Bradenton Car Accident Lawyers
Bradenton, FL Car Accident Attorneys
Car accidents can disrupt your life, leading to injuries, medical bills, and uncertainty about the future. The Bradenton car accident attorneys at Lesser Lesser Landy & Smith PLLC are here to provide clear, straightforward guidance and to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (941) 227-4677 for a free consultation.
Important Steps After the Accident
Follow Up with a Doctor
After a car accident, see a doctor as soon as possible, even if you don’t feel injured. Injuries like whiplash might not be apparent right away. Medical records from these visits are critical for documenting your claim.
Consult an Attorney
After addressing your medical needs, contact a Bradenton car accident attorney at our firm. Your attorney will review the details of your case and explain your legal options. Our deep knowledge of Bradenton’s traffic patterns and accident hotspots allows us to anticipate challenges and effectively counter the tactics used by insurance companies. This local insight is critical in building a compelling case that addresses the unique aspects of your accident.
Preserve Evidence
Strong evidence forms the backbone of your claim. Here’s what you should do:
- Photograph the Scene: Capture images of the accident site and any visible injuries.
- Keep Medical Records: Save all documents related to your medical treatment.
- Collect Witness Information: Obtain contact details from anyone who saw the accident.
The thorough documentation of these details plays a key role in building a robust case.
Limit Communication
Discuss the accident only with your attorney. Insurance companies may attempt to use your statements against you. Let our attorneys handle all communication to protect your claim.
Do I Have a Valid Car Accident Claim?
Criteria for a Claim
To file a car accident claim in Florida, you must show that another party’s negligence caused the accident and your injuries. We will thoroughly investigate the details of your accident, considering all factors that could impact your claim, including the specific location and traffic conditions where the accident occurred.
Common Causes of Accidents
Car accidents in Bradenton often occur due to:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Failure to yield
Bradenton intersections like SR-70 and US-41 are known for frequent accidents. Our attorneys will examine the details of your case to identify the cause and build your claim.
The Role of an Attorney in Your Case
Why You Need an Attorney
An attorney with local expertise can make a significant difference in your case. Our attorneys:
- Guide you through each step and clarify what to expect
- Collect and organize crucial documentation
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies to pursue fair compensation
Our understanding of Bradenton’s roads and common accident sites allows us to build a case that addresses the unique aspects of your situation.
Compensation in Car Accident Cases
Types of Compensation
Victims of car accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Including emergency care, surgery, and ongoing treatment
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work
- Pain and Suffering: Financial recovery for physical and emotional distress
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We ensure that all aspects of your loss are considered in your claim, particularly if your injuries require long-term care.
Factors Influencing Compensation
Compensation depends on several factors, such as:
- The severity of your injuries
- The extent of medical treatment required
- The impact on your daily life
Our attorneys carefully evaluate these factors to pursue the highest possible recovery for you.
No Upfront Costs
Contingency Fee Structure
Our Bradenton car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay any attorney fees unless we win your case. This structure allows you to focus on your recovery without the burden of upfront legal costs.
Key Florida Laws
Statute of Limitations
In March 2023, Florida shortened the statute of limitations for personal injury claims based on general negligence from four years to two years. This means that if your accident occurred after March 24, 2023, you have only two years to file a claim. Missing this deadline could forfeit your right to seek compensation. Our attorneys prioritize timely action, ensuring that your claim is filed within this critical window, so you can focus on recovery while we handle the legal details.
Modified Comparative Negligence Law
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system, where your compensation is reduced in proportion to your level of fault, as long as responsibility is 50% or less. For example, if you are found 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. However, if you are found to be more than 50% at fault in a negligence action, you may not recover any damages. See Fla. Stat. § 768.81(6). This rule does not apply to personal injury or wrongful death claims arising from medical negligence.
Our attorneys carefully analyze the specific details of your case so it is handled with the full knowledge of Florida law. Whether it’s meeting the statute of limitations or addressing issues of comparative negligence, we customize our strategy to maximize your recovery and protect your rights under these critical laws.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
Start Your Recovery Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact our office at (941) 227-4677 for a free consultation. The experienced Bradenton car accident lawyers at Lesser Lesser Landy & Smith PLLC are ready to provide personalized support, helping you secure the compensation you need so that you can focus on recovery.