Local Bradenton Car Accident Lawyers & Personal Injury Attorneys Near You

At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, our Bradenton car accident lawyers offer dedicated representation built on over 37 years in practice since March 1988. With more than 100 years of combined experience, we have represented over 20,000 clients and recovered more than $1 billion in compensation. Our team includes board-certified trial attorneys and Injury Attorney & Managing Partner Erik Abrahamson, a member of the Florida Bar Association (Bar #754498). We’ve earned a “Best Law Firm” rating from U.S. News and World Report, received 2-time recognition from The Best Lawyers in America®, and achieved a Best Law Firms™ Tampa Tier-1 ranking for Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs. Our firm also holds the highest possible Martindale-Hubbell “AV” Rating, the Avvo Clients’ Choice Award, and an A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Backed by over 2,000 5-star reviews, we remain focused on delivering reliable advocacy and meaningful results for our clients.

At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, our Bradenton personal injury attorneys focus on one clear mission: helping injured clients recover the maximum compensation available under the law. If you have been hurt in Bradenton, FL, there is no need to delay. Reach out today for a free consultation so we can explain your rights and legal options.

Speak to a Local Personal Injury Attorney in Bradenton, FL, Today

Dealing with an injury in or around Bradenton can quickly become overwhelming. Between medical treatment, vehicle or property repairs, and time away from work, it is easy to feel stressed while also trying to move forward with a legal claim.

At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, our Bradenton injury attorneys bring decades of experience helping injured clients through situations like yours. We understand how to handle proving fault, working with insurance companies, and moving a claim forward efficiently. Our goal is to take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your recovery.

We are here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve while guiding you through every step of the process.

Local Representation Throughout Florida

• Sumter County car accident attorney
• Pinellas car accident lawyer
• Citrus County personal injury lawyer
• Port Charlotte car accident lawyer

Our Bradenton injury law firm has been representing injured victims and car accident cases in Manatee County for many decades. A large number of the people we’ve helped are Manatee County residents. Below are examples of clients from Manatee County who were injured and turned to our personal injury team for help recovering compensation for their losses.

Whether you need a Bradenton car accident lawyer, Bradenton motorcycle accident attorney, Bradenton slip and fall lawyer, Bradenton wrongful death lawyer, or a Bradenton bicycle accident lawyer, our team is committed to protecting your rights and helping you pursue the compensation you deserve.

$60,000 Settlement of a Bradenton Car Accident

Our client was exiting a store in Bradenton, FL and walking within a crosswalk when a vehicle driven by the defendant turned left from the parking lot and struck our client.

Our client was initially evaluated by an Urgent Care facility before coming under the care of an orthopedic clinic for injuries to her cervical spine and her shoulder. An MRI of the neck revealed two herniated cervical spine discs, and an MRI of the shoulder showed an injury to her rotator cuff. To treat her cervical spine, our client’s doctors recommended, and our client underwent, a procedure known as radiofrequency ablation. For her shoulder, an operation known as an arthroscopy was recommended.

Fortunately, we were able to obtain the maximum insurance policy limits available for our client. This was sufficient to pay all of our client’s medical bills and provide her with much-needed compensation.

Hiring our law firm can make a significant difference in the compensation you receive. With our extensive experience and dedicated injury law team, we ensure that you get the best possible outcome for your case.

Our expertise in negotiating settlements and representing clients in court can significantly increase the compensation you receive. Here are Examples of Initial Injury Offers from the Insurance Company vs. the Ultimate Injury Case Result which We Obtained for Our Injury Clients.

If you are injured because of someone else’s negligence, you have the right to pursue compensation for the losses connected to your accident.

That can include medical expenses you have already incurred, costs to repair your vehicle if you were in a crash, and also future medical care, lost wages, reduced earning ability, pain and suffering, and other related damages.

An experienced Florida personal injury lawyer near Bradenton can properly evaluate the full impact of your injuries. Without legal guidance, it is very common for injury victims to accept settlements that are far lower than what their claim is truly worth.

It is important to keep in mind that insurance companies are not working in your best interest, even when you are dealing with your own insurer.

Insurance adjusters are not there to explain your rights or ensure you receive full compensation. In many cases, they will try to move quickly toward a settlement before you fully understand the long-term effects of your injuries.

Yes, waiting too long can negatively affect your ability to recover compensation. After an injury in Bradenton, it is important to gather evidence that shows who was responsible for what happened.

If you delay, key evidence can disappear or become harder to obtain. Waiting to get medical care can also create problems, since it may become more difficult for doctors to clearly connect your injuries to the incident.

Florida law also sets a strict deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations. If that deadline passes, you may lose your right to pursue compensation altogether.

At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we focus on helping injury victims and their families, including those hurt in Florida car accidents. Our team of Florida car accident attorneys is committed to pursuing the compensation you deserve. We understand what is at stake and act quickly to help protect and preserve your claim.

No, it should not be. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we handle personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, which keeps the process accessible for injured clients.

That means:

• There are no upfront costs to get started.
• There are no ongoing monthly legal fees.
• There are no attorney fees or case costs unless we recover compensation for you.

If we are successful in obtaining a settlement or winning a verdict at trial, our fee is a percentage of the recovery. If we do not win your case, you owe nothing for fees or costs.

You remain in control of any settlement decision. We will clearly explain what your net recovery would be so you can make an informed choice about how to proceed with your Bradenton injury claim.

If you or someone you love has suffered serious injuries in a motorcycle crash in Bradenton, FL, you may have the right to pursue financial compensation for your losses.

After an accident, medical expenses can add up quickly, and you may also be struggling with missed work, rent or mortgage payments, and the overall stress that comes with a serious injury. These challenges often create both financial pressure and emotional strain on top of physical recovery.

Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be eligible to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages.

A Bradenton motorcycle accident lawyer from Abrahamson & Uiterwyk can help guide you through the process. We work to protect your rights and pursue the full compensation you are entitled to receive.

One of the most common types of cases our Florida personal injury firm handles is motorcycle accidents. Motorcyclists are far more exposed than other drivers, and even when a helmet is worn, crashes can still result in severe injuries. Common outcomes include road rash, broken bones, and traumatic head injuries, many of which require extensive medical care.

If a Bradenton driver acted carelessly, such as driving distracted or making an illegal turn, and caused the crash, the injured motorcyclist may be entitled to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other accident-related losses. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Bradenton, Florida, our team at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk offers free consultations with experienced motorcycle accident attorneys ready to help you understand your options.

Who May Be Liable for Your Motorcycle Accident Claim?

Many motorcycle crashes in Bradenton happen because of negligent or reckless drivers on the road. However, liability is not limited to other motorists.

Some accidents are caused by unsafe road conditions, poor maintenance, construction hazards, or improperly designed intersections. In other cases, defective motorcycle or vehicle parts can play a role in causing serious injuries.

If another party’s negligence contributed to your crash, you may be able to recover financial compensation. To do so, your case must establish liability, which generally involves proving four key elements of negligence:

• Duty of care
• Breach of that duty
• Causation
• Damages

All drivers have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles safely and to avoid putting motorcyclists and others at risk. When a driver fails to meet that responsibility and causes a crash, they can be held legally responsible for the resulting harm.

Liability can also extend beyond drivers. Government entities and transportation providers must keep roads reasonably safe, including proper signage and lighting. Construction crews are required to mark work zones clearly and secure hazardous areas. When these duties are not met, they may also be responsible for resulting injuries.

Will You Have to Go to Court for Your Bradenton Motorcycle Accident?

Most motorcycle accident claims are resolved without going to trial. Your attorney will typically prepare a strong, evidence-based claim and submit it to the insurance company along with a demand for compensation. From there, negotiations usually begin.

In many cases, a fair settlement can be reached without ever stepping into a courtroom. This helps injured clients receive compensation sooner and avoid unnecessary delays. However, if the insurance company refuses to make a reasonable offer, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit.

Do You Have to Hire a Bradenton Motorcycle Accident Attorney?

You are not required to hire a lawyer to file a claim or pursue compensation, but working with an experienced Bradenton motorcycle accident attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

When you choose Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, our team takes on the legal burden so you can focus on recovery. We also help you understand what a fair settlement may look like by reviewing motorcycle accident compensation examples based on your situation.

From the beginning, you have a dedicated legal team working for your best interests. We are committed to pursuing fair compensation and holding responsible parties accountable.

Our Bradenton motorcycle accident clients benefit from services such as:

• Investigating and documenting the crash
• Proving fault and liability
• Managing every stage of the claim
• Communicating with insurance companies and other parties
• Protecting your legal rights
• Providing consistent and clear updates

We use extensive resources and legal experience to build strong cases and negotiate from a position of strength. If insurers refuse to act fairly, we are prepared to take the case to court.

Calculating the Value of Your Motorcycle Injury Claim

When evaluating your claim, we carefully assess all accident-related losses. Depending on your case, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency medical care and transport
• Doctor, surgeon, and hospital treatment
• Medication and medical equipment
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and employment benefits
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Reduced quality of life
• Loss of future earning ability

If your injuries require ongoing treatment or affect your ability to work, we also consider future medical costs and long-term financial impact. Permanent injuries or disabilities are included in the overall value of your claim.

Our goal is to pursue compensation that supports your recovery and helps you move forward financially while you heal.

Talk to a Bradenton Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today

You do not have to handle this situation alone. Our experienced personal injury attorneys serving Bradenton provide dedicated and compassionate representation for injured motorcyclists.

We offer free consultations and case evaluations, and you do not pay any fees unless we recover compensation for you.

Contact us today to speak with a Bradenton motorcycle accident lawyer and learn how we can help you move forward.

Slip and fall accidents happen in every state and are one of the most common causes of injury each year, affecting well over a million people nationwide. These incidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor bruises to serious harm such as broken bones, head trauma, and other lasting conditions. If you or someone close to you has been injured in a slip and fall accident, it is important to speak with a Bradenton slip and fall lawyer to understand whether you may be entitled to compensation.

Types of Slip and Fall Cases We Handle

At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we have a strong record of success handling many different types of slip and fall claims. Our experience includes cases involving unsafe or slippery walking surfaces, wet floor accidents, and falls occurring on stairs or escalators. We have helped clients recover compensation for both short-term injuries and long-term conditions, including chronic joint and knee problems. No matter the circumstances of your accident, our team has the knowledge and experience to pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

Florida Slip and Fall Settlements

The value and timeline of a slip and fall claim often depend on the specific facts of the case. Disputes over liability can delay resolution, especially when it is unclear who is responsible for the dangerous condition that caused the fall. In some situations, a third party may be at fault rather than the property owner. Property owners may also argue that the injured person was not legally allowed on the premises, which must be addressed before a case can be resolved. Other important factors include whether the injured person may share some responsibility, disagreements about the extent of damages, and the severity of the injuries involved. Our Bradenton slip and fall attorneys work to resolve these issues in a way that supports the strongest possible recovery for our clients.

Comparative Fault

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you may still recover damages if you are found to be 50 percent or less at fault for the accident, but your compensation will be reduced based on your share of responsibility. For example, if you are found 20 percent at fault, you may still recover 80 percent of your damages. However, if you are more than 50 percent at fault, you may be barred from recovering compensation.

What Kind of Damages Can I Receive?

Depending on your case, you may be eligible to recover both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include measurable financial losses such as medical bills and lost wages if your injuries prevented you from working. Non-economic damages compensate for less tangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These types of damages can be more difficult to assign a dollar value to, especially when injuries impact your ability to enjoy daily activities. Our Bradenton slip and fall attorneys work to fully evaluate your losses and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.

What Should I Do After an Accident?

After a slip and fall, your first priority should be your health. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. This is especially true for head injuries, since symptoms may not appear immediately. Medical records created during your treatment can play an important role in proving your injuries and linking them to the accident. It is also helpful to document the incident while your memory is fresh, including where the fall happened, the time and date, any warning signs, and whether there were witnesses. Contacting a Bradenton personal injury lawyer quickly can also help preserve evidence and strengthen your claim.

Why Abrahamson & Uiterwyk?

At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we handle every case with care, professionalism, and dedication. We are committed to keeping clients informed and providing strong advocacy from start to finish. With more than thirty years of experience in personal injury law, we are prepared to take cases to trial when necessary. Our firm has recovered significant results for injured clients, including:

• $689,000 slip and fall settlement involving a back injury at Walmart
• $650,000 trip and fall case involving a head injury after tripping over cables
• $300,000 recovery for a client who required surgery after tripping over a rolled-up rug

These results reflect just a portion of the outcomes we have achieved. Contact our office today to speak with a Bradenton slip and fall attorney about your case.

If you have lost a family member because of someone else’s negligence, you may be thinking about what legal steps are available to your family. In Florida, fatal injuries can occur in many types of accidents, including vehicle collisions, construction incidents, bicycle crashes, slip and fall accidents, and more. Regardless of how your loved one passed away, your family may be entitled to seek justice and financial compensation for your loss. While no legal outcome can replace your loved one, a skilled attorney can help hold the responsible party accountable. Speaking with a Bradenton wrongful death attorney from Abrahamson & Uiterwyk can help you understand your rights and begin the process of pursuing a claim.

What Are Some Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Bradenton?

Wrongful death cases can arise from many types of accidents. Some of the most frequent causes include:

• Car accidents,
• Motorcycle accidents,
• Bicycle accidents,
• Pedestrian accidents,
• Construction accidents,
• Medical malpractice,
• Slip and fall accidents
• 18-wheeler accidents (truck accidents), and
• Defective product accidents.

No matter what caused the fatal injury, a Bradenton wrongful death attorney can help you explore your legal options and determine whether a claim can be brought against the responsible party.

Am I Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Claim?

In Florida, a wrongful death claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. The spouse, children, and parents are usually the primary beneficiaries, although other relatives may also have rights depending on the circumstances. An attorney can review your situation and explain whether you are eligible to pursue compensation. It is important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after the incident to help protect your right to bring a claim.

How Can a Bradenton Wrongful Death Lawyer Help?

When you work with Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, our team takes on every aspect of your wrongful death case so your family can focus on healing. We investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong claim on your behalf. We also handle all communication with insurance companies and other parties involved while keeping you informed throughout the process. After preparing your claim, we present a demand for compensation to the insurance company. Many cases are resolved through settlement, but if necessary, we are fully prepared to take the case to court. With over three decades of experience and thousands of clients represented, our firm is committed to pursuing accountability and fair results for grieving families.

What is the Value of My Wrongful Death Claim?

The value of a wrongful death claim depends on the specific losses suffered by the surviving family members. Potential damages may include funeral and burial expenses, mental pain and suffering, lost income and financial support, loss of household services, loss of companionship, guidance, and protection, and loss of inheritance. In some cases, families may also recover medical expenses related to the loved one’s final care and other related losses. A Bradenton wrongful death attorney can help evaluate the full extent of your damages and pursue appropriate compensation.

How Will My Attorney Prove My Wrongful Death Claim?

Proving a wrongful death claim often requires showing that another party acted negligently or wrongfully and that this conduct caused the death. For example, in a motor vehicle or medical malpractice case, this may involve demonstrating careless or reckless behavior. In a slip and fall case, it may involve showing that a property owner failed to maintain safe conditions or warn of hazards. Every case is different and requires a tailored legal strategy. Our attorneys carefully build each case to pursue the strongest possible outcome for the family involved.

Contact a Bradenton Wrongful Death Lawyer Now for Help

It is important to act quickly after a wrongful death. Before speaking with insurance companies or considering any settlement offer, you should contact a Bradenton wrongful death attorney at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk. For more than thirty years, our firm has been dedicated to helping families pursue justice and compensation with compassionate, personalized representation. We offer free consultations and will review your case, answer your questions, and explain your options so you can make informed decisions for your family’s future. Contact us today to learn how we can help with your Bradenton wrongful death claim.

Being involved in a bicycle accident can be a very distressing experience. Florida consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of bicycle-related crashes, and with year-round warm weather, cycling is extremely common throughout the region.

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles 2020 crash report, there were 5,934 bicycle accidents and 160 fatalities statewide that year.

If you have been injured in a bicycle crash, it is important to seek guidance from an experienced Bradenton bicycle accident lawyer who can help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries.

What Are Your Options After a Bicycle Accident?

After a bicycle accident, it is important to understand your legal rights. If your injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation.

Depending on the severity of your injuries, your medical needs, and your long-term recovery outlook, the compensation offered by an insurance company may not fully cover your losses. It is important not to accept less than what your case is worth. Speaking with a skilled Bradenton bicycle accident attorney can help you determine the best path forward for your situation.

Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Bradenton

Cyclists face many risks on the road. Even with helmets and safety gear, bicyclists remain vulnerable and less visible to drivers. There are several common causes of bicycle accidents.

Distracted Driving

One of the leading causes of crashes involving bicycles is distracted driving. Drivers who text, use apps, or otherwise take their attention off the road significantly increase the risk of hitting a cyclist.

Unsafe Passing and Close Driving

Accidents often happen when vehicles pass too closely to cyclists or when cyclists ride too near traffic lanes. Either party failing to maintain a safe distance can lead to a serious collision.

Weather and Road Hazards

Rain, poor visibility, and slick road surfaces can create dangerous conditions for both drivers and cyclists. Reduced traction and limited visibility often contribute to accidents.

Impaired Driving

Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs have slower reaction times and reduced awareness. Since bicycles are smaller and harder to see, impairment greatly increases the risk of a crash.

Cyclists in Blind Spots

Drivers may not see cyclists traveling alongside them, especially in blind spots. Many accidents occur when a driver changes lanes without noticing a bicycle nearby.

Speeding

Higher speeds reduce a driver’s ability to stop quickly or react in time. Even lower-speed crashes can cause serious injuries, while high-speed collisions are often severe or fatal.

Failure to Obey Traffic Signals

Running red lights or stop signs is a frequent cause of intersection accidents involving bicycles, often resulting in significant injuries.

Proving Fault in a Bicycle Accident

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are found to be 50 percent or less responsible for the accident, you may still recover damages, reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are 20 percent at fault, you may still recover 80 percent of your damages. If you are found more than 50 percent at fault, you may be barred from recovery.

What Kind of Compensation is Available for a Bicycle Accident?

If another party’s negligence caused your injuries, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim for damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover financial losses that can be calculated, such as:

• medical treatment,
• physical therapy,
• property damage,
• and lost income.

These are out-of-pocket expenses that should not fall on you when another party is responsible for your injuries.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the personal and emotional impact of the accident, including:

• pain and suffering,
• anxiety,
• depression,
• post-traumatic stress,
• and loss of enjoyment of life.

These losses can be significant and long-lasting, even though they do not come with a direct price tag. A Bradenton bicycle accident attorney can help demonstrate the value of these damages in your claim.

Choosing a Bradenton Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Your main focus should be on your recovery while your attorney handles the legal process. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, our team has represented more than 20,000 injured clients and understands the challenges you are facing. We offer free consultations to review your case and explain your options.

Once we take your case, we conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence such as police reports, medical records, and documentation of your losses. Our goal is to determine the full value of your claim and negotiate aggressively on your behalf. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court.

You should never settle for less than you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation. We also handle motorcycle accidents, car accidents, medical malpractice claims, and more.

If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a car accident in Bradenton or Manatee County, you might wonder how to get compensation and justice for your injuries. Coping with a car accident’s consequences can be overwhelming and time-consuming, especially with insurance companies involved. However, a seasoned Bradenton car accident attorney can help ease this stress and navigate the legal complexities. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, almost 80% of our cases involve car collisions. We are committed to helping car crash victims in Bradenton maximize their financial recoveries. Our dedicated team of attorneys, paralegals, and professional staff provides comprehensive representation to secure the compensation our clients deserve. Whether your case is settled or goes to trial, our Bradenton car accident lawyers will support you every step of the way, leveraging decades of legal experience to help you receive the care and compensation you deserve.

Driving Safety Tips for Bradenton, FL

Staying aware of road closures in Manatee County is an important part of safer driving in and around Bradenton. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) provides real-time updates on construction zones, lane closures, and roadway projects so drivers can adjust their routes and avoid unnecessary delays.

In the Bradenton area, major roads such as I-75, US 41, US 301, State Road 64, and State Road 70 may occasionally have temporary closures or lane restrictions due to maintenance or improvement work.

Checking FDOT traffic updates before you travel can help you plan ahead, allow extra travel time when needed, and avoid congested areas. It also helps reduce stress behind the wheel and discourages aggressive driving behaviors that can increase accident risk. Regularly reviewing live traffic maps and closure information can lead to safer, smoother trips throughout the Bradenton region.

The 2023 Market Share Reports for Property and Casualty Groups highlight several major auto insurance providers serving drivers in Bradenton and across Florida, including Progressive, State Farm, and Allstate. In 2023, Progressive led the market with $6,954,759 in direct premiums written, followed by Berkshire Hathaway Group at $6,428,572, and State Farm at $5,025,328. These figures reflect the strong presence these insurers maintain throughout Florida’s auto insurance market.

State Farm is often recognized for its relatively affordable average rates, while Progressive is known for competitive pricing and easy-to-use digital tools. Allstate is popular for its broad coverage options and available discounts. Drivers in Bradenton can compare these providers to find coverage that best fits their needs, budget, and driving habits.

When dealing with a legal matter in Bradenton, having an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in how smoothly your case moves through the court system. The legal process can be complex, and a knowledgeable lawyer can help ensure that deadlines are met, documents are properly prepared, and procedures are correctly followed from start to finish.

An attorney familiar with the local court system can also represent your interests in hearings and proceedings, helping you feel more prepared and supported throughout your case.

For local court services in the area, you can contact the Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, which handles a wide range of legal matters, including civil, criminal, family, probate, and traffic cases.

Manatee Clerk of Circuit Court & Comptroller
Address: 1115 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Phone: (941) 749-1800
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

This office provides in-person services as well as online resources for filing, records access, and case information. You can also visit the official Manatee County Clerk of Court website to learn more about available services and digital tools.

In most cases, recovering financial compensation for a car accident in Manatee County will involve dealing with insurance companies. Multiple types of insurance coverage may be available to you, and knowing what type(s) of coverage to seek in what amount(s) is critical. Our nearby Manatee County and Bradenton car accident lawyers can explain everything you need to know about: 

1. Health Insurance

After being injured in a Bradenton car accident, one of the first things you should do is seek treatment for your injuries. Since you haven’t resolved your car accident claim yet, you can use your health insurance coverage for now. At some point, your health insurance company may be entitled to reimbursement (or “subrogation”), but this is a matter that your Bradenton car accident attorney can handle for you if necessary.

2. Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

Personal injury protection (PIP) is auto insurance that covers the policyholder in the event of a crash. This is “no-fault” insurance coverage that is mandatory under Florida law. PIP provides coverage for medical expenses and lost wages; and, while your insurance company should pay regardless of fault, you will most likely need a Manatee County car accident attorney to help you obtain the full coverage to which you are entitled under your auto insurance policy.

3. Bodily Injury Liability (BIL)

Bodily injury liability (BIL) is auto insurance that covers other drivers’ and passengers’ losses when the policyholder is responsible for causing a crash. Under Florida’s “no-fault” insurance law, you can only file a BIL claim if you suffered a “significant” or “permanent” injury in your crash. Additionally, since BIL coverage is not mandatory in Florida, many drivers unfortunately do not have this coverage.

4. Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist (UIM)

Since many Florida drivers don’t have BIL coverage, we strongly recommend that everyone purchase uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage from their auto insurance company. This coverage applies in a few different scenarios: (i) if you are hit by an uninsured driver, (ii) if you are hit by a driver who only has minimal BIL coverage, and (iii) if you are injured in a hit-and-run accident. Similar to BIL insurance, UIM insurance is fault-based coverage, which means proving your right to payment depends on establishing the fault of the other uninsured motorist.

5. Commercial General Liability (CGL)

While driver error is the most common cause of car accidents, other factors can lead to accidents as well. For example, some accidents are the result of vehicle defects and negligent vehicle maintenance. If one of these non-driver-related factors played a role in your crash, our Bradenton car accident lawyers may be able to help you obtain a settlement under the at-fault company’s commercial general liability (CGL) policy. CGL coverage can also be available when an at-fault driver is working at the time of the collision.

Regardless of the type(s) of insurance coverage available to you, there are some important steps you need to take after a car accident in Manatee County. If you have been injured in a car accident, you should: 

1. Seek Medical Treatment Promptly

Seeking medical treatment promptly is important for two reasons. First, it will improve your chances of making a full and speedy recovery. Second, it will minimize the challenges involved in pursuing just compensation for the accident. If you wait to seek treatment, the insurance companies will try to claim that your injuries are not accident-related.

2. Report Your Car Accident

In Manatee County, you are required to report your car accident to the police if it resulted in injuries or property damage of at least $500. You are almost certainly also required to report the accident to your insurance company under the terms of your policy. If you aren’t sure what to do, or if you simply want help, we are more than happy to assist you.

3. Get in the Habit of Keeping Records

From photos you took at the scene of the accident to your medical records and bills, be sure to keep everything you have related to your car accident. Going forward, try to get in the habit of keeping all of your accident-related records in a safe place, and try to keep a daily journal where you record your injuries’ day-to-day effects.

4. Be Careful to Protect Your Legal Rights

From ignoring your doctor’s advice to trying to deal with the insurance companies on your own, there are lots of mistakes you need to avoid after a car accident in Manatee County. You need to be careful to protect your legal rights, and this starts with knowing what to do and what mistakes to avoid.

5. Talk to a Manatee County Car Accident Lawyer

A Manatee County car accident lawyer near you at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk can explain everything you need to know to protect your legal rights. Your lawyer can also deal with the insurance companies for you, accurately calculate your losses, and take your case to court if necessary. Hiring a lawyer costs nothing out-of-pocket—in fact, you won’t owe us any fees or costs unless we obtain a recovery in your case.

Many car accident victims who come to us for help have concerns about the cost of hiring an attorney. They are worried that it will be expensive, and they worry that at some point there will be hidden fees they have to pay.

At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we are completely transparent about what our clients might need to pay. Hiring our lawyers is not expensive—it truly costs nothing out-of-pocket, meaning you will not pay any fees or costs unless we win. If you don’t win, we won’t charge you a dime. No Win, No fees or costs. When you choose our firm to handle your car accident case in Manatee County:

• Your initial consultation is completely free. If you decide not to move forward for any reason, you won’t have to pay for the advice you received.
• We will advance the costs of pursuing your claim. It takes money to successfully pursue a car accident claim. We will advance the costs of pursuing your claim, and we will only recover these costs and fees if your claim is successful.
• We will explain our fee structure in advance. Before you hire us to represent you, we will clearly outline the fees and costs you will have to pay if your claim is successful. This way, there are no surprises at the end of your case.
• We will help you decide when (and if) to settle. Since our legal fees are calculated as a percentage of your recovery, we will help you understand your “take home” amount so that you can make informed decisions about when (and if) to accept a settlement.

Were you injured in a car accident in Manatee County and need more information from a Bradenton car accident attorney? Contact Abrahamson and Uiterwyk online or call (800) 538-4878 for a free consultation and to get the help you need to recover the compensation you deserve. If you’re in Palmetto and need to speak to a personal injury lawyer in Palmetto contact us.

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
• Bicycle accident lawyers in Florida
• Brain injury lawyers in Florida
• Birth injury lawyers in Florida
• Pedestrian accident lawyers in Florida
• Florida Red Light Car Accident Settlement Lawyers
• Construction accident lawyers in Florida
• Wrongful death lawyers in Florida
• Actos injury lawyers in Florida
• Boating accident lawyers in Florida
• Business interruption insurance lawyers in Florida
• Defective drugs medical device lawyers in Florida
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