Call Us Today An unexpected car accident can leave you with serious injuries and sky-high medical bills. If you’ve been hurt in a crash that wasn’t your fault, an Estero personal injury lawyer can help you pursue damages.
After a car crash, it’s natural to be uncertain about how to seek justice. Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone.
Since 1995, the lawyers at Viles & Beckman have won over $100 million for clients like you. If you’ve been injured in a car crash due to someone else’s negligence, an Estero car accident lawyer from our team can help you file a claim and pursue compensation.
Why Do I Need a Car Accident Lawyer?
Car accident cases can be complex. An experienced attorney can:
- Evaluate your case: A lawyer can determine whether you have a valid claim and calculate the potential value of your case.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: Insurers may attempt to persuade you to settle for the lowest settlement possible. A lawyer can ensure you aren’t shortchanged.
- Gather evidence: A lawyer can collect police reports, medical records, and witness statements to build a strong case.
- Represent you in court: If a fair settlement isn’t possible, a lawyer can fight for your rights in court.
An experienced car accident lawyer in Estero can both provide peace of mind and improve your chances of securing fair compensation.
Expect More, Receive More: Legal Support That Feels Like Family
How Much Are Lawyer Fees for a Car Accident?
Most car accident lawyers, including those at Viles & Beckman, operate on a contingency fee basis. This means your lawyer only gets paid if you win your case.
Your lawyer’s fee will be a predetermined percentage of your settlement or court award. You can discuss this number at your consultation.
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What Types of Damages Can I Claim in a Car Accident Case?
After a car accident, you may be eligible to claim various types of damages, including:
- Medical expenses: You can receive damages for hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and any ongoing treatments related to the accident.
- Lost wages: You can seek compensation for income lost during your recovery as well as any future earning potential that’s been lost due to your injuries.
- Property damage: You can seek damages for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and other personal property that was damaged in the accident.
- Pain and suffering: You can be compensated for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
- Loss of consortium: You can pursue damages for the impact the accident has had on your relationships, such as with a spouse or close family members.
- Funeral and burial costs: If the accident resulted in a fatality, you may claim related expenses.
- Disability or disfigurement: Compensation may be available for permanent impairments or visible scars caused by the accident.
A car accident attorney in Estero can assess your case to identify all applicable damages.
Click To ContactWhat Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident in Florida?
Every case is different, so there is no average settlement for a car accident in Florida. Settlement amounts can vary based on factors such as the severity of the injuries, the extent of the property damage, and the victim’s insurance policy limits.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can fight for a settlement that reflects the true impact of the accident.
Dealing With Insurance Companies After a Car Accident
Insurance companies often prioritize their profits over your well-being. Common tactics include offering lowball settlements, delaying the claims process, and denying legitimate claims.
To protect your rights, be sure to:
- Avoid admitting fault: Even casual statements like “I’m sorry” can be used against you.
- Consult a lawyer: Initial settlement offers are often much lower than what you deserve. Don’t accept one before speaking to an attorney.
- Document everything: Keep records of medical treatments, repair estimates, and communication with insurers.
An attorney can handle negotiations to ensure you aren’t taken advantage of.
How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Florida?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit is typically two years from the date of the accident. If you don’t file your claim within this time frame, you may forfeit your right to pursue compensation.
A lawyer can make sure you file a claim on time.
How Do You Prove Liability in a Car Accident Case?
To prove liability in a Florida car accident case, you must demonstrate that another party’s negligence caused the accident and your resulting injuries. This involves four key elements:
- Duty of care: The defendant had a legal obligation to operate their vehicle safely and follow traffic laws.
- Breach of duty: The defendant failed to meet this obligation through actions such as speeding, distracted driving, or violating traffic signals.
- Causation: The defendant’s breach directly caused the accident and your injuries.
- Damages: You suffered actual losses, like medical expenses or property damage, due to the accident.
A lawyer can gather evidence to prove the at-fault party liable.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
- Distracted driving: Accidents can occur when drivers engage in activities that take their attention away from the road, like texting, eating, or using a GPS.
- Speeding: Driving above the speed limit reduces drivers’ reaction times and significantly increases the severity of accidents.
- Driving under the influence: Drugs and alcohol can impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and coordination and lead to a collision.
- Weather conditions: Rain, fog, or other adverse weather can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, increasing the likelihood of crashes.
- Reckless driving: Behaviors like tailgating, weaving between lanes, or ignoring traffic signals put all road users at risk of a collision.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, including:
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
If you’ve sustained any of these injuries in a crash that wasn’t your fault, an attorney can help you pursue compensation for your medical expenses.
Contact an Estero Car Accident Attorney Today
A car crash can have devastating consequences. If someone else’s negligence caused your accident, you deserve to be compensated for your losses.
Don’t wait to seek justice. Let an experienced Estero car accident attorney from our team take on your case and pursue the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation now.
