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Injuries After a Car Accident in Jacksonville, Florida: What You Need to Know

Car accidents are a common and unfortunate occurrence on the busy streets of Jacksonville, Florida. Whether it’s a rear-end collision on I-95, a side-impact crash at an intersection, or a serious pile-up on the road, accidents can cause lasting physical, emotional, and financial burdens. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s crucial to understand the types of injuries you might suffer and how Florida law protects your rights to seek compensation.

In this blog, we’ll explore the common injuries sustained in car accidents, how Florida law applies to these injuries, and the steps you should take if you’ve been hurt in a crash.

Common Injuries After a Car Accident in Jacksonville

Car accidents can lead to a variety of injuries, some of which are immediately obvious, while others may develop over time. Regardless of the severity, all car accident injuries require proper medical treatment and attention. Here are some of the most common injuries people sustain in Jacksonville car accidents:

  • Whiplash: This is one of the most common injuries in rear-end accidents, where the sudden force causes the neck to snap back and forth. Whiplash can result in neck pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Though whiplash is often considered a “soft tissue injury,” it can lead to long-term discomfort if not properly treated.
  • Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI): If your head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or side window in a crash, you could suffer a concussion or more severe brain injury. Symptoms of a TBI include headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and memory problems. Serious TBIs can result in long-term cognitive impairment and require lifelong medical care.
  • Spinal cord injuries: A serious car accident can cause damage to the spinal cord, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries are catastrophic and can have long-lasting effects, including loss of motor function, loss of sensory abilities, and permanent disability.
  • Fractures and broken bones: The impact of a car crash can cause fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis. Some breaks may heal with proper care, while others might require surgery, casting, and extended rehabilitation.
  • Internal injuries: The force of a crash can cause internal injuries to organs such as the liver, kidneys, or spleen. These types of injuries are often hard to detect and can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
  • Soft tissue injuries: Soft tissue injuries, including strains, sprains, and bruises, are also common in car accidents. Though not as visible as broken bones, these injuries can cause significant pain and discomfort, sometimes leading to chronic pain if not managed properly.
  • Emotional and psychological injuries: Car accidents don’t just cause physical harm—they can also take a toll on your mental health. Many accident victims suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression following a crash. These psychological injuries can be just as debilitating as physical injuries.

Whether physical or psychological, the injuries sustained in a Jacksonville car accident can be serious and long-lasting, making it essential to seek immediate medical care and support for a full recovery.

Florida Law and Car Accident Injuries

When it comes to car accidents in Jacksonville, Florida, the law has specific rules that affect how injury claims are handled. Understanding these laws is essential for anyone seeking compensation after a car crash.

No-Fault Insurance

Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means that after a car accident, your own insurance company will cover your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who is at fault for the crash. This system is designed to provide quick financial assistance for accident victims while reducing the burden on the court system. Under Florida Statutes Section 627.736, all drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which covers up to $10,000 in medical costs and lost wages.

However, if your injuries are serious or exceed the limits of your PIP coverage, you may be able to pursue compensation beyond what your insurance provides. Florida Statutes Section 627.737 allows you to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance if you suffer significant injuries such as:

  • Permanent injury
  • Significant scarring or disfigurement
  • Permanent loss of bodily function
  • Death

If your injuries meet Florida’s serious injury threshold, you can pursue a personal injury lawsuit to recover additional damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other non-economic losses.

Comparative Fault

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that if you are partially responsible for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you are found to be 30% at fault for the crash, your compensation will be reduced by 30%. You can still recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. If your fault exceeds 50%, you will be barred from recovering compensation for your injuries under Florida law.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Jacksonville

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Jacksonville, taking the right steps is crucial to protecting your health and your legal rights. Here’s what you should do:

  • Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s important to seek medical care immediately after a car accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away. Getting medical treatment is also vital for documenting your injuries, which will be important for your claim.
  • Report the accident: Always contact local law enforcement to report the accident. A police report will provide an official record of the crash, including the details of what happened and who may have been at fault. The report can be essential when pursuing your insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit.
  • Gather evidence: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Be sure to gather contact information from witnesses and the other driver(s) involved.
  • Notify your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Provide them with the basic details of the crash, but refrain from admitting fault or making statements that could hurt your claim. Stick to the facts and let your attorney handle the legal details.
  • Consult with a personal injury lawyer: If you’ve sustained significant injuries, consulting with a Jacksonville car accident lawyer can help ensure that your rights are protected. An attorney can help you navigate Florida’s no-fault insurance system, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.

Following the above steps can help protect your health and legal rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Navigating the Aftermath of a Car Accident in Jacksonville

Being involved in a car accident in Jacksonville can be a traumatic experience, especially if you’ve sustained injuries. Understanding the types of injuries that can occur, the impact of Florida’s no-fault insurance laws, and your legal rights is essential to navigating the aftermath of a crash. Whether you’ve suffered soft tissue injuries, broken bones, or more serious conditions like traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention and document all aspects of the accident.

If you are facing medical bills, lost wages, or emotional distress as a result of an accident, remember that Florida law provides avenues for recovery, especially if your injuries meet the state’s serious injury threshold. Taking the right steps—such as consulting with a personal injury attorney, gathering evidence, and properly handling insurance claims—can significantly improve your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.

While no one plans for an accident, knowing your legal rights and understanding how to protect them can make a significant difference in your recovery. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Jacksonville, it’s important to act quickly, stay informed, and take the necessary steps to ensure a fair and just outcome for your case.

Contact the Jacksonville Car Accident Law Firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help

For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra car accident law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.

We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and its surrounding areas:

Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100

Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225

Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167

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