Lakeland Car Accident Lawyer

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Have you been in a car accident in Lakeland, FL? Contact our Lakeland car accident lawyers at Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law, as soon as possible to discuss your options and protect your rights. Call our office at (863) 999-9000 today!

You could be facing mounting medical bills, painful injuries, and a range of other stressful issues. During this challenging time, it’s essential to have the proper support. Contact our Lakeland law office for legal help.

How Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law, Can Help You After A Car Accident In Lakeland, Florida.

A personal injury lawyer’s primary role is to represent their clients’ interests as they work to recover—both physically and financially—from an injury. This can involve pursuing compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and more.

It may also require dealing with insurance companies to ensure fair treatment. A skilled Lakeland personal injury lawyer will handle all legal matters related to the injury. When you hire Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law, to handle your case, you can trust we will:

• Conduct a detailed investigation of your situation
• Keep you updated about your case throughout the process
• Answer any questions you may have
• Compile all evidence necessary to prove you deserve compensation
• Help you identify the damages you have suffered
• Bring in leading experts to testify in your case, if necessary
• Defend you against any allegations that you were responsible for the crash
• Handle the negotiation process and work for a full settlement
• File a lawsuit and advocate for you at trial if necessary

Additionally, our Lakeland personal injury attorneys can negotiate with medical providers and other lienholders to help you retain more of your compensation. Working with an experienced Florida personal injury attorney is essential for fair treatment after an injury. The right lawyer can alleviate the stress of navigating legal challenges, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Why Should I Hire A Car Accident Lawyer?

Hiring a car accident lawyer after a crash can be essential for protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. An experienced car accident lawyer can help streamline the complicated and stressful process and advocate on your behalf. Here are several key reasons to consider hiring a car accident lawyer:

• Lawyers bring knowledge to the table. Your lawyer will bring their experience and connections to your case. An experienced attorney will know these situations and how to maximize your chances of recovery. 
• You’ll have the best chance at maximizing your compensation. 
• The playing field will be leveled. The insurance company is likely to have a whole team of lawyers, and they handle these situations all the time. With a lawyer on your side, you’ll have valuable help. 
• You’ll have help gathering evidence and investigating. Your lawyer will be able to compile the evidence you’ll need to maximize your compensation. 
• Lawyers can shield you from allegations of blame. The insurance company might try to pin the blame on you. A good lawyer won’t let them get away with it. 

If you have questions about how our car accident attorneys can help you, get in touch with us today and schedule a free consultation.  

How Much Money Can I Get From A Car Accident Case?

How much compensation you might receive from your car accident case will vary depending on your specific circumstances and the facts of your case; no two cases are exactly the same. Factors that might influence how much money you receive include:

• The severity of your injuries: The more severe or permanent your injuries, the higher the potential compensation. Catastrophic injuries, like spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injuries, often result in significantly larger settlements than minor injuries.
• Cost of medical expenses (past and future): This includes not only your current medical bills but also any ongoing or future treatments you may need, such as surgeries, rehabilitation, or long-term care. A higher total for medical costs will generally increase the overall value of your case.
• Impact of injuries on your daily life: If your injuries have a long-term or permanent impact on your ability to perform daily tasks or enjoy life, you may be entitled to more compensation for “pain and suffering.” This includes how your injuries affect your ability to care for yourself, maintain relationships, or participate in hobbies.
• Liability or fault in the accident: If the other party is found completely at fault, your potential compensation could be higher. However, if you are partially responsible for the accident, your compensation may be reduced under contributory or comparative negligence laws, depending on your state.
• Strength of your evidence: The more evidence you have to support your claim, the stronger your case will be. This includes police reports, witness statements, photos of the accident scene, medical records, and any other documentation that demonstrates the extent of your injuries and the other party’s fault.
• Loss of wages and reduced earning capacity: If you are unable to return to work or must take a lower-paying job due to your injuries, this loss of income will be factored into your settlement. Future earning capacity is also considered if your injuries have a lasting impact on your ability to work.

Every car accident case is unique, and the compensation you may receive depends on a variety of factors specific to your situation. To maximize your potential recovery, it’s important to gather as much evidence as possible and consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help navigate the complexities of your case.

How Long Do I Have To File A Car Accident Lawsuit in Lakeland, Florida?

A statute of limitations is a law that bars claims after a certain amount of time passes after an injury. In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including car accidents is two years from the date of the accident or injury. 

Failing to file a lawsuit within Florida’s two-year statute of limitations can result in losing the right to seek compensation. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s crucial to act promptly. Consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to protect your legal rights and explore your options for recovering damages.

What Type Of Compensation Is Available After A Car Accident?

After a car accident, several types of damages might be available to you. These include both economic and non-economic damages. 

Economic Damages

Economic damages are designed to compensate you for the monetary losses you suffered. They are intended to help you recover the financial position you were in before the accident. Some examples of losses that economic damages might compensate you for include: 

• Medical expenses, including future medical expenses
• Lost wages or future earnings
• Lost or diminished earning capacity
• Property damages 
• Other financial losses

You can prove your economic losses through medical bills, receipts, and more. 

Non-economic Damages

Non-economic damages refer to losses that are harder to quantify because they don’t have a specific monetary value that can be easily calculated, like medical bills or property damage. They might include compensation for:

• Pain and suffering
• Inconvenience
• Physical impairment
• Mental anguish
• Disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment 
• Other non-financial losses

Your attorney will be able to retain experts, as needed, to prove your non-economic losses. 

In rare cases, punitive damages might also be awarded if the defendant acted in a particularly harmful way. Rather than compensate the victim, punitive damages are designed to punish and deter the defendant’s conduct. 

How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Car Accident Lawyer?

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, and Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law, is no exception. A contingency fee arrangement means that you won’t pay anything upfront; you only pay us a percentage of your total recovery once we settle your case or win it at trial. If we don’t secure compensation for you, you’ll never owe us anything. Typically, a personal injury lawyer’s fee will be between 33% and 40% of your total recovery. 

Can I Get Compensation If I Was Partly At-Fault For My Car Accident?

Florida takes a modified comparative fault approach to comparative negligence, which allows you to recover compensation as long as you are less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you’re found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. Additionally, Florida law prevents you from recovering any compensation if you’re more than 50% at fault.

An experienced attorney can be invaluable in navigating Florida’s modified comparative fault rules. They will work to gather evidence, build a strong case, and minimize the percentage of fault assigned to you, maximizing your potential recovery. By having a skilled lawyer on your side, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you pursue the compensation you deserve, even if fault is contested.

Will My Car Accident Case Go To Trial?

Whether your car accident case goes to trial depends on several factors, many of which can shape the direction of your claim. While the majority of cases are resolved through settlements, some situations may increase the likelihood of going to trial. Factors that could push your case toward trial include:

• Whether liability is contested
• The willingness of the parties to negotiate
• Substantial financial damages
• Complex questions of fact
• Comparative fault issues

These are just a few examples of what might affect the course of your case. Your attorney will be able to assess the specifics and provide guidance on whether a trial is likely or if settlement negotiations are the best route.

What Should I Do After A Car Accident In Lakeland?

After you are in an accident in Lakeland, FL, there are certain steps you should take to ensure your safety, protect your legal rights, and preserve your ability to seek compensation. Taking the right actions immediately after an accident can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

• Check for injuries. Assess yourself and all others involved for injuries. Seek medical attention immediately if necessary.  
• Call 911. Do so as soon as possible. The police will be able to help walk you through the next steps to take. 
• Move your car. Only do so to the extent necessary to ensure your safety as well as the safety of other drivers. 
• Document the scene: Take pictures of all the vehicles and damages involved.
• Exchange information: Get the license plate, driver’s license, and insurance card information for all drivers. You should also get the names and contact information of any potential witnesses. 
• File a report: Florida drivers are required to file a report for any crash where a person was injured or killed or in situations where there is estimated to be at least $500 of property damage. 
• Contact your insurance company: Your insurer will review your claim. 
• Consider contacting a car accident lawyer: A car accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you seek compensation for your accident. 

By following these steps after an accident in Lakeland, FL, you can protect your well-being and ensure that you comply with legal requirements. If the accident results in serious injuries or significant property damage, contacting a car accident lawyer can be an essential step in protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve. Your attorney will help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, take your case to court.

Types Of Car Accident Claims We Handle

No matter what type of car accident you or your loved one has been involved in, Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law, can help. We handle many types of car accident cases, including, but not limited to:

• Rear-end crashes
• Head-on collisions
• Intersection accidents
• Rollovers
• Multi-vehicle accidents
• T-bone accidents
• Left-turn accidents

We also handle: 

• Motorcycle accidents
• Truck accidents
• Pedestrian accidents
• Bicycle accidents
• Uber and Lyft accidents

No matter what type of car accident your accident involved, we can help. Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation with our experienced lawyers. 

Who Could Be Liable For My Injuries Resulting From A Car Accident?

Any party who contributed to your accident may be held legally liable for your injuries, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. In a personal injury claim, identifying all potentially responsible parties is crucial, as it can increase your chances of receiving full compensation. Various individuals and entities that may be held accountable for your accident include:

• Other drivers
• Bicyclists, pedestrians, or motorcyclists
• Employers
• Government entities
• Vehicle manufacturers

Your lawyer will be able to investigate the circumstances of your accident and identify any possible liable parties. By identifying everyone who may be responsible, you maximize your chances of securing full compensation for your injuries and damages.

Common Types Of Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to more severe, life-altering conditions. Understanding the different types of car accident injuries is crucial for seeking appropriate medical care and pursuing compensation. Types of injuries that might stem from a car accident include: 

• Head injuries, including TBIs 
• Back injuries/spinal cord damage
• Neck injuries, including whiplash
• Broken bones
• Soft tissue injuries

The list above provides just a glimpse of the injuries that can result from a car accident. Unfortunately, death is also a potential outcome. If you have suffered any type of injury or lost a loved one in an accident, contact us today to discuss your case. 

Most Common Causes Of Car Accidents

Car accidents in Florida happen for many different reasons. Common causes of car accidents include: 

• Distracted driving: Texting, phone calls, and other distractions divert attention from the road.
• Speeding: Exceeding speed limits increases the risk of losing control and reduces reaction time.
• Driving under the influence: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
• Reckless driving: Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, or ignoring traffic signals.
• Weather conditions: Heavy rain, fog, and flooding create hazardous driving conditions.
• Fatigued driving: Driving while tired reduces concentration and alertness.
• Failure to yield: Ignoring right-of-way rules at intersections often leads to collisions.

No matter what the cause of your accident was, you might be entitled to compensation. 

Lakeland Car Accident Statistics

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles’ “Crash Dashboard,” there have been 9,523 crashes in Polk County, where Lakeland is located, so far in 2024. 74 of these crashes were fatal, and there were 78 fatalities across all crashes. There were injuries reported in 4,550 crashes. These alarming figures underscore the severity of roadway dangers in the county and serve as a sobering reminder of the risks faced by drivers, passengers, and pedestrians in Lakeland and the broader Polk County.

Call Our Lakeland Car Accident Lawyers Today For Help

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in Lakeland, Florida, having a skilled team on your side can make all the difference. At Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law, we understand Florida personal injury law and know how to get you the compensation you deserve, regardless of the circumstances surrounding your accident.

You can trust that we will advocate for your rights and best interests during every step of the case, ensuring you can focus on your recovery instead of legal complexities.

Contact Thomas C. Grajek, Attorney At Law, as soon as possible to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and let our Lakeland car accident lawyers start fighting for you. 

Visit Our Personal Injury Law Office in Lakeland, FL