Joe Osborne & Greg Francis, Personal Injury Lawyers & Founders of Osborne & Francis

Lakeland Car Accident Lawyers

If you sustain an injury in an accident that was the result of someone else’s negligence, you deserve to receive financial compensation.

Video Transcript

So you've been in a car accident. What happens next? There are many things that you should do but here are the three most important:

Number One: See a doctor immediately. 

A broken bone is easy to see, but some injuries are not. The most common injuries from car accidents happen in the neck, back, or head. The only way to diagnose and treat them is by seeing a doctor. A doctor can help ease the pain, provide medication, reassure you of how your injury may impact your daily life, and tell you what not to do to make it worse.

A visit to the doctor can also give you legally protected time off to recover and rest your body after an accident, and it documents and provides the evidence you may need for your case. Even a five-mile-per-hour car accident can cause a serious injury. So whether you've had a severe accident or a minor collision, see a doctor. And if you don't have medical insurance, let us know and we'll make sure that you receive the proper care. 

Number Two: Write everything down.

Even if it seems small, during times of stress or injury it is common to forget the little details. Make sure you keep note of the pain that you're in. With neck, back, and head injuries, sometimes simple activities such as walking up the stairs or picking up a toddler may cause severe pain. 

You may not be sleeping well at night. Documenting how much you sleep and how often you wake up due to pain is also very important. And lastly, if you have any cuts or bruises, take daily photos as you heal. This will provide visual evidence of the injuries that you've suffered. 

Number Three: Do not speak to an insurance company until you've spoken to a lawyer.

Please understand that the insurance adjuster works for a billion-dollar corporation and not for you. Their interests are solely for their insurance company, and their goal is to provide you with the least amount of financial settlement as quickly as possible. When you do speak with them, remember they will record the conversation. Why do they do this? Because they've been trained to ask questions that may confuse you. So talk to us before you talk to them. 

So remember: See a doctor, document everything, and call us before calling the insurance company for your free private consultation. We are here for you. Real tough lawyers fighting real tough issues.

Car accidents can be sudden and distressing events. A car accident often leaves individuals feeling unsure about the steps they need to take next.

Those involved and injured in a car accident may encounter financial challenges and long-lasting health problems stemming from the unfortunate event. 

If you or a family member find yourselves injured in a car accident in Lakeland, Florida, you may be able to file a lawsuit seeking compensation. Damages from such a lawsuit can serve to cover crucial medical treatments, continuing rehabilitation, or even your routine financial obligations, including everyday living expenses. Please contact the attorneys at Osborne & Francis online or by calling (561) 293-2600. We are standing by to start your case and help you achieve justice.

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What Types of Damages Are Available in Auto Accident Cases?

In auto accident cases, various types of damages may be available to compensate the injured party for their losses. Damages can be divided into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages. The specific types of damages available can vary depending on the circumstances of the accident and the laws in your jurisdiction. 

Some types of damages that may be available in a car accident lawsuit are: 

  • Recovery for medical expenses: You may be compensated for the cost of medical treatment if you have sustained injuries in your car accident. This includes hospital bills, surgery, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and any other healthcare-related expenses. This may also include future medical expenses if ongoing treatment is required.
  • Lost earnings: If your car accident caused an injury that jeopardizes your ability to work, you may be able to recover the wages or income you have lost due to the accident. This can include both past and future earnings if the accident has a long-term impact on your ability to work.
  • Property damage: You may be able to get reimbursement for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
  • Pain and suffering: You may be able to financially recover for the physical and emotional pain and suffering experienced as a result of the accident. This is a subjective type of damage and can vary depending on the severity of the injuries and their impact on your life.
  • Punitive damages: The primary purpose of punitive damages is to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. Punitive damages are rarely awarded but will be if the court finds that the at-fault party's conduct is particularly reckless, intentional, or negligent. 

If you are involved in an auto accident, you should always consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to understand your rights and the potential damages you may be entitled to receive. An attorney can help you navigate the complicated legal process and pursue fair compensation for your losses.

Lakeland, Florida Car Accident Lawyers

Each year, despite improvements to vehicle safety features, road designs, traffic signs, and pedestrian corridors, car accidents still occur. Lakeland, Florida is no exception. Car accidents, truck accidents, and commercial vehicle accidents can occur. When they do occur, it is important to first seek medical attention and then think about contacting a Florida car accident attorney

Several common causes of Lakeland car accidents are: 

  • Distracted drivers such as drivers who are talking on the phone or texting while driving
  • Drunk drivers or drivers under the influence of drugs 
  • Reckless driving like excessive speeding
  • Adverse weather conditions such as heavy rain or fog
  • Mechanical failure such as unknown engine or electrical issues

An auto accident attorney can also help you if you have been injured in a motorcycle crash or in an accident involving a commercial vehicle

Additionally, there are certain areas in Lakeland that have a history of serious car accidents. One such area is the junction of U.S. 98 North and Griffin Road, notorious for its hazards. In a single year, this intersection witnessed a staggering 79 traffic accidents. Additional perilous intersections include Massachusetts Ave. and Memorial Blvd., with 45 crashes that year, and South Florida Ave. and West Edgewood Extension, which experienced 41 collisions.

How Can a Lakeland Auto Accident Attorney Help Me?

An auto accident attorney can help you by providing essential assistance if you have been involved in a car accident. The National Accident Data Center reports that accidents are a major cause of property damage, injury, and even death every year.

A Lakeland car accident attorney can offer a wide range of services to help you navigate the complex aftermath of an accident. They possess a deep understanding of personal injury law which enables them to offer guidance on your rights and the potential legal actions available to you. 

A car accident attorney will: 

  • Conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your case
  • Assess your case’s strength by investigating the accident's circumstances
  • Establish liability
  • Evaluate your damages, and 
  • Recommend the best course of action

If you have been involved in a car accident, reaching out to a car accident attorney is the first step in beginning the legal process. 

Contact the car accident lawyers from Osborne & Francis online or by calling (561) 293-2600. Our associates have many years of experience in handling car accident litigation from the beginning to the very end. Let us help you maximize the damages you may receive. 

Proudly Representing Lakeland Residents

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What kinds of physical injuries can I sue for damages in Lakeland, Florida?

T. Andrews

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“Attorneys Greg Francis and Ryan Fletcher at Osborne & Francis Law Firm represented me in my personal injury case.The defendant drew a line in the sand and was adamant on a settlement amount I was almost willing to accept. After the dust settled and the smoke cleared, we settled for 3 times that amount!!! When they say ‘Real Tough Lawyers,’ they mean it.”

E. Holland

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Dennis and the other Osborne & Francis staff were amazing! Our case was HUGE and required tender loving care. Everyone on our case did their part by putting all the puzzle pieces together. We were given step by step updates and put at ease when our nerves got the best of us. For every inquiry we made we received a timely response...You are appreciated!

J. Davis

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“I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer/ firm — everything was done professionally exactly how I wanted. Due to COVID my personal attorney Mr. Garcia was still able to make things work in a timely manner and he never made me feel like he wasn’t working. Overall I’m happy with how my case turned out and I would recommend him and this law firm to anyone. 100% satisfied.”

Alfred

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Quick and fair resolution to a unique case. On advice of my own attorney, I engaged Joseph Osborne of Osborne & Francis of Boca Raton, FL. Mr. Osborne had considerable experience in cases such as mine and the results showed that. Mr. Osborne and his staff were very helpful, kept me up to date, and listened to my input. The settlement was very fair as far as I am concerned.

C. Smith

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“I am so thankful for EVERYONE, the entire staff at Osborne & Francis Law, for mentoring me through the mediation process with my hip replacement failures. I didn't realize how MUCH pressure they relieved me of by helping me deal with the reality of this traumatic time in my life, as it was OVER so quickly with a positive result. My family is grateful to have their mom HAPPY & FOCUSED on the future, rather than worrying over what happened in the past! FAST FORWARD, we are LIVING LIFE to the fullest once again!”

Erica F.

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"Best personal injury attorney around, I could not be happier! I was seriously injured in a car accident and Osborne and Francis helped me through the entire process. I was blown away by how knowledgeable the staff and attorneys are at this incredible law firm. I would not hesitate to recommend this law firm to friends and family!"

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Contact an Experienced Lakeland Car Accident Attorney 

The lawyers at Osborne & Francis are committed to handling your matter with care and diligence. Hiring an attorney to handle your car accident lawsuit is the first, and most important step, in ensuring that the parties responsible for your injury are held accountable. An experienced Lakeland car accident attorney can make sure that you are eligible for the maximum damages award. 

Why Hire Osborne & Francis

The attorneys at Osborne & Francis have many years of experience in handling car accident litigation. We have had many successes in achieving positive results for our clients. Our victories include a $7.5 million dollar damages award to an individual who was injured after he was rear-ended at a red light.

When you are ready to begin the legal process and pursue a claim for damages, the associates at Osborne and Francis are standing by. Contact us online or by calling our offices at (561) 293-2600. As one of Florida’s premier car accident law firms, we possess the experience to achieve results for you. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Lakeland Car Accident FAQs

What kinds of physical injuries can I sue for damages in Lakeland, Florida?

In a car accident lawsuit, you can bring a lawsuit for any injuries you sustained during the accident, or previous injuries that were made worse as a result of the accident. Some common injuries that occur during car accidents are: 

Your Lakeland car accident attorney will evaluate the injuries you have suffered as a result of your accident and provide an estimate of the potential value of your claim. Remember that every case is unique, and the final amount you receive may vary based on negotiations with insurance companies or the outcome of a trial.

How long do I have to bring a car accident lawsuit in Lakeland?

In Florida, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file your lawsuit for damages. This is referred to as the statute of limitations

It is important to consult a personal injury attorney to determine whether or not you have a case. Once the statute of limitations expires, you will be barred from pursuing a lawsuit against the party responsible for your injury.

How can a Lakeland auto accident attorney help me?

A Lakeland auto accident attorney can provide valuable assistance in a variety of ways if you've been involved in a car accident. Your attorney can evaluate the merits of your case, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and even represent you in court if your matter needs to go to trial.

How much does a Lakeland car accident attorney cost?

The associates at Osborne & Francis understand that car accidents may be a source of financial strain. You may have medical bills or property damage that you have to pay for as a result of your accident. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means that we only charge a fee if we succeed in recovering damages for you. 

If you have sustained an injury in a car accident, you may be able to bring a case for damages. Contact the Lakeland car accident attorneys at Osborne & Francis online or by calling our offices at (561) 293-2600 for your free consultation. Let us guide you through the legal process and make sure that you receive the damages you are entitled to.