Experienced Florida Car Accident Attorneys: We Serve Accident Victims In Clearwater, St. Pete And Tampa

In Florida, driving is not just a personal convenience; it’s a shared commitment to ensuring road safety. Each driver has a duty to uphold this commitment, and when negligence leads to a motor vehicle accident, legal accountability is crucial.

At Thacker and Mulvihill, PLLC, our Clearwater car accident lawyers understand the complexities of auto accidents and other personal injury claims. Our law firm is located in Pinellas County, and we provide the necessary legal support to ensure justice for crash victims throughout West Central Florida.

For an experienced litigator on your side, contact our Clearwater car accident law firm at 727-222-1570 for a FREE consultation.

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Table Of Contents

• What Are The Most Common Types Of Car Accidents In Florida?
• What Types Of Accident Injuries Do Personal Injury Victims Suffer In A Crash?
• What Kinds Of Auto Accidents Do Our Attorneys Handle?
• Who Is At Fault After A Florida Accident?
• What Are The Most Dangerous Roads And Intersections In Florida?
• Does Florida Have A Cap On The Financial Compensation You Can Recover In An Auto Accident Claim?
• Do’s And Don’ts After A Car Crash In Pinellas County
• Common Causes Of Florida Car Accidents
• How Does Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance Work?

What Are The Most Common Types Of Car Accidents In Florida?

Any type of accident can result in different types of damage. Each type of accident may also involve unique legal considerations. Here are some common types of car accidents:

• Head-on collisions: A head-on collision occurs when the fronts of two vehicles collide. They often happen on two-lane roads and can be caused by drivers who veer into oncoming traffic. The impact of a head-on collision can be severe due to the combined speed of both vehicles.
• Hit-and-run accidents: In these unfortunate incidents, a driver strikes another vehicle, pedestrian or property and then leaves the scene without providing contact information or offering help. If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident, an attorney can help you navigate the legal process to seek compensation.
• Rear-end collisions: A rear-end collision is one of the most common types of car accidents. In this kind of collision, a vehicle crashes into the car in front of it. Sometimes, these accidents happen because of tailgating or sudden stops. The resulting injuries can range from whiplash to more serious conditions.
• Rollover accidents: Rollovers are particularly dangerous. A rollover accident involves a vehicle flipping and rolling. These accidents are often caused by taking a turn too fast at a high speed, a collision with another vehicle or object or a loss of vehicle control.
• Drunk driving accidents: Accidents involving drivers who are under the influence of alcohol are tragically common and preventable. The impaired judgment and reduced reaction time of a drunk driver can lead to catastrophic accidents.

If you find yourself involved in any of these types of car accidents, it’s crucial to consult with a lawyer who can provide guidance on your rights and the appropriate steps to take. A lawyer will represent your interests and work to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

Remember, each car accident is unique, and the consequences can be complex. Having a knowledgeable attorney by your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

What Types Of Accident Injuries Do Personal Injury Victims Suffer In A Crash?

Car accidents can cause visible injuries. They can also cause internal or emotional injuries. Despite appearing normal externally, these injuries can still be severe and permanent and warrant compensation. Accident injuries from a crash can include:

• Fractures
• Lacerations and cuts
• Traumatic brain injuries and head traumas
• Herniated discs and other spinal cord traumas and injuries
• Anxiety and depression

Seeking medical treatment from skilled providers is crucial, and we can connect you with qualified doctors experienced in treating traumatic and catastrophic injuries.

In the event someone you love was involved in a fatal accident, our experienced lawyers also have experience pursuing wrongful death claims.

We Handle All Types Of Auto Accidents At Thacker and Mulvihill, PLLC

Our seasoned team has extensive experience managing a diverse range of auto accidents. As personal injury attorneys, we offer unwavering legal representation in cases involving:

• Car accidents: With car accidents being a prevalent occurrence on Florida roads, we focus on addressing the complexities that arise, ensuring our clients receive the support they need.
• Truck accidents: Collisions involving commercial trucks introduce intricate legal challenges, and our team is well equipped to navigate these complexities.
• Motorcycle accidents: Recognizing the vulnerability of motorcyclists on the road, we are dedicated to safeguarding their rights.
• Bicycle accidents: Our firm passionately advocates for cyclists’ rights, offering strategic legal support when cyclists are involved in accidents.
• Pedestrian accidents: We believe in providing strong advocacy in cases where pedestrians suffer injuries due to others’ negligence.
• Uber and Lyft accidents: Navigating the complexities of ride-sharing accidents demands a nuanced approach, and our team is well versed in developing effective strategies.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist accidents: When dealing with claims involving uninsured or underinsured at-fault drivers, we guide our clients through the intricacies of the legal process.

These examples showcase the breadth of cases we handle. Our commitment is to deliver comprehensive legal support tailored to the unique circumstances of each client’s situation.

Who Is At Fault After A Florida Auto Accident?

Determining fault in a car accident can be complex, especially when both drivers may share some degree of responsibility. In Florida, the legal principle of comparative negligence applies, meaning that each negligent driver involved in the accident may be assigned a percentage of fault based on their actions leading up to the collision.

Even if you believe you are partially at fault or were issued a citation by law enforcement, it’s crucial to consult our auto accident attorneys. Our experienced Florida personal injury lawyers have encountered numerous cases where initial perceptions changed after a thorough investigation. Unfortunately, law enforcement errors can occur. If any such errors occur in your case, our car accident lawyers can help prove your innocence or mitigate your percentage of fault.

By understanding the nuances of comparative negligence and leveraging our legal knowledge, we can advocate for your rights and work to ensure that you are not unfairly held responsible for more than your share of the accident’s fault. In addition, comparative negligence laws mean that you may still be able to recover financial compensation, even if your actions contributed to the accident. Our goal is to help you obtain maximum compensation under the law for your auto accident claim.

What Are The Most Dangerous Roads And Intersections In Florida?

In the state of Florida, the metropolitan areas of Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater consistently rank high as one of the most dangerous places to drive. This is not just high in Florida; it also ranks high in the entire nation. Some of the most dangerous roads and intersections include:

• U.S. 19 and Drew Street exchange
• U.S. 19 Alt Myrtle Avenue and Missouri Avenue
• Gulf to Bay Boulevard and Keene Road
• Court Street and Fort Harrison Avenue

Crashes commonly occur during busy traffic times. If possible, limit your travel to quieter traffic times, especially in these hot spot areas.

Does Florida Have A Cap On The Financial Compensation You Can Recover In An Auto Accident Claim?

In the state of Florida, most personal injury claims seek to recover compensation for the damages sustained. Compensatory damages can include compensation for past and present expenses but also anticipate future recovery costs. An experienced car accident lawyer will have the resources to accurately calculate past expenditures and also help you estimate future costs. There are no caps on compensatory damages. You are entitled to recover money for all of the damages you can prove.

In a personal injury case, plaintiffs can also seek punitive damages. Punitive damages are meant to punish a negligent driver for wrongdoing. There is a cap for punitive damages. The maximum amount a plaintiff can receive is three times the amount of compensatory damages or $500,000, whichever allows for the plaintiff to receive more.

The Do’s And Don’ts After A Florida Car Crash

Navigating the aftermath of a car crash is a crucial period that demands informed decisions. Understanding the do’s and don’ts is paramount to protecting your rights and ensuring a smoother legal process. Below, we outline essential guidelines on what to do after a Florida car crash, empowering you with the knowledge to make informed choices during this critical time.

• Do seek medical attention: Your health is the top priority. Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor.
• Do gather evidence: If possible, document the accident scene, take pictures and collect contact information from witnesses.
• Do contact law enforcement: Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the police report.
• Do exchange information: Share contact and insurance information with the other party involved.
• Do notify your insurance company: Promptly inform your insurance company about the accident.
• Don’t admit fault: Avoid admitting fault at the scene. Let the investigation determine responsibility.
• Don’t delay medical attention: Don’t postpone seeking medical help, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
• Don’t neglect to gather information: Failing to collect witness information or document the scene may hinder your case.
• Don’t avoid reporting to the police: Always report the accident to law enforcement, as their report is valuable for insurance claims.
• Don’t discuss the case with others: Refrain from discussing the details of the accident with others, especially the other party’s insurance.

Following these guidelines can help protect your rights and build a stronger case. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help guide you through the aftermath of an accident.

What Are The Most Common Causes Of Car Accidents In Florida?

Car accidents in Florida can be attributed to various factors, including:

• Distracted driving: Using phones or other distractions while driving contributes to numerous accidents.
• Speeding: Exceeding speed limits reduces reaction time, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Reckless driving: Aggressive and reckless behavior on the road poses a significant risk.
• Drunk driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a leading cause of accidents.
• Weather conditions: Florida’s unpredictable weather, including heavy rain, can lead to hazardous road conditions.
• Failure to obey traffic signals: Disregarding traffic signals and signs often results in collisions.

Understanding these common causes empowers drivers to take preventive measures, promoting road safety for all..

How Does Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance Work?

In Florida, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance covers medical expenses and, in some cases, lost wages resulting from a car accident. Key points about PIP insurance include:

• No-fault system: PIP operates on a no-fault basis, meaning your own insurance covers your medical expenses regardless of fault.
• Coverage limitations: PIP typically covers 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost wages, up to the policy limit.
• Time constraints: Seeking medical treatment within 14 days of the accident is crucial to qualifying for PIP benefits.
• Exemptions: Motorcyclists and certain individuals may be exempt from mandatory PIP coverage.

Understanding how PIP works is vital for navigating the aftermath of a car accident in Florida and maximizing available insurance benefits.

Let A Free Consultation Be Your Next Step

If you’re injured in a car accident, contact us immediately. We’ll evaluate your case, secure evidence and handle the legal aspects while ensuring you receive the necessary medical treatment. Care, compassion and preparation – this is injury law as it should be. For an experienced car accident lawyer in Clearwater, call us at 727-222-1570 or contact us online for a free consultation today. From our Clearwater office, we can serve car accident victims throughout Tampa, St. Petersburg and the surrounding areas.