Jacksonville, FL Car Accident Lawyer

Car Accident Lawyers Serving Jacksonville and Nearby Areas of Florida

Jacksonville Car Accident Statistics

Car crashes impact every community in Florida—from the smallest of towns to the largest of cities. Jacksonville and its surrounding suburbs are certainly no exception. According to data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there were 23,965 motor vehicle collisions reported in Duval County alone in 2023. Collectively, those auto accidents resulted in 15,916 injuries and 165 fatalities.

The most common victims of car accident injuries are the drivers and passengers of the vehicles involved. However, serious or fatal injury following a car accident can impact pedestrians, cyclists, and anyone else on the road. No matter where you were or what you were doing at the time of a crash, if you have been the victim of someone else’s negligence, you are entitled to hold them accountable and seek fair compensation. However, before your Jacksonville car accident lawyer can begin the process of fighting for damages, the cause of your accident must be thoroughly evaluated to help ensure blame is properly assessed.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Jacksonville

Motor vehicle collisions happen every day in our region. While automobile accidents can happen in a wide range of different regions, they do tend to share an important core commonality: The overwhelming majority of car accidents in Jacksonville could have been avoided if all parties had taken proper care. Here are some of the most common reasons why car accidents are reported in Jacksonville:

• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is consistently one of the top reasons for car accidents. Some common examples of distracted driving include texting, talking on the phone, eating, or even fiddling with the radio. 
• Speeding: Driving over the speed limit or too fast for the road conditions increases the chance of an accident. Not only does speeding increase the risk of a crash, but it could make a resulting collision even more severe. 
• Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Not stopping when required can lead to serious collisions at intersections. Running red lights and running stop signs both contribute to a significant number of car accidents in Jacksonville. 
• Tailgating: Following too closely behind another vehicle does not give a motorist enough time to stop in an emergency. Rear-end collisions are the cause of nearly 50% of multi-vehicle collisions reported nationwide. 
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs reduces reaction time and judgment. Unfortunately, DUIs are a very serious problem in Jacksonville.
• Drowsy Driving: Studies have found that driving while sleepy may actually be more dangerous than driving while intoxicated. Sleep-deprived drivers are slower to react, easily distracted, and may even fall asleep at the wheel. 
• Inexperienced Drivers: New drivers might not be familiar with all the rules or might not react quickly in sudden situations. Newer drivers—especially teenagers—are more likely to be involved in a motor collision.

Additional causes of Jacksonville car accidents include defective vehicles, inadequately maintained roads, and inclement weather. Even when not primary causes, these issues can impact the severity of a crash.

Understanding all contributing factors is essential when assessing the value of your claim. During your complimentary consultation with a Jacksonville car accident lawyer from our firm, we will listen to your story, discuss how the investigative process works, and help you determine if pursuing a legal claim is the best solution for your needs.

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Common Jacksonville Car Accident Injuries

Thousands of car accidents in Jacksonville and surrounding areas every year result in serious or even fatal injuries. Common injuries sustained in car accidents include:

• Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: These injuries can affect muscles, ligaments, and tendons, leading to pain and limiting mobility.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): TBI can lead to long-term cognitive, emotional, and physical difficulties.
• Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI): SCI can impact the nervous system, cause chronic pain, and even result in complete paralysis.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to the lungs, liver, spleen, and other organs is often life-threatening and can result in long-term complications.
• Burns and Lacerations: Caused by shattered glass, airbag deployment, and other issues, burns and lacerations may cause serious pain and require reconstructive surgery.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: Even seemingly mild fractures can necessitate surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
• Psychological Injuries: PTSD, anxiety, and depression are all common after car accidents.

While a large percentage of car accidents in Jacksonville result in serious injury, some also result in death. Fatal injuries can leave families devastated and unsure of where to turn for help. During your FREE case review with a Jacksonville car accident lawyer from Bernheim Kelley, we will review all the ways the crash has impacted your life as well as the ways it may continue to do so to accurately determine what your case may be worth.

What to Do If You Were Hurt in a Car Crash in Jacksonville?

Following the aftermath of a car crash in Jacksonville, it is imperative that you take a proactive approach to protect your health, your safety, and your legal rights. Here are four steps to take after a motor vehicle collision in Jacksonville:

1. Pull Over and Report the Accident: Safety comes first. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe spot, away from traffic. Once safe, call 911 to report the accident. Law enforcement will document the scene. Report the crash to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office or another state/local law enforcement agency.
2. Document the Traffic Collision: Be sure to thoroughly document your car crash. Collect the other driver’s details, including name, contact information, license number, and insurance details. If there are witnesses, get their contact info too. Use your smartphone to take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries.
3. Get Immediate Medical Care: All car accident injuries require immediate medical care. Even if you think your injuries are relatively minor, you should seek medical attention right away. Some injuries—TBI, SCI, and internal organ injuries—may not show full symptoms right away. 
4. Speak to a Lawyer Before an Insurer: An insurance company is not on your side after a car accident—even if you are dealing with your own insurance carrier. Before discussing the accident with insurance companies, you should set up a free consultation with an experienced Jacksonville car accident attorney.

Documentation from the scene of the accident can provide information about its causes and who can be held liable. This may include reports taken by police and insurance adjusters, photographic and video evidence, and anything that you were able to document on the scene.

Importantly, when talking to an adjuster or cooperating with emergency personnel, do not blame yourself for the crash. Without a proper investigation, it may be impossible to understand all contributing factors. Before you decide you know how the accident happened, talk to a Jacksonville car accident lawyer about your rights and options to make sure you are positioning yourself for the best possible outcome.

Who Is Responsible for My Damages After a Car Crash in Jacksonville?

Determining who is responsible for your damages after a car accident in Jacksonville requires establishing liability for the crash. This is, however, not always a straightforward process. Things to discuss with your Jacksonville car accident lawyer include:

Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Regulations

When it comes to car accidents, Florida is a no-fault state. This means that regardless of who caused the accident, your own car insurance policy’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits will cover your medical bills up to a certain limit. However, if the injuries exceed that limit or are particularly severe, you may pursue additional compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance. Typically, PIP covers 80% of your medical costs and a portion of lost wages—up to $10,000—depending on the terms of your policy.

When Are You Entitled to Pursue Additional Compensation?

If your injuries exceed the limit of your PIP coverage or are particularly severe, you may be able to step outside of the no-fault system and file a claim against the at-fault driver. Florida law allows you to pursue compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, helping to ensure you are properly compensated when injuries are severe or life-altering.

Shared Responsibility and Comparative Negligence

Florida follows the doctrine of comparative negligence (see Florida Statutes § 768.81). However, while Florida used to be a pure comparative negligence state, it is now a modified comparative negligence state. You can seek compensation for your damages after a car crash from another party as long as you are at fault for less than 51% of the collision. However, based on the comparative negligence standard, a claimant’s compensation will be reduced by their degree of fault. As an example, if you are awarded $100,000 in damages but were found to be 20% at fault, you would receive $80,000 in compensatory damages after the 20% deduction.

Potentially Liable Parties

Parties that may be held liable for damages following a car accident in Jacksonville include:

• Other Drivers: When someone else’s behavior, actions, or inaction leads to an accident.
• Vehicle Manufacturers: When a defective part, such as an airbag or brakes, causes a crash.
• Commercial Companies: When the at-fault driver is operating a company vehicle at the time of collision.
• Government Entities: When poorly maintained roads, traffic signs, or signals contribute to an accident.

Determining who might be liable for your damages requires a comprehensive understanding of the root causes of the crash. This is something best handled by a Jacksonville car accident lawyer. At Bernheim Kelley Injury Lawyers, our attorneys have decades of experience identifying all contributing crash factors to ensure our clients can seek every penny their injuries demand.

Types of Auto Accident Damages in Jacksonville

In Jacksonville, car accident victims have a right to pursue compensation for economic damages and non-economic losses. For the most part, your settlement or verdict will be tied to your losses. Here is a brief overview of the different types of auto accident damages that may be recovered in Jacksonville:

Property Damage

Property damages include the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any personal items damaged in the crash, such as luggage, electronics, and child safety seats. If the vehicle is declared a total loss, you should receive the current market value of the car. Additional compensation may be extended to cover the costs of renting a vehicle or alternative forms of transportation while your vehicle is being repaired.

Medical Costs

Medical expenses are often the most significant part of a car accident claim. Compensation may cover all accident-related healthcare costs, including:

• Emergency treatment at the scene or hospital
• Follow-up appointments with doctors or specialists
• Diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRIs
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation programs
• Prescription medications
• Medical devices like crutches or a wheelchair
• Long-term care for catastrophic injuries such as TBI and SCI

Loss of Income and Earning Capacity

If the injuries sustained in the crash lead to an inability to work, either temporarily or permanently, you might be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes:

• Income lost during recovery
• Compensation for diminished earning capacity

When car accident injuries limit your ability to perform your current job or pursue future opportunities, your lifelong earning capacity must be calculated when assessing your damages. If you are self-employed, this may include lost business contracts and opportunities as well.

Pain and Suffering

Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, provide compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life caused by the crash. They may include:

• Chronic pain or discomfort
• Emotional anguish such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD
• Loss of enjoyment in daily activities or hobbies
• Permanent scarring or disfigurement

The value of pain and suffering damages depends on the severity of the injuries and their overall impact on your life.

Loss of Consortium

In some cases, family members of the injured party may recover damages for the loss of companionship, support, or affection resulting from the victim’s injuries. These damages are particularly relevant in cases involving severe injury or permanent disability.

Wrongful Death Damages

When a car accident results in the loss of a loved one, surviving family members may be entitled to wrongful death damages. These damages aim to provide financial support and compensation for the profound losses experienced by the family, including:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of insurance
• Loss of consortium
• Emotional distress

Wrongful death claims provide a pathway for grieving families to seek justice and financial recovery after their unimaginable loss.

Punitive Damages

While most damages in car accident cases are compensatory, punitive damages may be awarded in cases where the at-fault driver’s behavior was especially reckless or intentional. This may include driving under the influence, street racing, and similarly thoughtless actions. Punitive damages provide some compensation but are mainly intended to punish the wrongdoer and help to deter similar behavior in the future.

Building Your Case for Compensation

To secure the compensation you deserve, you will need to document your losses. This includes keeping medical records, repair estimates, proof of lost income, and any other information related to your crash. An experienced Jacksonville car accident lawyer will calculate your damages to ensure all your losses are accounted for in your claim.

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How Much Should I Settle for After a Car Accident?

Most auto accident cases are settled outside of court. What is the right settlement for a car accident? It depends. The appropriate settlement amount after a car accident varies on a case-by-case basis and is influenced by several key factors. To maximize your recovery, it is important to work with a Jacksonville car accident lawyer who can evaluate your damages to help you determine what your claim is worth.

Key factors that may affect your settlement amount include:

• The severity and permanence of your injuries
• Current and future medical costs
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• The cost of replacing or repairing your vehicle
• Liability and comparative negligence
• Insurance policy limits

Determining the right settlement amount can be difficult, but accepting a settlement without fully understanding its value can leave you without adequate compensation. Having an attorney review your case and assess the full scope of damages will enable them to determine what you may be owed.

Your Jacksonville car accident lawyer will attempt to negotiate a fair settlement agreement with all insurance companies involved. However, it should be noted that settling a car accident case is not always possible. If no agreement can be reached, your case may need to proceed to trial where your lawyer will argue for your rights in front of a jury.

At Bernheim Kelley Injury Lawyers, we never leave our clients in the dark. We will keep you informed of case progress, including settlement negotiations, and involved in all decisions regarding the course of your claim.

What Is My Car Accident Case Worth?

The value of your car accident case in Jacksonville is largely determined by the damages that you have incurred in the accident. Assessing this should not be left to an insurance company. Insurance companies have a long history of trying to settle claims quickly and for the lowest possible amount. They know that, if you accept their offer, you will be barred from seeking additional compensation. But what if their offer is insufficient to cover the full extent of your damages? By having one of our car accident lawyers review your claim, we can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure that your settlement reflects the true value of your losses.

Jacksonville Car Crash Damage Caps

There are no compensatory damage caps on car accident claims in Florida. This means that you can seek dollar-for-dollar compensation for economic damages and any amount that seems reasonable and fair for non-economic damages. There is, however, a cap on punitive damages following Jacksonville car accidents. Punitive damages are generally capped at three times the amount of compensatory damages or $500,000, whichever is greater.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Injury Claim in Jacksonville?

In Florida, the statute of limitations for car accident injury claims is two years from the date of the accident (see Florida Statutes § 95.11(3)(a)). This change, effective as of March 24, 2023, reduces the previous four-year statute of limitations for fault-based personal injury claims. If your crash occurred before 2023, you may still have up to four years to file your claim, depending on the circumstances.

Certain exceptions may extend or modify the statute of limitations for car accidents in Jacksonville. However, taking swift action is the best way to preserve evidence, identify witnesses, and build the strongest case for compensation. Do not wait to act. Consult with a Jacksonville car accident lawyer right away to help preserve your rights and options.

How Long Does It Typically Take to Settle a Car Accident Claim?

The duration for settling a car accident claim varies widely based on the case’s complexity, the parties involved, and the amount of negotiation required. While some cases might settle quickly, others can take months or even years to resolve. Still, a few months for a settlement is a relatively common timeline.

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“When I broke my leg at work I didn’t know what to do. Thankfully a friend of mine told me to contact Bernheim Kelley. My attorney Brooke Perez and her paralegal Gabriella were great. Gabby answered all my questions and made me feel like I had made the right choice. Thank you Bernheim Kelley.”

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“Dor Schwartz gave us the best service we ever got from a lawyer. He fought for us (off court) and negotiated until we got our money back. He was very professional, kind, and approachable. He answered all of our questions and explained every step of the way. We are definitely going to recommend him & Bernheim Kelley to our friends and clients.”

Dana A.

“I really want to give a huge shout out to my attorney Brooke Perez and an even bigger shout out to her paralegal Gabby @ Bernheim Kelley! The law firm helped me to be compensated for a work injury and I got paid while I was off work. My checks came on a weekly schedule. Thank you all for making this rough situation not so bad. Thank you Thank you!”

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“I have used them to represent me on more than one occasion and have recommended this firm to several family members and friends. They are very professional and will always give their undivided attention to each and every case regardless of how complex the case might be. I trust Bernheim Kelley with all of my legal needs and will continue to recommend them each and every time. Thank you for your dedication and hard work.”

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“Working with Bernheim Kelley was an extremely positive experience. The level of attention given was much appreciated, especially with complicated details within our case. Highly recommended and look forward to working with them in the future if the need were to arise.”

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“It was a long and exhausting road for a claim that was submitted but ultimately I have to thank Jeff DeCarlo and Norin Levy for offering the expertise, support, and patience it needed to reach a settlement that was worth the wait. Thank you Bernheim Kelley for your diligence and professionalism along the way. Being that I never had an insurance claim before, Jeff kept me reassured and calm and Norin made sure my ducks were in a row with the paperwork. Thank you Team!”

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“I have found Robert Pinkiert and his case manager, Alicia, to be very responsive. Alicia keeps me up to date throughout any proceedings and thoroughly responds to any of my questions or concerns. It is a pleasure to work with the team.”

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“Thank you Jesse Bernheim, you and your staff are nothing but amazing. From the communication, patience, and professionalism, your office continues to get results. You and your staff make clients feel like family and know how much we appreciate your hard work and attention to detail. Thank you and god bless!!”

Eddie S.

“I’ve been Jesse Bernheim’s client for more than 15 years. He takes good care of his clients, getting great results. Although most cases are settled out of court, he doesn’t hesitate to get into a courtroom if it’s needed for the benefit of his clients. He and his firm recently helped me with an accident at a park, that accident has caused me not only physical but mental pain, anxiety, and anguish. Jesse Bernheim and Robin Rios took my hand all the way, making me feel protected and confident. They explained to me what to do and what to expect clearly. I highly recommend them.”

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“Attorney Robert Pinkiert and his paralegal Alicia are wonderful to work with. They are experienced, professional, highly skilled, and always responsive to help answer questions and provide guidance. Both reached out and proactively supported me during a stressful and challenging time. I would recommend Bernheim Kelley to anyone, including my own friends and family.”

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“Thank you so much! I’m so grateful for the way my case has been handled!! I highly recommend Bernheim Kelley. From the very beginning of my case, the communication has been excellent. They have handled my case so professionally and have made me feel so comfortable throughout the process. By far they will work for you and make sure you get the BEST results. If you are looking for an amazing attorney don’t look any further I promise you have it here!!”

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“The absolute best law firm you could ask for in an injury claim. They worked real hard to ensure not only I was ok but set up all my physical therapy and ensured I was paid for my unfortunate accident. Very helpful, no drop in communication, and always had my best interest in mind. I will recommend this firm to anyone!!!!”

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Do I Need a Lawyer after a Jacksonville Motor Vehicle Collision?

Yes. There are many advantages associated with hiring a car accident attorney after an accident in Jacksonville. Among other things, a top-tier car accident attorney can:

• Evaluate Your Case: Determine the full extent of damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Navigate the Complex Legal Process: Florida’s personal injury regulations are complex. Your lawyer will ensure compliance with requirements and deadlines.
• Handle Insurance Companies: Insurers often aim to minimize payouts. Your attorney can level the playing field by negotiating on your behalf and pursuing a fair settlement.
• Secure Maximum Compensation: With a lawyer’s help, you can pursue all available avenues for compensation, including against uninsured or underinsured drivers, to ensure you are fully compensated for your losses.

It is important to have a Jacksonville car accident lawyer who is proven both in settlement negotiations and jury trials. Having an experienced trial attorney helps to protect your best interests no matter which direction your claim goes.

Be proactive. You do not want to fall behind an insurance company in the legal claims process. It is always best practice to consult with a top Jacksonville auto accident injury law firm right away after the crash. The sooner you have a reliable lawyer on your side, the better your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome in your case.

What Is the Cost of a Jacksonville Car Accident Lawyer?

At Bernheim Kelley Injury Lawyers, we represent victims of car accidents in Jacksonville on a contingency fee basis. How does it work? We only get paid if you win your case or receive a settlement. The fee is usually a percentage of the compensation awarded, so you do not have to worry about upfront costs. When you have been injured through someone else’s negligence, your only focus should be recovery. We’ll take care of seeking compensation and fighting for your rights.

The team at Bernheim Kelley Injury Lawyers is committed to delivering exceptional legal services with a personal touch. With us, you can expect:

Dedicated Advocates

We prioritize the well-being of our clients above all else. Our team takes the time to understand your needs, build trust, and provide compassionate guidance throughout the legal process. By truly getting to know your story, we can tailor our approach to pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

Proven Experience

Our attorneys bring extensive experience and knowledge to every case. With years of successfully preparing and litigating personal injury claims, we understand Florida’s legal system and stay on top of changes that impact our clients. Whether we’re fighting for you in negotiations or the courtroom, we will seek the full compensation you are due.

Results You Can Rely On

Our firm has a strong track record of securing meaningful compensation for clients. Each victory means justice for someone who has suffered due to someone else’s negligence. We do everything possible to provide peace of mind and financial security for our clients and their families.

Convenient and Accessible

We know how difficult recovery can be after a car accident. We’re flexible in meeting with you—in person, over the phone, or via video conferencing—to help increase your comfort. We will meet your needs, whether at home, in the hospital, or at any other convenient location for you.

Set Up a Free Consultation with a Top Jacksonville Car Accident Lawyer Today

Deciding how to seek fair compensation after a car crash is never easy, especially from a legal perspective. You do not have to figure out the claims process alone.

At Bernheim Kelley Injury Lawyers, we are proactive, results-driven, and have a proven record of success across a wide array of motor vehicle collisions. Our Jacksonville car accident lawyers fight hard to get real justice and real results for injured victims.

Hurt in a traffic crash? We can help. Call us now at 904-758-1111 or contact us online to set up your no-cost case evaluation. We handle motor vehicle accident claims in Duval County and across the state.