Jacksonville Car Accident Attorneys
Millions Recovered for Car Accident Victims in Florida
There is nothing quite like a car accident. Not only can it be loud and frightening, but a crash often ends in injury. You may be swamped with unexpected medical bills, missing time and wages from work, and perhaps unable to enjoy your life like you used to before you were injured.
As you consider your legal options for recovering compensation, you may be overwhelmed by the number of attorneys who claim to handle auto accident injury cases successfully. If you have been injured in a serious crash, we would love to offer you a free consultation and explain why our Jacksonville car accident lawyers are well-equipped to provide you with the results-oriented representation you deserve. With over 150+ years of combined legal experience and an exceptional track record of delivering favorable outcomes, our team at Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. has what it takes to secure the just compensation you need and deserve.
Your path to healing from a car accident injury starts here. You owe us nothing unless we win, so call (904) 295-1050 or contact us online today to get started with our Jacksonville car accident lawyer!
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Common Motor Vehicle Accidents
Even seemingly minor vehicular collisions can result in severe injuries. These crashes often stem from negligent behavior, including speeding, distracted driving, driving while intoxicated, or failing to obey traffic laws. When a driver’s negligence causes an accident, they are generally liable for any resulting damages.
Types of car accidents include:
- Rear-end Collisions – The majority of car crashes are rear-end collisions. While they vary in severity, victims of rear-end collisions should never brush off their injuries.
- Head-on Collisions: Few things are more serious than a head-on collision. Victims often suffer critical injuries that have lasting impacts on their lives.
- T-bone Collisions – As one of the most dangerous types of auto accidents, T-bone collisions can turn your life upside down if you are seriously injured. Not only that, but you may be out of a vehicle if it’s totaled in the collision.
- Hit-and-run Collisions – Nothing is more frustrating than when the party responsible for a collision flees the scene. In Florida, hit-and-runs alone account for over 25 percent of collisions.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, often due to human error or external factors. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving – This is a leading cause of accidents and can involve anything from texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the car's settings while driving.
- Speeding – Driving above the speed limit reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
- Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol or drug impairment slows reaction times and impairs judgment, making it dangerous to drive.
- Reckless Driving – Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or failing to signal can lead to accidents.
- Weather Conditions – Rain, snow, fog, and ice create hazardous driving conditions, leading to reduced visibility and slippery roads.
- Running Red Lights or Stop Signs – Failing to obey traffic signals can result in severe intersection accidents.
- Fatigued Driving – Drowsy drivers have slower reaction times and can fall asleep behind the wheel, causing accidents.
- Vehicle Defects – Mechanical issues such as brake failure or tire blowouts can cause accidents if a car is not properly maintained.
- Poor Road Conditions – Potholes, uneven surfaces, and poorly marked roads can contribute to accidents, especially at high speeds.
Florida's No-Fault System
Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means that each driver’s own insurance company covers their medical expenses and certain damages regardless of who was at fault for the accident. This system is designed to speed up the claims process and reduce the need for litigation in minor accidents.
It is important to remember that if you or a loved one is involved in an automobile accident, you must seek medical treatment within fourteen (14) days, or you get NONE of the car accident insurance you paid for.
The law states that if a person injured in a car accident waits to see if his or her injuries will improve and fails to seek medical care within two weeks of the accident, the person’s insurance carrier does not have to pay for any medical treatment or lost wages even though the person paid for this coverage.
Florida drivers are required to carry PIP insurance, which covers up to $10,000 in medical expenses and lost wages for the policyholder, regardless of fault. In addition to PIP, drivers must have Property Damage Liability insurance, which covers damage to other people’s property in the event of an accident.
In cases where injuries or damages exceed the limits of PIP coverage or if the injury is severe, drivers can pursue compensation from the at-fault party. Florida law requires proving negligence to establish fault in such cases.
To file a lawsuit for damages beyond PIP coverage, the injury must meet specific criteria, such as being classified as a “serious injury” under Florida law, which includes significant and permanent scarring, disfigurement, or death.
For more information, download our free car accident and personal injury guides.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car crashes, even minor ones, can result in serious injuries. Here are some of the most common injuries sustained in auto accidents:
- Whiplash: This neck injury occurs when the head is suddenly jolted forward and backward. Symptoms include neck pain, headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating.
- Head Trauma: Head injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, and difficulty thinking.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can result in paralysis, loss of sensation, and other debilitating conditions. The severity of the injury depends on the location and extent of the damage to the spinal cord.
- Broken Bones: Broken bones are common in car accidents, especially in high-impact collisions. The most commonly broken bones include those in the arms, legs, and ribs.
Jacksonville-Specific Traffic Concerns & Trends
The bustling roads of Jacksonville present unique traffic challenges that can contribute to car accidents. As the largest city in the continental United States by area, Jacksonville has a sprawling network of highways and local streets, which can often see congested traffic. Key traffic hotspots include the I-95 and I-10 interchange, as well as the J. Turner Butler Boulevard, among others.
The city's rapid growth has also led to increasing traffic congestion, raising the incidence of accidents, especially during rush hours. As Jacksonville continues to expand, it's crucial for drivers to stay informed about new construction projects and changes to traffic patterns. Being aware of these developments can help minimize risks and improve safety on the roads.
Efforts to address these traffic issues include infrastructure improvements and public transportation expansions. However, the diverse driving conditions, from urban roadways to suburban areas, require tailored driving strategies. Defensive driving courses and local traffic advisories can provide drivers with the tools needed to navigate Jacksonville's roads safely and efficiently.
Long-Term Consequences of Car Accident Injuries
The physical and emotional impact of an auto accident can last for years, even after the initial injuries have healed. Some of the potential long-term consequences of car accident injuries include:
- Chronic Pain: Many people who suffer from car accident injuries experience chronic pain that can significantly impact their quality of life.
- Disability: Severe injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, can lead to permanent disability. This can make it difficult to work, perform daily tasks, and enjoy life.
- Reduced Quality of Life: Even minor injuries can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. Pain, fatigue, and other symptoms can make it difficult to participate in activities that were once enjoyable.
Emotional Impact of Car Accidents
Car accidents can have a profound and lasting emotional impact on victims and their families. Beyond the physical injuries, these traumatic events can lead to significant psychological distress.
Psychological Trauma After Auto Accidents
The emotional toll of a car accident can be overwhelming. Victims may experience a range of psychological symptoms, including:
- Anxiety and Fear: Accidents can trigger anxiety, making it difficult to drive, ride in cars, or even cross the street.
- Depression: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness can arise, especially if the accident has resulted in significant injuries or loss.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): In severe cases, victims may develop PTSD, characterized by flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance.
- Grief and Loss: If the accident results in the loss of a loved one, victims may experience intense grief and mourning.
Family Impact of Car Crashes
Car accidents can also have a significant impact on family dynamics and relationships. The emotional and financial strain of an accident can lead to:
- Strained Relationships: Family members may become overwhelmed and stressed, leading to arguments and resentment.
- Financial Hardship: Medical bills, lost wages, and property damage can create significant financial burdens, affecting the family's ability to pay for necessities.
- Loss of Support: If a primary caregiver is injured or killed, the family may struggle to cope with the loss of their support and care.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, it's important to seek help from a qualified Jacksonville car accident lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process and recover compensation for your injuries and losses.
Expert Witnesses: A Powerful Tool for Your Case
Expert witnesses can significantly bolster your personal injury claim. These highly skilled professionals can provide crucial insights that may not be readily apparent to a layperson. Here's how they can help:
- Accident Reconstructionist: By analyzing the scene of the accident, these experts can determine the cause of the collision, identify factors contributing to the accident, and calculate the speed and force of impact.
- Medical Professionals: Medical experts, such as doctors and therapists, can assess the extent of your injuries, predict future medical needs, and quantify the impact of the accident on your quality of life.
- Economists: Economists can calculate the economic losses resulting from the accident, including lost wages, medical expenses, and future earning capacity.
By presenting compelling expert testimony, we can strengthen your case and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
How Our Experienced Jacksonville Auto Accident Attorneys Can Help
Car accident cases have the potential to be complicated, so it is essential to hire a competent attorney to help you. Our Jacksonville accident attorneys have handled many cases just like yours and are ready to set you up for success.
Our team understands the ins and outs of the legal process, the intricacies of Florida’s personal injury laws, and how to navigate the insurance claim process. We are prepared to handle these matters on your behalf so that you can focus on your recovery.
We can also accurately estimate the fair value of your claim. Our legal professionals know how to calculate and document all your losses, including medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering.
Our Jacksonville auto accident lawyers can aggressively advocate for you in negotiations with the insurance company. We can fight to protect your rights and prevent insurers from taking advantage of you by pushing lowballed settlements.
Finally, if your case needs to go to trial, having a skilled attorney on your side is crucial. We will build a strong case and aggressively fight for you every step of the way.
Our goal is to get you just compensation for all losses stemming from your car accident injuries, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Lost earning potential
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
- Pain and suffering
How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Can Impact a Car Accident Injury Case
In the state of Florida, uninsured motorist coverage can play a crucial role when you are injured in a car accident due to someone else's negligence. Uninsured motorist coverage is a specific part of a car insurance policy that provides coverage if you are injured in an accident caused by a driver who does not have sufficient insurance to cover your medical bills and other damages. This type of coverage is not just for situations where the at-fault driver lacks insurance entirely but is also for situations where their liability insurance cannot adequately cover your losses.
When you suffer injuries in an accident and the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you can make a claim under your own uninsured motorist coverage. This claim can cover both economic and non-economic damages. Though Florida law does not mandate uninsured motorist coverage, it is highly recommended for protection against drivers who lack sufficient coverage. After all, you have no control over whether the negligent driver who strikes your vehicle has enough insurance to cover the damage.
Navigating an uninsured motorist claim can be complex, even if your case seems straightforward. Your insurance company may challenge the severity of your injuries or dispute the negligence of the uninsured motorist. That is where our Jacksonville car accident lawyers come in. We understand how to successfully approach uninsured motorist claims and will work to get you fair compensation.
Can I Still Recover Compensation If I Am Partially At-Fault for a Car Accident?
Not all car accidents are necessarily caused by the actions of one driver. You may know that you contributed to your accident by not signaling before changing lanes, for example. In these scenarios, you may be understandably concerned that you have no way to recover compensation. In Florida, you can still seek and secure damages so long as you were no more than 50% at fault for the accident.
Recent legislation changed Florida from a pure comparative negligence state to a modified comparative negligence state effective March 24, 2023. Under these new modified comparative negligence rules, you cannot recover compensation for damages if you bear 51% or more of the fault.
In instances of shared fault, the jury in your case will evaluate the role of each driver and assign a percentage of fault. If you are found to be 50% or less at fault, your compensation will be reduced by this assigned percentage. For example, if your damages total $100,000 and the jury decides you were 25% to blame for an accident, you would receive $75,000.
Our Jacksonville car accident attorneys are not afraid of complex cases and understand how to successfully approach collisions involving shared fault. We will always work to maximize what you recover.
Healing can happen with our help. When you suffer serious injuries in a car accident, call (904) 295-1050 or contact us online to start discussing your legal options with car accident attorneys in Jacksonville.
Important Steps to Take After a Car Accident
The most important step you can take after a car accident is to see a doctor, even if you do not think your injuries are especially serious. You must seek immediate and continuous medical care after your accident so that we can prove to the insurance company that the other driver caused you harm. If the insurance company sees that you waited to seek medical care, they may claim your injuries were caused by something else.
Do not speak to the liable party’s insurance company! You should instead hire our Jacksonville car accident attorneys at Edwards & Ragatz, P.A.. We can immediately take over all communications to prevent the liable party’s insurance company from cornering you into saying something damaging to your case. This unfortunately happens all too often, as anything you say can and likely will be used against you.
Finally, make every effort to collect evidence if you are able to stay at the scene of the accident. This includes:
- The other driver’s name, license #, address, phone number, make/model of vehicle, if they were impaired, and if they gave you a statement at the scene
- The names and contact information of any passengers in their vehicle
- The names and contact information of any witnesses
- Location of the accident
- Day, date, and time of the accident
- Was it daytime, nighttime, or dusk?
- Weather
- Road and traffic conditions
- Your speed and (if possible) the other driver’s speed at the time of the crash
- Were your headlights on? Were the other driver’s lights on? Were blinkers used? Etc.
- Was anyone cited to be at fault? Why?
- Was anyone turning?
If you are swept off in an ambulance, have a friend, family member, or an attorney go to the scene and collect evidence for you. All of this information is crucial to recovering compensation after a car accident. Memories can often fade, information and evidence get lost, and your damages may never be recovered as a result. That’s why it is so important that you collect information after a car accident as soon as possible. Your Jacksonville car accident attorney will use this information to help you obtain the maximum compensation available.
Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. has provided a free glove-box brochure that will guide you through the crucial information that needs to be collected at the crash scene.
Jacksonville Car Accident FAQ
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How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Car Accident?
In Florida, you generally have two years from the date of the car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations.
It's crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after a car accident to discuss your specific case and ensure you meet all legal deadlines. An attorney can provide tailored advice and help protect your rights.
Here's why it's important to act promptly:
- Evidence Preservation: Timely action helps preserve evidence, such as medical records, police reports, and witness statements, which are crucial for building a strong case.
- Insurance Company Tactics: Insurance companies may try to settle quickly with low offers. An attorney can help you negotiate a fair settlement or prepare for litigation.
- Complexities of Legal Process: Personal injury cases can be complex, involving various legal procedures and deadlines. An attorney can guide you through the process.
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Can I Sue for Pain and Suffering After a Minor Accident?
It depends. While Florida is a no-fault state, meaning your own insurance typically covers your injuries, there are specific circumstances where you can sue for pain and suffering after a car accident, even if it's considered minor.
- Severity of Injuries:
- Minor Injuries: If your injuries are relatively minor and don't meet the "serious injury" threshold, you may not be able to sue for pain and suffering.
- Serious Injuries: If your injuries are severe, such as significant permanent injury, disfigurement, or significant loss of bodily function, you may be able to file a lawsuit.
- Economic Damages:
- Significant Medical Bills and Lost Wages: Even if your injuries aren't severe, if you've incurred substantial medical bills or lost significant wages, you may be able to file a lawsuit.
- At-Fault Driver:
- Liability: If the other driver was clearly at fault for the accident, you may have a stronger case for a lawsuit.
- Severity of Injuries:
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How Do I Deal With Insurance Companies After a Car Accident?
Document Everything
After a car accident, it's crucial to document everything related to the incident. Obtain a copy of the police report, keep detailed records of medical treatments, take photos of vehicle damage, and collect contact information from any witnesses.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Promptly notify your insurance company about the accident. Be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters, as they may try to gather information to minimize the company's liability. Consider consulting with an attorney before speaking with the adjuster.
Understand Florida's No-Fault Law
Florida is a no-fault state, meaning your own insurance policy's Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage will typically cover your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault. However, if your injuries exceed your PIP coverage or you have significant property damage, you may need to file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance policy.
Be Wary of Insurance Adjusters
Remember that insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you. They may try to offer a quick settlement that doesn't fully compensate you for your losses. Avoid accepting any settlement offer without consulting with an attorney.
Consider Hiring a Car Accident Attorney
A car accident attorney in Jacksonville, FL can provide expert legal advice, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. By hiring an attorney, you can increase your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
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What if the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance in Jacksonville, FL?
If the other driver in an accident in Jacksonville, FL, doesn't have insurance, your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can help protect you. While UM coverage isn't mandatory in Florida, it's highly recommended. It can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage caused by an uninsured or hit-and-run driver.
If you don't have UM coverage, you may need to pursue legal action against the uninsured driver to recover damages.
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What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Jacksonville?
After a car accident, your safety and health should be your top priorities. Here’s what to do:
- Call 911 – Report the accident to law enforcement and request medical assistance if needed.
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, some injuries may take hours or days to appear.
- Exchange information – Get the other driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, and license plate number.
- Document the scene – Take photos and videos of the vehicles, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Get witness statements – If possible, collect the names and contact information of bystanders who saw the accident.
- Avoid admitting fault – Do not apologize or discuss fault with the other driver or their insurance company.
- Report the accident to your insurance – Notify your insurer, but do not provide a recorded statement without speaking to a lawyer.
- Contact a Jacksonville car accident lawyer – An attorney can protect your rights and help you pursue maximum compensation.
If you have been injured, taking action as soon as possible can help protect your legal options.
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How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Claim in Florida?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit is:
- Two years for personal injury claims
- Two years for wrongful death claims
- Two years for property damage claims
- One year for hurricane or windstorm damage claims
Missing these deadlines could prevent you from recovering compensation. It is best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your claim.
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Do I Need to Use My PIP Insurance After an Auto Accident?
Yes. Florida is a no-fault insurance state, which means all drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. Here’s how it works:
- PIP covers up to $10,000 in medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault
- PIP pays 80% of medical bills and 60% of lost wages, up to policy limits
- You must seek medical treatment within 14 days to qualify for PIP benefits
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Can I Sue the At-Fault Driver?
You can step outside of the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver if:
- You suffered a serious injury, such as permanent disfigurement, significant scarring, or a traumatic brain injury
- Your medical expenses exceed your PIP coverage limits
- The accident resulted in wrongful death
An attorney can help determine if you qualify to file a lawsuit for full compensation.
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What Compensation Can Jacksonville Car Accident Victims Recover?
Car accident victims may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses – Emergency room visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and long-term care
- Lost wages – Income lost due to missed work and reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to your job
- Pain and suffering – Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and trauma caused by the accident
- Property damage – Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and other damaged personal property
- Loss of enjoyment of life – If injuries prevent you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed
- Wrongful death damages – Funeral costs, lost financial support, and emotional suffering for surviving family members
Every case is different. The value of your claim depends on the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, and the long-term impact of the accident.
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What If I Was Partially At-Fault for the Car Accident?
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system:
- If you are less than 50% at fault, you can still recover compensation, but your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault
- If you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover compensation
For example, if you are found 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, your compensation would be reduced to $80,000.
Insurance companies often try to shift blame to reduce payouts. A skilled attorney can help protect your rights.
We Are Edwards & Ragatz
Explore What Sets Us Apart
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Innovative & Strategic Legal StrategiesAt Edwards & Ragatz, we offer custom legal strategies tailored to your situation. Our approach ensures that we collect higher settlements than what an insurance adjuster might offer.
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Committed to Quality Legal CounselOur commitment to a compassionate legal process means we speak with you on-site at the accident location, offer flexible meeting times, manage paperwork on your behalf, and provide consistent updates.
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Proven Legal Experience & Advocacy
With more than 150+ years of combined legal experience, we have taken on multiple million-dollar corporations and received recoveries through the relentless pursuit of justice.