Lithia Car Accident Lawyer

Lithia Car Accident Attorney

Car crashes are a regrettable and frequent occurrence on roads around the world and in Lithia, Florida. In fact, 397,620 car accidents occurred in Florida in 2022. When a person is injured in a car accident, they may be able to seek compensation for their damages. If you have suffered injuries due to a crash caused by another driver, a Lithia car accident lawyer can help.

Why Choose The Frank Santini Law Firm?

Acquiring the services of a local attorney is recommended when someone is hurt in an automobile accident. It’s important to select the personal injury attorney who is most qualified to handle your case. At The Frank Santini Law Firm, we are familiar with Lithia’s roads and the driving habits of the local drivers.

We can help you through the legal process, including assessing your damages, seeking compensation, negotiating on your behalf, and representing you in court, if necessary. Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful and time-consuming. We can handle the legal aftermath while you focus on your recovery.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Lithia, FL

Car accidents happen for several reasons in Lithia. While there are countless causes of car accidents, a few of them are more common than others. These include:

• Distracted driving. Driving while distracted is one of the main reasons for car accidents. Driving distracted is participating in any activity that would diminish your attention to the road and is considered negligent behavior. This can include texting while driving, fiddling with a GPS system, changing radio stations, looking in the mirror, or reaching for something in your backseat.
• Driving while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Driving while under the influence is illegal. It is dangerous and puts both the driver and others on the road at risk. If someone is injured in a car accident due to a drunk driver, they may be able to seek compensation for their injuries.
• Drowsy driving. Driving while fatigued or drowsy contributes to a significant number of car accidents. When a person is fatigued, their inhibitions are lowered, causing them to have slower reaction times to hazards.
• Reckless driving. When someone drives recklessly or does not abide by the laws of the road, this can lead to major car accidents. This includes speeding, running red lights, failing to yield, tailgating, and running stop signs.
• Inclement weather. Poor weather conditions also contribute to car accidents, especially in cases where visibility is lowered or the ground becomes slick, such as in excessive rain and snow or fog.

In Florida, drivers face unique dangers. In 2022, one Lithia driver was in a fatal accident on County Road 672 that occurred when he crashed into an 11-foot alligator.

Florida Modified Comparative Fault

If the other driver was solely to blame for your vehicle collision, and your injuries are severe enough to go beyond the no-fault threshold, the at-fault driver’s insurance provider will be responsible for covering your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.

When it is determined that both parties are partially to blame for an accident, Florida applies a “modified comparative fault” standard. If an automobile accident claim is tried, the jury is asked to determine two things from the evidence:

• the total amount of damages awarded to the plaintiff.
• the share of culpability attributed to each party.

The plaintiff’s judgment is lowered by a percentage equivalent to their share of fault under the modified comparative fault rule. The plaintiff is not entitled to compensation from any other at-fault party if their share is greater than 50%.

When Do I Need to Report a Car Accident In Florida?

In Florida, you must report a car accident if it involves:

• Death
• Injury
• Vehicle or property damage of at least $500

You can report the accident to local police, the county sheriff, or the nearest Florida highway patrol station. For major and minor accidents, law enforcement has ten days to file a crash report with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. If a driver is incapacitated, they are exempt from reporting. Failing to report within the outlined timeframes may result in financial penalties.

FAQs About Lithia, FL Car Accident Laws

How Much Does an Attorney Charge for Car Accidents in Florida?

Car accident lawyers in Florida usually take cases on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win. The amount they charge is dependent on the complexity of your case and the experience of your attorney. This agreement aligns the attorney’s interests with achieving the greatest possible outcome for your case and guarantees that you won’t have to pay upfront legal fees.

What Is the Average Settlement for a Car Accident in Florida?

The average settlement for a car accident in Florida varies widely based on factors such as the severity of injuries, property damage, and liability, among other considerations. In cases that are more severe or even include death, the settlement will be much larger. However, each amount will be determined based on the specific circumstances.

Should I Get a Lawyer After a Car Accident in Florida?

Yes, it’s advisable to get a lawyer after a car accident in Florida, especially if there are injuries, significant property damage, or disputes over fault. A skilled lawyer can assist you in navigating complicated insurance claims, collecting evidence, negotiating settlements, and, if needed, representing your interests in court. By doing this, you may greatly increase your chances of getting just compensation for your losses.

What Is the New Accident Law in Florida?

One of the newest accident laws in Florida states that an accident must be immediately reported if it involves death, injury, or significant property damage. Drivers are required to report less serious occurrences to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles within ten days, while law enforcement is required to file a thorough crash report for more serious instances.

Contact The Frank Santini Law Firm

If you have been injured in a car accident, an attorney at The Frank Santini Law Firm can help. Contact us today for more information.