Auto Accident Lawyer in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg is a busy city and, as such, motor vehicle accidents are fairly common occurrences. The good news, however, is that many accidents aren’t serious – those involved aren’t always injured, and vehicles are sometimes only slightly damaged. On the other hand, severe accidents do happen. If you have been in a serious crash in Florida, working with a seasoned auto accident lawyer is in your best interests. At The Pawlowski//Mastrilli Law Group, our Auto Accident Lawyer in St. Petersburg are here to serve you. Reach us today for your free consultation.
Understanding the Claims Process After a Florida Crash
The claims process in Florida is unique when compared to other states. Unlike most other states that maintain a tort liability system, Florida maintains a no-fault system. This means that after a crash, the first step (after filing a police report and seeking medical care) is to file a claim with one’s own insurance company. Rather than going against the other driver for damages, you will file a claim with your own insurance company regardless of fault. Based on the no-fault system, you cannot file a lawsuit against the other driver.
There is, however, one situation in which you may step outside of the no-fault system and seek compensation from the other driver, including compensation for pain and suffering: if you suffer serious injuries. The serious injury threshold in Florida is found in Florida Code Section 627.737 and refers to injuries that result in significant and permanent bodily injury or loss of a bodily function, scarring and disfigurement, or death.
Why You Need an Auto Accident Lawyer in St. Petersburg
Regardless of whether or not you are pursuing a no-fault claim with your own insurance or a claim against the party who is responsible for your injuries, working with an auto accident lawyer is strongly advised. Even the insurance adjuster from your own insurance company will likely be interested in finding ways to offer you less than you deserve and diminish the value of your claim. If your claim does result in a lawsuit, you’ll need resources in order to gather evidence, prove negligence and liability, prove the extent of your damages, and maximize your compensation award. When you choose to work with an auto accident attorney, your attorney can do all of the above and more. An attorney’s job is to manage the claim’s process and all that it entails on your behalf while you focus on recovering and getting your life back on track. An attorney will work on your case with the intent of getting you the maximum settlement possible.
Call Our Auto Accident Lawyer in St. Petersburg Today
While car accidents may be common, there is nothing easy about being the victim of a serious crash. If you have been harmed in an accident, you can count on our auto accident lawyers in St. Petersburg to work hard for you. Consultations are offered free of charge – to schedule yours today, please call our law office directly or send us a message requesting more information. We are here to serve you.
