auto injury practice areas
Injured in an Auto Accident in Florida?
At Elle Rudisill Law Firm, your auto and personal injury case is personal to us. You won’t feel like a number because we provide individualized attention and keep you informed every step of the way. You have the legal right to speak with your attorney and stay updated on your case, so demand that right.
Contact Elle Rudisill Law Firm today and speak with an attorney who will focus on your unique case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
6 steps after a crash
What Should You Do After a Car Crash?
Get Legal Help After Medical Help.
If you’ve been in an auto accident (car, truck, bus, or motorcycle) what you do next can directly affect your health, finances, and legal rights.
After ensuring safety and calling 911, it is critical to seek medical care — even if you feel “fine” — and document the scene. Just as important, do not give recorded statements or accept an insurance settlement before speaking with a lawyer. Insurance companies move fast to minimize payouts, often before the full extent of injuries is known.
At Elle Rudisill Law Firm, we help accident victims protect their rights, handle insurance companies, and pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you were injured in a car crash, reaching out early can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case.
Contact law enforcement.
Call 911 or Florida Highway Patrol at #347.
Get evidence of crash.
Take photos & videos of all vehicles, damage, & the accident scene.
Exchange information.
Exchange driver’s license, insurance, and contact information with all involved drivers.
Identify witnesses.
Identify any witnesses and obtain their contact information.
Get medical evaluation.
Seek medical evaluation, even if injuries seem minor.
Contact an attorney.
Consult an attorney before making detailed statements or accepting any settlement.
How Does Car Insurance Work After an Accident in Florida?
Understanding how car insurance works after an accident in Florida is critical to protecting your health, your finances, and your legal rights. Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, which means insurance coverage applies differently than in most states. Many accident victims lose compensation simply because they do not understand how claims work or which insurance company should pay first.
What Happens Immediately After a Car Accident in Florida?
After a car accident, you must notify your insurance company and file a claim. Depending on the circumstances, multiple insurance policies may apply, including your own and the other driver’s coverage. Prompt reporting and documentation are essential to preserving your claim. Insurance companies evaluate:
- Property damage to vehicles
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Bodily injury claims
- Fault and liability
Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Law Explained
Florida is a no-fault state, meaning your own insurance generally pays for medical treatment first — regardless of who caused the accident. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) does not cover pain and suffering or full medical costs in severe injury cases. It covers a portion of medical bills and lost wages, applies immediately after the accident, and is limited and often insufficient for serious injuries.
Should You Call Your Insurance or the Other Driver’s Insurance First?
In most cases, it is appropriate to contact the other driver’s insurance company first for vehicle property damage and investigation of fault and liability. Their insurer will determine whether their policyholder caused the accident. However, your own insurance remains available and may be required if liability is disputed or coverage is insufficient.
When Does the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Pay?
Florida law allows injured drivers to step outside the no-fault system in qualifying cases. The at-fault driver’s bodily injury insurance may apply when:
- Injuries are serious or permanent
- Medical expenses exceed PIP limits
- Long-term disability or pain and suffering is involved
Why Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side
Insurance companies are profit-driven businesses. They may:
- Minimize injury severity
- Delay claims processing
- Offer low settlements
- Use recorded statements against you
Understanding how insurance works after a Florida car accident helps prevent costly mistakes
contact elle rudisill Law firm
We Put Your Recovery & Compensation First
At Elle Rudisill Law Firm, your recovery — physical, emotional, and financial — comes first. If you were injured in a car accident, motorcycle crash, slip and fall, or another serious accident in the Tampa Bay area, you deserve an advocate who prioritizes your well-being while aggressively pursuing full and fair compensation.
Free consultation. No win, no fee. We come to you.
How long do car accident cases take?
Most cases resolve within 6 months to 2 years, depending on injuries, medical treatment, and insurance coverage.
What if both drivers are at fault?
If fault is split evenly (50/50), recovery may be limited or unavailable. A driver who is less at fault may still pursue a claim.
Can I sue more than one party?
Yes, if multiple parties contributed to the accident.
Are there special rules for suing the government?
What if I was hit by a drunk driver?Yes. These cases follow strict statutory rules and limited recovery.
Can I switch lawyers if I’m unhappy?
Claims involving drunk drivers often result in higher settlements due to clear fault and potential punitive factors.
What if I was hit by a texting driver?
Texting is easier to prove than general distraction. Text logs can establish fault if the insurance company disputes liability.
What if I was hit by a truck or semi-truck?
Truck accidents usually involve higher insurance coverage, which often leads to larger settlements.
What if I was hit by a delivery driver?
Liability depends on the driver’s employment status. Some delivery drivers are independent contractors (1099), which can complicate coverage.
What if I was a passenger in a rideshare?
If you are not related to the driver, you can file a claim against the driver’s insurance.