Been Injured in an Auto Accident and Don’t Think You Need an Attorney, Think Again
Car accidents wreak more lives than any other type of personal injury accident. These types of accidents are Florida’s number one cause of death for young adults. If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident in Pensacola, Ft Walton, Destin or any of the small towns in Florida’s panhandle, you are joining an ever-increasing number of victims injured due to distracted and careless drivers. Almost no one riding in a vehicle is immune in being involved in a vehicular accident these days. Driving defensively only goes so far to protect oneself due to all the traffic our roads and throughfares are experiencing. Even small towns in and around cities like Pensacola, Ft Walton and Destin are seeing an increase of traffic activity and accidents.
Florida is one of the top states attracting visitors thanks to its stunning beaches, warm weather, and a wealth of tourist attractions. However, it is increasingly becoming a relocation choice for those frustrated with high taxes and subpar government decisions in various states across the country. As a result, the influx of new residents is adding to the congestion on an already strained highway system, creating a higher risk for accidents and injuries.
According to statistics recently released by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Uniform Traffic Citation Report, there were 3 million tickets issued to Florida drivers in 2024 statewide. Over 744,000 speeding violations and 9,000 texting and driving citations. According to the department’s preliminary data, in 2025, there are estimated to have been 370,000 vehicular accidents in Florida with 158,000 reported injuries and 2,930 fatalities. There are 17,855,250 individuals over the age of 17 which means they have a 1 in 45 chance of being involved in a vehicular accident this year and those numbers are decreasing as our population increases.
All too often, vehicular accidents, auto, truck, motorcycle and bicycle collisions occur on our roads resulting in injuries, many of which are severe and some result in fatalities. Individuals injured in a serious auto accident face life-altering injuries resulting in mental and physical anguish, pain and suffering, physical limitations, quality of life issues and loss of income and financial hardship. For those who have suffered death or dismemberment, their life as they knew it is over, leaving grief-stricken family members to pick up the pieces of a shattered life.
Pensacola Auto Accident Lawyers
Victims of accidents. You are not alone. For over 25 years, the lawyers at Whibbs Stone Barnett Turner PA have been defending the rights of innocent victims and their families damaged in all types of automobile and vehicular accident, that was not their fault. If you have been injured, we know you are overwhelmed by your current condition or of those you love, and we are here to help you through this difficult time recover the compensation you deserve. We have helped thousands of injured victims throughout the state, holding negligent parties and their insurance providers accountable. There are no fees or costs unless we recover compensation for your injuries. Our lawyers are experienced trial attorneys who are skilled in negotiating the best possible settlements for our clients and are prepared to defend their rights in court, to fair and just compensation, if a settlement cannot be reached.
Submitting a Car Accident Claim in Florida – Determining Fault
Car accidents typically arise from a combination of specific factors. Elements such as road conditions, weather patterns, heavy traffic, low visibility, and construction zones all play a role. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) highlights that most accidents are primarily due to individual driving behaviors. Numerous traffic violations can be identified as contributing factors in causing an incident.”
Risky and hazardous driving habits encompass:
Speeding and Aggressive Driving are the leading contributors to most accidents.
Improper lane changes and darting through traffic can involve overtaking on the right on a two-lane road at high speeds.
Distracted Driving involves being inattentive to passengers, eating, drinking, texting, using a cell phone, or neglecting to observe changing road conditions. These actions significantly contribute to numerous collisions annually.
Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol contributes to a considerable amount of accidents.
If you sustained injuries in a car crash where the other driver was charged with any of these dangerous driving actions or found liable, you might be eligible to file a lawsuit for compensation. In Florida personal injury cases, liability is determined by assessing who was negligent in causing the incident.
Negligent Parties
To establish negligence in most civil lawsuits, you must demonstrate four key elements:
- The defendant had a duty to provide reasonable care that they failed to uphold.
- This failure resulted in an accident or incident.
- The accident led to injuries.
- The injured party experienced damages.
The damages can include both economic and non-economic losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repair costs, as well as pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
Who’s at Fault
In Florida, there’s a concept known as “Comparative Fault” that may apply if you share some responsibility. According to Section 768.81 of the Florida Statutes, being partially at fault does not eliminate your right to seek damages. However, your compensation will be adjusted according to your percentage of fault.
It’s essential to remember that in Florida, you must initiate a personal injury lawsuit within two years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death cases, the filing deadline is also two years.
Hire An Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve suffered injuries in a car crash, it’s crucial to have a knowledgeable Pensacola Auto Accident Lawyer on your side who comprehends the challenges that arise from such incidents. At Whibbs Stone will strive to alleviate your frustrations while enhancing your opportunities for a successful recovery, settlement, or award. When someone drives a vehicle without care, they may be held liable for the damage inflicted on people and/or property. Operators of any motor vehicle must demonstrate “reasonable care.” Neglecting to exercise reasonable care typically serves as the foundation for the majority of lawsuits handled by an auto accident attorney. Give us a call for a free, no obligation consultation to discuss you case.
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