Florida Car Accident Lawyers

Experienced Law Firm Fighting for Auto Accident Victims in Trinity

A car crash can upend your life if you do not seek the support and resources you need to fully recover. Any car accident can cause pain and suffering and start a chain reaction of serious effects: job loss, mounting medical bills, physical scars, disruptions to relationships, and more. In the aftermath, you must communicate with the police, get medical attention, deal with insurance companies, keep track of paperwork, and manage what can quickly become a financial mess.

At Kemp Law, we understand the deep and wide-ranging impact of car accidents. That is why we are ready to fight for the resources you need to recover so you can put your life back together and move forward. We have taken on nearly every insurance company in the business and have earned our clients millions of dollars along the way. Our personal injury attorneys are members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, a national group that provides a network for information exchange, local assistance, and case referrals to top trial lawyers in America who have won large, complex cases. Fewer than one percent of attorneys nationwide earn this high distinction.

What truly sets us apart from other attorneys is how we treat our clients. We are dedicated to helping auto accident victims navigate the legal process with confidence. We maintain transparent communication every step of the way and pursue the full and fair compensation our clients deserve. Simply put, we are here for our clients from start to finish.

We also offer direct attorney involvement in every case. When you work with our firm, your case receives the attention of our owner, not just an associate, which means you get dedicated representation at every stage. Our approach gives you a direct line to your legal team throughout your claim, making it easier to ask questions and stay informed about your case's progress. We take pride in building ongoing relationships with clients and supporting them through every challenge the legal system may bring.

Florida roads, such as I-4 and US Highway 19, see thousands of collisions every year. If you were injured in a crash on these or any other highways in the state, our familiarity with Florida traffic laws and road conditions allows us to provide strategic guidance tailored to local circumstances. We use local knowledge to help strengthen your case and pursue your best possible outcome under Florida law.

Call (727) 788-6792 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our Florida car accident lawyers. You owe our firm no legal fees unless we win, and we can take your call 24/7!

What to Do After a Car Accident in Florida: A Step-by-Step Guide

Being involved in an auto accident can overwhelm and stress you. Knowing what to do immediately after an accident helps protect your health, rights, and ability to seek compensation.

Florida law sets out specific steps that drivers involved in accidents must follow, and failing to take these actions can negatively impact your claim. Following the proper procedures—from reporting your accident to seeking prompt medical care—makes a major difference in preserving your right to compensation and reducing dispute from insurance companies. Staying calm and organized after a crash helps you gather key evidence and safeguard your claim from the start.

In the aftermath of a car accident, you should:

• Prioritize safety. If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further collisions. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to slow down and proceed with caution. Confirm that everyone involved is safe. Call 9-1-1 if there are any injuries, even minor ones.
• Call the police. In Florida, you must report collisions that cause injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. If you do not need immediate medical treatment at a hospital, do not leave the scene until law enforcement arrives. Request the official police report, as it serves as a key piece of evidence for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
• Gather important information. Obtain the other driver’s name, address, phone number, license information, insurance details, and vehicle information (make, model, and plate number). Also, record where and when the accident occurred. If there were witnesses, try to get their contact information as well.
• Document the scene. Use your smartphone to take photos or videos of vehicle damage, road and weather conditions, relevant traffic signs or signals, and visible injuries. This documentation can provide valuable evidence for your insurance claim or legal case.
• Avoid admitting fault. When speaking with other parties or the police, describe what happened without assigning blame. Choose your words carefully, as what you say can be used against you. Even saying "I’m sorry" can be misinterpreted as admitting fault.
• Seek medical attention. Always get checked out by a medical professional after a collision, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately. Documentation linking your injuries and treatments to the accident is essential for insurance and personal injury claims. Additionally, you must seek medical attention within 14 days of an auto accident to qualify for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits under your insurance policy. Missing this window could jeopardize your ability to receive compensation for medical expenses.
• Notify your insurance company. Report the accident promptly and provide accurate details, but do not speculate about fault. Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning your insurance may cover your initial medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident.
• Consult a legal professional. If you have been seriously injured, you may be entitled to compensation beyond what your insurance covers. Our Florida car accident attorneys can help you navigate complex claims, deal with insurance companies, and pursue compensation if another party is at fault. Acting quickly after an accident helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case. Keep all documents related to the accident, including police reports, medical bills, and insurance correspondence.

Common Causes of Vehicle Accidents in Florida

Every year, thousands of drivers in Florida experience collisions for reasons that extend beyond driver error. Heavy traffic congestion, especially on highways like I-95 and busy urban streets in cities such as Tampa and Orlando, raises the likelihood of auto accidents. Distracted driving remains a leading cause of car accidents, as drivers may text, use navigation apps, or lose focus. Speeding and aggressive maneuvers, such as sudden lane changes or tailgating, often lead to rear-end collisions and serious injuries.

Weather conditions also play a significant role in accident trends. Sudden downpours, common in Florida’s summer months, create slippery roads and reduce visibility, which can lead to a higher risk of vehicle accidents across the state. Construction zones, frequently found on major Florida roadways, force drivers to react quickly to new traffic patterns and narrowed lanes. A surge in seasonal residents and tourists, unfamiliar with local laws or street layouts, adds complexity to already challenging driving conditions, leading to an increase in crashes.

Identifying what caused your accident matters for your recovery and any insurance claim. When you choose Kemp Law, we look not only at the details of your collision but also at underlying contributors such as road conditions and possible negligence by other drivers or parties. This detailed approach supports the strongest possible claim and positions you for a fair result under Florida law.

Understanding Fatal Car Accidents & Wrongful Death Claims in Florida

The aftermath of a fatal car accident brings emotional devastation and complex legal questions for families left behind. In Florida, survivors can file a wrongful death claim if a loved one dies because of another person’s negligent or reckless driving. Wrongful death claims may provide compensation for lost income, final medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of financial and emotional support the individual provided to their family.

Florida law gives the personal representative of the decedent’s estate the right to bring a claim for eligible beneficiaries, such as spouses, children, and other dependents. Unique procedural requirements and deadlines apply, so early action helps families protect their rights. Courts consider factors including the relationship to the victim, the financial impact on survivors, and the pain and suffering due to the sudden loss.

At Kemp Law, we guide families through major decisions after a fatal crash. Our commitment starts with clear advice and direct attorney involvement, helping families understand their options at each step. We address legal matters with care while ensuring every aspect of a potential claim is fully reviewed and explained.

Navigating Florida’s No-Fault Insurance & PIP Laws

Florida uses a no-fault car insurance system, which means your own policy pays for medical expenses and certain financial losses, regardless of who caused the collision. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for part of your medical costs, lost wages, and related expenses up to its policy limit, and the state requires a minimum amount of PIP coverage on every auto policy.

While Florida’s no-fault rules are designed to speed up payments and lower litigation, the system limits when you can pursue a claim against another driver for pain and suffering or other non-economic losses. Generally, only those who sustain a serious or permanent injury can go outside the no-fault system and seek damages from an at-fault party’s insurance company or in court. The law considers permanent loss of bodily function, significant and permanent injury, disfigurement, or wrongful death as valid qualifying injuries.

Understanding these rules is not always easy, especially when insurers dispute the seriousness of your injuries or try to settle cases quickly and for less than you deserve. Working with Kemp Law connects you directly with a car accident attorney in Florida who will review your policy and help you seek every dollar you are owed. Our firm’s knowledge of local insurance practices and strong professional relationships in Florida support your claim from the start.

How Florida Laws Affect Liability & Compensation

Florida law uses a modified comparative negligence standard for auto accident cases. If you are found at fault for the crash, your compensation may be reduced by your assigned percent of responsibility. If your share of fault exceeds 50%, you cannot recover compensation. This standard applies to claims for injury and property damage, so demonstrating fault is vital for a favorable result.

State minimum requirements for car insurance and a high number of uninsured drivers in certain parts of Florida often complicate claims. If the other driver has little or no coverage, your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may apply depending on your policy. Our team will review your insurance and explain your available recovery options, factoring in the impact of comparative negligence.

Depending on the claim’s value and circumstances, Florida auto accident cases may proceed at the county or circuit court level. Each court system has unique processes and local guidelines, so having attorneys who know the region’s legal environment can help you move through the system with confidence. At Kemp Law, we adapt our approach to the county or jurisdiction where your accident happened, keeping you informed at every step.

How Long Will My Car Accident Claim Take in Florida?

The time needed to resolve a car accident claim or lawsuit in Florida varies based on the facts of the case, the seriousness of your injuries, and the conduct of the insurance company. Some claims settle quickly—when liability is clear and damages are straightforward—while others may take months or even years if the case is complex or the injuries remain under medical treatment. Delays often come from disagreements about fault or medical evidence, particularly if multiple evaluations or documentation are required.

Florida’s PIP coverage pays for certain expenses early, but disagreements about ongoing treatment, permanent injuries, or non-economic losses may take longer to resolve. Courts in some counties also have crowded dockets, which can add time to a case that goes to trial. Regular communication is essential throughout this process. When you choose a car accident lawyer in Florida at Kemp Law, you will receive consistent updates and guidance about what to expect next throughout your case.

What To Expect When Working With Our Florida Car Accident Attorneys

Choosing Kemp Law means you benefit from direct attorney involvement at every stage of your case. From the minute you contact our office, you speak with an attorney who takes the time to understand the specifics of your situation—not a junior staff member or paralegal. Our approach is hands-on, prioritizing open communication and regular updates about the status of your claim.

We value accessibility. You receive honest, prompt answers to your questions and a clear explanation of your options. Our goal is to lift the burden from clients so you can focus on recovery, knowing a legal professional is managing the details and providing guidance. Our owner’s personal involvement helps set our firm apart, creating a sense of accountability and care that makes a real difference in navigating difficult and sometimes overwhelming legal decisions.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Florida?

The statute of limitations for lawsuits involving car accidents is generally two years from the date of the collision. You have only two years from the date of the crash to take legal action. If a loved one passed away due to car accident injuries, the personal representative of their estate has two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. If you wait too long, you will likely be unable to seek compensation for your damages. 

Florida's statute of limitations applies strictly, and judges typically dismiss claims filed after the deadline, regardless of circumstances. Relying on memory or assuming you have plenty of time often results in lost legal options. No matter where your accident happened in the state, documenting the date of injury and each exchange with insurers will help you build a stronger timeline. Our team can help clarify the specific timeframe for your individual situation so you do not risk missing your legal window for seeking damages.

If you are considering a lawsuit, do not delay. Reach out to our team by calling (727) 788-6792 at Kemp Law as soon as possible after an accident to begin exploring your legal options.

What Compensation Can I Recover in a Florida Car Accident Lawsuit?

If you were injured in an accident that was not your fault, you can potentially recover both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages refer to tangible and measurable losses, while non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses. While non-economic damages are not quantifiable in the same way as economic losses, they are equally important in recognizing the full impact the accident has had on your life. We can assess your case and make sure all aspects of your losses are considered and pursued to maximize your compensation.

Florida’s approach to damages extends to immediate expenses and to future costs from serious injuries—such as ongoing medical needs or permanent disabilities that force changes in your life or career. Courts may also account for how an accident impacts your ability to care for loved ones, perform daily tasks, or pursue hobbies. These less visible consequences are just as important as medical bills or lost wages, and our firm evaluates every possible angle when advising clients on what compensation to pursue.

Our Florida car accident lawyers can pursue compensation for your economic and non-economic losses, including:

• Medical bills
• Lost income
• Reduced earning potential
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Punitive damages in a Florida car accident case may be awarded under highly specific circumstances. These damages do not compensate the victim but instead serve to punish the at-fault party for egregious misconduct and deter similar behavior. Courts may award punitive damages if the defendant’s actions involved intentional misconduct or gross negligence, such as drunk driving or reckless racing.

Insurance policies in Florida can set limits on what you recover, especially for property damage or non-economic losses. Knowing these coverage limits—and pursuing additional damages if necessary—can be complicated. Our team assists by reviewing available insurance and identifying possible sources of recovery, such as underinsured motorist benefits if eligible. Many times, this process leads to a better result than taking an early settlement from the insurer.

Understanding Your Rights as a Car Accident Victim

After you experience a car accident, you must understand your rights and the legal options available. Many victims may not realize the full extent of their entitlements, which can include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress. At Kemp Law, we prioritize empowering our clients with knowledge about their rights.

Here are some key rights you should know:

• Right to Seek Compensation: You may pursue a personal injury claim to recover damages caused by the accident.
• Right to Legal Representation: You can appoint an attorney to represent you and protect your interests during the legal process.
• Right to Medical Care: You have the right to receive medical treatment related to your injuries, regardless of insurance limits.
• Right to Be Informed: You are entitled to clear and comprehensive information regarding your case and any legal proceedings.
• Right to a Fair Investigation: You should expect a thorough investigation of the accident to support your case for compensation.

Understanding these rights can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Our experienced attorneys at Kemp Law are here to guide you through complex situations, making sure you are treated fairly. Reach out for a consultation and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.

Why Choosing Kemp Law as Your Car Accident Attorney Matters

When faced with the aftermath of a car accident, the right legal representation can make all the difference. At Kemp Law, we prioritize your needs and ensure you receive the personalized attention your case deserves. Our team supports clients through the complexities of Florida's car accident and insurance laws, making sure you understand your rights and options at every turn.

The legal challenges you face after a collision can be even more complex under Florida’s no-fault insurance system and comparative negligence rules. Claims adjusters often seek to limit payouts, and responsibility may not always be clear. We walk clients through each step, from collecting the right documents to managing claim paperwork, so you avoid errors that could delay or reduce compensation.

Here are a few reasons why clients trust Kemp Law in their time of need:

• Proven Track Record: Our history of settlements and verdicts for accident victims speaks to our commitment and ability.
• Client-Centric Approach: Every client receives genuine attention; our attorneys listen to your specific concerns and needs.
• Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We evaluate every claim thoroughly, assemble evidence, speak with key witnesses, and seek input from other professionals as necessary.
• No Upfront Fees: Our team works on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless your case is successful—making legal help accessible.
• Community Commitment: As a law firm rooted in Trinity, we are dedicated to supporting our neighbors and advocating for injury victims across our community.

Do not face this challenging time alone. Contact Kemp Law, and our experienced team will help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Florida

Will I Have to Go to Court for My Florida Car Accident Case?

Many car accident cases never actually go to court, as a significant percentage settle before anyone files a lawsuit. We work with insurance companies before filing lawsuits to seek a fair resolution for our clients, saving money on expenses, court costs, and attorney’s fees. We will keep you updated if we cannot negotiate an acceptable settlement and must go to trial to pursue the best possible outcome in your case. 

How Do I Know Who Was at Fault for My Florida Car Accident?

Fault is determined by the evidence collected during the investigation. We review several factors to determine fault in the case, including the police report, witness statements, property damage to the vehicles, any available dashcam or security camera footage, skid marks, and other relevant information. We may consult accident reconstructionists to review all the evidence and offer an opinion.

What If I Was Partially at Fault for a Florida Car Accident?

Car accident cases are not always black and white. Sometimes one driver holds 100% liability; other times, liability is split. Someone could be 50% at fault and the other person is 50% at fault, or it could be a 60/40 split. 

In these comparative negligence situations, your compensation award will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you receive a $100,000 settlement and the jury finds you 20% at fault, you would receive $80,000. If you are more than 50% to blame, you cannot recover compensation. 

Can I Sue If I Was Not Wearing My Seatbelt When the Crash Occurred?

Yes, you can still sue the driver and the owner of the car if you suffered injury in an accident while not wearing your seat belt. However, under comparative negligence rules, the jury could decide you were partially responsible for your injuries, so your awarded compensation could be reduced by that percentage.

What Should I Say to the Insurance Companies?

The at-fault driver’s insurance company may contact you and ask for a recorded statement about what happened. You do not have to give them a recorded statement, and you generally should not.

You must provide your own insurance company with a recorded statement if they request one, but consult your attorney so they can help you give that statement before proceeding.

Am I Liable If My Friend Causes an Accident While Driving My Car?

If your friend drove your vehicle with your consent, the parties injured in a crash have the right to take legal action against you, the vehicle owner, as well as your friend, the driver.

Can I Sue the Driver Who Caused an Accident If I Was a Passenger in Their Car? 

Generally, yes, you can sue a driver whose negligent actions caused your injuries, even if you rode as a passenger in their car—and even if they were a relative or friend. One of the only major exceptions is that you cannot take legal action against the driver if you are married to them.  

Can I Be Found Liable for a Florida Car Accident If I Was Rear-Ended?

There are several circumstances where you can be found liable if someone rear-ends your car. For example, if you pull out and cut someone off, you may be found liable for the resulting collision. You could also be found liable if witnesses state that you were brake-checking or intentionally slamming on your brakes in front of others.

If you were recently involved in a crash that was not your fault, do not wait to discuss your legal options with our Florida car accident attorneys. Call (727) 788-6792 or contact us online today.