Pinellas Park Car Accident Experts & Personal Injury Lawyers

Serving Pinellas Park, Lealman, Bardmoor, Kenneth City, and Feather Sound

Our expert team of Florida personal injury lawyers is here to help you navigate the complicated and frustrating waters of a personal injury, liability, and insurance claims. Whether you’re looking for a Pinellas Park car accident lawyer, Pinellas Park motorcycle accident lawyer, a Pinellas Park slip and fall lawyer, or need assistance with another type of personal injury case we can help. If you’ve been in a bicycle accident, bitten by the neighbor’s dog, slipped while shopping at the local Publix or Aldi, or have been injured by a product or someone’s property negligence – our team will ensure you get the care and coverage you deserve.

If you’ve been in a car accident in Pinellas Park, car accident lawyer, Erik Abrahamson, is here to help.  Our highly experienced injury law firm has more than three decades of experience providing excellent representation for our clients who are victims of all types of Pinellas Park injuries or product liability cases. Our team of compassionate and accomplished injury lawyers in Pinellas Park, FL can help.

Call today for a free case evaluation.

A Closer Look at the Abrahamson & Uiterwyk Difference

The representation from a highly effective injury law firm is vital in injury cases. We take pride in our ability to help Pinellas Park clients achieve the maximum compensation they deserve. Refer to the chart below for a comparison of the initial settlement offers made by insurance companies and the actual final compensation secured through our dedicated injury law team.

$250,000/Auto Accident

Our client was disabled from a back surgery she had approximately three weeks before the motor vehicle accident that brought her to our firm. She was a passenger traveling on Carillon Parkway in Pinellas County, Florida with her husband driving when they came to a stop and waited to turn right onto Roosevelt Blvd. Unfortunately, the defendant, who was traveling behind our client, negligently failed to stop and struck our client’s vehicle in the rear.

Our client immediately realized that she had re-injured her back and was also experiencing pain in her neck. She went to the emergency room for treatment. In follow-up with an orthopedic surgeon, it was determined that she had further aggravated her back condition. Her doctor felt that a repeat surgery would be necessary. Prior to surgery, our client underwent conservative care and also tried injections in an effort to alleviate the pain. Unfortunately, these measures failed. Ultimately, she underwent an extensive lower back fusion operation.

The defendant had a $50,000.00 bodily injury policy. We demanded that they pay their limits before our client’s surgery took place which they agreed to do. Our client also had uninsured motorist coverage through her own insurance company in the amount of $200,000.00. After we provided a comprehensive demand package, the company offered only a small amount to settle the case. We steadfastly insisted that they pay the policy limits to our client. They continued to refuse, so our firm filed a civil remedy notice accusing the company of bad faith settlement practices. It was not until after a lawsuit was filed that the company finally decided to policy limit, and the case settled for a total of $250,000.00.

Here are some of the most common causes of car accidents here in Pinellas County, Florida:

• Drinking and Driving
• Rear-end Accidents
• Distracted Driving
• Weather or Road Conditions
• Head-on collisions
• Sideswipes
• Speeding

Rear-end collisions are some of the most common car accidents in Pinellas County which can be caused by following too closely, distracted driving, or speeding. Rear-end accidents can be especially difficult to deal with because the neck and back pain caused by whiplash may not be apparent right away, and symptoms could take days or weeks to develop. It is common for insurance companies and adjusters to claim whiplash is not real, or an injury is not present because symptoms and onset can vary from person to person.

This is why it’s so important to seek help from experienced Florida car accident lawyers following an accident. We can assist with record keeping, collection of evidence, negotiations with insurance adjusters and companies, and more.

Drunk Driving Accidents in Pinellas Park

When it comes to avoidable accidents, few are as easily preventable as those caused by drunk driving. The recklessness of driving under the influence goes beyond simple negligence, making financial liability clear. If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, you have the right to seek compensation. However, determining the exact amount you’re owed can be complex. In certain cases, you may also be able to pursue damages from the establishment that served the driver alcohol. To consult with a Pinellas Park drunk driving accident attorney near you, reach out to us today.

Common Pinellas County, FL Car Accident Injuries

As a result of an accident, there are common injuries that we see frequently:

• Head injuries – Ranging from mild concussions to serious traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Neck injuries – Often caused by whiplash from rear-end collisions
• Spinal injuries – Including broken vertebrae and ruptured disks, as well as paralysis from a severed spinal column
• Organ Damage – Crush injuries or impact injuries from rolling vehicles. This can have more serious long-term implications like damage to kidneys, lungs, and other organs
• Broken bones and fractures – These are common and can include arms, fingers, legs, and ribs due to airbag injuries and steering column damage
• Joint Injuries – Fingers, ankles, and knees are very vulnerable in car crashes
• Facial Scarring – Can be caused by flying glass from broken windshields
• Amputations – Due to damage from the accident itself, or damage to tissue and veins as a result of the accident
• Eye Injuries – Can be caused by flying glass, airbag residue, and debris in auto accidents. This can range from temporary irritation to partial or full loss of vision
• Muscle Injuries – May include torn or stretched muscles in the back, shoulders, and other parts of the body and can cause years of chronic pain
• Nerve Damage – Might cause long-lasting pain that is difficult to treat
• Permanent Hearing Loss – This affects about 17% of car occupants when airbags inflate due to pressure & noise injuries. Temporary hearing impact or ringing in the ears is more common and can resolve in time

Examples of Injured Clients We Have Helped in Pinellas Park

Examples of Pinellas County clients who were injured and who needed our legal help, after their injury.

Why pick Abrahamson & Uiterwyk to take your personal injury case? Here are just a few reasons we’re positioned to find the best possible outcome for your case:

• Over 30 years of practice
• Over 20,000 clients have received financial compensation
• In total, clients have received hundreds of millions of dollars in compensation

We have achieved a wide variety of accolades over the years and we’re very proud of our professional and experienced team.

These accolades include a “Best Law Firm” rating with U.S. News and World Report, the highest “AV” rating on Martindale-Hubbell (a national law firm rating system), and an A+ Rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Our team is so good, we guarantee we will refuse to collect any fee if your case is not successful!

We’ve been in the Pinellas Park area for a long time and we are proud of our philanthropy. There are many local organizations we sponsor that are committed to making our communities better.

Should I Hire a Pinellas County, FL Auto Accident Lawyer for a Minor or Major Accident?

Yes – for both. What seems like a minor accident, could become major after the adrenaline wears off and the full extent of damage is assessed by a mechanic and/or body shop.

According to the Florida Highway Safety & Motor Vehicle Dashboard statistics for 2022, there were 15,618 automobile crashes in Pinellas County. Of those accidents – 6,351 involved an injury of some sort, and 109 resulted in a death. Because an insurance company’s “job” is to not pay claims, they fight hard to ensure you’re given the bare minimum in an award or settlement. Fighting those insurance companies on your own is tricky.

We always recommend you hire an attorney who is experienced at fighting big insurance companies to help you with your case. It’s a common misconception that an accident victim’s insurance company is “on their side.” In fact, any insurance company is on their side. They don’t want to write you a check. That’s a fact.

Immediately after your accident, you may feel fine – adrenaline and delayed pain can start even a week or more after an accident. Don’t assume you won’t need to file a claim or that you don’t need an attorney after a car accident in Pinellas County.

Most of us drive or ride in some type of motor vehicle on a daily basis. Because of this, we often forget just how dangerous automobiles are and how serious car crashes can be.

Choosing the right car insurance company in Pinellas Park, FL can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To help you narrow down your search, we’ve compiled information on three popular providers based on customer reviews and ratings via WalletHub:

GAINSCO – Boasts the highest rating in Clearwater with a consistent 4 out of 5 stars across over 1,800 reviews.

Direct Auto Insurance – Caters specifically to high-risk drivers, potentially offering competitive rates for this demographic. Strong customer reviews with a 4 out of 5-star rating based on over 1,800 reviews.

Esurance – Backed by the established Allstate, offering convenience with online services and policy bundling options. Respectable customer reviews with a 3.5 out of 5-star rating from over 1,600 reviews.

Remember: These are just a few options, and it’s important to compare quotes and coverage details from several different companies before making a decision. Consider factors like your driving history, vehicle type, desired coverage level, and budget when making your choice.

Hitting the road in Pinellas Park and Pinellas County? Cruising safely is key. By keeping an eye on potential hazards and practicing smart driving habits, you can keep your journey smooth and accident-free. Here are some essential tips to remember:

• Know the Zones: Pinellas Park and Pinellas County roads have a mix of speeds. Buckle down in school zones and residential areas, where limits drop fast.
• Ease Off the Pedal: Even a few miles per hour over the limit can mean the difference between stopping safely and a collision. Keep it chill and respect the posted speeds.
• Read the Road: Rain, fog, heavy traffic, even dazzling sunshine can call for slower speeds. Adapt to the conditions and adjust your pace accordingly.
• Watch for Hazards: There’s a lot of complications that come from road hazard accidents – we discuss the different liability possibilities for road hazards in this article.

Ditch the Distractions:

• Phone on Mute: Texting, calling, or playing with your phone takes your eyes off the road – a recipe for disaster. Hands-free for essential calls, otherwise, stash it away until you park.
• Food Coma on Hold: Munching and driving don’t mix. Save the snacks for your destination.
• Keep it Calm: Loud conversations, fiddling with the radio, or rowdy passengers can pull your focus. Keep the in-car chatter chilled to stay focused on the road.

Plan it Smooth:

• Roadblocks Ahead: Before blasting off, check traffic apps or the Pinellas County website for closures, construction zones, and potential delays. Planning your route around them saves time and stress, keeping you cool behind the wheel.
• Buffer Time is Your Friend: Rushing leads to frustration and risky maneuvers. Give yourself ample travel time to reach your destination comfortably. No need to white-knuckle it every trip!

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to safe and enjoyable drives in Pinellas Park and Pinellas County. Remember, it’s all about sharing the road responsibly and enjoying the journey. Buckle up, drive smart, and have a happy cruise!

The Pinellas County Courthouse in Pinellas Park can feel like a maze, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process or facing long wait times. Here’s how to navigate the system efficiently, with or without an attorney.

Understanding Wait Times:

Specific wait times vary depending on case type, day, and even time of day. Here’s a general idea:

• Clerk’s Office: Expect 30–60 minutes for basic tasks like filing paperwork or paying fees.
• Civil Court: Hearings and trials can take anywhere from 1–2 hours.
• Criminal Court: Wait times can range from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the case’s severity.

Tips for a Smoother Experience:

• Check in online! You can check in online and hold your place.  They’ll give you an estimated time to arrive, be there a bit early just in case.
• Arrive early: Opening hours are at 8:00 AM, so be there early to avoid the rush.
• Be prepared: Gather all necessary documents and identification beforehand.
• Utilize online resources: The Pinellas County Clerk’s website provides service information, forms, and court schedules.
• Consider legal assistance: An attorney can handle court procedures, saving you time and ensuring correct protocols.

Benefits of Legal Counsel:

While not always required, hiring an attorney from Abrahamson & Uiterwyk can offer several advantages:

• Reduced wait times: They may have established relationships with court personnel for quicker processing.
• Expertise: They understand the legal system and navigate complex procedures for you.
• Advocacy: They represent your best interests and fight for the best possible outcome.

Whether you decide to go solo or with an attorney, understanding the Pinellas County Courthouse and utilizing available resources can make your experience less stressful and time-consuming. Remember, preparation and awareness are key!

Insurance companies are beholden to their stockholders, not their insured, or the people those they insure injure. They hire high-price, high-pressure attorneys to ensure their payouts are minimal and inadequate to cover the injury caused to person and property. We understand how these insurance companies operate, we know their weak points, and we use that knowledge to represent our clients during negotiations and litigation. Navigating the world of insurance company adjusters, underwriters, claims representatives, medical consultants, and lawyers is daunting for someone who understands all the moving cases of a personal injury case – it can be overwhelming for you and your family if you’re not intimately familiar with how these things work.

You need an attorney who isn’t afraid to stand up to anyone, from an insurance company to a major corporation’s legal team.

What Does It Take to Recover Just Compensation for a Car Accident in Pinellas Park?

In all cases, recovering just compensation for a car accident requires proof. It requires proof that you were injured in an accident, and it requires proof of how much the accident is going to cost you. When you choose our firm to represent you, our Pinellas Park car accident lawyers will use all of the following to convince the insurance companies that you are entitled to just compensation:

• Evidence from the Scene of the Accident – Skid marks, damaged railings, and barriers, broken signposts and trees, witness statements, traffic patterns, the police report, measurements, and various other types of evidence from the scene can help prove how and why an accident happened.
• Evidence from Other Sources – Employment records, phone records, traffic or surveillance camera footage, and other evidence from other sources can also help prove the cause of a crash.
• Proof of Your Injuries – Whether you have a PIP claim or a third-party claim, you will need proof that your injuries are accident-related. Our lawyers will make sure you have the medical records you need to establish your right to payment.
• Proof of Your Financial and Non–Financial Losses – Finally, our car wreck lawyers will use your medical records, employment records, expert testimony, testimony from friends and family members, and other evidence to prove your financial and non-financial losses. This includes your current and future medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.

To make sure our lawyers have time to collect this evidence and file a claim before your chance expires, there are some steps you should take right away. After a car accident in Pinellas Park, you should:

• Collect Your Records – This includes your copy of the police report, the other driver’s insurance information, your medical records, and anything else you may have that relates to the accident.
• Take Detailed Notes – The more details you can record, the better. Take the time to write down everything you remember from before, during, and after the collision.
• Schedule a Free Consultation – We have representatives available 24/7, and we can arrange for you to speak with one of our lawyers right away. Your initial consultation is free, and you pay nothing unless we win.

6 Ways You Can Help Your Case Post Accident

Here are five simple tips that can help ease the way as you navigate the world of your personal injury case in the Pinellas Park area.

1. Don’t admit fault. The first step an opposing party or their insurance company may take is to get you to admit you caused the accident. Even a simple “I’m Sorry!” can be misconstrued as an admission of fault by an insurance company and its legal team.
2. Go to the hospital to get checked out, even if you feel “ok” immediately after the accident. Adrenaline can mask injuries and symptoms, so a medical checkup and report listing any slow-onset pain or injuries are important.
3. Collect information from all parties involved if you can, including witnesses and passengers. Names and phone numbers can make it much easier to compile evidence in your case. If you have to be transported and your passenger(s) don’t – ask them to collect the information. It never hurts to ask the police on the scene to be sure to get the names and phone numbers of all involved for the police report. They should do this already but mentioning it means it’s top of mind.
4. Keep careful records – including dates times and who you talked to and their contact information. If an adjuster calls you, note who you talked to and their phone number. Try to encourage email communication so you have a written record of what is said and the times/dates the information is communicated.
5. Save every piece of information and paper related to your accident, even gas & food receipts as you travel to the doctor’s office, or a copy of other receipts.
6. Contact an auto accident attorney near you in Pinellas Park. Contact us about a free case evaluation.

If you have auto insurance, you have personal injury protection (PIP). This is mandatory coverage under Florida law. While insurance companies must provide PIP coverage on a no-fault basis (meaning they must pay regardless of who is at fault in an accident), securing payment under your PIP policy can still prove challenging. Our Pinellas Park auto wreck attorneys can deal with your insurance company for you, and we can help make sure you receive the coverage you’ve paid for.

The Other Driver’s Auto Liability Policy

If the other driver was at fault in your accident, we can seek additional compensation under his or her insurance policy. However, in addition to proof of fault, this also requires proof of a “significant” or “permanent” injury under Florida law in order to recover all of your damages. Our car wreck lawyers can use their experience to prove your right to legally recover, and they can fight to obtain maximum financial compensation on your behalf.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UIM)

Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the country. Additionally, even if a driver has insurance, this insurance might not be enough to fully cover your accident-related losses. If you have an uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM) policy, you can use it to seek additional compensation in the event that you are in an accident without insurance, or you are in a hit-and-run accident.

But, unlike PIP, UIM requires proof of fault. So, even though filing a UIM claim involves dealing with your own insurance company, you will still need to prove that the other driver was to blame. Your insurance company will dispute your claim, and it will do everything it can to avoid paying you just compensation. Our Pinellas Park car accident lawyers will fight for the coverage you deserve, and they will not let your insurance company take advantage of you.

Third-Party Claims

Driver negligence isn’t the only factor that can cause auto accidents. In fact, there are numerous other issues that can lead to serious and fatal collisions. If a vehicle defect, pothole, dangerous construction zone, or another similar type of issue played a role in your crash, you could have a third-party claim for damages.

Third-party claims can also involve seeking compensation from drivers’ employers, rideshare companies (i.e., Uber and Lyft), bars, and other businesses. As your Pinellas Park car accident lawyers, we will evaluate all potential claims, and we will fight to make sure all appropriate parties are held accountable.

The legal system in Florida can be complicated and frustrating. An experienced Florida personal injury lawyer in Pinellas Park can make all the difference between a favorable outcome, and no outcome at all. Give our experienced team at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk a call today!

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The highly-experienced Florida personal injury law firm of Abrahamson & Uiterwyk also provides:

• Car accident lawyers in Florida
• Guide to Florida Car Accident Law
• Motorcycle accident lawyers in Florida
• Slip & fall lawyers in Florida
• Truck accident lawyers in Florida
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