Clearwater Car Accident Lawyer

Last updated on May 21, 2026

Choosing the right Clearwater car accident lawyer can have a huge impact on the outcome of your case. At Thacker and Mulvihill, PLLC, we represent crash victims across Clearwater and the surrounding area, including Countryside, Sand Key and the Dunedin Causeway corridor.

We offer personalized legal representation tailored to your situation. We have extensive courtroom experience for pursuing injury compensation after car, truck and motorcycle accidents, and we prepare every case with the goal of putting you in the strongest position to negotiate with insurance companies.

By maintaining manageable caseloads, we give your case the thorough attention it deserves and keep you updated as it moves forward. From gathering medical records to handling difficult conversations with insurers, we handle the tough stuff for you so you can focus on your recovery.

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, including Clearwater, St. Pete and Tampa.

We also operate on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. Contact our Clearwater car accident law firm at 727-222-1570 for a FREE consultation.

Looking For A Clearwater Car Accident Lawyer?

Schedule a free consultation by contacting our Clearwater car accident law firm today. No recovery, no fee!

Key Takeaways:

• Deadline: In most cases, you have two years from the crash date to file a personal injury lawsuit in Florida.
• Trial-ready approach: We build cases with litigation in mind, not quick settlements that leave money on the table.
• Former prosecutors: Our firm is led by former prosecutors with 35-plus years of combined litigation experience, which helps us anticipate defense tactics.
• No upfront costs: We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay $0 unless we win.
• Act fast: Early action helps protect evidence like camera footage, witness statements and vehicle data before it disappears.

Why Hire A Former Prosecutor For Your Clearwater Car Accident Case?

Insurance companies defend car accident claims every day. We know how they build their cases, what arguments they rely on and where they look for leverage.

As former prosecutors, we know how to investigate, organize evidence and build a trial-ready case from day one. That preparation often makes a difference in negotiations, because insurers can see when a firm is ready to take a case to court.

Working with a former prosecutor-led team can help because we:

• Build the case like it may go to trial, including preserving evidence and lining up witnesses early
• Spot weak points in the defense narrative before the insurance company leans on them
• Anticipate common insurance tactics, like minimizing injuries or shifting blame
• Use clear, persuasive case themes that make sense to adjusters, mediators and juries
• Stay ready to litigate if the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement

This level of preparation sends a clear message to insurance companies: shortcuts will not work here. When insurers know a firm is willing and able to take a case to trial, they are more likely to take your claim seriously and negotiate in good faith.

Our Results

Why Hire A Clearwater Car Crash Lawyer From Thacker and Mulvihill, PLLC?

Our attorneys, John Mulvihill and Greg Thacker stand apart through our personalized approach to every automobile accident case. They treat clients as individuals, not case numbers. Our lawyers bring extensive courtroom experience to truck accident, motorcycle accident and pedestrian accident cases. They maintain manageable caseloads to ensure each client receives thorough attention and regular updates.

They will handle all aspects of your claim, from gathering medical records to negotiating with difficult insurance companies, while you focus on recovery. Their commitment to compassionate representation combined with aggressive advocacy results in fair settlements that truly reflect your needs.

Choosing the right Clearwater car accident lawyer can have a huge impact on the outcome of your case. Thacker and Mulvihill, PLLC, offers:

• Personalized legal representation tailored to your case
• Aggressive negotiation with insurance companies to maximize compensation
• Trial-ready experience if a lawsuit becomes necessary
• No upfront costs since we work on a contingency fee basis

Our team fights to hold at-fault parties accountable and help accident victims recover compensation for medical bills, emotional distress, property damage, noneconomic damages and other losses.

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Our Awards And Accolades

These recognitions highlight the exceptional legal skill and dedication that Gregory Thacker and John Mulvihill bring to every case:

• Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum: Greg Thacker is a life member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum Top Trial Lawyers in America™, honoring attorneys who have secured multi-million- dollar verdicts or settlements.
• Million Dollar Advocates Forum: Greg Thacker’s life membership in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum further cements his reputation among trial lawyers who obtain million-dollar recoveries for their clients.
• 2023 Sustaining Law Firm: This designation reflects our ongoing commitment to justice and our community, year after year.
• 2024 Sustaining Law Firm: Our continued recognition in 2024 demonstrates sustained excellence and trust in handling auto accident lawsuits.
• Florida Bar Volunteer Service Award (John)
• Hillsborough County Bar Association Pro Bono Award (John)

These accolades are evidence of the level of professionalism you deserve when facing complex legal matters.

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How Much Is Your Car Accident Claim Worth?

Your car accident claim is worth the total of your financial losses plus the value of how the injuries have affected your life, and the answer depends on the facts of your case.

In general, claims tend to be higher when injuries require ongoing treatment, cause time away from work, or create long-term limitations.

To estimate the value of your claim, we look closely at factors like:

• Medical costs (ER care, surgery, rehab, medications and future treatment needs)
• Lost income (missed work, reduced hours and reduced earning capacity)
• Pain and suffering (daily limitations, chronic pain and reduced quality of life)
• Property damage (vehicle repairs or total loss and related out-of-pocket costs)
• Injury severity and recovery timeline (including whether symptoms may be permanent)
• Available insurance coverage (policy limits and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage)
• Fault issues (including comparative negligence arguments the insurer may raise)

If you want a realistic range, we can review your medical treatment, time missed from work and the available coverage, then explain what we would pursue and why.

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What Types Of Damages Can You Recover In A Clearwater Car Accident Claim?

When you file a car accident claim, you may be eligible to recover economic, noneconomic and, in rare cases, punitive damages. These damages help compensate for your losses and hold negligent parties accountable.

What Are Noneconomic Damages?

Noneconomic damages are losses that do not have a fixed financial value but impact your life. These damages compensate for:

• Physical injuries such as chronic pain or permanent disability
• Emotional distress, including anxiety, depression or PTSD
• Loss of enjoyment of life due to long-term impairments
• Loss of companionship or consortium for spouses and family members

Because these damages are subjective, a skilled personal injury lawyer can help determine their value.

Understanding Economic Damages After A Car Accident

Economic damages compensate for financial losses resulting from a car accident. These damages are more straightforward to calculate because they have a clear monetary value. Examples include:

• Medical bills such as emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation and medications
• Lost wages due to time away from work
• Reduced earning capacity if the accident affects your future income
• Property damage, including vehicle repairs and replacement costs

Recovering economic damages helps accident victims regain financial stability after an accident.

When Punitive Damages Apply

Punitive damages are additional compensation that may be awarded in specific circumstances beyond your actual losses. These damages may be available when:

• A driver was intoxicated or under the influence when causing the crash
• The at-fault party was texting or engaging in extremely reckless behavior
• A company knowingly failed to maintain vehicles or follow safety regulations
• The defendant showed conscious disregard for the safety of others
• There is evidence of intentional misconduct or gross negligence

Because punitive damages require proving exceptional circumstances, an experienced attorney can evaluate whether your case qualifies for this additional compensation. Florida law places specific limitations on punitive damage awards, making proper legal representation essential.

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

In the state of Florida, there are no caps on compensatory damages. You are entitled to recover money for all of the damages you can prove. 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.

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.

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How Much Does A Clearwater Accident Attorney Cost?

At Thacker and Mulvihill, PLLC, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront.

A contingency fee arrangement means your personal injury lawyer only gets paid if you win your case. Instead of charging hourly fees, the lawyer receives a percentage of your settlement or court award.

Contingency fees offer:

• No upfront costs: You do not pay any attorney fees unless your case is successful.
• Risk-free representation: If you do not recover compensation, you owe nothing.
• Motivated legal advocacy: Your lawyer has a strong incentive to maximize your compensation.

Since car accident cases involve high medical bills, property damage and other financial losses, hiring a lawyer on contingency makes quality legal representation accessible to all accident victims.

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Navigating Your Claim: A Comprehensive Guide for Florida Residents

We know that suffering an injury from a car crash can feel like your entire life has been put on hold. You are not just dealing with physical pain but also fighting insurance adjusters, watching medical bills pile up and losing time at work. Not to mention frequent adjusters’ delayed responses, minimizing injuries or offering low settlements that do not reflect the true cost of recovery.

Our Clearwater car accident lawyers are dedicated to taking that burden completely off your shoulders. We focus on justice for crash victims in Clearwater, Florida, Pinellas County and throughout West Central Florida. We understand the law requires quick action. The Florida statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits is now two years from the date the accident happened.

Missing this deadline could cost you the compensation you deserve. This is why our clients work directly with attorneys John and Greg from day one. We prioritize personal representation, treating you as an individual, not simply as a case file. Our experienced legal team handles a wide range of motor vehicle accident claims that include:

• Car, truck and motorcycle accidents.
• Bicycle and pedestrian accidents.
• Drunk driving and hit-and-run incidents.
• Rideshare accidents (Uber and Lyft) and uninsured/underinsured motorist claims.

We commit to exhausting all avenues to pursue recovery. Our goal is to secure a fair settlement that covers every loss you have suffered.

The strength of your claim rests on our experience. John and Greg are former prosecutors with over 35 years of combined litigation experience. We are experienced trial attorneys who will take your case to court if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount. This trial-ready approach is what sets an effective car crash attorney apart from the rest.

We believe everyone deserves high-quality legal help. This is why we offer complimentary consultations and work strictly on a contingency fee basis. There are no upfront costs, and we only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you. Our firm operates under the promise: “Care, Compassion, Preparation. Injury Law As It Should Be.” We guarantee to get back to you promptly, and all clients receive direct access to our car accident attorneys.

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How Long Do You Have To File A Car Accident Claim In Clearwater, Florida?

Under Florida law, accident victims have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline was shortened from four years after Florida law changed in 2023. However, different timelines may apply depending on the circumstances of your case:

• Personal injury lawsuits: Two years from the date of the accident
• Wrongful death claims: Two years from the date of the victim’s passing
• Property damage claims: Four years from the accident date

It is important to note that filing an insurance claim differs from filing a lawsuit. Florida’s no-fault insurance system requires you to promptly notify your insurance provider, often within 14 days, to qualify for personal injury protection (PIP) benefits.

Missing these deadlines could prevent you from recovering compensation for medical bills, property damage and other losses. A personal injury lawyer can help ensure you meet the necessary deadlines.

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How Soon Should You Contact An Attorney After A Car Crash?

You should contact an attorney immediately after a car crash to protect your legal rights. Waiting too long could jeopardize your ability to collect crucial evidence and witness statements. Insurance companies begin working on your case right away, so having legal representation from the start ensures someone is advocating for your interests while you focus on recovery.

An experienced attorney can help prevent costly mistakes in dealing with insurance adjusters who may attempt to minimize your claim or trick you into accepting an inadequate settlement.

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Do You Have To Hire A Clearwater Car Accident Lawyer?

You are not legally required to hire a Clearwater car accident lawyer after a crash, but doing so significantly improves your chances of receiving fair compensation. Without legal representation, you may struggle to understand complex insurance policies, liability laws and the proper valuation of your claim. Insurance companies have teams of professionals working to reduce payouts, while you may be dealing with severe injuries, medical care needs and emotional trauma.

A skilled attorney levels the playing field and handles communications, negotiations and if necessary, litigation while you concentrate on healing.

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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 Clearwater car accident 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 car accident claim.

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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.

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Do You Have To Go To Court For Your Clearwater Car Accident Case?

Most claims are resolved through negotiations in Clearwater. This is achieved under Florida’s no-fault insurance system, which requires drivers to seek compensation from their insurance first. If your medical bills and other expenses exceed your PIP coverage, you may file a claim against the at-fault parties for additional compensation.

However, you might need to go to court if:

• The insurance company denies your claim or offers an unfair settlement
• The negligent parties dispute liability
• Your injuries are severe and damages exceed policy limits
• Negotiations fail, then a trial is required to secure fair compensation

A personal injury lawyer can assess whether taking your case to court is in your best interest.

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The Do’s And Don’ts After A Car Crash In Pinellas County

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 Clearwater personal injury lawyer can help guide you through the aftermath of an accident.

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Pinellas County Car Accident Statistics

Here is a clear, up-to-date breakdown using the latest available data from the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) Crash Dashboard for the past three years:​

These figures underline the prevalence of car crashes in Pinellas County and how rapidly conditions can change.

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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 among the most dangerous places to drive. This ranking is significant not only within Florida but also nationwide. Some of the most dangerous roads and intersections include:

• U.S. 19 and Drew Street: This intersection is particularly hazardous due to the high-speed commuter traffic on U.S. 19, combined with local traffic attempting to cross East-West. This can result in numerous rear-end and T-bone collision accidents.
• U.S. 19 Alt Myrtle Avenue and Missouri Avenue: The complex traffic patterns and high volume of vehicles contribute to frequent accidents, especially during rush hour.
• Gulf to Bay Boulevard and Keene Road: As a key connection between Clearwater and Tampa, these roads experience significant congestion. In some cases, this can lead to aggressive driving and multivehicle pileups, especially during the tourist season.
• Court Street and Fort Harrison Avenue: This downtown Clearwater intersection can be dangerous due to the heavy pedestrian traffic mixing with vehicles heading toward the bridge, increasing the risk of pedestrian and bicycle accidents.

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

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How To Request Your Accident Report From The Clearwater Police Department Or Florida Highway Patrol

After a car crash in Pinellas County, it’s important that you obtain your accident report. Here are the ways to request your report:

• Clearwater Police Department: If your crash occurred within city limits, the police typically have this report available three to five days after the incident. You can request them in person at 645 Pierce St. or online via the Florida Crash Portal.
• Florida Highway Patrol (FHP): For crashes on U.S. 19 or major highways, FHP likely responded. These reports must be requested through the FLHSMV website.

It’s important to note that a lawyer can obtain this information for you, ensuring that the process is handled efficiently while you focus on your recovery.

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Local Services For Auto Accident Victims In Clearwater, Florida

If you have been in an auto accident in Clearwater, you have critical local resources to rely on:

Local Police Departments

• Clearwater Police Department: 645 Pierce St, Clearwater, FL 33756.
• Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office: 10750 Ulmerton Rd, Largo, FL 33778. You can also access or request crash data reports through their portal

Auto Repair Shops

• Drew Street Auto Repair, 1821 Drew St, Clearwater, FL 33765
• Bob’s Auto Repair, 812 Park St, Clearwater, FL 33756

Local Hospitals

• Morton Plant Hospital, 300 Pinellas Street, Clearwater, FL
• Mease Countryside Hospital, 3231 McMullen Booth Rd, Safety Harbor, FL 34695

Car Rental Services

• Enterprise Rent-A-Car, multiple Clearwater locations: Available when your vehicle is in repair or part of an auto accident lawsuit. Many rental agencies work directly with Clearwater car accident lawyers on uninsured motorist claims.

You can also check services like Avis or Hertz in Clearwater for convenient rentals during repairs.

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Our Clearwater Auto Accident Attorneys Handle All Kinds Of Accidents

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 or delivery 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.

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

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.

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What Are The Most Common Causes Of Car Accidents In Clearwater, 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.

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What Types Of Injuries Do Clearwater Car Crash Victims Suffer?

Car accidents can cause visible, 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.

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Schedule A Free Consultation With A Clearwater Car Accident Attorney. No Fees Unless We Win!

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.

Our Clearwater Car Accident Law Firm

Thacker and Mulvihill, PLLC
407 S Ewing Ave
Suite #100
Clearwater, FL 33756
Phone: 727-222-1570