Panama City Car Accident Attorneys

Panama City Auto Accident Lawyers with 100+ Years of Combined Experience

Have you been hurt by another motorist on the road or involved in a car accident in Panama City, FL? If so, it's likely you have a viable claim for compensation.

At Syfrett, Dykes & Furr, our team of dedicated Panama City car accident lawyers has a reputation for diligent, incisive representation for traffic-oriented personal injury claims. Our firm understands the local nuances of Panama City, including the busy intersections and common accident sites that can impact your claim significantly. Being familiar with local courts and procedures allows us to provide more effective legal assistance. Our team is constantly updated on the changes in local traffic laws and regulations, enabling us to provide informed advice and representation.

Contact the professionals at Syfrett, Dykes & Furr today to schedule a consultation with our Panama City car accident attorney. Se Habla Español. 

What To Do After a Car Accident

When an accident happens, it’s only natural to feel rattled and shaken afterward. However, it’s important to gather your composure following a car accident. The steps you take after your accident can significantly impact the status of any injury or accident claims that you might file in the future. 

These actions should be completed after an accident:

• Take Care of Yourself: Check yourself for injuries and conduct an inventory of any passengers in your vehicle. This should be done before you try to exit your vehicle.
• Get Out of Traffic: You should flash your hazard lights to inform other drivers on the road to be cautious. If you have road flares, use them to mark off the accident scene.
• Exchange Information: You’ll need the information from all parties involved in the accident. Get their name, phone number, and home address. You will also want other information like their insurance company, policy number, and driver’s license.
• Call 911: A police report can come in handy when you file your accident claim. Calling 911 after an accident will help to speed up the claim process.
• Contact Your Insurance Company: When you speak with your insurer, remember to be as specific as possible when you describe the events of the accident. This can save you time and trouble in the long run.
• Take Pictures & Document the Scene: Make sure to get clear photos of any damage done to your vehicle. This can be used to support your accident claim later on. Remember, you can never have too many pictures of an accident.
• Contact Your Mechanic: After you have completed the above steps, schedule an appointment with a mechanic to make needed repairs. Get a detailed report of what repairs were performed on your vehicle as well. Although accidents are scary experiences, the most important thing to remember is to stay calm.
• Contact an Attorney: Speaking with an auto accident attorney in Panama City is a key step in protecting your rights. An accident attorney knows your rights and the tricks that insurance companies use to reduce your claim. Do not fall victim to these tricks.

Florida's Car Accident Claim Statute of Limitations

In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. Although this might seem like a generous timeframe, it is crucial to start proceedings as soon as possible to preserve fresh evidence and witness statements. Delay can result in complications, and over time, details can become clouded, weakening your case.

Is Florida A No-Fault State?

When it comes to car accident law, Florida is a "no-fault" state. This means that either party must go through their own Personal Injury Protection insurance coverage to recover damages, regardless of who caused the accident. It is possible to file a personal injury claim; however, certain requirements must first be met. 

How Will I Receive Payment for Car Damage?

If the other side was 100% at fault and if they have the right kind of insurance coverage, then they should pay to fix your car. In Florida, if the other driver is driving legally (with even the minimum insurance), then they should have $10,000 in Property Damage Liability Coverage, and this will help pay for your car. 

If you have difficulty with the other person's insurance company and you have collision coverage on your vehicle, then call your own insurance company and ask them to fix your car. In many cases, your legal counsel can negotiate with these insurance providers and ensure that they know what your rights are and are serious about recovering the coverage you deserve.

Can I File A Car Accident Claim After Insurance Pays?

Most insurance companies include in their settlements that no additional compensation can be collected after the initial settlement amount, so once you agree to a settlement it’s usually difficult to recover anything else. If you have been offered a settlement, or if you have already signed one, talk to a car accident attorney in Panama City, FL right away. A lawyer can help you explore your legal options, so call Syfrett, Dykes & Furr today to talk about your case. 

How Can an Attorney Help After a Car Accident in Panama City, FL?

Here are some of the primary services that car accident attorneys provide:

• Case Evaluation: An attorney will review all details of your accident, including evidence, witness statements, and police reports, to assess the strength of your claim and determine the best legal approach.
• Legal Guidance: They will clearly explain your rights, the legal process, and your available options, helping you make informed decisions throughout your case.
• Accident Investigation: Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering and preserving key evidence, often collaborating with authorities and expert witnesses to strengthen your claim.
• Claim Preparation: They will prepare and file your claim, ensuring all documents are completed accurately and submitted on time to avoid delays or denials.
• Insurance Negotiation: An experienced attorney will handle negotiations with insurance companies, using their knowledge to counter lowball offers and pursue a settlement that reflects the true extent of your damages.
• Court Representation: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will represent you in court, presenting a compelling case and advocating for maximum compensation.
• Post-Settlement Assistance: Even after a settlement or verdict, your attorney can assist with any remaining legal matters, such as a dispute with a medical provider over the repayment of expenses related to the accident. 

Whether you had a Panama City Beach car accident yesterday or tomorrow, our car accident attorneys are ready to help you get the compensation that you deserve.

How Do I Know If I Have a Car Accident Case?

Each case is different, but there are a few questions you can ask yourself to determine whether you should explore your legal options.

Each case is different, but there are a few questions you can ask yourself:

• Is it clear that the other side was at fault or mostly at fault for the crash?
• Do you notice a significant difference in the way you feel versus how you felt before the crash?
• Do you have pain and discomfort on a regular basis that you did not have before?
• Do you have medical bills and/or lost wages that exceed $5000?
• Have you already had surgery or is there a strong possibility that you will need surgery?

The more times you have answered yes to these questions, the more likely you are to have a case. Consulting with a legal professional can provide clarity on these aspects and help determine the strength of your case by assessing the evidence and potential value of your claim.

Contact Our Panama City Car Accident Attorney Today

Our firm is prepared to launch its own investigation into what happened and develop a compelling case for relief on our clients' behalf. If you have been in a car accident in Panama City, FL, and would like more advice before you speak with a doctor, adjuster, or another concerned party in your case, feel free to give our car accident attorneys in Panama City a call and arrange an initial case evaluation. 

Whether your accident happened on a smaller road or along US 98, our team can help. Understanding what you face and preparing with professional legal support can make a significant difference in outcome quality and peace of mind.

Ready to start exploring your car accident claim options? Our car accident attorneys are ready to hear from you. Request a free consultation with our car accident lawyers in Panama City today at (850) 795-4979.

Frequently Asked Questions

If it is your insurance company, then the answer is probably yes, but you have every right to have your attorney present. If it is the other driver’s insurance company, then the answer is no. You are under no obligation to give the other driver’s insurance company a taped statement. 

Should I Speak With Panama City Accident Attorneys Before I Give a Taped Statement?

What About My Lost Wages?

In Florida, your PIP coverage (Personal Injury Protection) will pay 60% of your lost wages that are a result of your automobile accident. As with most insurance, however, this is not automatic.  Your employer has to complete a wage history form showing your wages. Your doctor has to complete a form that certifies you have missed work due to the crash. 

What if the Other Driver Was at Fault and My Medical Bills Exceed My Own PIP (No-Fault) Benefits?

If the other driver had Bodily Injury Liability Coverage then that can help with your medical bills. Under Florida Law, the other driver’s insurance company has to disclose this information to you. Also, regardless of the kind of coverage the other driver has, if you have Uninsured Motorist Coverage, commonly referred to as UM/UIM, then you are protected. 

What if I Am Partially at Fault for the Car Accident?

Florida follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you are partially at fault. The compensation you receive will be adjusted depending on your degree of fault. For example, if your responsibility is determined to be 30%, your compensation may be reduced by that same percentage. However, if you are over 50% at fault, you may be barred from receiving damages.