Tampa Car Accident Lawyer
- Free case review and no fee unless we win. Call (813) 800‑4529.
- Act fast: Most negligence claims in Florida must be filed within 2 years (accidents on/after Mar 24, 2023). §95.11
- 14‑day PIP rule: Seek treatment within 14 days to preserve no‑fault benefits. §627.736
- Fault matters: If you’re more than 50% at fault, recovery is barred (non‑medical malpractice). §768.81(6)
Why Choose Franchi Law
After a serious crash, you need a Tampa car accident lawyer who moves quickly, preserves evidence, and deals with insurers so you can focus on healing. Led by attorney William Franchi—a former Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office deputy now advocating for injury victims—we combine law enforcement‑level investigation with trial‑ready strategy from day one.
- No win, no fee: You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
- Rapid action: We help you get medical care, verify PIP, and open all claims within hours.
- Relentless negotiation & litigation: We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial.
- Clear communication: Text, phone, or video—whatever is easiest for you.
What To Do After a Car Accident in Tampa
- Call 911 for injuries or hazards and move to safety.
- Document vehicles, positions, road conditions, debris, and visible injuries with photos/video.
- Exchange info and ask for the officer’s name and report number.
- Seek treatment within 14 days to preserve Florida PIP benefits. §627.736
- Get the crash report: Most injury crashes require a Long‑Form report; it’s often available within 10 days. Purchase at the Florida Crash Portal. See §316.066.
- Call us before recorded statements—insurers look for ways to limit claims.
Florida Law: What Affects Your Claim
No‑Fault (PIP) Benefits
Florida requires at least $10,000 PIP and $10,000 Property Damage Liability. PIP can cover 80% of reasonable medical bills and 60% of lost income (limits apply). Get care within 14 days and note the “emergency medical condition” rule for full limits. FLHSMV insurance basics · §627.736 · §627.732(16)
Stepping Outside No‑Fault (Pain & Suffering Eligibility)
You may pursue non‑economic damages (pain, suffering, mental anguish) when injuries meet Florida’s threshold (e.g., significant and permanent loss of bodily function, permanent injury, significant and permanent scarring/disfigurement, or death). §627.737
Comparative Fault (New Rule)
Florida now uses modified comparative negligence: if you are more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages (not applicable to medical negligence). §768.81(6)
Deadlines (Statute of Limitations)
Most negligence claims for crashes on or after March 24, 2023 must be filed within 2 years. §95.11
Police Reports & Privacy
Injury crashes generally require a Long‑Form report, filed within 10 days; reports are confidential for 60 days (exceptions apply). §316.066 · FLHSMV Crash Reports
Uninsured/Underinsured Drivers
Florida does not generally require bodily injury liability coverage for private vehicles, which makes UM/UIM coverage vital. FLHSMV insurance basics
What Is My Tampa Car Accident Case Worth?
Every case is unique. We build value by documenting all losses and proving liability. Common recoverable damages include:
ER, imaging, surgery, rehab, meds, and future care.
Wages, benefits, reduced earning capacity.
If you meet Florida’s tort threshold (§627.737).
Repairs, total loss, and diminished value.
How Our Team Helps—Step by Step
- Listen & assess: Free consult to understand injuries, insurance, and goals.
- Medical & benefits: Help with doctors and verify PIP/MedPay/UM coverage.
- Evidence fast: Scene photos, video, event data recorders, 911, body‑cam, and witness statements.
- Claim strategy: We open all claims, handle adjusters, and protect you from recorded‑statement traps.
- Negotiate hard: Present a documented demand; if offers are low, we litigate.
Related Tampa Crash Cases We Handle
Tampa Car Accident FAQs
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Florida?
Generally 2 years for negligence claims arising from crashes on or after March 24, 2023. Do not wait—evidence disappears. §95.11
What if I’m partly at fault?
Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault, but if you’re over 50% at fault you cannot recover (non‑med‑mal). §768.81(6)
Do I have to see a doctor within 14 days?
Yes, to access PIP benefits you must obtain care within 14 days, and certain limits depend on whether you have an “emergency medical condition.” §627.736 · §627.732(16)
How do I get my Florida crash report?
Buy it online at the Florida Crash Portal. Most are available within 10 days; reports are confidential for 60 days for most requesters. §316.066
The other driver doesn’t have bodily injury coverage—what now?
Florida doesn’t generally require bodily injury liability for private vehicles, so UM/UIM coverage can be crucial. We’ll investigate all available policies and pursue every liable party. FLHSMV
Real Help From a Team Tampa Trusts
Clients choose Franchi Law for our proactive communication, investigation‑first approach, and results. With a 4.9‑star rating from 227+ reviews, we’re proud to serve Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Riverview, Brandon, and all of Tampa Bay.
Speak With a Tampa Car Accident Lawyer Today
Get answers in minutes. We’ll review your options, protect your rights, and start building your case—today.