Fort Myers Car Accident Attorney
If you or your loved one was injured in a Fort Myers car accident, you may be facing significant hurdles to get your life back to normal. This could include medical bills, an extensive recovery process, time missed at work, pain and suffering, and more.
Fortunately, you may have legal options. If another party is liable for the accident, you may be able to recover compensation via negotiations with their insurance company or in a insurance lawsuit. Accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato can assist you in your auto injury claim. A Car Accident Lawyer from the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato can represent you in both situations. We offer victims of car accidents a free phone consultation at (954) 633-8270.
If You Suffered Car Accident Injury Call Our Fort Myers Car Accident Lawyer For Legal Help!
If you or your family members have recently suffered injuries in a car accident, you may be eligible for compensation. However, this money can be difficult to collect for a number of reasons, starting with the fact that insurance companies can be difficult to work with after an accident. A car accident lawyer from the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato will take on the insurance companies on your behalf and help you fight for the full and fair compensation you deserve. A member of our legal team can answer your questions about compensation and let you know what the next steps may be available in your case. Our Fort Myers car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis with no upfront costs to our clients.
Car Accident Causes and Driver Liability in Fort Myers
There are many forms of dangerous driving that can cause a car accident. These behaviors include:
- Texting and driving and other forms of distracted driving, such as eating while driving, fatigued driving, and even checking social media.
- Running a red light or otherwise failing to follow traffic laws, which can include refusing to yield for pedestrians or not slowing down for a sharp turn.
- Not slowing down when the weather turns bad, which can be a serious problem when storms hit Florida’s Gulf Coast.
- Driving recklessly or aggressively, which can include speeding, tailgating, cutting off another driver, and illegal turns, passes, and maneuvers.
- Failing to use headlights when it gets dark outside.
- Driving while intoxicated on drugs or alcohol or wrongful death.
- Texting while Driving
- And more.
Fort Myers Car Accident Lawyer Determining Who is at Fault
In a personal injury case, what matters in each of these scenarios is evidence that the driver behaved in a negligent manner. The most direct form of evidence for this is often a simple violation of a traffic law. If there is clear evidence that a driver failed to yield when they were supposed to and crashed into your vehicle, for example, you do not also need to prove that they were texting, intoxicated, or experiencing road rage to establish their liability.
Our Fort Myers car accident attorneys can help in determining who is at fault. Call the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato today at (954) 633-8270 to discuss who may be liable for your car accident and your injuries.
Possible Injuries in a Car Accident in Fort Myers
There are many injuries that can occur in a car accident. Some injuries have long recovery periods, while others may leave you with chronic pain. Among the most common car accident injuries are:
- Cuts, abrasions, and burns.
- Internal bleeding.
- Broken bones.
- Back injuries that may affect mobility.
- Head injuries, including Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) that may affect physical, cognitive, and sensory functions.
- Whiplash from the force of the impact.
- Airbag deployment injuries generally caused by a defective product, which can result in broken noses, jaws, eye sockets, arms, and more.
- Psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and more.
While some of these injuries will be obvious when they occur, others may have delayed or subtle symptoms. We recommend seeking medical care as soon as possible after any car accident for a full diagnosis of your injuries.
Not only will seeing a doctor allow you to begin recovery right away, but it also creates an important link in your medical record between the accident and your injuries. This can be valuable evidence in your car accident case. For legal information contact our car accident attorney
Our Fort Myers Auto Accident Attorneys Help To Collect the Evidence in Car Accident Case
In order to have a successful case, you will need evidence that the other driver behaved in a negligent manner and caused the accident that injured you. You will also need evidence that documents the full extent of your injuries and other damages in order to recover fair compensation.
One of the major benefits of working with a auto accident lawyer from the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato is that we will manage the evidence gathering in your case while you concentrate on your recovery. The evidence we gather in a car accident case may include:
- Photographs and video from the accident.
- CCTV or security footage, where available.
- Witness statements, even for witnesses located after the incident.
- Police reports.
- Evidence from your vehicle.
- Testimony from traffic accident reconstruction experts.
- Medical records linking your injuries to the accident.
- Statements from medical or vocational experts about the future costs of your recovery and the accident’s impact on your ability to work and more.
Our car accident attorney Fort Myers will use the evidence we gather to build a robust case.
Possible Recoverable Compensation in a Car Accident Case in Fort Myers
The amount of compensation you may be able to receive in a car accident case will depend on many factors. In general, Fort Myers auto accident attorneys may recover compensation for:
- Costs of medical treatment, including ambulance and ER fees.
- Estimated future costs of treatment.
- Lost wages for time missed from work during recovery.
- Reduced earning capacity, if applicable.
- Pain and suffering.
- And more.
Once our auto accident attorney begins investigating your car accident liability, we will have a better idea of how much your case is worth.
Take Help of Our Fort Myers Car Accident Lawyers for Lawsuit
At the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato, our auto accident law firm gives a good name. We do it by always putting the needs of our clients first. That means prioritizing honesty, transparency, and constant communication. We will take the time to understand your needs and concerns, as well as the unique features of your case. We will make sure you understand every option available to you before moving forward. If you have questions or concerns or want to talk about your case, our staff is always here and always eager to hear from you.
We offer a free, no-obligation case evaluation and never charge a fee until you get paid. To speak with a car accident lawyer , or member of our team today, call us at (954) 633-8270.
An Important Time Limit in Your Car Accident Case
According to the Florida State Legislature, Florida has a four-year Fort Myers statute of limitations on personal injury cases. It begins on the day of the accident. If you wait until that four-year period is over to take legal action, you may find yourself unable to sue the parties liable for your injuries. This means you might end up paying for your injuries out of pocket.
Do not let a negligent driver get off the hook for your injuries on a technicality like the statute of limitations. Call our auto accident attorney today and take action to secure your right to compensation.
Car Accidents in Fort Myers
A growing population and a limited road system contribute to a high number of car accidents every year and Southwest Florida. In 2018, the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles “crash dashboard” reported 7,481 injuries in Lee County and 97 fatalities. Many of these accidents involve severe bodily injuries and major property damage. The car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato have a long track record of fighting for the rights of accident victims, taking on the insurance companies, and making sure our clients recover the compensation they deserve.
No matter how your accident occurred, we want to hear from you, and we are eager to evaluate your case and determine how we can help. We have won compensation for victims of many types of accidents, including:
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Rear-End Collisions
Most, but not all, rear-end collisions are the fault of the driver in the back. They happen because the at-fault driver was following too closely, was not paying attention to the road, or was impaired or distracted and thus had compromised reaction speed.
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Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions tend to produce the worst injuries and most substantial property damage of any type of car accident. They occur when a driver veers over the centerline or enters a road heading the wrong direction, often because of intoxication, distraction, or drowsiness.
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Side-Impact Collisions
Side-impact collisions usually occur at intersections, typically because one driver ignored, disregarded, or failed to see a stop sign, red light, yield sign, or other traffic control device.
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Drunk Driving Accidents
The legal limit in Florida is 0.08, but a driver can be charged with DUI anytime a law enforcement officer believes that alcohol or drug intoxication has impaired their driving. If the driver who caused your accident was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, we will use that fact to hold them accountable.
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Distracted Driving Accidents
Distracted driving often involves cell phones, but it occurs anytime a motorist focuses on something other than their driving. If necessary, we will review cell phone records and other evidence to show that the driver who hit you was distracted.
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Shared Fault Accidents
Do not avoid calling a car accident Lawyer or other professionals because you believe you were partly at fault for your car accident in Fort Myers. Under Florida statute §768.81, a driver in an accident can still recover compensation even if they were partly at fault, and the amount they can receive depends on their share of accident negligence, fault compared to that of the other driver.
At the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato, we will work to minimize your share of fault and maximize the compensation you can recover. To learn more, and to set up a free case evaluation with a member of our Fort Myers auto accident lawyer team, call us at (954) 633-8270.
The Statute of Limitations in Florida Law
The statute of limitations on filing a car accident injury lawsuit per Florida statute §95.11 is typically four years but can vary based on unique circumstances, so speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after your crash. Our auto accident lawyer can file a quick lawsuit, if necessary, to avoid the statute expiring.
Fort Myers Car Accident Lawyer Help To Sue For A Car Accident
Yes, if you cause a car accident that results in an individual suffering an injury, and their personal injury protection (PIP) for auto insurance does not cover all of their medical expenses and wage losses, they can sue you for the outstanding damages. Also, if the hurt individual sustains injuries that exceed Florida’s serious injury threshold, they can sue you for damages.
In order for a lawsuit against you to be successful, the other party will need proof that your negligence caused the accident. Without this proof, you may not be held liable for their injuries.
If the other party was responsible for the accident, and you received injuries, then you may be able to sue them.
Understanding Florida’s Car Insurance and Accident Laws
Several aspects of Florida’s motor vehicle statutes affect what happens in the aftermath of a car crash.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Auto Insurance
Florida is a no-fault auto insurance state, which means that even if you cause a car accident that injures another person, the injured party must still seek compensation for their medical expenses and wage losses through their own personal PIP insurance.
This coverage does not completely relieve you, as the person who caused the crash, from financial responsibility. If the other party’s medical expenses exceed their PIP coverage, they may be able to sue you for the outstanding damages.
The Serious Injury Threshold
Furthermore, the injured individual’s family can sue you for damages if they sustain injuries that meet Florida’s serious injury threshold, which includes permanent loss of an important bodily function, disfigurement and scarring, permanent injury within a reasonable degree of medical probability, and death, in which case their surviving family may be able to sue you.
Bodily Injury Liability
For amounts not covered by the other party’s PIP coverage, your insurance policy’s bodily injury liability will begin to pay out damages.
For amounts that exceed your bodily injury insurance coverage, the injured party may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against you. Contact Fort Myers accident lawyer for help.
Damages the Injured Party May Recover in a Lawsuit
When an injured individual sues you for their injuries resulting from the car accident you caused, you may be liable for their:
- Medical costs not covered by their PIP and your bodily injury liability coverage
- Pain and Suffering
- Mental anguish
- Disability
- Lost wages and benefits
There may be additional damages you could end up paying if the injured person sues you.
Florida’s Pure Comparative Negligence Law Means You Might Be Able to Sue, Too
Florida is a pure comparative negligence state, which means that damages are awarded according to what amount of fault each person possesses in the accident. Accordingly, if another driver sues you, you may be able to reduce your liability by proving that they were partially at fault for the accident, too.
On the other hand, if the other driver was partially at fault for the injuries you sustained, you may be able to sue them. For example, a jury might award you $100,000, but if they conclude that you were 20 percent responsible for causing the collision, the jury will reduce compensation by 20 percent ($20,000)—resulting in a final award of $80,000.
Don’t Settle with an Insurance Company Take Help of a Fort Myers Car Accident Lawyer
When filing car accident claims, you will more than likely need to deal with insurance companies. This can be extremely confusing when you’re not familiar with the terms they use or with the value of your case. It is in your best interest to work with a competent accident attorney from the law office of Wolf & Pravato in order to preserve your rights and ensure that you aren’t taken advantage of by insurance companies.
What to do If You Have Been Injured by a Negligent Driver in Fort Myers?
The law requires drivers to exercise reasonable caution when operating motor vehicles. In order the prove negligence in an automobile accident claim you must be able to show that the driver of the other car was not reasonably careful and that his or her carelessness led to the accident that caused your injuries. Negligence behind the wheel can include, but is not limited to:
- Driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
- Violating the right-of-way of other drivers or pedestrians
- Disobeying traffic laws
- Driving on the wrong side of the road
- Driving while distracted or tired
- Speeding
A personal injury attorney from the law offices of Wolf & Pravato can help prove negligence in your case and get you the compensation you deserve.
Injured in an Auto Accident: Call Our Fort Myers Car Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in a car accident, it is important to gather as many facts as possible that can help you in your personal injury claim. Car accidents can result in serious or even catastrophic injuries, leaving you unable to work or provide for your family. An auto accident attorney can help in gathering police reports, traffic tickets, photos of the accident scene, names and contact information of witnesses, medical records and bills, photos of your car crash injuries, wage stubs to show that you weren’t able to work due to your injuries and any other documentation relevant to your claim in order to prove negligence and get you the compensation you deserve.
Our Car Accident Lawyer Fort Myers Will Fight for You
The Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato are ready to defend your rights after your car accident. We can build your legal case while you concentrate on your recovery. When you hire us, our Fort Myers auto accident lawyers will:
- Give your answers and counsel on the legal process.
- Communicate with the insurance companies so you do not have to.
- Gather evidence and hire experts to testify in your defense as needed.
- Manage your legal paperwork and deadlines.
- Negotiate with the insurance companies for a settlement offer that meets the full extent of your damages.
- Take them to court if they are not willing to make you a fair offer.
Recovering Compensation With Our Fort Myers Car Accident Lawyer
Recovering compensation after a car accident can be intimidating, but you are not alone. Call us today at (954) 633-8270 to speak to a representative for the attorney-client relationship. Consultation calls are free.
Should you choose to work with the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato, you can rest assured knowing that our firm operates on a contingency-fee-basis with no upfront costs. Our auto accident lawyers are only paid if you win a settlement or ruling in court. There is no risk when you work with us.
Contact Our Car Accident Attorney Fort Myers For Legal Help:
The Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato may be able to help you recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, repair fees, etc. If you have been injured in a car accident, contact a Fort Myers car accident lawyer from the law offices of Wolf & Pravato at 1-954-633-8270. Justice is not automatic; we will fight for you.
Car Accident FAQs:
1. How do I file a car accident claim in Florida?
If you suffered minor or moderate car accident injuries in a Fort Myers accident, you may be able to submit your medical bills and evidence of lost wages to your Personal Injury Protection insurance provider on your own. They can provide you with information on how to do this. If your injuries were more serious, however, reach out to us for a free case review. We may be able to handle this process on your behalf.
2. What are some car accident injuries?
Car accident injuries can occur in many ways, vary widely in severity, and affect almost any part of the body. They may include:
- Bruises and Scrapes
- Lacerations
- Soft tissue injuries and whiplash
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Neck and back injuries
If you suffered injuries in a Florida car accident, you may be able to file a claim and recover compensation for your medical care and other losses.
3. Why does the United States have such a high rate of auto accidents?
In the United States, we drive more often and further than many who live in other industrialized countries. Things are more spread out in the U.S., and there are fewer alternative transportation options such as trains. Americans also engage in reckless driving behaviors that increase the risk of auto accidents, including drunk driving, distracted driving, and fatigued driving.
4. Should I go to the hospital after a car accident in Florida?
It is always a good idea to go to the hospital or see your doctor following a car accident. Some injuries do not become symptomatic right away, and your body could mask pain and other symptoms for several hours following an accident. It is important to rule out internal bleeding, brain injury, or other serious injuries.
