Auto accidents in St. Petersburg, FL, can cause various types of injuries ranging from soft tissue damage to debilitating disabilities. Knowing the types of most common car accident injuries and how to recover compensation can ensure physical and financial recovery after an accident.
Common Car Accident Injuries
1. Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
Resulting from a sudden movement of the head and neck during an accident.
Symptoms: Headaches, neck stiffness, and neck pain.
Treatment: Chiropractic care, medication, and physical therapy.
2. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Severe brain injury or concussions due to head impact.
Symptoms: Cognitive problems, confusion, dizziness, and loss of memory and long-term.
Treatment: Emergency treatment, rehabilitation, and neurology assessments.
3. Fractures and Broken Bones
Often occur with high-impact crashes, targeting arms, pelvis, legs, and ribs.
Treatment: Rehabilitation, surgery, and casting.
4. Spinal Cord Injuries
This can lead to chronic pain and paralysis.
Treatment: Surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing medical treatment.
5. Internal Injuries
Injury to organs such as the lungs, liver, or kidneys.
Symptoms: Dizziness, abdominal pain, and internal bleeding.
Treatment: Hospitalization and emergency surgery.
How to Get Compensation for Car Accident Injuries?
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance mandates that you visit the doctor within 14 days of the accident.
Waiting until later to receive treatment may lead to a denied claim.
Step 2: Make a PIP Claim
Florida’s no-fault statute pays up to $10,000 in medical bills under PIP insurance.
Step 3: Establish Negligence for Further Compensation
If the other driver was responsible, you can sue their insurance for injuries above PIP coverage.
You need to demonstrate:
- The other driver had a duty of care to you.
- They violated that duty (e.g., speeding, distracted driving).
- Their conduct resulted in your injuries.
Step 4: See a Personal Injury Lawyer
A car accident lawyer can assist in getting you the largest possible settlement and negotiate with insurance providers.
Bottom Line!
If you’ve been injured in a St. Petersburg car crash, being aware of your rights and obtaining legal assistance can guarantee you get the compensation you are entitled to.
This post was written by Kelly-Ann Jenkins of Jenkins Law P.L. Kelly-Ann is a St Petersburg car accident lawyer. She focuses on personal injury, car accidents, and bicyclist injuries. The information on this site is not intended to and does not offer legal advice, legal recommendations, or legal representation on any matter. Hiring an attorney is an important decision, which should not be based on advertising. You need to consult an attorney for legal advice regarding your situation.
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