JACKSONVILLE Car Accident FAQ

Car Accident FAQ

Looking for a Car Accident FAQ? Find answers to common questions about your rights, insurance, and legal deadlines in Florida.

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Florida?

• Check for injuries and call 911. (Florida Statutes § 316.062)

• Move to a safe location if possible.

• Exchange information with other drivers (name, contact, insurance).

• Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries.

• Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine.

• Contact a car accident attorney to protect your rights.

Source: Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)

2. Do I have to report the accident to the police? Yes, Florida law requires reporting if there are injuries, fatalities, or property damage over $500. (Florida Statutes § 316.066)

Source: Florida Legislature – Traffic Crash Reports

3. How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Florida? You generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit due to recent legal changes. For property damage claims, it’s four years. (Florida Statutes § 95.11)

Source: Florida Legislature – Statute of Limitations

4. Is Florida a no-fault state? Yes. Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance covers up to $10,000 in medical expenses, regardless of fault. However, you may pursue additional compensation if you suffer serious injuries. (Florida Statutes § 627.736)

Source: Florida Office of Insurance Regulation

5. What if the other driver was uninsured? If you have Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, it can help cover your expenses. Otherwise, you may need to sue the at-fault driver personally.

Source: National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)

6. Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault? Yes. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages, but they’ll be reduced by your percentage of fault. (Florida Statutes § 768.81)

Source: Florida Legislature – Comparative Fault

7. What damages can I recover in a car accident lawsuit?

• Medical expenses (current and future)

• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity

• Pain and suffering

• Property damage

• Emotional distress

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Injury Costs

8. How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer? Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless you win your case. (Florida Bar Rule 4-1.5)

Source: The Florida Bar – Attorney Fees

9. How long does a car accident case take to settle? It varies. Some cases settle in a few months, while more complex cases involving serious injuries or disputes may take a year or longer.

Source: Insurance Information Institute (III)

10. What if the insurance company offers me a quick settlement? Be cautious. Insurance companies often offer low initial settlements to save money. Consult a lawyer before accepting any offer to ensure you get full compensation.

Source: Federal Trade Commission (FTC) – Dealing with Insurance Companies

Related: Top 5 Mistakes Made After Car Accidents