Madeira Beach is a popular tourist destination in Florida, close to well-known cities like Saint Petersburg, Tampa Bay, and Clearwater. People come from around the country to enjoy the beautiful white-sand beaches and other attractions this area has to offer. However, the large tourist population means that the Madeira Beach roads are often packed, which can result in higher incidents of motor vehicle accidents.
If you’ve been injured in an auto accident, it’s important to understand how accident cases work and the various rules and laws specific to Madeira Beach. Read on to learn more about these topics and why it’s so beneficial to work with an experienced legal team familiar with the auto claims process in the state of Florida.
Florin|Roebig attorney Chad K. Florin says, “Accidents happen every day in Madeira Beach, and dealing with the aftermath is often beyond burdensome for victims. Our incredible team of auto accident and trial lawyers have seen it all and are committed to walking you through every step of the process to help ease that burden.”
The Car Accident Claim-Filing Process
Several steps are required when filing a car accident claim. These steps apply to all road accidents, including car, motorcycle, and truck accidents as well as pedestrian accidents.
1. Gather Evidence
Several important pieces of evidence are needed to build a strong auto accident claim. These include the police report, witness statements, contact information, evidence of damages and injuries, and proof of fault.
2. Compile Documentation
Maintaining detailed documentation of your injuries and all related medical treatment and expenses is essential to receive maximum compensation. Documentation may include proof of the types of personal injuries suffered, any medical treatment received, copies of medical bills, and doctor’s notes.
3. Reach Out To An Experienced Law Office
Working with an auto accident injury lawyer can help ensure the accident claim filing process goes as smoothly as possible. They can provide you with sound legal advice and advocate on your behalf with insurance companies.
4. File Your Claim
If you choose to hire an attorney, your lawyer will likely file your insurance claim for you. Your claim will include all of the evidence and documentation discussed above. You should be familiar with your insurance policy before filing your claim to better understand what to expect in terms of compensation.
Madeira Beach, Florida, Laws For Car Accident Cases
State laws specific to Florida will play a major role in your car accident case and its outcome.
Examples of laws that affect Madeira Beach, St. Petersburg, Pinellas Park, and other surrounding areas include:
- Auto insurance requirements: Florida auto insurance providers require policyholders to have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage as part of their plan. This coverage is how most accident victims will receive compensation.
- Statute of limitations: The statute of limitations for auto accident claims in Florida is four years. For personal injury cases, the statute of limitations is two years.
- Liability and fault: Florida is a no-fault state, meaning each motorist is typically responsible for seeking compensation through their own insurance provider.
- Negligence: Florida follows the modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you must be 50% or less responsible for an accident to pursue compensation.
“Understanding the specific laws and rules related to auto accidents in Florida is critical to ensure a successful claim outcome. Our attorneys have spent years working in this sector and know the ins and outs of all laws that may impact a client’s total compensation.”
– Florin|Roebig attorney Chad K. Florin
Fault And Liability In Madeira Beach Car Accidents
Florida is a no-fault state, which means each driver is responsible for carrying an insurance plan that will provide coverage for damages and injuries in the event of an accident. This coverage is known as personal injury protection (PIP). All Madeira Beach motorists are required to have a minimum of $10,000 in PIP.
Regardless of who is at fault, accident victims will first file an auto accident claim with their own insurance provider. If extreme injuries are sustained, such as spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries, you may be eligible to seek further compensation through the liable party’s insurance. This is also true if a loved one suffered a wrongful death as a result of the accident.
Ways The Accident Can Impact Your Life
Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents carry significant implications that can leave victims suffering long after the crash occurred.
In some cases, a person’s injuries make it so they can no longer enjoy the quality of life they had previously. For example, a victim could end up confined to a wheelchair. This lack of mobility can severely curtail the activities of a previously active person.
Injuries can also result in the inability to work, which can lead to financial challenges. This, on top of mountainous medical bills and other related expenses, can quickly diminish a person’s financial comfort.
Other consequences of accidents may include:
- Emotional and psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Non-economic damages, such as pain, humiliation, and long-term distress.
- Property damage, such as a totaled vehicle.
The impact of accidents is just one of the many reasons why it’s important to seek the compensation you rightfully deserve. An experienced accident attorney, like those at Florin|Roebig, goes to extensive lengths to ensure you receive maximum compensation for how the crash affected your life and livelihood.
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What To Do After A Car Accident
The immediate aftermath of an accident can leave victims frazzled and unsure of what to do.
Here are a few key steps to take as soon as possible following a crash in Madeira Beach:
- Call the police: Regardless of how minimal the accident appears, you should always notify the authorities. The police will come to the accident scene and document what happened, who was at fault, and other important details. They will provide you with a police report, which is essential when filing your claim.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured at the time, you should always get medical attention after an accident. Some injuries can take hours or days to be felt, and without early medical documentation, it can be harder to file for compensation for doctor’s bills.
- Document the scene: If you can, snap photos and take videos of the scene of the accident, the cars involved, and the surrounding area.
- Consult with an attorney: Many auto accident attorneys will provide you with a free consultation to review your case and help you understand your options. The sooner you get in touch with an experienced lawyer, the sooner you can be on your way to a fair settlement.
Auto Accident Statistics in Madeira Beach, Florida And Surrounding Areas
Madeira Beach is part of Pinellas County, Florida, along with other cities like Dunedin, Largo, Seminole, and Palm Harbor.
The following are traffic statistics from Pinellas County in 2023:
- There were a total of 14,820 traffic crashes in 2023.
- Of these crashes, 420 involved florida motor, 487 involved pedestrians, and 652 involved bicycles.
- 4,108 of the accidents in Pinellas were considered hit-and-runs.
- A total of 9,194 injuries were suffered as a result of accidents in Pinellas in 2023.
- 111 people died in Pinellas due to a traffic accident.
Madeira Beach’s Most Dangerous 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 Pinellas County that Madeira Beach residents should proceed with caution. Be sure to obey any and all traffic laws. Madeira Beach contains some of the most dangerous intersections in Pinellas County which are listed below:
- Gulf Boulevard and 150th Avenue: This intersection is known for heavy traffic and high speeds which can make it difficult for drivers to make safe turns. Additionally, the intersection has limited visibility due to buildings and other obstructions which can lead to collisions.
- Gulf Boulevard and 129th Avenue: This intersection is particularly dangerous for pedestrians due to the high number of people crossing Gulf Boulevard to get to the beach. The intersection is also known for congestion which can lead to rear-end collisions and other accidents.
- Duhme Road and Tom Stuart Causeway: This intersection is dangerous due to the high volume of traffic from both vehicles and pedestrians. There have been accidents due to drivers not yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks and drivers running red lights. The intersection also has limited visibility which can lead to accidents.
How Florin|Roebig Can Help With Your Car Accident Claim
Florin|Roebig has spent decades perfecting its craft of handling auto accident claims and cases. Our expert team is deeply familiar with the ins and outs of the Madiera Beach laws and rules related to crashes and will confidently advocate on your behalf with insurance companies, adjusters, and other involved parties.
Services you can expect as part of your experience with Florin|Roebig include in-depth case evaluations, reliable legal representation, and litigation support if necessary.
Get in touch with us today by filling out the contact form on our website.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following are frequently asked questions related to auto accident claims and cases in the Madeira Beach, Florida, area:
How Long After An Accident Can You Claim Compensation?
How long after an auto accident you submit a compensation claim is based on the state’s statute of limitations, which is four years. This means that you have four years from the date of an accident to file a claim with insurance to seek compensation for damages and injuries.
Can I Get Money From A Car Accident In Florida?
Yes, if you suffered damages and injuries in a car accident in Florida, you may be eligible to get compensation from your insurance company. There are several factors involved in this determination, including your role in the accident, the amount of damages and injuries, and the extent of property damage.
How Long After A Car Accident Can You Claim Injury In Florida?
Similar to accident claims, personal injury claims are also dependent on the statute of limitations. In Florida, victims have two years from the date of the injury to file a compensation claim.
List Of Top-Rated Car Accident Lawyers Serving Madeira Beach
Florin|Roebig maintains legal teams in several states, and has been serving areas throughout Florida for more than three decades. We are poised to help those people who have been injured in an accident obtain the compensation they deserve.
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.”
Some of our car accident lawyers who can assist those who have been injured due to the fault of another include:
- Wil H. Florin, B.C.S.
- Tommy D. Roebig, B.C.S.
- Michael A. Ossi, O.C.
- Chad K. Florin, M.B.A., LL.M.
- John J. Hart
- Shaun M. Cummings B.C.S.
With over 30 years of experience, our 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 In Madeira Beach
Florin|Roebig retains a legal team that has extensive experience, expertise, and compassion, and we apply these skills to each car accident claim we handle. While it’s best to contact a car accident lawyer in Madeira Beach as soon as possible after an accident, doing so can be beneficial nearly any time. Call to schedule a free case evaluation today to learn more about how our legal team can assist you.
