Can You Sue For a Fender Bender in Florida?

Summary

• You can sue for a fender bender in Florida for various reasons.
• If you’re having problems obtaining compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company, a skilled attorney can help you get what you deserve.
• Seasoned lawyers know how to investigate accidents to gather evidence a client needs to prove their case.
• An auto accident attorney also knows how to negotiate with insurance companies to help clients obtain maximum compensation.

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A fender bender might seem minor but can lead to significant consequences. The silver lining is, car accident survivors don’t have to worry what the law says about the question “Can you sue for a fender bender in Florida?” The answer is yes, you can. However, whether it’s worth pursuing legal action depends on various factors. 

Here’s some information on why you might choose to file a lawsuit after a minor car accident and how a car accident lawyer can assist you in getting the compensation you deserve.

At Jones Law Group, our skilled auto accident lawyers will work to help you get the money you deserve if you need to take legal action. Schedule a free consultation by calling 727-753-8657 or contacting us online.

Reasons for Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit After a Minor Car Accident

There were nearly 400,000 car accidents in Florida in 2023 according to the FLHSMV. Most of them led to some damage and relatively minor injuries. But in some instances, seemingly harmless wrecks have long-term consequences. Can you sue for a fender bender in Florida? Yes. These are some of the reasons you might consider doing so.

• Injuries and medical expenses: Even seemingly minor accidents can result in injuries that may not manifest immediately. Whiplash, back pain, and soft tissue injuries are common in fender benders. Medical bills can quickly pile up, including doctor visits, medication, therapy, and potential future medical care expenses.
• Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may suffer a loss of income. This financial strain can be substantial, especially if you have bills and a family to support.
• Property damage: Beyond physical injuries, a fender bender can cause damage to your vehicle. Repair or replacement costs for your car can significantly add to the financial burden.
• Fault dispute: If there’s a dispute over who’s to blame for the car accident, filing a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary to prove liability and hold the responsible party accountable.

How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You Get the Money You Deserve

Car accidents can be frustrating, especially when dealing with injuries, medical bills, and insurance companies. This is where a Florida car accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and work to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Here are a few reasons why you should speak with a qualified personal injury attorney.

Auto Accident Attorneys Provide Legal Expertise

Car accident lawyers possess specialized knowledge and expertise in handling cases like yours. They are familiar with the intricacies of personal injury law in Florida, including relevant statutes, case law, and procedural rules.

This level of specialized knowledge allows them to assess the strength of your case, identify legal issues, and develop a strategic approach to maximize your chances of success.

The Legal Team You Hire Takes on the Responsibility of Collecting Evidence 

One of the crucial roles of a car accident lawyer is to gather evidence to support your claim. This includes collecting witness statements, obtaining medical records, and documenting the accident scene and vehicle damage through photographs. 

If the accident caused an injury or $500 or more in damage, Florida law mandates you must contact the police. An officer will investigate the accident and give their opinion of who was responsible. Your car accident attorney will also obtain the police report, which can be a very significant piece of evidence. 

By gathering evidence, your personal injury lawyer strengthens your case and builds a strong narrative to present to insurance companies or in court.

Their Goal is Maximizing Your Compensation

Your lawyer’s primary objective is to ensure you receive the maximum compensation under Florida law. They’ll assess the full extent of your damages and craft a comprehensive demand package to present to the insurance company. 

Car Accident Lawyers Can Offer Legal Support During Trial

If negotiations with the insurance company fail to yield a fair settlement, you still have options. A capable car accident lawyer will have a background in litigation and be willing to bring your auto accident lawsuit to court. 

They’ll represent you in litigation proceedings, leverage evidence, question witnesses, and argue your case before a judge and jury. With their legal expertise and advocacy skills, your Florida car accident lawyer will work tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome.

How a Car Accident Attorney Negotiates with Insurance Companies

Determining the answer to “can you sue for a fender bender in Florida?” is just the first step in recovering compensation. When negotiating with insurance companies, your auto accident attorney employs a strategic approach to achieve the best possible outcome. The following is a brief look at how negotiations typically proceed.

• Demand letter: Your car accident lawyer will start by sending a demand letter to the insurance company, outlining the details of the accident, your injuries, and the damages you’ve suffered. This letter serves as a formal request for compensation and sets the stage for negotiations.
• Counteroffers: In response to the demand letter, the insurance company may make a counteroffer, typically lower than your initial demand. Your lawyer will carefully review the counteroffer and negotiate with the insurance adjuster to reach a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your losses.
• Documentation: Your auto accident attorney will gather and provide documentation to support your claim, including medical bills, repair estimates, and evidence of lost wages. By presenting comprehensive documentation, your personal injury lawyer strengthens your case and increases the likelihood of reaching a satisfactory settlement.
• Persistence: Negotiating with insurance companies can be lengthy and challenging. Your car accident lawyer will remain persistent in pursuing fair compensation. They’ll continue to push for a resolution that meets your needs and rights.

Find Out How You Can Sue For a Fender Bender in Florida By Contacting the Jones Law Group

Don’t let the process of filing a car accident claim overwhelm you and deprive you of the compensation you are entitled to. Now that you know you can sue for a fender bender in Florida, it’s time to find out how a seasoned lawyer can help you win. 

At Jones Law Group, we’ll fight to help you do precisely that. We are committed to going the extra mile for our clients to negotiate the settlements they deserve, and we will do the same for you. Please reach out to our dedicated car accident attorneys through our online form or by calling 727-753-8657 for a free case review.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the time limits for filing a lawsuit after a car accident in Florida?

After a Florida car accident, don’t delay filing your claim. You have two years to take legal action, or you may lose your right to seek compensation for your damages.

Can you sue for a fender bender in Florida if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the other driver doesn’t have insurance in Florida, you may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage is optional in Florida but highly recommended to protect yourself in such situations.

Are there any limits on the compensation you can receive for a car accident in Florida?

Florida doesn’t have specific statutory limits on the compensation you can receive for a car accident. However, there may be practical limits based on the available insurance coverage and the severity of your injuries.