Tampa Car Accident and Injury Lawyers

The Dangers of Driving in Florida

Florida is a beautiful state, but it also has a reputation for dangerous roads. In fact, Florida consistently ranks in the top 10 states for car accident fatalities. There are a number of factors that contribute to this danger, including:

• High volume of traffic: Florida is a popular tourist destination, and its population swells significantly during the winter months. This leads to crowded roads and highways, which can increase the risk of accidents.
• Aggressive drivers: Unfortunately, Florida is also known for its aggressive drivers. Speeding, tailgating, and running red lights are all common occurrences, which can put other drivers at risk.
• Distracted drivers: Distracted driving is a growing problem nationwide, and Florida is no exception. Texting, talking on the phone, and eating while driving are all dangerous distractions that can take a driver’s eyes off the road.
• Impaired drivers: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious crime, but it still happens all too often. Impaired drivers are a major threat to the safety of everyone on the road.

Tampa Car Accident Statistics: Why Legal Help Matters

Car accidents are a daily reality across Florida—and especially here in the Tampa Bay area. With thousands of crashes reported each year, the risk of being involved in a serious accident is higher than many realize.

In 2023 alone, Florida saw over 394,000 traffic crashes, resulting in more than 251,000 injuries and over 3,400 fatalities. Hillsborough County—home to Tampa—accounted for 27,468 of those crashes, with 18,878 injuries and 233 tragic deaths. Even more concerning, nearly 30% of these accidents were hit-and-run, leaving victims scrambling for answers and justice.

The roads aren’t just dangerous for drivers. Vulnerable road users also face serious risks:

• 66 pedestrian fatalities
• 39 motorcycle fatalities
• Hundreds more injured in preventable crashes

Alcohol-related accidents continue to be a major issue. In 2023, Hillsborough County recorded 444 alcohol-related crashes, resulting in 24 deaths and 268 injuries.

These numbers highlight a troubling truth: accidents are not rare, and the consequences are life-changing. That’s why having a skilled Tampa car accident lawyer on your side is critical.

At RHINO Lawyers, we understand what’s at stake. From navigating Florida’s no-fault insurance rules to standing up to the big insurance companies, our legal team fights for your right to compensation. If you’ve been injured in a crash, don’t face the system alone.

Don’t become just another statistic. Contact a proven Tampa car accident lawyer at RHINO Lawyers today for a Free Case Analysis. Let us fight for you—while you focus on recovery.

WHAT TO DO AFTER A TAMPA CAR ACCIDENT

Finally, you should protect yourself and your rights after a car accident. As a matter of fact, most people don’t know what to do after an accident. So, these tips can help anyone involved in a car accident.

• Stop and Get to Safety – In all honesty, you should never leave an accident. Instead, if your car is drivable move it to the side of the road out of traffic. Then, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Next, check on the other driver if possible. But, if you have injuries call 911 and don’t move.
• Call the Police – Always call the police. They will file an accident report. More importantly, you will need this report when you file your claim.
• Exchange Information – Even if they do not have insurance, you will need their contact and vehicle details. Furthermore, you should get the contact information from any witnesses.
• Document the Details – Write down the other driver’s vehicle information, the time and location, and the officer’s name with a badge number. Also, try to document any details that may help when you file your claim.
• Take Pictures – Additionally, take pictures of the accident scene. Include photos of the damage to each vehicle, the other driver’s license plate, and traffic signs.
• Seek Medical Attention – Often, injuries are not immediately apparent. So, don’t wait to seek medical attention from your local emergency room or your family physician.
• Contact a Car Accident Lawyer – Actually, it is a good idea to consult with an attorney after an accident. Because they can use their knowledge of relevant laws to help protect your rights. As well as, handling all the paperwork and filing deadlines. Thus, allowing you to focus on recovering and getting your life back to normal.

THE 14-DAY RULE

The first 14-days after your auto accident are critical to protecting your rights and benefits. Seeing a doctor right away can help you prevent making any injuries worse. Not to mention, Florida law states, that you have 14-days to receive medical care to qualify for your PIP benefits. In addition, make sure you see an approved healthcare provider. Like, the emergency room, urgent care, or a primary care doctor.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Securing financial support is so important because the consequences of a frightening accident can be so severe. The resulting injuries can be major and require weeks or months in the hospital and build up thousands of dollars in medical debt for innocent victims.

For some unfortunate victims, going home doesn’t mean their recovery is over. Long-term injuries and permanent disabilities should earn adequate monetary support when months of physical therapy or perhaps a lifetime of care is necessary.

The problem is, that most victims won’t know how much they’ll need over the course of recovery. That’s why having a personal injury attorney is so beneficial for your family.

Most Common Types of Injuries Caused by Car Accidents

Auto accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity from minor bruises to life-altering conditions. Understanding the common types of injuries that occur in car accidents is crucial for victims seeking medical treatment and pursuing legal recourse. These are some of the most common injuries diagnosed in Tampa emergency rooms and some of the most prevalent auto accident injuries RHINO Lawyers helps accident victims with:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – From severe concussions to permanent brain damage, head injuries can change lives and rob victims of their memories. TBIs can lead to confusion, blurry vision, nausea, mood swings, and a host of other symptoms.
• Neck and Spine Injuries – Thoracic Spine Injury (whiplash) involves disc nerve and ligament damage and is debilitating and painful. Spine cord compression can cause numbness and a lack of function in the lower half of the body.
• Upper and Lower Back Injuries – Debilitating pain in the small of the back, sciatica, and disc damage all come from a back injury. Lumber injuries can affect the patient’s control of bladder and bowel movements and sexual function.
• Broken Bones – Breaks, hairline, and compound fractures are common results of the force of a vehicle impact. Broken legs and arms are frequently diagnosed and when bones don’t heal properly, multiple surgeries may be necessary.
• Muscle and Ligament Damage – Soft tissue injuries can tear and bruise muscles and tendons. Damage to internal organs and the tissue that connects them is also frequent.
• Permanent Disability or Disfigurement – A lost limb, an eye injury, or a loss of the use of one’s legs can forever change the lifestyle of an accident victim. A life of relying on medical equipment or a wheelchair may be the only way to restore some freedom. A disfigurement can require plastic surgery and even cause a loss of desire to go out in public due to a change in appearance.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury from an auto accident contact our Auto Injury Lawyers today for a Free Case Analysis.

BENEFITS YOU CAN SECURE AFTER A TAMPA TRAFFIC ACCIDENT

After you or a family member have fallen victim to a careless driver, it’s critical that you file a claim for damages. This civil claim targets the at-fault driver’s car insurance provider. It goes further to make sure you are reimbursed for every hardship you and your family endure.

After your personal injury attorney secures an insurance settlement or a judgment in court in your favor, you can receive compensation for several factors in your case:

• Hospital and medical expenses now and those expected in the future.
• Costs associated with a permanent physical disability such as medical equipment, training for a new career, house renovations, and other changes in lifestyle.
• Travel costs while attending medical appointments and seeing specialists in other cities and states.
• The physical pain experienced and the expensive prescriptions are often necessary to manage pain.
• Emotional anguish. The anxiety and depression experienced after a traumatic accident. The loss of enjoyment of life suffered while dealing with difficult recoveries and sometimes long-term injuries.
• Paychecks you’ve lost will missing work.
• Damage or destruction of property.

Damages You May Be Entitled to After a Car Accident

If you are injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. These damages can include:

• Medical expenses: This includes the cost of hospitalization, surgery, doctor visits, medication, and rehabilitation.
• Lost wages: If you are unable to work due to your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages.
• Pain and suffering: This is compensation for the physical and emotional pain you have suffered as a result of your injuries.
• Property damage: This includes the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.

In some cases, you may also be entitled to punitive damages. Punitive damages are awarded to punish the at-fault driver for their gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

These are just some of the damages you may be entitled to after a car accident. If you have been injured in a car accident, it is important to speak with a car accident lawyer to discuss your legal options. Our attorneys are available 24/7, so call today to speak with an experienced Tampa car accident lawyer.

Understanding the Florida Car Accident Claims Process

If you’ve been injured in a Florida car accident, the claims process can feel overwhelming—especially while you’re trying to recover. At RHINO Lawyers, we simplify the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you understand what to expect from your car accident claim.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Florida Car Accident Claim Process

Step 1: Get Medical Attention Immediately

Your health comes first. Seek medical treatment right away—even if you don’t feel injured. Florida law requires accident victims to seek medical care within 14 days to qualify for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits under the no-fault system.

Step 2: Report the Accident

Notify local law enforcement and file a crash report. Also, inform your insurance company promptly. Be cautious with your statements—stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault.

Step 3: Gather Evidence

Document the scene if possible. Take photos of the vehicles, injuries, road conditions, and collect contact information for witnesses. This evidence is crucial in proving fault and damages.

Step 4: Contact RHINO Lawyers

Before speaking to any insurance adjusters, contact our experienced car accident attorneys. We’ll evaluate your case, handle all communication, and protect your legal rights from day one.

Step 5: File a PIP Claim

Under Florida’s no-fault law, your own insurance pays for initial medical expenses and lost wages through PIP coverage, regardless of who caused the crash.

Step 6: Investigate & Determine Liability

We launch a full investigation to determine if you qualify to step outside the no-fault system and file a personal injury claim. This is typically possible if your injuries are serious or permanent.

Step 7: Calculate Your Damages

Our legal team works with medical professionals and financial experts to calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and future care needs.

Step 8: Negotiate with Insurance Companies

We’ll aggressively negotiate with insurance carriers to pursue a fair settlement. Insurers often try to minimize your payout—our attorneys know how to push back.

Step 9: File a Lawsuit (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court. RHINO Lawyers has a strong track record of successful litigation.

Step 10: Resolve Your Case

Whether through settlement or trial, we work to achieve the best possible outcome. You only pay us if we win your case.

Let RHINO Lawyers Handle the Heavy Lifting

The Florida car accident claims process can be confusing—but you don’t have to face it alone. Let RHINO Lawyers take care of the legal legwork so you can focus on healing. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.

What You Need to Prove Negligence in a Florida Car Accident Case

To recover compensation after a car accident in Florida, you must prove that another party’s negligence caused your injuries. Whether through an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit, four key elements must be established to build a successful case. At RHINO Lawyers, we know how to gather the evidence needed to prove each one.

1. Duty of Care

Every driver in Florida has a legal responsibility to operate their vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. This is called a “duty of care.” It includes things like obeying speed limits, stopping at red lights, and avoiding distractions behind the wheel.

2. Breach of Duty

A driver breaches their duty of care when they act—or fail to act—in a way that puts others at risk. Common examples include:

• Speeding or reckless driving
• Texting while driving
• Running a red light
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

This breach must be demonstrated through evidence like crash reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage.

3. Causation

It’s not enough to show that the other driver was careless—you must also prove that their actions directly caused the accident and your injuries. This is known as “causation.” We work with accident reconstruction experts and medical professionals to link the breach of duty to your harm.

4. Damages

Finally, you must show that you suffered actual damages due to the accident. These can include:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Vehicle repair costs
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term disability or emotional trauma

Our team will gather medical records, financial statements, and expert evaluations to document the full extent of your losses.

Proving Negligence Is What We Do

At RHINO Lawyers, we build strong cases by aggressively investigating every detail and holding negligent drivers accountable. If you were injured in a Florida car accident, we’re ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us prove your case.

Why Choose RHINO Lawyers for Your Tampa Bay Car Accident?

At RHINO Lawyers, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Relentless Advocacy – We are aggressive and experienced litigators, fighting to get you the compensation you deserve from insurance companies.
• Proven Track Record – Our attorneys have a successful history of securing maximum settlements and verdicts for our car accident clients.
• Personalized Attention – You won’t be treated like just another case. We work directly with you, developing a strategy tailored to the specifics of your accident.
• No Recovery, No Fee – We take the financial risk. You won’t owe a dime unless we win your case.
• Free Consultation – Get the legal advice you need with no obligation.

Let RHINO Lawyers be your champion after a Tampa Bay car accident. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do I Have To File An Accident Claim In Florida?

Four years. Florida has a statute of limitations for filing an injury claim that starts on the date of the accident. Waiting for years to file can hurt your case because obtaining evidence and locating witnesses become harder after delaying so long.

What If I Am Partially To Blame For An Accident?

You can still secure compensation. Florida is a pure comparative negligence state. This means several drivers can share fault in an accident. You can still be awarded damages for your injury, but your percentage of fault in the crash would be deducted from the money you receive.

What If An Insurance Company Tries To Blame Me Unfairly?

Talk to an experienced Tampa attorney. Insurance companies like to see if innocent drivers will accept the blame so they can save money. Allow a skilled attorney to build a strong case for you that proves you weren’t at fault. Don’t pay for your recovery out of your own pocket.

CONTACT YOUR TAMPA CAR ACCIDENT LAWYERS

BOLD REPRESENTATION. BOLD RESULTS.

Let RHINO Lawyers’ car accident attorneys start helping you immediately by giving you free advice regarding the facts of your case.

So, get YOUR Free Case Analysis now by texting us, chatting with us online, completing the form below, or by calling 844.RHINO.77.

Additional Resources

• Tampa Drunk Driving Accidents
• Tampa Lyft accidents
• Uber Accidents Tampa
• How to get your Tampa accident report