Make sure that you keep track of any medical expenses and bills for your claim.
2. Collect Contact Information
Information you should gather includes:
- Names
- Driver’s license numbers
- Driver’s insurance information
- Phone numbers
- License plate numbers
3. Call The Police
You are required by law in Florida to contact the police and report an accident if any injuries or property damage occurred.
4. Get Photos Or Videos
It is very important that you take pictures and videos of your injuries, damage to your car, the positioning of cars involved, and the license plates of the cars. Be sure to include the date and time in your recordings.
5. Report The Accident To Your Insurance Company
As soon as you have been cleared medically and can go home, you need to contact your insurance provider and begin the claims process. The sooner you start, the sooner you can receive your compensation.
6. Contact A Florin|Roebig Car Accident Lawyer
The attorneys of Florin|Roebig are no strangers to the tactics taken by insurance companies to save money, so we are not afraid to go head-to-head with your insurance provider to get you what you deserve.
Ways The Accident Can Impact Your Life
Car crashes can have far-reaching impacts that go beyond the direct aftermath of a serious collision
Additional ways an accident can impact your life include:
- Loss of employment
- Lost income potential
- Pain and suffering costs
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Loss of transportation
- Loss of independence
- Loss of companionship
- Having to adapt your home to suit your injuries
How Florin|Roebig Can Help With Your Car Accident Claim
Hiring a personal injury attorney to help you file your car accident claim is a big decision. The attorneys of Florin|Roebig provide many benefits that can make a big impact on your claim.
Benefits that you can gain by hiring a Florin|Roebig car accident attorney include:
Car Accident Case Experience
With forty years of experience, Florin|Roebig attorneys have dealt with and defended many car accident cases.
A Strong Personal Injury Claim
When you have an attorney with many decades of experience in car accident claims, you can rest assured that you will be helped through the claims process step by step.
Negotiating A Fair Settlement
Insurance companies are notoriously difficult to work with when trying to receive a fair settlement due to their desire to keep as much money as possible. Hiring a Florin|Roebig attorney can ensure that your insurance provider plays fair.
Practical Advice for After a Car Accident
If you have been in a collision, you probably feel shaken up and overwhelmed by the incident. The following are some helpful steps to take when handling the aftermath of an auto accident:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Emergency technicians will be dispatched to the scene. If there are serious injuries, you will likely be sent to the ER.
- Collect evidence immediately: Take evidence of the accident seen, such as photos and recordings, as well as video witnesses giving their statements.
- Contact your insurance company: When you call your insurance agent, make sure you have your policy information, medical reports, medical bills, auto repair estimates, and the contact information of the other driver involved.
- Protect your legal rights: If you take the blame for the accident, it can affect your insurance settlement amount. Call a Florin|Roebig attorney to help you know what you should and should not say.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you sue for emotional distress in Florida?
Yes, it is possible for victims of an accident to sue for emotional anguish, pain, and suffering. It can be complicated in some situations, so hiring a Florin|Roebig attorney can help ensure you claim the appropriate types of damages.
How much are most personal injury settlements?
Personal injury settlements can range between $5,000 to $100,000, depending on what type of personal injury claim you have filed.
How much does an attorney charge for a car accident in Florida?
Car accident attorneys in Florida generally charge 25-40% of your settlement fee if you win your case. However, Florin| Roebig’s attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not pay us unless we win your case.
How to Get Help from Florin|Roebig Attorneys
If you are curious about the laws surrounding car accidents in Florida or would like legal advice about a car accident case, there are many ways to contact the highly sought-after attorneys of the Florin|Roebig law firm.
- You can call our phone number 24/7
- Our website, florinroebig.com, has an option for requesting more information.
- You can email inquiries to [email protected]
We understand that after a car accident, you may be overwhelmed and in shock. Our team of lawyers is ready to assist you with your car accident claim, starting with a free consultation and case evaluation.
List Of Top-Rated Car Accident Attorneys Serving Fort Pierce
Being involved in a car accident case can be challenging and traumatic, but having the car accident attorney representing you can simplify the process considerably.
For every year since the inception of the honor in 2010, Florin|Roebig has been selected as one of the “Best Law Firms in America” by “US News and World Report” and “Best Lawyers in America.”
At Florin|Roebig, we represent clients throughout the state of Florida.
Members of our legal team who can represent clients in the Fort Pierce area include:
- Wil H. Florin, B.C.S.
- Tommy D. Roebig, B.C.S.
- Luca G Esposito
- Chad K. Florin, M.B.A., LL.M.
- Taylor D. Roebig
With over 30 years of experience, our personal injury law firm has successfully won over $1 billion in settlements from personal injury cases by providing our clients with high-quality legal representation.
We Are Nationally Awarded Lawyers
Find Help Filing A Car Accident Claim
If you face financial losses or a long road to recovery after a car accident in Fort Pierce, you may be able to collect compensation. When you hire a skilled attorney, you stand a greater chance of recovering all the necessary damages to begin rebuilding your life.
Let the law offices of Florin|Roebig handle your case to maximize your chances of receiving maximum compensation. Contact us today for a confidential and free consultation and to learn more about filing a car accident claim.
