Pinellas County Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve recently been involved in a car accident or sustained injuries or are searching for an experienced attorney who will advocate on your behalf, contact Jack Bernstein, Injury Attorneys. Our dedicated team understands the complexities of navigating the aftermath of a car accident and is committed to providing you with the robust representation you deserve.

---

How Common Are Car Accidents in Pinellas County?

Car accidents are a significant concern for residents of Pinellas County, reflecting both the risks on the road and the need for constant vigilance and adherence to safety measures.

In 2023, the county witnessed a total of 14,873 automobile crashes. This figure is a decrease from the previous year, which saw 15,683 automobile crashes. Of these accidents, 9,189 resulted in injury, and 111 were fatal.

Regardless of the scale of the accident, it’s critical for victims to consider consulting with a Pinellas County car accident attorney. Many individuals overlook the long-term effects seemingly minor accidents can have once the adrenaline of an accident wears off.

An experienced attorney can provide insights from years of experience navigating the legal process and receiving fair compensation for damages or injuries sustained.

Most Dangerous Roads/Intersections in Pinellas County

Drivers in Pinellas County, Florida should exercise caution on all roads since accidents can occur anywhere at any time. However, it’s worth noting that some intersections and stretches of road have gained notoriety as consistent accident locations. Here are a few you need to be aware of:

• Park Blvd and US 19 is notorious for its long traffic jams and congestion, primarily due to its complex layout with several lanes merging together. The high-speed traffic combined with numerous blind spots significantly increases the risk of accidents.
• Gulf Blvd and 34th Avenue is busy due to its proximity to the beach, attracting heavy traffic as both locals and tourists flock to the sands. The combination of high speeds, numerous curves, and an extended crosswalk area contributes to its reputation as a perilous intersection.
• 62nd Avenue South and US 19 is surrounded by numerous retail stores, drawing considerable foot traffic throughout the day. This influx of pedestrians, coupled with the intersection’s multiple lanes, necessitates extra caution from drivers to avoid accidents.

---

What To Do After a Car Accident

The moments following a car accident can be fraught with chaos and confusion. Adrenaline surges through your body, often masking pain and clouding judgment. The following is a list of things to do after a car accident. Try to keep a copy of these steps in your phone or glove box so you don’t have to recall them from memory.

1. Get to Safety

The initial and most crucial step following a car accident is for you and any passengers to get to safety as soon as possible. If your vehicle is in a position that poses a risk and can be moved, communicate with the other driver that you will be moving your car out of the way. However, when moving your vehicle isn’t possible, turning on your hazard lights is the best course of action.

2. Assess Injuries of Yourself and Others

Once you and any passengers are in a safe location, take a moment to thoroughly assess for any injuries. The rush of adrenaline that comes with a car accident can often mask pain, making it crucial to check yourself and others carefully for any signs of injury. All injured parties should limit movement as much as possible to prevent further damage.

3. Call 911

Now that you have an understanding of the situation, it’s a good time to call 911. Before your call, communicate with the other driver that you are calling the authorities and relay any information you receive. The police will help facilitate the situation and document the accident for insurance claims and legal proceedings. If you don’t get immediate medical attention, seek help within 14 days.

4. Exchange Information With Other Involved Parties

By law, you are required to exchange your insurance information with the other driver(s) in Florida. While it’s not legally mandated to share more information, you can always provide your name, vehicle make and model, license plate number, and any other information you deem necessary. If someone involved in a car accident does not provide their insurance information and leaves the scene, it can be deemed a hit-and-run.

5. Document the Scene

Documenting the scene of your accident is important for legal and insurance purposes. Try to get as much detail as possible, including photos of the vehicles involved and any visible injuries sustained. Having this information readily available can help your attorney build a strong case for your compensation. The longer you wait to remember the events leading up to the crash, the more likely you are to forget them. Each piece of documentation can help you secure more compensation from your insurance company.

6. Gather Witness Information

If there are people who saw the accident occur, it’s important to approach them calmly and ask if they would be willing to provide a statement about what they observed. Witnesses can offer an unbiased perspective on the events surrounding the crash. Make sure to gather their names and contact numbers in case your insurance company or authorities want to contact them.

7. Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Who Serves Pinellas County

Reaching out to a car accident lawyer who serves Pinellas County is crucial for sorting through the local laws and regulations after a vehicular accident. An attorney specializing in this area is familiar with the ins and outs of the legal system, making sure your case is in good hands.

8. Follow Up on All Medical Recommendations

Following up on all medical recommendations after an accident is not just about immediate relief; it’s a crucial step for your long-term health and well-being. In the aftermath of a collision, injuries that seem minor can evolve into serious, chronic issues if not properly addressed. Stick to medical advice and attend follow-up appointments so healthcare professionals can monitor your recovery.

9. Get a Copy of Your Police Report

Obtaining a copy of the police report is a vital step after a car accident. This document serves as an official record of the incident, detailing what happened and who was involved. Not only does it offer a neutral account of the events, but it also helps clarify any discrepancies that might arise between the parties involved.

---

Florida’s Statute of Limitations To File a Car Accident Claim

In Florida, the general rule is that you have a two-year statute of limitations when filing a car accident claim. This timeframe is important because it determines when you must initiate legal proceedings or risk losing your right to compensation. There are several exceptions, however, like out-of-state insurance cards and uninsured drivers.

How an Experienced Car Accident Attorney Can Help

In the wake of a car accident, the path to recovery can be both physically and emotionally taxing. An experienced car accident attorney takes the helm in managing your case’s intricate details, from investigating the accident to communicating with insurance companies.

A seasoned car accident attorney possesses the expertise to evaluate all facets of your situation, including medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress, to get you the most out of your situation.

Negotiating a fair settlement is another critical area where an experienced attorney can make a significant difference. Bringing a wealth of knowledge and negotiation skills to the table, they handle dialogues with insurance companies or opposing counsel in a professional and effective manner.

In the event that a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your attorney is prepared to take your case to court. Attorneys are well-versed in navigating local court systems and often have established relationships with judges.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire a Car Accident Attorney in Pinellas County?

A car accident attorney in Pinellas County, including St. Petersburg, Palm Harbor, and Clearwater, can cost several thousands of dollars with a large upfront fee. However, here at Jack Bernstein, Injury Attorneys, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs. We only receive compensation if we successfully win your case. Our firm is highly motivated to provide the best possible representation, as we only win if you win.

---

Call Jack Bernstein, Injury Attorneys, for the Help You Need

If you have been injured in a car accident in Pinellas County, speak to an experienced car accident lawyer at Jack Bernstein, Injury Attorneys, today.

Sources:

Crash Dashboard.

Involved in a Crash?

Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.

---

Serving All Areas of Pinellas County