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Helping Victims of Tampa Car Accidents Seek Justice
Tampa is an incredible destination for both adults and families alike, offering a variety of attractions to explore. From the picturesque Busch Gardens to the array of exotic animals at ZooTampa at Lowry Park, and the numerous museums to broaden your mind, there is something to do for everyone. With such a wide selection of activities, it’s no wonder Tampa’s population is growing and more tourists are flocking to the city than ever before.
However, Tampa is notorious for heavy traffic and “malfunction junctions” around popular highways and exit ramps. We’ve all sat in traffic around Westshore Boulevard between Gandy Boulevard and Swann Avenue, and County Line Road between US 41 and Dale Mabry Highway.
All this means a higher level of congestion, road rage, and auto accidents. Hillsborough County recorded nearly 28,000 car accidents in one year alone, including 191 fatalities and 20,682 injuries.
All this means a higher level of congestion, road rage, and auto accidents. Hillsborough County recorded nearly 28,000 car accidents in one year alone, including 191 fatalities and 20,682 injuries.
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident in Tampa, you shouldn’t have to bear the burden alone. Our compassionate Tampa car accident lawyers are here to help you in your time of need.
Call Farah & Farah today at (813) 358-0490 for a free, no-obligation case review.
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What Should You Do Immediately After a Car Accident?
Auto accidents can be scary, traumatic events, and you may be unsure of what to do next in the aftermath. If you can, you should take a few steps immediately following a car accident:
- Call 911 immediately.
- If you are able, exchange information with the other party.
- Take many photos and videos of the accident scene.
- Never admit fault.
- Give your information to a police officer.
- If a police officer was not present at the scene, go to a local Tampa police station to file a report.
- Contact your insurance, but do not provide a statement.
- Get a free case review with Farah & Farah’s Tampa car accident attorneys.
Why Hire a Tampa Car Accident Attorney?
As if being in a car accident isn’t upsetting and traumatic enough, the aftermath can be a living nightmare for you and your family. You’re under so much stress physically, emotionally, and financially, and there’s too much paperwork to go through on your own. That’s why hiring a car accident attorney in Tampa can help you get your life back on track. We will:
- Find physicians to treat and document your injuries
- Get you a rental car
- File all insurance, medical, and other paperwork related to your claim
- Thoroughly investigate your case
- Collect evidence
- Identify witnesses
- Stand up to insurance providers who are hassling you
- Take your case to court, if necessary
When Should You Contact a Tampa Car Accident Lawyer?
It’s crucial to contact a car accident lawyer in Tampa, FL, as soon as possible following a collision, even if the crash or your injuries appear minor. Although symptoms may not become apparent until later, long-term physical damage can still occur so it’s important to receive a comprehensive medical check-up.
An experienced attorney can not only guide you through the process of recording your injuries, but also safeguard you against insurance companies or other entities who may attempt to pressure you into settling for a low-ball offer to protect their own interests.
You deserve better in your time of need and that’s why you should always seek legal counsel immediately following a car accident.
What Is the Statute of Limitations on a Car Accident?
After a car accident, you need to file a claim as swiftly as possible. In Florida, the statute of limitations dictates a time limit to file your car accident claim. You must seek medical attention within 14 days and get your injuries documented. Otherwise, you will not have access to PIP benefits, which can cover the initial expenses after an accident.
After getting medical attention, you should contact a car accident attorney in Tampa, FL, to file your claim as quickly as possible.
What Are the Most Common Car Accident Injuries?
Car accidents can lead to a vast range of injuries, from minor scratches and bruises to more severe conditions such as neck, back, and head injuries. In some extreme cases, there may even be long-lasting nerve damage, multiple broken bones, or life-threatening internal bleeding. It’s important to remember that seemingly minor collisions can still result in costly medical bills, and the effects of a crash may not be felt until days or weeks later.
This is why you should contact an experienced auto accident lawyer immediately after an accident occurs, as they can link you to medical specialists who can document and treat your injuries so that you can begin your recovery while they fight for what you are owed.
Who Is Liable for My Injuries in a Car Accident?
Determining liability is a complex process that is crucial in deciding your settlement amount and whether a case needs to go to court. Sadly, there is no easy answer to who is liable in a car accident. That being said, several factors help us determine liability:
- The duty of care was breached. All drivers are obligated to consider the safety of everyone else on the road. Evidence of negligence can help us determine liability.
- Causation. There must be proof that negligent actions were the main cause of the accident.
- Florida’s Comparative Negligence Statute. This statute says that parties may share liability for the accident. For example, if you weren’t wearing a seatbelt and you were injured, you may bear some liability for your injuries.
Who Pays My Medical Bills After a Car Accident?
If you were in a critical accident, you may be taken to or advised to visit a medical center like Tampa General Hospital. It can be a shock to see the expense of your injury when your medical bills arrive.
After an accident, your initial source of compensation should come from your own insurance. This should cover some initial costs like medical care and lost wages. Once your case is settled, the liable party will be responsible for providing compensation in full.
What Happens if You Don’t Have Auto Insurance?
If you are involved in an accident but don’t have car insurance, it’s recommended that contact a knowledgeable car accident attorney who can evaluate your case and provide you with legal advice. The steps you need to take will be more complex and involve the chance of hefty penalties, out-of-pocket repairs, and in some cases even jail time. For this reason, you should never operate a vehicle without the required car insurance.
What Happens if the At-Fault Party Doesn’t Have Auto Insurance?
All drivers are required by law to carry insurance. However, sometimes a driver is underinsured or completely uninsured. These drivers will face many penalties, such as fees, license suspension, license plate confiscation, and criminal charges.
Your insurance company is your first source of compensation after an accident. As an insured driver in Florida, you are entitled to a few types of compensation:
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP), worth $10,000
- Property Damage Liability, worth $10,000
Personal Injury Protection is usually enough to cover initial costs after an accident, like medical expenses and lost paychecks. If you tragically lost a loved one in the accident, PIP will cover up to $5,000 in funeral costs. Contact our car accident lawyer in Tampa, FL, for a free case review to learn more about your compensation options.
What Is PIP Insurance?
In Florida, drivers are required to carry a minimum of $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. This “no-fault” law provides financial assistance to all parties involved in a car accident, regardless of fault, to help cover the costs of medical bills, ambulance fees, lost wages, and more.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, the experienced car accident attorneys of Farah & Farah are here to help you navigate your PIP insurance coverage and help secure the compensation you deserve.
What Damages Can You Pursue After a Tampa Car Accident?
There are many types of damages available after an auto accident. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance may be a good source for initial compensation, but you should contact a lawyer to find out what other types of damages you are entitled to. This may include:
- Economic damages
- Non-economic damages
- Punitive damages
What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident in Tampa?
Every auto accident is unique, so there is no way to estimate your average settlement without understanding the details of your case. Some factors that affect your average settlements are:
- Injury severity
- Property damages
- Causation of the accident
- Liability
- Coverage limits
- Your lawyer’s skills and dedication
Contact our Tampa, FL car accident lawyers today to understand what compensation is available.
How Long Does It Take To Settle a Tampa Car Accident Case?
No hard or fast rule dictates how long your auto accident case will take to settle. Many claims can be settled within 6-18 months, but it depends on the complexity of your case and other factors. If there is a lack of evidence or witnesses, it may take longer to prove liability, which can prolong your case. A Tampa, FL car accident attorney can handle your claim with expert care and speed.
How Do I Get a Temporary Rental Car After an Accident?
Vehicle damages can throw a wrench into your life, negatively impacting your daily routine. You need to be able to visit the doctor, transport your loved ones, and perform day-to-day activities but you’ll need a car to do these things. Getting a rental car after an accident should be easy but figuring out who is responsible for that cost ultimately boils down to your insurance policy and liability in the wreck.
You may not be eligible for rental coverage if you were entirely or partially responsible for your Tampa car accident. Some insurance plans will provide a car regardless of who was at fault.
What if I’m in an Accident in a Rental Car?
Driving in a rental car can be strange, and drivers may deal with unfamiliar roads and controls. With Tampa’s congested roadways and “malfunction junctions” around I-4 and I-275, rental car drivers are at a higher risk for accidents. Getting into an accident in a rental car adds a new layer of complexity to your case with the involvement of the rental company. The more parties that are involved, the more difficult it is to settle your claim.
What Causes Most Car Accidents?
Tampa drivers face many of the same risks as those across America when it comes to car accidents. Poor road conditions, inclement weather, aggressive driving, and distracted driving are all frequent causes of auto collisions.
Our Tampa Car Accident Lawyers are Ready to Serve Your Case
Tampa, the largest cultural hub in Hillsborough County, is renowned for its outdoor parks, delicious eateries, stunning beaches, and significant landmarks. However, as the number of vehicles on major highways such as I-4 and I-275 continues to rise, unfortunately so do the risks associated with auto accidents.
You deserve compensation if you or a loved one were harmed in a Tampa car accident. Our experienced legal team has collected millions of dollars in damages for our clients.
Contact Farah & Farah’s Tampa car accident attorneys at (813) 358-0490 for a free, no-obligation case review today.
Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle in Tampa, FL
Our Tampa car accident lawyers specialize in all types of car accident cases, including:
