Sarasota Car Accident Attorneys

Helping Victims Recover After Serious Vehicle Collisions in Sarasota, FL

Car accidents are one of the most common types of personal injury cases in the United States. While most are considered fender-benders, many result in injuries and even fatalities. If you were involved in a car accident in Sarasota, you may be eligible for compensation. At Burnetti, P.A., our attorneys have over two centuries of combined legal experience and have helped thousands of people recover the compensation they deserve after car crashes. We will fight to protect your rights and obtain the most favorable outcome in your case.

For a free consultation with one of our Sarasota car accident lawyers, call (941) 366-2838 or contact us online.

Common Types of Car Accidents

Car accidents can occur for various reasons, including human error, environmental factors, mechanical failures, or a combination of these. Common types of car accidents include:

• Rear-end Collisions
• Head-on Collisions
• Side-impact Collisions (T-bone)
• Single-vehicle Accidents
• Multi-vehicle Pileups
• Sideswipe Collisions
• Hit-and-Run Accidents
• Collisions with Pedestrians or Bicyclists

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Car accidents can result from various factors, often involving a combination of elements. Here are some common causes of car accidents:

• Distracted Driving
• Speeding
• Impaired Driving
• Reckless Driving
• Fatigue
• Weather Conditions
• Poor Road Conditions
• Running Red Lights/Stop Signs
• Inexperienced Drivers
• Vehicle Defects
• Tailgating
• Failure to Yield
• Incorrect Lane Changes
• Poor Visibility

Florida No-Fault Insurance Laws

Florida is one of the few states that has a no-fault insurance system. Under no-fault insurance, drivers are required to purchase a minimum of $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. If you are injured in a car accident, your PIP coverage will pay for your medical expenses, no matter who was at fault for the crash. If you were not at fault and your medical expenses exceed your PIP coverage, you may be able to file a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance for additional compensation.

PIP insurance covers the following:

• Your medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, and follow-up visits
• Your prescription medications
• Up to 60% of your lost wages if you are unable to work
• Some of your non-medical expenses, such as transportation to and from doctor’s appointments and other essential errands
• Death benefits

PIP insurance does not cover property damage, such as damage to your vehicle. Additionally, if you are involved in a car accident and suffer a serious injury, you may be able to file a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance for additional compensation.

Florida law defines a “serious injury” as one that results in significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement, permanent injury within a reasonable degree of medical probability, or significant and permanent loss of an important bodily function. A Sarasota car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and determine what compensation you may be eligible for.

Understanding Florida's Comparative Negligence Law

Florida operates under a pure comparative negligence system. This means that if you're found to be partially at fault for a car accident, your awarded damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault. Even if you're found to be 99% at fault, you can still recover 1% of your damages.

To establish liability in a Florida car accident case, you generally need to prove the following:

• Duty of care: The other driver had a duty to operate their vehicle safely.
• Breach of duty: The other driver violated this duty by acting negligently.
• Causation: The other driver's negligence directly caused the accident and your injuries.
• Damages: You suffered actual losses as a result of the accident.

Several types of evidence can help determine liability:

• Police report
• Photos of the accident scene
• Medical records
• Witness testimonies
• Expert testimony

Car Accident Claim FAQs

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Sarasota?

After ensuring everyone is safe, call 911 to report the accident. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Exchange information with other drivers, take photos of the scene, and collect witness contact information. Finally, report the accident to your insurance company and consider consulting a Sarasota car accident lawyer.

Do I have to report the accident to the police?

Yes. In Florida, you must report a car accident if it resulted in injuries, death, or property damage exceeding $500. It's best to call law enforcement to the scene so an official report is filed.

Is Florida a no-fault state for car accidents?

Yes. Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for your medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault—up to your policy limits.

Can I still sue the at-fault driver in Sarasota?

You can pursue a personal injury lawsuit outside the no-fault system if your injuries are considered “serious” under Florida law—such as permanent disfigurement, loss of a bodily function, or significant scarring.

What types of damages can I recover in a Sarasota car accident claim?

Depending on the circumstances, you may be eligible for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Future medical care
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage
• Loss of consortium (in some cases)

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Florida?

Under Florida’s statute of limitations, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For property damage, the limit is four years. Don’t delay—missing this deadline can bar you from recovering compensation.

Should I talk to the other driver's insurance company?

You should be cautious. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim or get you to say something that harms your case. It's best to let your attorney handle all communications with insurance companies.

What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to recover through your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage—if you have it. Speak with a lawyer to review all available options.

Will my case go to court?

Many car accident claims settle out of court through negotiations. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit and taking the case to trial.

Do I need a Sarasota car accident lawyer for my claim?

While you’re not required to have a lawyer, hiring an experienced Sarasota car accident attorney can significantly increase your chances of securing full and fair compensation—especially in cases involving serious injuries, disputed liability, or insurance disputes.

Need Help with Your Auto Accident Claim in Sarasota, FL?

Don't let an overwhelming car accident dictate your future. Our experienced Sarasota car accident attorneys are here to help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. From medical bills to lost wages, we'll handle the details while you focus on recovery. Let us maximize your entitled damages!

Contact our Sarasota car accident lawyers today at (941) 366-2838 to schedule a free consultation.