If you’ve been injured in a car accident in St. Petersburg, FL, call Catania and Catania Injury Lawyers at (727) 263-3189 for a free consultation. You may have the right to recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering. Since 1992, our experienced St. Petersburg car accident lawyers have recovered hundreds of millions in life-changing compensation for crash victims just like you.
Our personal injury law firm in the Pinellas County area offers a free case evaluation and since we work on contingency, there’s absolutely no risk in getting us in your corner. Contact our St. Petersburg law office to schedule a time to discuss your legal options today. We’re standing by to take your call, 24/7/365.
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How Catania and Catania Injury Lawyers Can Help After a St. Petersburg Auto Accident
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may have the right to seek compensation. Insurance companies will do whatever they can to reject your claim or reduce your settlement amount. Hiring a skilled St. Petersburg personal injury lawyer can help even the odds and position you for a successful outcome.
When you hire our car accident law firm, we’ll:
- Coordinate an independent investigation of your car accident in Pinellas County
- Collect and analyze evidence to establish the cause(s) and identify all parties liable
- Collaborate with leading accident specialists and experts as we build your case and determine what it’s worth
- Handle all communications with other parties and their insurance providers
- Negotiate fiercely on your behalf, backing our demands with facts and evidence needed to get you the money you deserve
- Utilize our experienced trial lawyers to present your case in court, if necessary.
You focus on getting better. Let our attorneys in St. Petersburg handle the fight to get you every cent you deserve for your car accident injuries. Call us at (727) 263-3189 today to schedule a free consultation and learn more.
St. Petersburg Car Accident Statistics for 2023
According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Department Crash Dashboard (FLHSMV), there were 14,817 total crashes in Pinellas County and St. Petersburg area in 2023. Of these auto accidents 9,189 resulted in injuries and 111 fatalities. These crashes resulted in thousands of injuries throughout the county and several tragic deaths.
How Serious Are Car Accidents in St. Petersburg?
Car accidents in St. Petersburg can be as minor as a fender bender to more serious collisions resulting in injuries and fatalities.
In 2023, there were a total of 9,189 injuries reported from car accidents in St. Petersburg. These injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries such as broken bones, head trauma, and spinal cord injuries. Unfortunately, there were also 111 fatalities reported from car accidents in St. Petersburg in 2023, highlighting the seriousness of some of these accidents.
This data illustrates the life-altering impact even a seemingly minor accident can have on a victim and their family.
We Handle All Types of St. Petersburg Auto Accidents
Every car accident is different. The type of crash you’re involved in can have a huge impact on how a related case unfolds.
You deserve to work with a law firm with experience representing clients who’ve sustained injuries in all different types of auto accidents in St. Pete.
Catania and Catania personal injury attorneys can help you after you’re hurt in a:
- Rear-end collision
- Front-end or head-on collision accident
- T-bone or sideswipe accident
- Rollover accident
- Single-vehicle wreck
- Multi-vehicle crash
- Truck accident
- Motorcycle accidents
- Bicyclist and pedestrian accidents
- Hit-and-run accident
- Intersection accident
- Highway accident
- Accident involving an uninsured or underinsured driver
- Drunk driving accident
- Distracted driving accident
Our St. Petersburg car accident lawyers can also provide the support and guidance you need if a loved one has recently been killed in a fatal crash in Pinellas County. We’ll pursue financial compensation for your loss and suffering through a wrongful death claim so that you can focus on grieving and moving forward.
We’re here to help, 24/7
What Are the Leading Causes of Car Accidents in St. Petersburg?
There are several leading causes of car accidents in St. Petersburg, and some of the most common include distracted driving, speeding, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a significant issue in St. Petersburg and across the country. In Pinellas County, distracted driving can include texting, talking on the phone, eating, applying makeup, or any other activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road.
Speeding
Speeding is another common cause of car accidents. When negligent drivers exceed the posted speed limit or drive too fast for the road conditions, they can lose control of their vehicle and cause a crash. Speeding also reduces the amount of time a driver has to react to potential hazards, making it more difficult to avoid a collision.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a leading factor in car accidents in St. Petersburg and throughout the United States. Nearly a dozen individuals lost their lives to DUI accidents in Pinellas County in 2023. Driving under the influence of drugs, both illegal and prescription can severely impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely and increase the risk of an accident.
Other Common Causes of Car Accidents
Other common causes of car accidents in St. Petersburg include failure to yield, running red lights or stop signs, and following too closely. By being aware of these common causes of car accidents and practicing safe driving habits, such as avoiding distractions and obeying traffic laws, drivers can help reduce the risk of traffic accidents and keep themselves and others on the road safe.
Car accidents in St. Petersburg can seriously impact the community, resulting in injuries and fatalities. Regardless of the cause or severity of a car accident in Pinellas County, it is crucial to seek the guidance of a trusted car accident lawyer.
Our trusted St. Petersburg car accident lawyers at Catania & Catania can help you navigate the complex legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for fair compensation for your injuries and claim for damages. They can also guide what steps to take immediately after the accident, such as seeking medical attention and collecting evidence at the scene. We can help alleviate some of the stress and uncertainty of being involved in an accident, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
What Is My Case Worth If I’ve Been Injured In A St. Petersburg Crash?
The value of a personal injury case related to a collision is often determined by the severity of the injuries sustained. The more serious the trauma suffered, the higher a personal injury case is typically worth.
The National Safety Council reported that in 2019, the average economic cost of a crash varied from $12,500 to $28,500 for crashes with injuries, and up to $1,704,000 for fatal accidents.
These amounts do not factor in pain, suffering, disfigurement, or other non-economic consequences of a collision. When considering these factors, the overall value of a motor vehicle accident case can significantly increase.
Catania and Catania Injury Lawyers have successfully secured over $500 Million in compensation for crash victims in the St. Petersburg area. This was achieved by ensuring that our client’s cases were valued accurately and by relentlessly pursuing full compensation on their behalf. Our team of auto accident lawyers in St. Petersburg is prepared to advocate for you as well. Contact us to begin the process.
What Compensation Is Available For a St. Petersburg Car Accident Victim?
Florida law explains two types of damages – economic and non-economic – that are often available in personal injury cases.
Economic Damages
Economic damages, which are awarded to make you financially whole after an accident, include:
- Current medical bills
- Future medical expenses
- Rehabilitation
- Nursing care
- Lost wages / lost income
- Property damage
- Disability
- Funeral costs, if an accident is fatal
You have to be able to prove you lost money to get these types of awards.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are awarded to compensate for consequences that do not have a specified financial value and may include:
- PTSD
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
- Chronic pain
Claims for “pain and suffering” damages are difficult to quantify due to their subjective nature. It is important to provide strong evidence and expert testimony to support these claims. In certain cases, punitive damages may be considered, but clear evidence of intentional or grossly negligent behavior is required for them to be awarded.
What Kind of Injuries Do Car Accidents Cause?
At Catania and Catania Injury Lawyers, our experienced car accident attorneys represent clients who have suffered a range of injuries, from minor scrapes and bruises to severe trauma.
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue injuries
- Eye injuries
- Head injury
- Concussion
- Traumatic brain injury
- Neck Injuries
- Back injury
- Whiplash
- Chest injury
- Crushing injury
- Burns
- Spinal cord injury
- Paralysis
- Amputation
- And more
In the event of injuries sustained in a car accident, it is advisable to promptly seek medical attention. Afterward, consider contacting our St. Petersburg car accident lawyers to explore potential legal avenues for seeking maximum compensation from liable parties.
When Should I Consult a St. Petersburg Car Accident Lawyer?
After a car accident in St. Petersburg, it is important to contact an experienced car accident attorney promptly. Seek medical attention and inform the authorities first. Consulting with an attorney early on can be very advantageous in the process.
The actions taken in the immediate aftermath of a car accident can have a significant impact on the outcome of a personal injury claim. It is important to avoid admitting fault or making potentially damaging statements. Determining the appropriate steps to take following an accident may not always be clear.
Consulting with an attorney early on is crucial to receive advice on how to proceed and maximize compensation from the at-fault party. Catania and Catania Injury Lawyers provide a free initial consultation, so feel free to reach out to us regarding your case.
Can I Get Compensation If I Share Fault For a Crash?
In St. Petersburg, FL, under the pure comparative negligence rules in Florida, it is possible to recover damages after a crash even if you were partially at fault.
The financial award will be decreased based on the percentage of fault assigned. If you are assigned 30% of the blame for the car accident, your damages will be reduced by 30%.
It is common for other parties and insurance companies to attempt to assign as much blame as possible to you in the event of a crash. It is important to contest these allegations, as a higher level of blame could result in a reduced financial award.
Our St. Petersburg car accident lawyers are experienced in protecting clients from such tactics. Contact us for assistance in safeguarding your rights and financial compensation.
What Are My Options For Recovering Compensation After a Car Accident?
After being injured in an accident, individuals typically have two main options: seeking insurance benefits or filing a lawsuit.
Submitting an Insurance Claim After an Auto Accident
Florida’s current car insurance system is known as “no-fault,” requiring drivers to have minimum PIP (Personal Injury Protection) coverage in case of injury. In the event of an accident, benefits must be sought from your insurance provider, regardless of fault.
The legislature has passed a law that may change Florida to a fault-based state, where individuals would pursue insurance coverage benefits from the provider of the at-fault party.
Filing a Lawsuit in St. Petersburg, FL
Insurance is the primary source of compensation for individuals involved in automobile accidents in St. Petersburg. However, there are instances where insurance providers may deny claims or restrict their liability.
In cases where at-fault parties are uninsured or policy limits are insufficient to cover a victim’s injuries, injured parties may choose to pursue a lawsuit against those responsible for the accident.
You might be able to file a lawsuit against:
- At-fault drivers / other motorists on the road
- Trucking companies or truck drivers
- Pedestrians or bicyclists
- Employers of negligent parties
- Government entities, or
- Companies responsible for the design, manufacture, or sale of defective products.
Anyone who is negligent or may be strictly liable under the law can potentially be named as a defendant in a car accident lawsuit, with most cases starting with the involvement of an insurance company.
It is recommended to have a knowledgeable auto accident attorney assist you during the car accident claims process, whether it is your provider or another party’s. An attorney can ensure that adjusters adhere to regulations and provide a fair car accident settlement, with the understanding that litigation is a possibility if necessary.
Dealing With Insurance Companies in St. Petersburg
Navigating the process of dealing with an insurance company can be complex. Insurance adjusters are skilled at handling accident claims and may work to minimize their value. It’s important to remember that insurance companies prioritize their financial interests above all else.
Following an accident, when you contact the insurance company, the insurance adjuster may send you an initial settlement offer. It is advisable in most cases, however, not accept this offer as it is likely lower than the true value of your claim.
It is important to have a skilled St. Petersburg car accident lawyer to assist with insurance claims. The attorneys at Catania & Catania Injury Lawyers in St. Petersburg are familiar with the tactics used by insurance adjusters and will work to ensure you receive a fair settlement offer.
How Long Do I Have To File A Car Accident Lawsuit in Florida?
There is a two-year time limit to file a car accident lawsuit. The statute of limitations for accidents starts running either at the time of the incident or when the victim becomes aware of their injuries.
Failing to file your lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires will result in losing the opportunity to seek compensation.
To ensure your personal injury claim is filed on time, contact a skilled St. Petersburg car accident lawyer in your area promptly after sustaining an injury. Catania and Catania is available to assist you in seeking the compensation you deserve.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in St. Petersburg?
The following steps can be taken to ensure safety and maximize financial recovery after a car accident in St. Petersburg.
- Remain at the scene
- Call to report the accident and have police sent to the scene
- Document the accident scene and your injuries, if possible
- Seek medical care as soon as you can – regardless of whether or not you think you’ve been injured
- Refuse to provide a recorded statement to an insurance adjuster or answer anything other than very basic questions
- Direct all communications from an insurance company and other parties to your attorney.
The actions and choices you make following a car accident can significantly affect your ability to obtain insurance benefits or damages in a third-party claim.
It is recommended to contact an attorney promptly after a car accident. By securing legal representation early, you can focus on recovery and trust that your pursuit of fair compensation is being handled effectively.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in St. Petersburg?
The cost of hiring a St. Petersburg car accident lawyer from Catania and Catania Injury Lawyers will vary based on the specifics of your case and the outcome. We work on a contingency fee basis.
What this means is that you pay nothing to us upfront and you pay nothing unless we win. Our payment will be taken as a portion of your ultimate winnings from the settlement. The exact terms of this contingency fee arrangement depend on the facts of your case.
Who Could Be Held Liable for My Injuries?
Many potential parties could be held liable for your injury. Some of these possibilities include:
- The other driver;
- The manufacturer of your or the other driver’s vehicle;
- The government; or
- A property owner.
Determining the appropriate party to pursue compensation from in your case will rely on the specific details of the situation. In general, there is usually a liable party to seek fair compensation from if they were responsible for the accident. If you’re uncertain about identifying a liable party, please contact us for a consultation with no obligation.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our St. Petersburg Car Accident Lawyers
Catania and Catania Injury Lawyers have been fighting for auto accident victims for more than 28 years. Collectively, our St. Petersburg car accident attorneys have more than 120 years of experience that can directly benefit you after a wreck. We’ve recovered more than $500 Million in compensation, and we’re ready to help you and your family fight for every last dollar you deserve.
Contact expert St. Petersburg car accident lawyers at Catania & Catania today, to learn more about how we can help. Your first case evaluation with our team is always free, so call (727) 263-3189 now.
