Car Accident Attorney in Tavares
14229 US 441
Tavares, FL 32778
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Tavares Car Accidents
On any given day, when you get into a car, you are potentially putting yourself at risk. No matter how safe a driver you are, there is always a chance that you will end up getting injured in an accident. Typically, the risk is low, and the benefits of driving are high, but it isn’t something you can ever completely ignore.
Hopefully, you will be one of the lucky few who never gets injured in a car accident. But if you aren’t that lucky, you need to understand how to handle the accident and your legal options. The more prepared you are for this type of situation, the better it will likely turn out.
At Morgan & Morgan, we help people like you understand their legal options every day of the year. And even more importantly, we help them get compensation for their injuries so that they recover quickly with the best medical treatment available.
If you have been involved in a car accident in central Florida, consulting with one of our Tavares car accident attorneys could be the difference between an easy recovery and years of pain and debt. There is no cost to get an initial consultation. So you have no reason to delay.
Contact us immediately to schedule your free case evaluation with one of our experienced Tavares car accident attorneys.
Tavares and Nearby Locations
Tavares is not one of the better-known cities in the state of Florida. It is a relatively small city primarily known for its beautiful lakes. Due to its proximity to Orlando, it is a popular location for tourists to get an inexpensive hotel away from the crowds if they are willing to endure long drives to see nearby attractions.
The main activities in Tavares involve the many lakes. There are plenty of places to fish, boat, or just relax in a park overlooking the water. If you are looking for additional activities, Tavares also has multiple country clubs nearby.
Tavares is home to Leesburg International Airport. While this isn’t as large an airport as Orlando International or Ocala International, it is a good alternative to avoid airport crowds. However, this also means that there is a lot of extra car traffic from Tavares to nearby locations.
Orlando
The nearest major city is filled with tourist attractions. Known for being the home of Disney World, Orlando gets millions of visitors every year. And due to how the city is designed, the majority of transportation involves cars. Traveling to and from Orlando is one of the most common reasons that people need Tavares car accident attorneys.
Tampa
A trip from Tavares to Tampa takes many hours. Typically, travelers will make a weekend of it so that they don’t have to spend six hours or more on the road.
Because the trip is so long, drivers are likely to zone out during parts of the trip. This increases the chance of accidents, especially on crowded I-75. If you are traveling to Tampa, take extra care and many driving breaks to stay awake. And if you get into an accident, contact the Tavares car accident attorneys at Morgan and Morgan promptly.
Wilderness Preserves
There are several wilderness preserves within a two-hour drive of Tavares. While these places are beautiful to visit, they usually have tight roads with poor visibility. Speed limits are strictly enforced, but not all visitors respect them.
Many of the accidents we see in these preserves are due to visitors who choose to ignore the speed limits. If you were in an accident because of the recklessness of another, contact Tavares car accident attorneys immediately to ensure that you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Fault Usually Doesn’t Matter in Florida
Fault rules are complicated legal matters that change when you travel from one state to another. In Florida, typically, your insurance policy will cover compensation for your car accident injuries, regardless of who was at fault in the accident. Though, depending on specific circumstances, you might also be eligible to sue a reckless driver for additional compensation.
Your Tavares car accident attorneys can explain more about that in the rare cases where those laws apply. Typically, though, you will get all of your compensation from your insurance company. This means that it is important to have a robust car insurance policy if you are driving in Florida.
If you are a Tavares resident, you have probably already had at least some of this explained to you by your insurance agent. And hopefully, you already have a good policy with a high limit. This will make you eligible for the maximum possible compensation after getting injured in a car accident.
However, if you are visiting Florida, your personal insurance may not be as robust since every state has different requirements for minimum insurance. There are several ways you can protect yourself, even if your car insurance doesn’t have as high a limit as you’d want in Florida.
Our Tavares car accident attorneys recommend that you purchase a temporary increase in limit before visiting Florida. Almost all car insurance companies offer vacation insurance, or something similar, that lets you increase your limits for a short time. This is best because your insurance is still going through an insurer you are familiar with.
Alternatively, if you are renting a vehicle, you may be able to get additional insurance through the rental agency. It usually isn’t as convenient, but you should at least look into this option, in case it is less expensive.
Insurance Companies Are Never on Your Side
Ask any Tavares car accident attorneys you can find, and they will all tell you the same thing: insurance companies are only interested in their profits. They will do anything they can to avoid paying money, and they have an army of lawyers on their side working to maximize their profits.
This is why you need an equally devoted army of Tavares car accident attorneys working to maximize your compensation. Otherwise, you will be overwhelmed by the red tape and end up receiving less money than you deserve.
The main difficulty when dealing with car insurance companies is that they have control of almost all the mechanisms during the claims process. And the business-friendly laws in Florida make it difficult to fight their decisions, even if they violate the few laws designed to protect policyholders.
If you want to receive the compensation you deserve, you need lawyers, like those at Morgan & Morgan, that understand the ways insurance companies work against you.
Red Tape
Unfortunately, the claims process is rarely simple. Typically, most insurers design their process to be as complex as possible. This offers them multiple benefits. First, it makes you likely to make mistakes during your claim, and it increases the amount of time your claim takes to complete.
If you make a mistake, that mistake will need to be fixed, but correcting an error often means starting that stage of the claim process over. Sometimes it will require you to restart the entire process from the beginning. And in other situations, the insurance company might use that mistake as an excuse to deny your claim.
And if you are looking for help navigating the red tape, you should never trust anyone associated with the insurance company. Often, you will receive incomplete or conflicting instructions. Yet, even if that happens, your insurer will usually blame you for any errors in the process.
Even when this red tape doesn’t result in your claim getting denied, it delays the completion of the process. This is intentional. Insurance companies know from experience that claimants will often drop their claims if the process takes too long. And even if they don’t, a long claim makes them more likely to accept a low settlement.
Investigation
The investigation is another step of the process where insurance companies have almost all the power. Typically, your insurer will send an investigator to determine what happened during the accident and where responsibility lies.
While this matters less in a no-fault state like Florida, there are still situations where it can affect your compensation or the future cost of your premiums. And unless you have an experienced car accident lawyer, like those at Morgan and Morgan, representing you, typically, this is the only investigation of the accident that happens.
Approval or Denial
Your insurance company also has complete control over the decision to approve or deny your claim. That determination is usually made by examining the evidence uncovered during the investigation. If the investigator finds evidence that you violated your policy in some way, your claim will likely be denied.
That is why it is so problematic that the investigation is performed by someone who works directly for the insurance company. Instead of looking for evidence that supports your claim, they are looking for anything that can be used to deny it. They might even ignore supporting evidence that they find.
Your insurer can also deny your claim if the circumstances of your accident aren’t covered by your policy. This is tricky to contest because you likely don’t understand your policy as well as the insurance company does.
That gives your insurer a lot of leeways to deny you, even when a strict reading of your policy means you should be approved. Your insurance company has experience finding loopholes that look legitimate, even when they aren’t.
And even if your insurer approves your claim, it also determines how much to pay you for your injuries. This is where some of the biggest discrepancies can arise. A conservative estimate of your expenses can differ from your actual costs by tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Furthermore, the insurance company may decide that it will only pay for certain types of treatment, even if your doctor recommends something else. You could easily find yourself having to choose between treatment that doesn’t help you fully recover or paying thousands of dollars out of pocket.
Also, your insurance company might put limits on how much it will pay for specific treatments, even if those values don’t reflect their true cost. It usually won’t explain how it comes up with these numbers, which makes it even more difficult to dispute them when they are lower than what you need.
Finally, the insurance company also has complete control of the appeals process. Supposedly, the new decision is made by unbiased individuals. But since it isn’t a transparent process, there is no way to be certain. And most appeals get denied unless you are represented by Tavares car accident attorneys.
How Tavares Car Accident Attorneys at Morgan & Morgan Can Help You Get Compensation
The best way to counteract the control that the insurance company has over the claims process is to be represented by an experienced Morgan and Morgan lawyer that understands how it works. Our Tavares car accident attorneys can strip away the mystery of the process and guide you through it so that you avoid costly mistakes.
During every step of your claim, we will communicate with the insurance company on your behalf. This lets us cut through the red tape and prevent delays in the process. Just by retaining us, you can expect your claim to be completed in weeks or months less than it would have taken without legal counsel.
One of the first things we will do after taking your case is to investigate the accident and research the details of your insurance policy. The investigators at Morgan & Morgan are tasked with finding evidence that supports your case and will prevent your insurer from denying your claim.
When you are represented by Tavares car accident attorneys, it is pretty rare for an insurance company to deny your claim. It understands that your lawyer knows the law, the claims process, and the insurance company and that you are implicitly ready to go to trial if necessary.
Ensuring your claim is approved is only the beginning. Next, we need to ensure you get the maximum possible compensation for your injuries. This requires experience, research, and lots of documentation.
It is essential that you properly document every cost you incur after your injury. If you are like most clients, you won’t know all of the expenses that you can legally be compensated for. We help by explaining what you can claim and how to document those expenses in the most effective way.
While you probably are aware that you can claim medical expenses, you can also get compensation for:
- Lost wages due to missed work time
- Lost opportunities, like a promotion
- Pain and suffering
- Assistance services, like a live-in nurse or transportation
- Medical accommodations and devices
If you have already incurred one of these expenses, you can typically document the expense by providing your insurer with a copy of the receipt. You may also need documentation from your doctor or employer proving that the expense or cost is valid for the injury you suffered.
However, documenting future expenses is trickier. This is where the experience of your Tavares car accident attorneys from Morgan and Morgan will benefit you greatly.
Our lawyers have handled hundreds of similar cases. We can use facts from past cases to accurately determine what costs you will incur before you have fully recovered. These numbers are usually higher than the calculations of the insurer because we use real figures rather than conservative estimates.
This is the start of the negotiation process. We counter the low offer of your insurer with as much evidence as necessary to force them to make a fair settlement offer. The more documentation we provide, the more likely they will up the offer because they know we have enough evidence to win a large award if we take the case to trial.
Typically, this will be the end of the claims process. It may take a lot of work, but usually, the insurance company will eventually agree to a fair settlement rather than incur attorney’s fees and risk a higher award from a trial. If you agree that the offer is fair, you will shortly get paid after the negotiations are over.
Finally, if any part of the process goes poorly, you will be better off if you are represented by an attorney during the appeals process. As with the rest of the claim process, our knowledge of procedures will serve you well and increase the odds that the insurance company reverses a decision you disagree with.
In the worst-case scenario, we will represent you at trial. Typically, we prefer to avoid trials because there is no way to be certain how a jury will rule on your case. But if we do end up in court, you can feel comfortable knowing that Morgan & Morgan has an excellent record of success at trial.
What to Do After Getting Seriously Injured in a Car Accident in Tavares, FL
It almost goes without saying, but if you have been seriously injured in a car accident, the first thing you need to do is call 911. Unless it is dangerous to stay where you are, you should avoid moving until medical personnel arrive to evaluate your condition and begin treatment.
Thankfully, this usually won’t prevent you from doing many of the other activities that you should do after a major accident because you can use your phone even while remaining still. Some other activities may require assistance, but sometimes people show up to help after an accident.
After calling 911, your next phone call should be to the Tavares car accident attorneys at Morgan and Morgan. Even if you aren’t certain whether you will need a lawyer, it is better to be safe than sorry. Our initial evaluation and consultation are free. So there is no cost to you for calling us. But it could cost you dearly if you don’t call us immediately.
The next thing you should do is share contact information with the other drivers in the accident. This is complicated by the fact that you shouldn’t be moving until cleared by medical personnel. However, if anyone else is present, they will probably be more than willing to help you in your time of need.
Whether another party helps you or you wait until you can safely move, the most important part of this step is photographing every piece of contact information that is available. You should take photos of the other driver’s:
- License plate
- License
- Insurance card
- Rental vehicle contract, if applicable
Once you have this information, send it to your Tavares car accident attorneys as quickly as possible. That way, your lawyers have a digital copy of that information. Since personal items like phones often get lost at a hospital, this protects the data that you received.
At some point, police will likely arrive at the scene of the accident. Police are supposed to take a police report in any accident where someone is seriously injured. When this happens, you should also take a picture of the officer’s credentials and request information about how to get a copy of the report they are writing.
The officer may also request that you provide a statement for their report. You have the right to have your lawyer present before speaking with the police. Politely provide your contact information and let them know that you will make a statement when your attorney is available.
The reason you should wait before telling your side of the story is that your statement will become a matter of public record. That information will be available to all interested parties, including the insurance company. Anything you say can potentially be used as an excuse to deny your claim or provide less compensation.
For similar reasons, you also shouldn’t discuss the accident with other drivers or with witnesses. While they aren’t likely to be recording what you say, their recollection of your words could come back to haunt you.
Finally, if possible, you want to begin your claim before you leave the scene of the accident. Most insurance companies these days have apps that allow you to file a claim online and attach documentation and photos of the scene using a smartphone.
Similar to how you shouldn’t give a statement to the police until your lawyer is present, you shouldn’t provide the insurance company with anything other than basic information at this point. You can update your claim once your Tavares car accident attorneys have had a chance to review your case and advise you.
If, for any reason, you can’t begin your claim while at the scene of the accident, file it as soon as possible afterward. The claims process can take weeks, or even months, depending on the circumstances. And you don’t want to delay that by waiting to start the process.
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FAQ
Get answers to commonly asked questions about our legal services and learn how we may assist you with your case.
How do I know if I have a car accident claim in Tavares, FL?
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 medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To qualify for a lawsuit, an injury must have significant associated costs, which vary by state.
- Someone else was at fault: To get compensation from someone else’s insurance company in Tavares, FL, they must have acted negligently in a way that caused or contributed to your injuries.
- There is 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.
If you are unsure if you have a case, contact us. We're here to help residents of Tavares, FL.
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Tavares, FL?
Immediately after a car accident in Tavares, FL, your primary focus should be safety, well-being, and securing the necessary help.
First, assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to get medical assistance. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location out of traffic. If the car cannot be moved, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
Next, call the police. Even if the accident seems minor, it's crucial to have a police report. The responding officer will document the scene, which can be vital for your insurance claim or any legal action.
Collect information from the other driver, including their name, contact details, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance information. Be polite, but avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be used against you later.
Take photos or videos of the accident scene in Tavares, including vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and any other relevant details. These can serve as critical evidence. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information and ask if they would be willing to provide a statement.
Even if you feel fine, getting checked out by a medical professional is wise. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but can become serious if untreated. A medical visit also creates evidence that you took your accident seriously.
Next, report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault.
Finally, contact a car accident lawyer at Morgan & Morgan in Tavares, FL—especially if you’ve sustained injuries or the damage is significant. One of our auto injury lawyers can help protect your rights and guide you through the claims process.
How long after a car accident can I file a claim in Tavares?
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. You may lose your right to seek compensation if you miss this deadline.
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 Tavares, 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.
How long does it take to resolve a car accident lawsuit in Tavares?
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 Tavares will investigate the case, gather evidence, and calculate damages. Once this is complete, they will file a claim with the insurance company or a lawsuit in court. Depending on the complexity of the case, this initial phase can take a few weeks to several months.
Many car accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations without going to court. Settlement discussions can begin soon 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.
Why should I hire Morgan & Morgan in Tavares?
Choosing the right legal team in Tavares 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 and insurance regulations. We know what it takes to build a strong case and secure the compensation you deserve.
When you choose Morgan & Morgan in Tavares, 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.
The best part is that 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 Tavares, FL, when you work with Morgan & Morgan, you send a clear message that you mean business. Morgan & Morgan has recovered over $23 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 Tavares 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 Tavares, 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.
How much does it cost to hire Morgan & Morgan in Tavares, FL?
A "no win, no fee" agreement, also known as a contingency fee agreement, is a payment arrangement that allows clients in Tavares, FL, to hire a lawyer without paying upfront fees.
When you hire a lawyer under a “no win, no fee” agreement in Tavares, 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 strongly incentivizes your lawyer to work diligently on your behalf and 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.
What sort of compensation can I recover for a car accident claim in Tavares?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Tavares, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, depending on the specifics of your case.
- Medical Expenses: This includes compensation for all past, present, and future medical costs related to your injury. It covers hospital bills, doctor’s visits, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any necessary medical equipment. If your injury requires ongoing treatment, your compensation should also account for these future expenses.
- Lost Wages: If your injury has caused you to miss work, you can seek compensation for lost wages. This includes the income you’ve already lost and any future income you may lose if your injury affects your ability to work. In cases of permanent disability, this may include compensation for loss of earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Car accident injuries can cause significant physical pain and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering is intended to address the non-economic impact of your injuries, such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and the overall decrease in your quality of life.
- Emotional Distress: Severe accidents can lead to emotional trauma, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Compensation for emotional distress aims to provide financial relief for the psychological impact of the accident.
- Disability and Disfigurement: If the accident resulted in a permanent disability or disfigurement, such as a loss of limb or scarring, you could receive additional compensation to address the lifelong impact of these injuries.
- Loss of Consortium: If your injuries have affected your relationship with your spouse or family, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of consortium. This can cover the loss of companionship, affection, and support resulting from your injury.
- Punitive Damages: In some cases, where the at-fault party’s conduct was particularly reckless or malicious, you may be awarded punitive damages. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
- Property Damage: You can also seek compensation for any damage to your vehicle or other personal property. This includes repair or replacement costs and any rental car expenses while your vehicle is being repaired.
Each car accident case in Tavares 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 Tavares, FL, can help you determine the full extent of your damages and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Do I need to hire a lawyer for a minor car accident in Tavares?
While hiring a lawyer for a minor car accident in Tavares may seem unnecessary, doing so can be crucial 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 Tavares, 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 Tavares, FL, our reputation and team of trial-ready lawyers can clearly communicate to the other side that low-ball settlements will not work 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 Tavares on your side can help you avoid potential pitfalls and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Do I have to pay for a consultation with a car accident lawyer in Tavares?
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 Tavares is easy, and you can get started in minutes with a free case evaluation on our site or by phone.
Who will be on my case team in Tavares?
When you hire Morgan & Morgan in Tavares, 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 with a primary attorney overseeing your case and ensuring you receive personalized attention.
When do I meet with my car accident lawyer in Tavares, FL?
After your initial consultation in Tavares, 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. Depending on your case’s requirements and your ability to do so, these meetings can be conducted in person, virtually, or by phone.
What is the average settlement for a car accident claim in Tavares, FL?
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 severity of your injuries is the most significant factor in determining a settlement amount. Cases involving minor injuries, such as whiplash or bruising, may result in smaller settlements, while severe injuries, such as 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.
How do I prove fault in a car accident case in Tavares, FL?
Establishing fault in a car accident case is crucial for obtaining compensation for your injuries and damages. This requires collecting and presenting evidence that highlights the other party’s negligence or misconduct.
Following an accident, a police officer usually investigates the scene and prepares a report. This report often contains the officer’s observations, statements from drivers and witnesses, and occasionally the officer’s assessment of fault. While not conclusive, a police report can serve as compelling evidence to support your case.
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 clearly indicate 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 Tavares, 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 Tavares 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.
Can I still get compensation if I was partially at fault in Tavares?
Most states, including Florida, allow you to recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for a car accident. This is possible due to the comparative negligence rule, which reduces your compensation by your percentage of fault.
In a car accident lawsuit, the court or insurance company determines the percentage of fault assigned to each party. If you are found partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by that percentage. For example, if you are awarded $100,000 in damages but found 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%, leaving you with $80,000.
Florida uses a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can recover compensation as long as your share of fault does not exceed 50%. However, you will not be eligible for compensation if you are determined to be 51% or more at fault.
Insurance companies often try to reduce payouts by arguing that you were partially or primarily at fault. Having an experienced attorney in Tavares, FL, can help you contest these claims and secure a fair settlement.
To strengthen your case, gather solid evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, photos of the accident scene, and any available video footage. An attorney at Morgan & Morgan in Tavares can help collect and present this evidence effectively.
Acting quickly and consulting with a Tavares attorney is important if you were partially at fault. An experienced car accident attorney will ensure your fault is accurately assessed and that you receive the compensation you deserve, even if you bear some responsibility for the accident.
What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured in Tavares, FL?
If you’re involved in a car accident in Tavares with an uninsured or underinsured driver, 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 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.
Handling a claim involving an uninsured or underinsured driver can be challenging. A Morgan & Morgan car accident attorney in Tavares, FL, can assist you in exploring all your options, negotiating with your insurance provider, and developing the best approach to secure the compensation you deserve.
How do I handle a car accident involving a rideshare or delivery driver in Tavares?
Car accidents involving rideshare (such as Uber or Lyft) or delivery drivers (such as those working for DoorDash or Amazon) present unique legal challenges.
As with any car accident, your first priority should be your safety and health. Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary. If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately.
Collect as much information as possible at the scene, including the driver’s name, contact information, and details about their vehicle. If they were working for a rideshare or delivery service at the time, get the name of the company and any relevant details about their employment status. Also, gather contact information from any witnesses.
Take photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be crucial when filing a claim with the appropriate insurance company in Tavares, FL.
Notify the rideshare or delivery company about the accident. Both Uber and Lyft, for example, have protocols for handling accidents involving their drivers. The company may have its own insurance policy covering the driver while on the job.
File a police report, as this will be an important document for your insurance claim or lawsuit. Be sure to mention if the driver was working for a rideshare or delivery service at the time of the accident.
Inform your insurance company about the accident. Depending on the situation, your insurance may be involved in covering some of the damages.
Accidents involving rideshare or delivery drivers in Tavares, FL, often involve multiple insurance policies, including the driver’s personal coverage, the company’s insurance, and possibly your own policy. A skilled attorney at Morgan & Morgan in Tavares can guide you through this intricate process, identify the applicable policies, and work to secure the compensation you’re entitled to.
Rideshare and delivery companies often have large insurance policies to cover accidents involving their drivers, but getting the compensation you’re entitled to can be challenging. An attorney in Tavares, FL, can advocate on your behalf, negotiate with the insurance companies, and, if necessary, take your case to court to protect your rights.
What should I do if the other driver leaves the scene (hit-and-run) in Tavares, Florida?
Being involved in a hit-and-run accident in Tavares can be a terrifying experience. If the other driver leaves the scene, staying calm and taking specific steps to protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering compensation is important.
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 possible, such as the make, model, color, and license plate number. Also, note the direction in which the car fled.
Look for witnesses who might have observed the accident, as their accounts can play a vital role in identifying the hit-and-run driver and strengthening your claim. Be sure to collect their contact information, as they may provide statements to the police or your attorney.
Report the hit-and-run to the police in Tavares as soon as possible. Share all the details you have gathered, as a police report is critical for your insurance claim and any future legal action.
Even if you don’t feel injured, seeing a doctor as soon as possible is important. 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 present unique challenges, particularly when the at-fault driver is unknown. A skilled car accident attorney at Morgan & Morgan in Tavares, FL, can guide you through the legal process, collaborate with your insurance provider, and pursue every available option to secure the compensation you deserve.
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 Tavares can evaluate your case, explain your options, and help you recover the damages you deserve.
What are the common causes of car accidents in Tavares?
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 various factors. At Morgan & Morgan, we believe knowledge is an important tool for prevention.
- Distracted Driving: In an era of technology, distracted driving has become a pervasive issue. Whether texting, talking on the phone, or engaging with in-car entertainment systems, diverted attention can have 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 driving challenges. Reduced visibility and slippery roads make accidents more probable during inclement weather.
- Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Failure to obey traffic signals and signs jeopardizes the safety of everyone on the road. Drivers who disregard these crucial directives often cause intersection-related collisions.
- 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 Tavares, 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.
How can a Morgan & Morgan car accident lawyer help me in Tavares?
A Morgan & Morgan car accident lawyer in Tavares, 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 vary by state and can be complex to navigate. As the nation’s largest personal injury law firm with a strong presence in Tavares, Morgan & Morgan’s attorneys have in-depth knowledge of local laws and regulations related to car accidents. Your attorney will clarify your rights, present your legal options, and guide you through the potential outcomes of your case.
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