As a resident of Sarasota, you never expect to be involved in an auto accident, but unfortunately, accidents happen. When a careless driver causes a crash that results in injuries or damage to your vehicle, you deserve compensation. Filing an insurance claim and pursuing legal action against the at-fault driver can be complicated, but the experienced personal injury attorneys at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh are here to help. Their Sarasota law firm has been advocating for accident victims for over 25 years serving clients at their Sarasota offices located at University and Tuttle and at the corner of Sawyer and Clark Road. Don’t delay – call them today for a free consultation about your rights and the steps to take after an accident on Bee Ridge Road or Clark Road. Let our firm lift the burden of dealing with the insurance companies from your shoulders and get the maximum settlement you deserve. The clock starts ticking immediately following a crash, so call now to schedule your consultation.
Documenting the Accident Scene on Fruitville Road
If you have been in an auto accident on Fruitville Road in Sarasota, it is important to properly document the scene. As a victim, there are several steps you should take to protect yourself legally and increase the chances of recovering damages.
Photographing the Accident Scene
One of the most important things you can do is take photos of the accident scene. This includes:
• Photos of your vehicle showing damage from all angles
• Photos of the other vehicle(s) involved showing damage
• Photos of the road, traffic signals, and anything else relevant at the scene
• If there are injuries, take photos of those as well
• The photos will help document the details of the accident and support your claim. Make sure to take plenty of photos while it is still safe to do so.
Gathering Witness Information
If there were any witnesses to the accident, get their contact information as soon as possible. Note down:
• The witness’s full name and phone number
• Their email address if possible
• A brief summary of what they say they saw
• Witness statements can corroborate your version of events and help assign fault to the at-fault party. So make every effort to identify and contact witnesses while the details are still fresh.
Secure the Accident Scene
First, make sure your vehicle is in a safe spot out of traffic and turn on your hazard lights. Check on any other drivers or passengers and call for emergency help if anyone is injured. While waiting for the police to arrive, do not move the vehicles unless absolutely necessary for safety reasons.
Obtain Information from Other Parties
Politely exchange information with the other driver(s), including names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance details, driver’s license numbers, vehicle make and model, license plate numbers. Get contact information for any witnesses as well.
Call the Police
Dial 911 to report the accident to the Sarasota Police Department, even for minor collisions. Explain the location and details of the incident. Wait for the officers to arrive on scene. Cooperate fully with the police and provide an official statement about what happened. Request a copy of the police report for your records and insurance claim.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your auto insurance provider as soon as possible. They will walk you through the claims process, including coordinating with the other driver’s insurance if needed. Your Sarasota accident attorney can also help guide you through the proper steps to recover damages from injuries or losses.
Seeking Medical Treatment After an Accident on Bee Ridge Road
After being involved in an automobile accident in Sarasota, Florida, seeking prompt medical attention should be a top priority. Several reputable medical facilities in the area specialize in treating injuries resulting from motor vehicle collisions.
Bretz Rehabilitation Clinic on Bee Ridge Road
Bretz Rehabilitation Clinic provides 24-hour emergency services for accident victims. Their skilled physicians and rehabilitation specialists offer diagnosis and treatment for injuries such as whiplash, fractures, sprains, and traumatic brain injuries. Physical therapy and chiropractic care are also available on-site to facilitate the recovery process.
Sarasota Medical Center on Bee Ridge Road
Sarasota Medical Center delivers emergency medical care for both car crash and personal injury incidents. Their emergency room is equipped to treat injuries ranging from lacerations and contusions to severe trauma. For longer-term rehabilitation, they provide occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy programs tailored to each patient’s needs.
Spine, Sport & Physical Medicine Center on Bee Ridge Road
The Spine, Sport & Physical Medicine Center concentrates on physical medicine and rehabilitation. Their practitioners specialize in diagnosing and treating spine and musculoskeletal injuries commonly resulting from motor vehicle collisions, such as disk injuries, muscle strains, and whiplash. In addition to physical therapy, they offer chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, acupuncture, and pain management services.
Seeking medical care promptly after a car accident in Sarasota is critical, especially if you experience pain, limited mobility or range of motion, or other concerning symptoms. An initial medical evaluation can properly assess injuries, determine necessary treatments, and provide documentation to support a future personal injury claim. The skilled physicians and rehabilitation specialists at these respected local facilities have extensive experience treating automobile accident victims and helping them recover maximum function.
Notifying Your Insurance Company About the Crash on Cattlemen Road
After being involved in a car accident in Sarasota, Florida, it is essential to promptly notify your insurance provider regarding the incident, even for minor collisions. According to Florida law, all parties must report any accident resulting in vehicle damage exceeding $750 or personal injury to the proper authorities within 24 hours. However, it is advisable to first speak with an experienced car accident attorney to understand your legal rights before contacting insurance companies.
Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh has successfully represented Sarasota residents in auto accident claims for over 25 years. Their team of legal professionals can guide you through the complicated claims process to help maximize your settlement and hold negligent parties accountable.
Notifying Your Insurance Company
When reporting the accident to your insurance provider, be prepared to provide details about the location, time, vehicles, drivers and any witnesses involved. For example, report that on Tuesday, June 15th at approximately 4:15 pm, your vehicle was struck by another driver who ran a red light at the intersection of Bee Ridge Road and Cattlemen Road. Provide the make, model, color and license plate number of all vehicles along with the other driver’s contact and insurance information.
It is important to only provide the facts about the accident without speculating on liability or fault. Your insurance company may try to pressure you into providing a recorded statement about the events leading up to and following the crash. Politely decline to provide any statements, written or recorded, until you have spoken with a Sarasota car accident lawyer. They can advise you on the appropriate details to report to maximize your claim value without jeopardizing your legal position.
Even for accidents that seem minor, it is always in your best interest to consult with a trusted legal advisor before notifying insurance companies or signing any settlements. The attorneys at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh offer free case evaluations and guidance to help Sarasota residents recover damages from car accidents. Their experience and expertise can make the difference in obtaining fair compensation.
When Should You Hire an Attorney?
You should hire an attorney as soon as possible following an accident, especially if injuries or extensive vehicle damage are involved. An attorney can:
• Review the details of your accident and determine fault.
• Deal with insurance companies to recover damage costs.
• Investigate and gather additional evidence to strengthen your claim.
• Determine a fair settlement value for your injuries and vehicle.
• File a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires.
• Represent you in court to recover the maximum compensation.
Consulting with an experienced Sarasota auto accident attorney from a firm like Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh is the best way to understand your options and get the compensation you deserve after an accident. They offer free initial consultations and work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless they win your case.
Statute of Limitations on Accident Claims in Florida
In the state of Florida, there are strict time limits on filing claims related to car accidents. Known as statutes of limitations, these limits outline the maximum time period within which an injured party may file a lawsuit. Failure to file a claim within the allowed time frame can result in losing your right to recover damages.
The Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Lawsuits
For personal injury claims stemming from a car accident in Sarasota or elsewhere in Florida, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the incident. This means you have a maximum of two years to file a lawsuit against any at-fault parties to recover damages for injuries, lost wages, medical bills, and other accident-related losses.
The Statute of Limitations for Property Damage Claims
Similarly, any claims relating to damage to your vehicle or other property must also be filed within two years of the accident date. If you wish to recover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle, you will need to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company or file a lawsuit within this two-year window.
Exceptions to the Statutes of Limitations
There are a few exceptions that can extend the statutes of limitations. Minors involved in an accident have two years from their 18th birthday to file a claim. In hit-and-run accidents where the at-fault driver is unknown, the statute begins running from the date the at-fault driver is identified. If the at-fault party leaves the state of Florida, the statute may be temporarily suspended.
To avoid missing critical deadlines, it is advisable to contact an experienced Sarasota auto accident attorney as soon as possible after any car accident. Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh can help determine your legal options, handle communications with insurance companies, and ensure all proper claims and lawsuits are filed on time. Our legal team has successfully represented numerous car accident victims across Sarasota and secured fair compensation for their injuries and damages.
How a Sarasota Accident Lawyer Can Help With Your Claim
Retaining an experienced Sarasota car accident lawyer after any auto collision is critical to protecting your rights. An attorney can handle all aspects of your insurance claim and help you pursue compensation for damages.
Gathering Evidence
A Sarasota accident lawyer will launch an immediate investigation into your crash to gather critical evidence before it disappears. They can get witness statements, review the police report, photograph vehicle damage and the accident scene. All of this evidence helps establish liability and the full extent of your losses.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers dedicated to limiting claim payouts. Your attorney is familiar with their tactics and will handle all communications on your behalf. They will not be swayed by insurance company tactics meant to get you to accept an unfair settlement.
Calculating Your Losses
The total compensation you deserve depends on the full scope of your losses, both economic and non-economic. Your lawyer will work with medical experts and accountants to calculate a fair settlement that accounts for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Negotiating a Fair Settlement
Once your lawyer has established liability and calculated your damages, they will demand a fair settlement from the at-fault parties’ insurance companies. If a satisfactory offer is not made, your lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit to pursue compensation through the court system. Lawyers know how to negotiate from a position of strength to get you the maximum settlement or award possible.
Allowing You to Focus on Recovery
Hiring a Sarasota accident lawyer allows you to focus on your recovery while your legal and financial interests are protected. Your lawyer handles the entire claims process while you get the medical care and rest you need. They are dedicated to getting you fair compensation as efficiently as possible.
Maximizing Compensation With an Attorney on Main Street
When filing an auto accident claim in Sarasota, working with an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial to maximize your financial compensation. As a resident of Sarasota, you have the right to pursue damages for injuries and losses related to a car crash. However, the claims process can be complicated. An attorney who specializes in personal injury law and has experience with accidents on streets like Fruitville Road, Bee Ridge Road, and Clark Road can advocate for you.
Personal injury lawyers make it their mission to fight for the maximum financial recoveries and compensation for clients involved in motor vehicle collisions. They will handle all aspects of your claim, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, taking the case to court. This allows you to focus on recovering from your injuries instead of dealing with insurance agents and paperwork.
With the help of a Sarasota auto accident attorney, you have a better chance of receiving compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other losses. Experienced lawyers know how to calculate the true value of a claim and will work to obtain a settlement that fully compensates you. They are also skilled negotiators and litigators, willing to take a case to trial if an adequate settlement cannot be reached.
In some cases, hiring an attorney can increase the value of a claim by up to 300% and help avoid unfair or unjust settlements. While you may have to pay legal fees, the compensation obtained through their expertise often significantly outweighs the cost. When involved in an auto collision in Sarasota, getting legal counsel from a reputable personal injury lawyer on Main Street is one of the smartest steps you can take to protect your rights and financial interests.
Frequently Asked Questions About Auto Accident Claims in Sarasota
After being involved in a motor vehicle collision in Sarasota, you likely have many questions about the claims process and what comes next. Here are some of the most common inquiries received by our firm:
What actions should I take immediately after an auto accident?
Call 911 to report the accident and get medical attention if needed. Your health and safety are top priorities.
Do not admit fault or sign any statements. Anything you say or sign could be used against you later.
• Exchange information with the other driver, including name, phone number, insurance details, license plate number, and driver’s license number.
• Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, insurance documents, driver’s licenses, and the accident scene. Pictures provide important evidence for your claim.
• Contact a Sarasota car accident lawyer as soon as possible. They can advise you on next steps and help you pursue compensation for injuries and other losses.
How long will my case take?
The timeline for an auto accident claim can vary depending on factors like the severity of injuries, complexity of the case, and responsiveness of insurance companies. Most straightforward claims settle within 6-18 months. More complicated cases may take 2 years or longer to resolve. Your attorney will evaluate your unique situation and provide an estimated timeline.
Who pays for your auto repair after an accident you did not cause?
If another driver caused the accident, their insurance company is typically responsible for the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle. However, the at-fault driver’s policy limits may not fully cover the amount needed. In that case, you may need to file a claim with your own insurance or consider pursuing legal action against the at-fault driver to recover additional damages.
Consulting with a reputable Sarasota auto accident attorney is the best way to get answers to your questions and understand all options available for maximum compensation after a collision. They can walk you through the claims process step-by-step and help ensure your rights are protected.
As you can see, filing an auto accident claim in Sarasota requires careful documentation and following of proper procedures. While the process may seem complicated, taking it step-by-step with the guidance of an experienced Sarasota auto accident attorney will help ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and vehicle damage. The team at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh has handled over 9,000 auto accident cases in Sarasota and throughout Florida. Their office is conveniently located at the intersection of Fruitville Road and Cattlemen Road, ready to assist you after any accident on roads like US-41 Tamiami Trail or elsewhere in Sarasota County. Don’t delay – call today for your free case review and put their expertise to work for you.
To recover the maximum amount for your losses and injuries from an auto accident, don’t delay in contacting a skilled Sarasota car accident attorney. The lawyers at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh have the expertise and experience to build a strong case on your behalf and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call them today at 941-954-1234 to arrange your free case review and discuss your legal options. Their office is located at the intersection of Sawyer and Clark Road, ready to assist you.
In many cases, insurance companies will try to offer you a settlement amount that seems reasonable at first glance but does not fully cover your actual damages. An experienced accident attorney can identify gaps in an insurance company’s offer and negotiate a higher settlement that includes compensation for:
• Medical bills for treatments and surgeries • Lost wages from missed work
• Vehicle repair or replacement costs • Compensation for pain and suffering
So don’t delay – call the car accident lawyers of Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh today at 941-954-1234 to discuss your case and how they can help you recover the maximum amount possible after an auto accident in Sarasota. You pay nothing unless they win your case.
During his time as a public attorney for the State of Florida, Bernard Walsh developed a passion for defending the legal rights of Florida's citizens. Having seen many people being taken advantage of after being injured and the financial harm that can cause for families he committed himself fully to helping injured clients get justice, by fighting to make greedy insurance companies pay what they owe.
Attorney David Goldman has been exceptional in the process of helping me through the case. He has always been easy to reach, whether by phone or email, and has thorough knowledge and explains clearly in depth so you feel safe and confident in your lawyer
I used Michael Babboni and his paralegal, Nicole Moore for a legal matter. They went above and beyond my expectations. During the entire process there was constant communication with both Michael and Nicole. They were extremely organized and on top of my case, which I am very grateful for. Michael truly had my best interests at heart and he was very genuine. I plan on referring Michael to all family and friends and will continue to use him in the future.
I dealt most with Mr. Fernandez. I didn’t know a lot about this process. He took the time to speak with me individually, in person, to explain everything. It was very helpful to actually know and understand the process and what to expect. He closed my case quickly, which was nice that it was not prolonged! I appreciated his hard work and getting me what I felt I deserved after my car accident. I highly recommend him to anyone who needs an honest and reliable lawyer to assist you with your case!
I hired Mr. Walsh after an automobile accident this past March. He and his entire staff were extremely professional. They kept me informed every step of the way and settled my case in a timely manner. Thank you so much for your help.
