St. Petersburg Car Accident Frequently Asked Questions

Getting in a car accident in St. Petersburg, Florida, can be overwhelming. The St. Petersburg car accident attorneys at Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group are here to answer your questions about St. Petersburg car accident claims.

We understand the stress that follows a collision—dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, insurance companies, and mounting bills. Our experienced legal team can help guide you through every step of the claims process, from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurers. Contact us online or call (772) 569-8155 today to schedule a free consultation with a car accident lawyer in St. Petersburg.

How Can Graves Thomas Rotunda Help After a Car Accident in St. Petersburg, FL?

How Can Graves Thomas Rotunda Help After a Car Accident in St. Petersburg, FL?

For two decades, Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group has helped Florida accident victims. Our firm cares about doing great work, and our results show it.

We can help you with:

  • Free first meeting to look at your case
  • Full accident investigation and gathering evidence
  • Working with experts for medical and technical advice
  • Negotiations with insurance companies
  • Getting ready for trial, if needed

Our St. Petersburg car accident attorneys work hard to get you the most money while you get better.

We handle all types of car accident cases, including:

Contact us today for a free consultation.

What Is My Car Accident Case Worth?

The value of your St. Petersburg car accident case depends on several key factors. While every claim is different, understanding what affects your compensation can help you know what to expect.

Your case value usually depends on how serious your injuries are, how those injuries affect your daily life, how much income you’ve lost, and the extent of damage to your vehicle.

Each claim requires a careful review of both financial losses and personal impact. Current and future medical expenses are especially important in determining what your case may be worth.

What Kind of Damages Are Available to Accident Victims?

Florida law has two main types of damages for car accident victims. 

Economic damages usually include:

  • Medical bills and future healthcare costs
  • Lost pay and reduced earning ability
  • Property damage and replacement costs
  • Money spent related to the accident

Non-economic damages may include:

  • Pain and suffering 
  • Mental stress 
  • Loss of life enjoyment
  • Relationship problems

These damages need a careful look from an experienced lawyer.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?

Most St. Petersburg car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee. This means you don’t pay any money upfront or by the hour for legal help.

With a contingency deal, your lawyer only gets paid if you win your case. The fee is usually a percentage of your settlement or court award, making legal help possible regardless of your economic circumstances.

Should I Report My St. Petersburg Accident?

Possibly, Florida law requires you to report car accidents to the police in certain situations. According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Department, you must report crashes that involve injuries, deaths, a hit-and-run, a DUI, a vehicle that needs towing, or property damage of $500 or more.

How Do I Get an Accident Report in St. Petersburg?

St. Petersburg police reports are usually ready within 5-10 business days after an accident. You can get copies through the St. Petersburg Police Department’s records office. You need basic accident information, such as the date, place, and names of people involved.

Should I Provide a Written or Recorded Statement for the Insurance Company?

Be careful when giving statements to insurance companies. While you need to work with your own insurer, other companies’ insurers often use statements to pay less or lower claim values. Talk to a lawyer before giving recorded statements or signing papers. Insurance workers may ask tricky questions or want details that could hurt your claim.

What’s Comparative Negligence and How Can It Affect My Car Accident Claim In Florida?

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system. This means your compensation can be reduced if you are partly at fault for the accident. For example, if you are found 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you would receive $80,000.

However, if you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover any damages. A Florida personal injury lawyer can make sure that you are not unfairly blamed for the accident and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury or Property Damage Claim After a St. Petersburg Car Accident?

In Florida, the statute of limitations sets strict deadlines for filing car accident claims:

  • Two years to file a personal injury claim
  • Four years to file a property damage claim

You may lose your right to recover compensation if you miss these deadlines. Some exceptions can shorten or extend these time limits, so it’s important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in St. Petersburg?

Take these important steps after a car accident:

  • Make sure everyone is safe 
  • Call 911 if anyone is hurt
  • Trade insurance info with other drivers
  • Take pictures and videos of the scene
  • Get contact info from witnesses
  • See a doctor immediately
  • Report the accident to your insurance company
  • Don’t admit fault or discuss liability
  • Save all medical records and bills
  • Call a lawyer before accepting settlements

These actions help protect both your health and your legal rights.

When Should I Call a St. Petersburg Car Accident Attorney?

Call a car accident lawyer immediately after any accident with injuries or significant damage. Getting legal help early keeps evidence safe and protects your rights. 

Especially when:

  • Multiple cars or people are involved
  • People argue about who’s at fault
  • Serious injuries happened
  • Insurance companies say no or offer too little
  • You get lowball settlement offers

Most firms offer free initial consultations to talk about your options.

Contact Our St. Petersburg Car Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation

Don’t go through a St. Petersburg car accident claim alone. Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group’s experienced lawyers are ready to fight for the money you deserve. Contact our St. Petersburg car accident lawyers today for a free consultation.

Additional Auto Accident Resources

Learn more about car accident FAQs: