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Pedestrian Accident Lawyers: Protecting Your Rights in Florida

Edward Reyes / November 15, 2025

Pedestrian accidents happen suddenly — one moment you’re walking to your car or crossing the street, and the next, a distracted driver or unsafe condition changes your life forever. In a state like Florida, where roads are busy with both vehicles and foot traffic, pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common and often devastating. For professionals such as construction managers, property developers, engineers, or even city planners, these incidents hit close to home. Many spend their days working on or near high-traffic areas and understand how a single safety oversight can lead to tragedy. When a pedestrian is injured due to someone else’s negligence — whether it’s a driver, construction company, or property owner — knowing your legal rights is the first step toward justice. That’s where an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer becomes essential. At The Reyes Firm, we’re dedicated to helping accident victims and their families navigate Florida’s complex personal injury laws, holding negligent parties accountable, and securing fair compensation. Whether you were struck while crossing a construction zone, walking through a parking lot, or along a busy street, we’re here to protect your rights and rebuild your peace of mind. Understanding Pedestrian Accidents in Florida Florida consistently ranks among the most dangerous states for pedestrians. With its mix of tourist-heavy cities, ongoing development projects, and urban sprawl, pedestrians face risks nearly everywhere — from downtown Tampa to quiet suburban neighborhoods. Pedestrian accidents can happen for many reasons, but some of the most common causes include: Distracted driving: Texting or using a GPS takes a driver’s eyes off the road for just seconds — enough time to cause serious harm. Speeding or reckless driving: High speeds reduce reaction time and increase the impact force in a collision. Poor road design: Inadequate crosswalks, missing sidewalks, or poorly timed lights make walking hazardous. Construction or property negligence: Blocked pathways, debris, or missing signage can force pedestrians into unsafe areas. Low visibility: Inadequate lighting at night or in parking lots can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. Each of these factors can turn a simple walk into a life-altering event. A pedestrian accident lawyer investigates every detail — from traffic light timing to maintenance records — to determine exactly what went wrong and who is responsible. Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents Unlike car occupants, pedestrians have no protection against impact. Even at low speeds, collisions can lead to catastrophic injuries that require long-term care or result in permanent disability. Some of the most frequent injuries include: Head and brain trauma: Even mild concussions can develop into long-term cognitive issues or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Spinal cord injuries: These can lead to partial or total paralysis, changing a victim’s quality of life forever. Fractures and broken bones: Common in the legs, arms, and hips, these injuries may require surgery and months of recovery. Internal organ damage: Internal bleeding or ruptured organs are often life-threatening and may not be visible right away. Severe lacerations or disfigurement: Deep cuts can leave permanent scars and emotional trauma. Recovery from these injuries often means expensive medical treatments, missed work, and physical therapy. A pedestrian accident lawyer ensures all these losses are fully accounted for when pursuing compensation — not just immediate medical bills but also future costs and emotional suffering. Determining Liability: Who’s at Fault? Florida pedestrian accidents aren’t always straightforward. In many cases, more than one party may share responsibility, and identifying each one is crucial for maximizing compensation. Here are common examples of liable parties: Drivers who fail to yield, speed, or drive distracted. Property owners who neglect to provide safe walkways, lighting, or signage. Construction companies that don’t properly secure sites or provide safe detours. Local governments or agencies responsible for maintaining public roads, crosswalks, or traffic lights. For example, if a pedestrian was hit near a construction zone with no warning signs or pedestrian detours, both the driver and the contractor might share fault. A seasoned pedestrian accident lawyer will review surveillance footage, police reports, witness statements, and maintenance records to build a strong, evidence-based case. How Florida’s Comparative Negligence Law Affects Your Case Florida operates under a modified comparative negligence system. This means that even if you were partially responsible for the accident — for example, by crossing outside a marked crosswalk — you can still recover damages as long as you are less than 50% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if your total damages amount to $100,000 but you’re found 20% responsible, your compensation will be reduced to $80,000. Insurance companies often use this rule to minimize payouts, claiming victims were careless. Having a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer ensures that your side of the story is clearly represented and that blame is not unfairly shifted onto you. What to Do Immediately After a Pedestrian Accident The steps you take after a pedestrian accident can significantly affect your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what you should do: Get medical help immediately. Some injuries, especially internal or head-related ones, may not show symptoms right away. Call law enforcement. A police report provides critical documentation of the incident. Document the scene. Take photos or videos of your injuries, the vehicle, road conditions, and any signage. Collect witness information. Their accounts can provide unbiased support for your claim. Avoid talking to the insurance company without your lawyer. Adjusters may record your statements and use them against you. Contact a pedestrian accident lawyer as soon as possible. Early legal guidance can preserve evidence and strengthen your case. These steps not only protect your health but also establish a foundation for a strong legal claim. Compensation You May Be Entitled To A successful pedestrian accident claim can cover a wide range of damages, depending on the severity of injuries and long-term impact. Compensation may include: Medical expenses: Hospitalization, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and future medical needs. Lost wages: Income lost during recovery or while unable to work. Reduced earning capacity: If your injury prevents you from

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Tractor-Trailer Crash on Highway Leaves One Injured in Frederick County

Edward Reyes, Esq / November 1, 2024

In an unfortunate turn of events on Monday, a tractor-trailer crash in Frederick County injured one individual, highlighting the inherent dangers lurking on our highways. The accident, which unfolded on a typical Tuesday morning, reminds us of the risks associated with the massive vehicles that traverse our roadways. The rumble of a tractor-trailer can often signal the approach of trouble; on this occasion, it did just that. What Happened in the Tractor-Trailer Crash Near Frederick County? Details of the Accident on Tuesday Morning On a crisp Tuesday morning, the tranquility of the Highway was shattered by a crash involving a tractor-trailer. The incident occurred on an eastbound stretch near an exit that locals are all too familiar with, causing quite a stir among morning commuters. Witnesses reported a loud bang followed by the sight of the tractor-trailer overturning, its trailer portion spilling cargo across the Highway. As the scene unfolded, Virginia State Police quickly responded, ensuring that safety protocols were followed and traffic began to be diverted. The crash on this Highway was a stark reminder that even the most routine journeys can take a dangerous turn. How Many Vehicles Were Involved in the Tractor-Trailer Crash? While the primary focus was on the tractor-trailer’s driver, the crash on the route did not occur in isolation, affecting multiple vehicles and the trailer portion of the car. Reports indicate that this particular accident involved vehicles near exits, leading to a chaotic scene as cars swerved to avoid the overturned truck. The aftermath created a bottleneck that tested the patience of many drivers caught in the web of this unexpected disaster on Thursday afternoon. Thankfully, the injuries remained limited in scope, but the fact that several vehicles were involved left many shaken. What Caused the Tractor-Trailer to Overturn? The cause of this tractor-trailer crash is still under investigation. Still, preliminary reports suggest that speed and road conditions played a crucial role in I-95 during the collision. The tractor-trailer driver may have lost control while navigating a curve, leading to the fateful rollover. This incident has sparked discussions around the safety of our highways, particularly in areas where heavy vehicles, like tractor-trailers, frequently travel. The question lingers: could this accident have been prevented? Are the Injuries Reported from the Tractor-Trailer Crash? Who Was Injured in the Accident? The injuries resulting from the tractor-trailer crash were thankfully not fatal, but they were severe enough to warrant immediate medical attention at the time of the crash. The driver, who was taken to the hospital, suffered from significant injuries that could potentially lead to long-term implications. Eyewitnesses noted that the driver appeared shaken but conscious as first responders arrived. The trauma of being involved in such a crash can leave lasting effects, both physically and mentally. What Kind of Medical Attention Was Required? Upon arriving at the hospital, the injured driver received comprehensive medical care, including imaging studies to assess the extent of the injuries sustained during the crash. Treatments ranged from pain management to potential surgical interventions, highlighting the severe nature of the injuries that can arise from such incidents. The medical team worked diligently to ensure that the driver received the best possible care, underscoring the critical need for prompt medical attention following a truck accident. Are There Any Fatalities Associated with This Crash? Fortunately, this particular tractor-trailer crash did not result in any fatalities, which is a relief given the dangers associated with such incidents on the eastbound near the interstate. However, the close call serves as a reminder of how quickly situations can escalate on the Highway. Many truck accidents do not end as favorably, leading to tragic outcomes. The lack of fatalities this time offers a glimmer of hope but also fuels the conversation around safety measures that need to be reinforced on our highways, particularly concerning tractor-trailers. How Does a Tractor-Trailer Crash Impact Traffic and Highway Safety? What Were the Traffic Delays Following the Accident? In the wake of the tractor-trailer crash, traffic delays became unfortunate for countless drivers who were forced to navigate alternate routes. The aftermath of such an accident often leads to extensive backups, creating frustration among commuters. Reports indicated that traffic was delayed for several hours as crews worked diligently to clear the wreckage from the Highway. This incident affected those directly involved in the crash and disrupted the daily routines of many, illustrating how one crash can have a ripple effect throughout the county. How Can Other Drivers Stay Safe on the Highway? Highway safety is a shared responsibility, and there are several measures that other drivers can take to ensure their safety while navigating roads populated with tractor-trailers. Maintaining a safe distance from large trucks, staying vigilant for sudden stops, and avoiding distractions are all crucial steps. Additionally, understanding truck drivers’ limitations, such as their blind spots and longer stopping distances, can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Education is critical, and awareness can go a long way in preventing future incidents. What Measures Are in Place to Prevent Future Tractor-Trailer Crashes? In light of such accidents, various measures have been implemented to enhance highway safety and prevent future tractor-trailer crashes, especially on I-95. These initiatives may include stricter regulations for truck maintenance, driver training programs, and improved monitoring of trucking companies. On a community level, awareness campaigns to educate the public about the dynamics of sharing the road with large vehicles have gained traction. As we strive for safer highways, all stakeholders must remain vigilant and proactive in implementing preventive measures. What Should You Do if Involved in a Tractor-Trailer Accident? Steps to Take Immediately After the Crash Being involved in a tractor-trailer accident can be overwhelming, but knowing the steps to take immediately afterward can make a significant difference. First and foremost, ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. If possible, move to a safe location and call for emergency services after witnessing a tractor-trailer crash en route. Documenting the scene with photos and gathering contact information from witnesses can

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Fatal Semi-Truck Accident: Collision on Highway Leaves 1 Dead

Edward Reyes, Esq / October 29, 2024

Losing someone you love in a semi-truck crash is a kind of pain no family should have to carry, and the days that follow can feel impossible. While nothing can undo that loss, Florida law gives surviving families a way to hold a negligent trucking company accountable. Here is what causes these tragedies, who can be held responsible, and what your options are afterward. The Reyes Firm Lost a Loved One in a Tampa Semi-Truck Crash? Get compassionate, clear guidance on your family’s rights. Had a bad day? Contact Us Now 315 CMV fatalities in Florida, 2024 FLHSMV By the Numbers 2024 46,651 Florida CMV crashes in 2024 FLHSMV By the Numbers 2024 2 Years Deadline to file a wrongful death claim Fla. Stat. § 95.11 $750K+ FMCSA min. liability coverage 49 C.F.R. § 387.9 A fatal semi-truck accident sends a shockwave through an entire family. Beyond the grief, there are sudden financial pressures and difficult questions about how it happened and whether it could have been prevented. Understanding the causes, the liability, and the legal path forward can help a grieving family make informed decisions when they have the least energy to spare. Can you file a claim after a fatal semi-truck accident in Florida? Yes, when a truck driver or trucking company’s negligence causes a fatal crash, Florida law allows surviving family members to pursue a wrongful death claim against the responsible parties. These cases are rarely simple, because liability can extend beyond the driver to the company and other businesses behind the truck, and they involve federal trucking regulations and large commercial insurance policies. A claim cannot undo your loss, but it can provide accountability and the financial security your family needs to move forward. That is why the steps taken in the first days after a crash, and the lawyer a family chooses, can shape the entire outcome. ⚠️ Deadline Warning: Under Florida Statute § 95.11, a wrongful death claim generally must be filed within two years of the date of death, and a personal injury claim within two years of the crash. Missing this deadline almost always means losing the right to recover. Don’t wait to speak with a lawyer. What are the common causes of fatal semi-truck accidents? Most fatal semi-truck crashes trace back to preventable failures by the driver or the trucking company, and identifying the cause often points directly to who is responsible. The most common causes fall into a few categories. You can read more about the common causes of commercial truck accidents in our detailed guide, but the leading factors include: Driver error and fatigue. Most truck crashes involve some mistake by the driver, often tied to long hours, distraction, or inadequate training. Fatigue impairs reaction time and judgment, and federal hours-of-service rules exist to limit it, though violations are common. Neglected maintenance and mechanical failure. Brake malfunctions and tire blowouts are frequent culprits in fatal wrecks. Trucking companies are responsible for keeping their vehicles safe, and skipping required maintenance can create liability. Environmental and road conditions. Rain, fog, and slick roads demand longer stopping distances and extra caution. Potholes and debris can trigger a sudden loss of control, and a driver who fails to adjust to conditions sharply raises the risk. 💡 Did You Know? According to FLHSMV’s 2024 “By the Numbers” report, commercial motor vehicle crashes in Florida resulted in 315 fatalities in 2024, out of 46,651 CMV crashes statewide. Behind each of those numbers is a family changed forever. Source: FLHSMV By the Numbers 2024, flhsmv.gov. Note: 2024 crash numbers are preliminary. Why are semi-truck accidents so often deadly? The severity comes down to physics. A loaded semi-truck can weigh many times more than a passenger car, so the force it delivers in a collision is enormous, frequently crushing the smaller vehicle. Semi-trucks also produce unique and dangerous crash types, including rollovers when a truck takes a turn too fast, jackknife crashes where the trailer folds against the cab, and pileups involving multiple vehicles. For the people in a passenger vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. Survivors frequently suffer a serious traumatic brain injury, a spinal cord injury, fractures, or internal damage that can require a lifetime of care. The same size and weight that make these trucks essential to the economy make them devastating when a crash occurs. Who can be held liable for a fatal semi-truck accident in Florida? Liability in a fatal truck crash often extends well beyond the driver. Because federal regulations and commercial contracts govern how these trucks operate, several parties may share responsibility, including: The truck driver, for negligent driving, fatigue, distraction, or hours-of-service violations The trucking company, for poor hiring, inadequate training or supervision, unrealistic schedules, or neglected maintenance A maintenance provider, for failing to inspect or repair brakes, tires, or other critical systems A cargo loading company, when overloaded or improperly secured freight contributed to the crash A parts manufacturer, if a defective component such as a brake or tire failed Commercial trucks must carry federally mandated insurance, often $750,000 or more under FMCSA rules (49 C.F.R. § 387.9), far above a typical car policy. Identifying every responsible party is one of the most important parts of building a full claim for a grieving family. 🛡️ Your Rights Under Florida Law: Under Florida Statute § 768.81, compensation is reduced by the deceased’s share of fault, and recovery may be barred if they are found greater than 50% responsible. Trucking companies often try to shift blame onto the victim, and an experienced Tampa truck accident lawyer works to protect the facts and keep that assigned fault as low as the evidence allows. What is a wrongful death claim, and what can your family recover? A wrongful death claim allows a family to recover for the losses caused by a death that resulted from someone else’s negligence. Under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act, the claim is brought by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate on behalf of the surviving family

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Fatal 18-Wheeler Crash Involving DWI Driver in Fort Worth

Edward Reyes, Esq / October 29, 2024

The recent fatal crash involving an 18-wheeler in Fort Worth has drawn significant attention, mainly due to the involvement of a driver under the influence (DWI). This tragic incident not only resulted in the loss of life but also had severe ramifications for traffic on the interstate. In this article, we will delve into the details of the crash; the driver involved, and the broader implications of such accidents on our highways. What Happened in the Fatal 18-Wheeler Crash in Fort Worth? Details of the Crash Involving the 18-Wheeler Truck The crash happened on a busy stretch of the highway in Fort Worth, where a semi-truck collided with several vehicles. According to police reports, the incident occurred as the 18-wheeler was traveling westbound on Interstate 35. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with debris scattered across multiple lanes after the collision. The truck driver, who was later determined to be under the influence, failed to maintain control of the rig, leading to a deadly crash that killed a woman and injured a man in a Fort Worth area vehicle. This tragic event is a stark reminder of the potential dangers of large trucks on our highways. What Caused the Deadly Crash on the Highway? Investigators are still looking into the factors that led to this unfortunate incident. Initial reports suggest that the DWI driver was speeding and weaving in and out of traffic, which ultimately culminated in the crash involving the 18-wheeler. Police say the collision was completely avoidable had the driver adhered to traffic regulations and not engaged in reckless behavior. The consequences of driving under the influence are severe, and this incident highlights the need for stricter enforcement of DWI laws, particularly for truck drivers who have a higher responsibility on the road. Impact on Traffic on Interstate 35 The aftermath of the crash severely impacted traffic on Interstate 35, causing significant delays for motorists. With the northbound lanes shut down for investigation and cleanup, drivers were left navigating through congested alternate routes. The crash also led to lane closures on the eastbound side of the highway, complicating the situation further. Traffic reports indicated a jam that extended for miles, frustrating many drivers attempting to traverse the Dallas-Fort Worth area during peak hours. Who Was the DWI Driver Involved in the Crash? Background Information on the 18-Wheeler Driver The 18-wheeler driver involved in the crash has a checkered record, raising questions about the adequacy of regulations surrounding commercial drivers. Reports indicate that the truck driver had prior arrests related to DWI offenses, highlighting a troubling pattern of behavior. The trucking company that employed the driver faces scrutiny regarding their hiring practices and whether they conducted adequate background checks. Trucking firms must prioritize safety and compliance, ensuring that their drivers are fit to operate heavy vehicles like 18-wheelers. What Are the Consequences of DWI for Truck Drivers? The consequences of DWI are particularly severe for truck drivers. Aside from potential criminal charges, including hefty fines and prison time, drivers face the loss of their commercial driver’s license (CDL). The implications extend beyond personal penalties; trucking companies risk losing their operating licenses if they continue to employ drivers with DWI offenses. This situation underscores the importance of accountability in the trucking industry, as the stakes regarding highway safety are incredibly high. How Was the Driver’s Behavior Linked to the Fatal Incident? The driver’s decision to operate the 18-wheeler while impaired directly contributed to the fatal incident. Witness accounts and police investigations indicated erratic driving patterns that are often associated with DWI cases. The driver’s behavior not only endangered their life but also the lives of countless others on the highway. The tragic outcome of this crash serves as a grim reminder that impaired driving can have devastating consequences, particularly when larger vehicles like semi-trucks are involved. What Are the Implications of 18-Wheeler Crashes on Highways? Statistics on Truck Accidents Involving DWI Drivers Statistics reveal that truck accidents involving DWI drivers are alarmingly frequent, leading to tragic outcomes. According to recent data, a significant percentage of fatal truck accidents include drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In the Dallas-Fort Worth area, these incidents result in loss of life and contribute to substantial economic costs related to damages, medical expenses, and traffic disruptions. Understanding these statistics is crucial in advocating for stronger regulations and preventive measures to enhance road safety. Safety Measures for Preventing 18-Wheeler Crashes Several safety measures can be implemented to mitigate the risks associated with 18-wheeler crashes: Rigorous training programs for truck drivers should be enforced, emphasizing the dangers of DWI and the importance of responsible driving. Regular drug and alcohol testing for commercial drivers can help identify impaired individuals before they have a chance to operate heavy vehicles. Public awareness campaigns aimed at educating drivers and trucking companies about the risks associated with impaired driving are essential in fostering a safety culture on our highways. Legal Ramifications of Fatal Truck Accidents Fatal truck accidents carry significant legal ramifications for those involved. Families of victims may pursue wrongful death lawsuits against the driver and the trucking company, seeking compensation for their losses. Furthermore, the DWI driver may face criminal charges, which can include vehicular manslaughter if found guilty. The legal consequences serve as a deterrent for potential offenders but also highlight the need for improved legislative measures to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. How Did the Fatal Crash Affect Traffic on the Interstate? Traffic Flow and Lane Closures Following the Incident The fatal crash had an immediate and extensive impact on traffic flow. Following the incident, the northbound lanes of Interstate 35 were shut down for several hours as authorities investigated the crash involving the 18-wheeler. This closure led to significant backups, with traffic extending several miles. Commuters found themselves stranded in long queues, and many expressed frustration as they sought to navigate the congested roads. Alternatives for Drivers Affected by the Traffic Jam Local traffic agencies suggested several alternative routes

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Avoid Getting a “Denied” Insurance Claim

Edward Reyes, Esq / November 16, 2020

Is The Insurance Company Deyning Your Claim? The person you crashed into is claiming that they were not involved in a car crash. You want to believe that everybody is honest. Unfortunately, that’s the case. People lie. They do it to preserve their interest. What’s worse is that it happens in a regular basis. What you need to do is take pictures, talk to witnesses, get the names of the people that were involved in the accident, that includes the officer who were in the scene. People changes stories all the time. It’s very difficult to prove something that you have no proof for. Watch this video for the full details.

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The at-fault party has no insurance: What to do

Edward Reyes, Esq / November 14, 2020

What should you do if the person that you crash into has no insurance coverage at all? What to do when the at-fault party has no insurance? How can you recover from your injuries? How can you get settlement from your damaged properties? Here’s what you can do. Watch this video for the full details.

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Tampa Road Accidents? This is how real stories can make Tampa roads (and other places) safer!

Edward Reyes, Esq / June 22, 2020

Are you asking for anything from the public, like is there a message you want to put out there or something that they can do to help? Well, I think that the public is sharing their stories and people become very aware because stats is one thing. I can tell you a number 26.7. And you’re like “Wow, that sounds pretty bad and starts.” For some people that works really well. But when you tell a story to a message, when you hear about a 14-year-old kid crossing the crosswalk and the sheriff runs it and kills this kid and sends him to his death because the sheriff was speeding or if you hear a 46-year-old gentleman that was on the road in a 15-year-old girl head-on because of texting, that speaks more than me telling you 26.7% people are driving uninsured or whatever this that is. Tampa personal injury lawyer Edward Reyes represents people in Tampa and Hillsborough County, Florida who have suffered an injury in an incident or accident type of accident. Speak Directly to Me, At No Cost, Today 813.421.3411So, stats are important for research, and you know, for things like that. But stories are more important. So, I would love to hear stories of people that really are affected because that is what is going to move the needle once people start sharing that, all of a sudden lobbyists are paying attention. The state starts paying attention. Everyone starts paying attention, like “wow this is a real issue.” I have two daughters; I have a twenty-two and a thirteen-year-old. And if God forbid, I hear a story about a 14-year-old girl just got killed by a drunk driver and how it happened because she was riding a bike on the side of the road, that would resonate with me more than saying you know five kids got killed in Hillsborough County. Does that make sense? So, I think that if that starts happening, you’ll see the progression of change happen because people are sharing their stories. If you have any questions on this feel free to give us a call at 813-421-3411 or 833- 4 BAD DAY. (Transcript from the video, transcribed but not reviewed)

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You Need to Review your Insurance Policy after Watching this Video!

Edward Reyes, Esq / May 28, 2020

1/4 of the people are driving without insurance in Florida. Are you one of them? Hey, my name is attorney Edward Reyes and today I’m going to talk to you about bodily injury and uninsured motorists. More than a quarter of the people in Florida are driving without insurance. What does that mean to you? If somebody crashes into you and they don’t have insurance or they don’t have the provision in their insurance that says they have bodily injury, you cannot sue them for damages. Now you can’t sue them individually, but collecting can be very difficult. In the event that you are involved in a car accident, many times when you buy car insurance they tell you got full coverage but there’s no real such thing as full coverage. What does that mean? In Florida, you only need personal injury and property damage personal injury covers you for your medical and property damage covers the other person’s car, not your own car you need collision for that. Now, you need to have a bodily injury on your policy in case you hit somebody else and they make a claim against you for damages, vice versa. If somebody crashes into you and they have a bodily injury you can make a claim against their bodily injury claim for pain and suffering going forward in addition to your own auto insurance which is your personal injury protection of $10,000. Tampa personal injury lawyer Edward Reyes represents people in Tampa and Hillsborough County, Florida who have suffered an injury in an incident or accident type of accident. Speak Directly to Me, At No Cost, Today 813.421.3411Now if somebody crashes into you and they do not have bodily injury, if you have uninsured motorists, the uninsured motorists will cover you if they do not have insurance or if they do not have enough insurance. So, let’s use the example. Let’s say you have any $20,000 uninsured motorist policy on your policy in order for you to have that you need to have bodily injury yourself that person that crashed into you only has a ten-thousand-dollar policy. Let’s say your injuries are worth $30,000 to see the doctors and future care and things like that well they’re ten thousand will cover and then it deducts from that and then your 20 will pick up making the thirty thousand dollars in recovery. Let’s say they had no insurance your twenty thousand would kick in under your uninsured policy. If you have any questions on this feel free to reach out to us at 813-421-3411 or you can come below as well. (Transcript from the video, transcribed but not reviewed)

Get the right attorney after an accident

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Do you Really Need an Attorney After an Accident?

Edward Reyes, Esq / December 23, 2019

You were just going about your day. Then a car accident changed everything, and now you’re wondering whether you really need a lawyer or can just handle the insurance company yourself. Meanwhile, the adjuster who already called you sounds friendly and helpful. Here’s what you need to know before you decide to go it alone. TL;DR — QUICK SUMMARY You are not legally required to hire an attorney after an accident, but it is strongly recommended any time you’ve been injured. Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company and its policyholder, not for you, and their goal is to settle for as little as possible. An attorney levels the field by knowing the law, valuing your claim correctly, and handling the insurers so you don’t say something that hurts your case. Under Florida Statute § 95.11(3)(a), you generally have two years from the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit, so waiting too long can cost you no matter what. Most personal injury attorneys, including The Reyes Firm, work on contingency, so you pay nothing upfront and owe fees only if they recover for you. The Reyes Firm Not Sure If You Need a Lawyer? Get a free, honest answer about your accident. Had a bad day? Contact Us Now 2 Years Florida statute of limitations Fla. Stat. § 95.11(3)(a) 14 Days To seek care and keep PIP benefits Fla. Stat. § 627.736 Free Initial case consultation The Reyes Firm 50%+ Fault that bars recovery in Florida Fla. Stat. § 768.81 Do you really need an attorney after an accident in Tampa? No, you are not legally required to hire an attorney after an accident, but having one is strongly recommended any time you’ve been hurt. Think of it less as a requirement and more as a necessity, the way gum isn’t required after bad breath but is highly advisable. An attorney works in your best interest. They know when someone is trying to take advantage of you, they understand the laws that apply to your claim, and they’re ready to fight when fighting is what it takes. The other side already has trained professionals protecting their money. The question isn’t really whether you’re allowed to go it alone, but whether you should. When can you handle an accident claim without a lawyer? You can sometimes handle a claim on your own when the accident was truly minor, no one was injured, fault is clear and undisputed, and the only issue is modest property damage. In those situations, the stakes are low enough that hiring a lawyer may not change the result. The moment any of that breaks down, the calculus changes. If you were injured, if fault is in question, if multiple parties or a commercial vehicle are involved, or if the insurer is delaying or lowballing you, the value of professional help climbs fast. A free consultation is the easiest way to find out which situation you’re actually in. ⚠️ Deadline Warning: Under Florida Statute § 95.11(3)(a), you generally have two years from the date of your crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline almost always means losing your right to recover anything. Don’t wait to call a lawyer. Watch: Do you really need an attorney after an accident? In this short video, Edward Reyes, Esq. explains why an attorney is less of a requirement and more of a necessity after an injury accident. If you still have questions after watching, The Reyes Firm offers a free consultation so you can talk through your specific situation with a real attorney. Why don’t insurance adjusters work in your best interest? Insurance adjusters don’t work in your best interest because they don’t work for you. The adjuster, the opposing party, and the insurance company are all working to protect their insured and their own bottom line, which means paying you as little as possible. That’s not a personal attack on adjusters; it’s their job. They’re trained negotiators who handle claims every day, while you may be doing this for the first time in your life, in pain, and under financial pressure. A friendly phone call early on is often designed to get you talking before you understand what your claim is really worth. 💡 Did You Know? You can hire an experienced Tampa injury attorney without paying anything upfront. The Reyes Firm works on a contingency fee basis, so you owe attorney fees only if the firm recovers compensation for you — which means cost is rarely a reason to face the insurance company alone. Source: The Reyes Firm fee policy. What does a personal injury attorney actually do for you? A personal injury attorney does the work that protects your recovery while you focus on healing. Rather than leaving you to guess at the process, they take over the parts that most often go wrong when people handle claims alone. In practical terms, a good attorney typically: Values your claim correctly, accounting for future medical care and long-term impact, not just the bills already in front of you Handles all communication with adjusters, so you don’t accidentally say something that gets used to reduce your payout Gathers and preserves evidence, including the police report, medical records, photos, and witness statements, before they disappear Identifies every source of coverage, including policies you may not realize apply to you Negotiates from a position of strength, and is prepared to file suit if the insurer won’t pay fairly Does a lawyer affect how much fault matters in your case? Yes, because how fault is assigned has a direct effect on what you recover, and that’s an area where representation matters. Insurers routinely try to shift blame onto the injured person to shrink what they owe. A lawyer’s job is to push back on unfair blame with the actual evidence. Even a modest reduction in your assigned share of fault can mean a meaningful difference in your recovery, which is exactly the kind of fight you don’t want to

What to Do If My Car Insurance Company Won’t Pay

Accident Injuries & why, After A Car Accident, After an Accident, Car accident, FAQ, For Parents, For Teens, Legal, Moped Accidents, Road Accidents, Settlement, Why we serve

Who is paying your medical bills if you don’t own a car or have insurance?

Edward Reyes, Esq / December 18, 2019

So what happens if you are involved in a car accident, it’s not your fault, but you don’t have insurance, but you don’t have a car? What happens then? There are a couple of things. One if you live in a household that somebody has a car and insurance you may be covered under a resident relative. Two, if you do not live in a household that someone has insurance or a car you may be covered by the person that crashed into, their auto insurance company may cover you for personal injury protection. Three, if none of those apply, you can still be covered under the other person’s policy if they have bodily injury coverage. Tampa personal injury lawyer Edward Reyes represents people in Tampa and Hillsborough County, Florida who have suffered an injury in an incident or accident type of accident. Speak Directly to Me, At No Cost, Today 813.421.3411 It won’t cover you for medical coverages as far as your personal injury protection but it will cover you for recovery for pain and suffering and then eventually it will pay back the medical expenses if you’ve incurred any. Give us a call at 813.421.3411 today. (Transcript from the video, transcribed but not reviewed)

Road Accidents

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