Car Accident Attorney in Fort Myers

Every case is different. But in all personal injury claims, there are a few elements that we look at to see if you might have a case. We check to see if:

• There were damages. Personal injury lawsuits are filed to recover “damages.” These include costs like medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An injury must have significant associated costs to qualify for a lawsuit, which vary by state.
• Someone else was at fault. To get compensation from someone else’s insurance company in Fort Myers, FL, they must have acted negligently in a way that caused or contributed to your injuries.
• There’s enough insurance coverage. Personal injury lawsuits are usually filed against insurance companies, not individuals. Those responsible must have enough insurance coverage to cover the injured person’s medical expenses or to fully compensate them for their injuries.

Not sure if you have a case? Get in touch. We're here to help Fort Myers, FL residents.

If you’re involved in a car accident in Fort Myers, FL, your health and safety should be your priority. A car accident can be a jarring experience, but taking the right steps immediately after can help protect your health, rights, and potential legal claims. Assess yourself, passengers, and others involved in the accident. Call 911 for medical help if anyone is injured.

Even if you feel fine, some injuries (like whiplash or internal trauma) may not show symptoms immediately. Visit a doctor or hospital to ensure your health and document any injuries for potential claims. Florida law requires you to seek medical care within 14 days to be eligible for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits.

If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further accidents. Florida law requires drivers to move their vehicles off the roadway if there are no serious injuries.

Call the Fort Myers Police Department or the County Sheriff’s Office to report the accident.

As you wait for emergency responders, collect the names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information of all involved drivers. Record the makes, models, license plate numbers, and vehicle owner details, and get contact information from witnesses who saw the accident occur. A police report will collect a lot of this information, but it is important to get as much for yourself as possible. This can be used in a personal injury claim.

If you are able, take photos or video of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Write down the time, date, location, and weather conditions, along with a description of what happened.

Report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Florida is a no-fault state, so your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage will pay for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident.

If the accident caused injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500, Florida law requires you to file a Civilian Traffic Collision Report with the Florida State Police.

If you’ve been injured or the accident involves significant damages, contact Morgan & Morgan to consult an experienced car accident attorney. One of our Fort Myers attorneys can help protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue compensation for your losses.

The time frame within which you must file a car accident injury claim is dictated by the statute of limitations, which varies by state. Generally, the statute of limitations ranges from one to four years from the date of the accident. This means you have that amount of time from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation.

In some cases, injuries or damages may not be immediately apparent. The discovery rule allows the statute of limitations to begin when the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered. This is particularly relevant in cases where internal injuries or long-term health issues arise after the accident.

It's especially important to visit a medical professional as soon as possible after the accident. Even if you don't feel hurt, a complete workup will document the state of your health and potentially discover injuries you may not feel yet. In some states medical paperwork filed shortly after the incident is a requirement for obtaining certain benefits.

Filing a claim sooner rather than later is key to building a strong case. Evidence can deteriorate, memories can fade, and witnesses may become harder to locate over time. By acting promptly, you improve your chances of securing vital evidence.

Given the complexities of statutes of limitations and the potential for exceptions, it’s wise to consult a car accident lawyer in Fort Myers, FL as soon as possible after your accident. A lawyer can help ensure that your claim is filed within the appropriate time frame and advise you on the best course of action.

The time it takes to resolve a car accident lawsuit can vary widely depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and the willingness of the parties to settle.

After the accident, your lawyer in Fort Myers will begin investigating the case, gathering evidence, and calculating damages. Once this is complete, they will file a claim with the insurance company or a lawsuit in court. This initial phase can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the case.

Many car accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations without going to court. Settlement discussions can begin shortly after the claim is filed and may take several months to resolve. The timeline depends on the willingness of both parties to reach an agreement and the complexity of the damages involved.

Choosing the right legal team in Fort Myers can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. With over 35 years of experience handling car accident cases, our attorneys are well-versed in state and federal traffic laws, as well as insurance regulations. We know what it takes to build a strong case and secure the compensation you deserve.

When you choose Morgan & Morgan in Fort Myers, you’re not just hiring a lawyer; you’re gaining access to an entire army of legal professionals dedicated to your case. This includes paralegals, investigators, and medical experts who work together to build the strongest possible case on your behalf.

And the best part is you don’t pay a dime unless we win your case. We understand that after a car accident, the last thing you need is additional financial stress. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis. That’s right—the Fee Is Free™, you only pay a share of your compensation if we win.

As the nation’s largest personal injury law firm, with a strong presence in Fort Myers, FL, when you work with Morgan & Morgan, you send a clear message that you mean business. Morgan & Morgan has recovered over $20 billion for clients, and our reputation for winning is known across the country.

You don’t have to face this challenging time alone. At Morgan & Morgan, we are committed to helping car accident victims in Fort Myers, navigate the complexities of their claims and achieve the justice and compensation they deserve. Remember, our services are free unless we win your case, and we’re here to fight for you every step of the way.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Fort Myers, don’t delay. Fill out our free case evaluation form today to find out how Morgan & Morgan can help you take the first step toward recovery and justice.

A "no win, no fee" agreement, also known as a contingency fee agreement, is a payment arrangement that allows clients in Fort Myers, FL, to hire a no win, no fee lawyer without paying any upfront fees.

When you hire a lawyer under a “no win, no fee” agreement in Fort Myers, you are not required to pay any money upfront. This makes legal representation accessible to anyone, regardless of their financial situation.

You only pay your lawyer if they win your case, either through a settlement or a court judgment. If your lawyer is unsuccessful, you owe nothing for their services.

If your lawyer wins the case, their fee is typically a percentage of the compensation you receive. The specific percentage may vary depending on the complexity of the case and the amount of work involved.

The “no win, no fee” arrangement aligns the lawyer's interests with yours, as they only get paid if you win. This provides a strong incentive for your lawyer to work diligently on your behalf and to seek the maximum possible compensation for your case.

At Morgan & Morgan, we believe justice should be accessible to all, so we operate on this same contingency fee system and have made it our motto that the Fee Is Free™—you only pay if we get you compensated.

If you've been involved in a car accident in Fort Myers, FL, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, depending on the details of your case. 

Economic Damages

Economic damages are meant to cover quantifiable financial losses resulting from the accident.

• Medical Expenses: Emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and future medical costs related to the accident.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed at work due to injuries, including lost earning potential if your injuries result in long-term or permanent disability.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged personal property.
• Other Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Costs for transportation to medical appointments, home modifications for disability, or hiring help for tasks you can no longer perform.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the more subjective impacts of the accident on your life.

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, discomfort, and long-term effects of your injuries.
• Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other emotional harm resulting from the accident.
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the loss of companionship or intimacy with a spouse due to injuries.

Punitive Damages

In cases where the at-fault party’s behavior was especially reckless or intentional, such as a DUI or road rage, the court may award punitive damages. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

Florida’s No-Fault Insurance System

Florida is a no-fault state, which means your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance will cover up to $10,000 of medical bills, lost wages, and other costs, regardless of who caused the accident. However, you can file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver if:

• Your medical expenses exceed $1,000,
• The accident results in permanent injury, disfigurement, or death.

Each car accident case in Fort Myers is unique, and the types of compensation you can receive will depend on the details of your injury, the impact on your life, and the circumstances surrounding the accident. A Morgan & Morgan lawyer in Fort Myers, FL, can help you determine the full extent of your damages and fight for the compensation you deserve.

While it may seem unnecessary to hire a lawyer for a minor car accident in Fort Myers, doing so can be important to ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation.

Even in minor accidents, insurance companies may try to minimize payouts. They might offer a quick settlement that doesn’t fully cover your expenses or losses. A lawyer in Fort Myers, FL, can help you evaluate the offer and negotiate for a fair settlement that includes all of your damages, even those that may not be immediately apparent.

Also, not all injuries are immediately noticeable after an accident. Some, like whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue injuries, may take days or weeks to manifest. Without legal representation, you might settle too early, before the full extent of your injuries is known. A lawyer can ensure that all potential future medical costs are considered.

At Morgan & Morgan in Fort Myers, FL, our reputation and team of trial-ready lawyers can send a clear message to the other side that low-ball settlements won’t do and that we intend to fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

While you might think you can handle a minor accident on your own, having an auto accident lawyer in Fort Myers on your side can help you avoid potential pitfalls and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

No. Consultations at Morgan & Morgan are completely free. We believe everyone deserves access to legal advice, regardless of their financial situation. Hiring one of our car crash lawyers in Fort Myers is easy, and you can get started in minutes with a free case evaluation on our site or by phone.

When you hire Morgan & Morgan in Fort Myers, FL, you don’t just hire a lawyer; you hire the largest personal injury law firm in the country with an army of over 1,000 lawyers and offices in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Your case will be handled by a dedicated team of professionals, including personal injury lawyers, paralegals, and support staff. You will be assigned a care team that includes a primary attorney who will oversee your case and ensure you receive personalized attention throughout the process.

After your initial consultation in Fort Myers, your care team will schedule regular meetings to discuss your case, provide updates, and prepare you for any upcoming proceedings. We are committed to maintaining open lines of communication and keeping you informed every step of the way. These meetings can be handled in person, virtually, and by phone, depending on your case’s requirements and your ability to do so.

The average settlement for a car accident claim can vary widely depending on several factors, including the severity of injuries, the extent of property damage, and the circumstances surrounding the accident.

The most significant factor in determining a settlement amount is the severity of your injuries. Cases involving minor injuries, such as whiplash or bruising, may result in smaller settlements, while severe injuries like spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or multiple fractures can lead to much more substantial settlements.

Your medical bills play a crucial role in calculating your settlement. This includes costs for emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, and any ongoing or future medical care. The higher your medical expenses, the larger your settlement is likely to be.

Proving fault in a car accident case can help you secure compensation for your injuries and damages. The process involves gathering and presenting evidence that demonstrates the other party’s negligence or wrongdoing.

After an accident, a police officer will typically investigate the scene and file a report. This report often includes the officer’s observations, statements from the drivers and witnesses, and sometimes the officer’s opinion on who was at fault. While not definitive, a police report can be a strong piece of evidence in establishing fault.

Witnesses who saw the accident can provide valuable accounts that support your version of events. Their testimonies can help corroborate your claims and strengthen your case.

Photographic evidence from the accident scene can be crucial. Pictures of vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs, road conditions, and other relevant details can help recreate the sequence of events and demonstrate how the accident occurred.

If the other driver violated traffic laws, such as running a red light, speeding, or failing to yield, this can be a clear indicator of fault. Traffic citations issued to the other driver at the scene can also serve as evidence.

In more complex cases, Morgan & Morgan’s accident reconstruction experts in Fort Myers, FL, may be called upon to analyze the evidence and provide an opinion on how the accident occurred and who was at fault. Their expertise can help clarify the events leading up to the collision.

If the other driver admits fault at the scene or afterward, their admission can be used as evidence. However, it’s important to be cautious with your own statements, as anything you say could also be used against you.

Your account of the accident, including details about what you saw, heard, and felt, is also important. Consistent and clear testimony can help establish the facts of the case.

Proving fault requires a comprehensive approach to gathering and presenting evidence. A Morgan & Morgan lawyer in Fort Myers can assist you in building a strong case, ensuring that all relevant evidence is collected and effectively used to demonstrate the other party’s liability.

Yes, you can still receive compensation if you were partially at fault for a car accident in Fort Myers, FL, thanks to Florida's pure comparative negligence rule. Under this system, your compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you, but you are not barred from recovering damages unless you are 100% at fault.

Each party involved in the accident is assigned a percentage of fault based on their actions. For example, if you were speeding and the other driver ran a red light, fault may be split between both parties, such as 30% for you and 70% for the other driver.

In a personal injury claim, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if your damages are $100,000 and you are found 30% at fault, your recovery will be reduced by 30%, leaving you with $70,000.

While this can seem very complex, a car accident lawyer at Morgan & Morgan’s Fort Myers office can evaluate your claim and review your legal options with you.

If you’re involved in a car accident in Fort Myers, with a driver who is uninsured or underinsured, it can complicate the process of recovering compensation for your damages. However, there are several avenues you can pursue to ensure that you are not left bearing the financial burden.

If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage as part of your auto insurance policy in Florida, this coverage can step in to cover your damages when the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance. UM coverage pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages you would have otherwise sought from the other driver’s insurance. UIM coverage applies when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover the full extent of your losses.

Navigating a claim involving an uninsured or underinsured driver can be complex. A Morgan & Morgan car accident lawyer in Fort Myers, FL, can help you explore all available options, negotiate with your insurance company, and determine the best strategy for securing the compensation you need.

Handling a car accident involving a rideshare (such as Uber or Lyft) or delivery driver (such as those working for DoorDash or Amazon) in Fort Myers requires some specific steps, as these types of accidents can be more complicated due to the involvement of commercial insurance and potential liability issues. 

As always, your health and safety are the top priority. Assess yourself, the other driver, and passengers for injuries. Call 911 for medical help if needed.

If possible and safe to do so, move vehicles out of traffic to avoid additional accidents. However, do not leave the scene.

Next, report the accident. Florida law requires accidents to be reported to law enforcement if there are injuries or damage exceeding $500.

When involved in an accident with a rideshare or delivery driver, be sure to collect the following information:

• Driver Information:
  • Name, phone number, and driver’s license number of the rideshare or delivery driver.
  • The name of the rideshare service (Uber, Lyft) or delivery company (DoorDash, Uber Eats).
  • Insurance information, including the policy number.
• Rideshare or Delivery Company Details:
  • If the driver was actively working at the time of the accident, note the name of the rideshare or delivery app, the vehicle’s license plate, and other vehicle details.
  • Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft allow you to obtain trip information through their apps (driver name, location, trip details).
• Witness Information:
  • Get contact details from anyone who witnessed the accident, as their testimony could be crucial for your claim.
• Photos and Videos:
  • Take pictures of the scene, vehicle damage, license plates, and any visible injuries.

As a no-fault state, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance will typically cover your medical expenses and lost wages up to $10,000, regardless of who caused the accident. However, PIP doesn’t cover vehicle damage, so that will fall under your collision coverage or the other party’s insurance, depending on fault.

If the driver was working at the time of the accident (like picking up a passenger or delivering food), their commercial insurance may apply. Rideshare and delivery companies typically provide liability coverage, but this can vary depending on the circumstances.

Determining Fault

If the Rideshare/Delivery Driver Is at Fault:
The driver’s insurance may cover the damages, and you can file a claim through their insurance or the company’s liability policy.

If You Are at Fault:
Your own PIP and liability coverage will likely cover the damages and injuries unless you have insufficient insurance.

If the Rideshare/Delivery Driver Wasn’t Fully Covered:
Rideshare and delivery companies offer insurance coverage in different scenarios:

• While driving with a passenger or delivering: Their commercial insurance should apply.
• While driving to pick up a passenger or delivery: The driver’s personal insurance may cover the accident unless they have specific coverage through the app.
• Off the clock: If the driver was not logged into the app, their personal insurance may be the only option.

Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, see a doctor after the accident. Injuries from car accidents, like whiplash or soft tissue damage, can appear days or even weeks after the incident. If you wait too long to seek medical treatment, it may affect your ability to claim compensation.

Accidents involving rideshare or delivery drivers can get complicated quickly, especially when determining liability or dealing with multiple insurance companies. A lawyer can help you navigate these complexities by identifying all possible sources of compensation, negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensuring you get fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and vehicle repairs.

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident in Fort Myers can be a terrifying experience. If the other driver leaves the scene, it’s important to stay calm and take specific steps to protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering compensation.

First, check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. Your safety and health should always be the top priority.

If possible, try to remember and document as much information about the fleeing vehicle as you can, such as the make, model, color, and license plate number. Also, note the direction in which the vehicle fled.

Seek out witnesses who may have seen the accident. Their statements could be crucial in identifying the hit-and-run driver and supporting your claim. Ask for their contact information, as they may be able to provide a statement to the police or your attorney.

Contact the police as soon as possible to report the hit-and-run in Fort Myers. Provide them with all the details you gathered. A police report will be essential for your insurance claim and any potential legal action.

Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but could have long-term effects. Medical documentation will also be vital for your claim.

Next, report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Depending on your policy, you may have coverage options such as uninsured motorist coverage, which can help pay for your damages when the at-fault driver is unknown.

Hit-and-run cases can be complex, especially when the at-fault driver cannot be identified. An experienced car accident attorney at Morgan & Morgan in Fort Myers, FL, can help you navigate the legal process, work with your insurance company, and explore all possible avenues for compensation.

Even if the hit-and-run driver is never found, you may still be entitled to compensation through your own insurance policy or other means. An attorney in Fort Myers, can evaluate your case, explain your options, and help you recover the damages you deserve.

Every time we hit the road we embark on a journey that demands caution, responsibility, and awareness. Despite advancements in vehicle safety, car crashes remain an unfortunate reality, often resulting from a variety of factors. At Morgan & Morgan, we believe knowledge is an important tool for prevention.

• Distracted Driving: In an era dominated by technology, distracted driving has become a pervasive issue. Whether texting, talking on the phone, or engaging with in-car entertainment systems, diverted attention can lead to devastating consequences.
• Speeding: Exceeding speed limits poses a significant risk on the road. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents, making it a leading contributor to collisions.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a major cause of accidents. Impaired judgment and coordination significantly elevate the likelihood of crashes with severe outcomes.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive and reckless driving behaviors, such as tailgating, weaving between lanes, and disregarding traffic signals, create hazardous conditions and contribute to many accidents.
• Weather Conditions: Adverse weather, from rain and snow to fog and ice, amplifies the challenges of driving. Reduced visibility and slippery roads make accidents more probable during inclement weather.
• Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Failing to obey traffic signals and signs jeopardizes the safety of everyone on the road. Intersection-related collisions are often the result of drivers disregarding these crucial directives.
• Driver Fatigue: Tired and drowsy driving impairs cognitive functions and reaction times. Fatigue-related accidents are more prevalent than one might think, especially during long-distance travel and late-night driving.

Sometimes, however, other negligent drivers can introduce more risks on the road, regardless of how carefully you drive. If you're involved in a car wreck in Fort Myers, FL, that wasn’t your fault, Morgan & Morgan's dedicated team is here to help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

A Morgan & Morgan car accident lawyer in Fort Myers, FL, can provide priceless help after a car accident, offering legal guidance to navigate the complexities of your case and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Car accident laws can be complicated and each state has its own regulations. As the largest personal injury law firm in the country with a significant presence in Fort Myers, Morgan & Morgan’s lawyers know the local laws and regulations surrounding your car accident. Your lawyer can explain your rights, outline your legal options, and help you understand the potential outcomes of your case.

Your car accident lawyer in Fort Myers will also conduct a thorough investigation of your accident, gathering crucial evidence such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, and accident scene photos. This evidence is essential for building a strong case.

Morgan & Morgan also knows how to handle the claims process and insurance companies that undervalue claims. Navigating the claims process can get complex, and insurance companies routinely aim to minimize payouts. A car crash lawyer in Fort Myers, FL will handle all communications with the insurance company, ensuring that you don’t say anything that could harm your claim. They will also negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement.

Other contributing factors of your claim, such as establishing fault or calculating damages, can also be complicated processes. Morgan & Morgan can work to identify all liable parties, whether it’s another driver, a vehicle manufacturer, or a government entity responsible for road maintenance.

Most importantly, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court. They will represent you in all legal proceedings, presenting evidence and making arguments on your behalf.

And the best part is Morgan & Morgan operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case. This allows you to access top-tier legal representation in Fort Myers, FL, without financial stress.