Help! I’ve been injured in an accident while on vacation in Florida: Guidance from local injury attorneys

When you’re injured in an accident while on vacation in Florida, you need local legal representation that you can trust. In this article, our attorneys explain your legal options and what to do to protect your rights.

Florida’s central and west coast is a paradise for travelers, offering stunning beaches, world-class attractions, and unforgettable experiences. From enjoying the thrills of Tampa’s theme parks and vibrant culture to soaking up the sun in Clearwater Beach or on Siesta Key, thousands of people visit Florida year-round. However, accidents can happen and a serious injury while on vacation can leave you upset and confused about what to do next.

This blog provides important information on what to do if you’ve been injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence while on vacation in Florida. These accidents range from motor vehicle accidents, bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, boating accidents, slip and falls, or any other type of incident where you were seriously injured. It’s vital that you contact a local Florida Vacation Accident Attorney who can help you navigate local laws and pursue an insurance claim against the responsible party. If you have any questions, please call Darrigo & Diaz for a free consultation at 813-774-3433.

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Common types of Florida vacation accidents

While Florida’s central and west coast is a haven for tourists, certain types of accidents are more common due to the activities and environments these destinations offer. While Darrigo & Diaz represent victims of all types of accidents, here are some of the more common accidents we see:

1. Slip and fall accidents

Slip and fall accidents can happen anywhere while on vacation in Florida. Some common places where we see these types of accidents are theme parks, hotels, restaurants, and beach areas. They are often caused by wet floors, uneven walkways, or poorly maintained surfaces.

2. Motor vehicle accidents

Motor vehicle accidents happen every day in Florida and can happen anywhere. When you’re on vacation, these accidents typically involve rental cars or rideshare services. As a result, you need an attorney who understands the nuances of representing car accident victims involving third party insurance companies.

3. Bicycle and pedestrian accidents

Many people enjoy walking and biking around Florida because we have beautiful weather year-round. However, these types of accidents do happen, and injuries are often severe. Many times, these accidents are caused by someone being “distracted” and not seeing the cyclist or pedestrian.

4. Water-related accidents

With endless miles of coastline and waterways, Florida unfortunately sees its fair share of water-related accidents. These can happen while boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, or even parasailing. Due to the nature of these accidents, you will need an attorney who is experienced in representing victims of water-related incidents.

5. Scooter and golf cart accidents

If you visit downtown Tampa, you will see hundreds of e-scooters scattered around the city. While these scooters provide convenient cost-effective modes of transportation, they are extremely dangerous and contribute to a high number of accidents each year. Similarly, golf carts are used throughout Florida not just on golf courses, but to provide easy transportation in neighborhoods and boroughs. Golf carts are fun but can also be dangerous.

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What to do if you are injured in an accident while on vacation in Florida

If you or a loved one are injured in an accident while on vacation in Florida, you may be unsure of your legal rights or what to do next. Below are general steps to take. However, the best thing you can do in these situations is contact an experienced Florida Vacation Accident Attorney for a free consultation.

– Assess the severity of your injury and seek local medical help – If your injury is serious and requires immediate attention, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest urgent care or hospital. It’s important to have documentation of local medical care for your insurance claim or a potential lawsuit.

– Report the incident – If the injury occurred at a hotel, restaurant, theme park, or any other place of business, notify the owner or manager right away. Request an incident report for document. If you were involved in an accident, make sure to call 9-1-1 to get a police report.

– Take photos or videos of the accident scene – Since you are not local and unable to visit the accident scene once you return home, try to take photos or videos of the accident and how it happened. If possible, get names and numbers of potential witnesses.

– Contact your insurance provider – Verify coverage for medical expenses incurred out of state. Depending on your policy, you may be able to find clinics and doctors covered by your insurance. Some policies also have travel insurance coverage, which could include medical evaluation or reimbursement for treatment costs.

– Consult with a local injury attorney – If your injury was caused by negligence, such as unsafe conditions at a hotel or a distracted driver, you should consult with a local injury attorney, like the Florida Vacation Accident Attorneys at Darrigo & Diaz. Florida has specific laws for personal injury claims, so seeking professional advice can help.

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Why you need a local injury attorney

If you’re injured while on vacation in Florida but live out of state, contacting a local injury attorney is essential to protect your rights and ensure proper handling of your case. Florida’s personal injury laws, including statutes of limitations and comparative negligence rules, can differ significantly from your home state, making it crucial to have someone familiar with local regulations and court systems.

A local injury attorney can navigate these laws effectively and ensure your insurance claims are filed correctly, especially when dealing with Florida-specific policies or requirements. Additionally, an attorney based in Florida can promptly investigate the scene of the accident, collect critical evidence, and interview witnesses before key details are lost. This local presence and expertise not only strengthen your case but also help you focus on recovery while they handle the complexities of the legal process.

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Were you injured in an accident while on vacation in Florida?

We can help. Call (813) 437-5523 for a free consultation.

If you are injured in an accident while on vacation in Florida, you should contact Darrigo & Diaz immediately. We are experienced automobile accident and slip and fall attorneys and we’ve dealt with many insurance companies and their adjusters. We will protect your rights. Our expertise ensures that our clients receive fair and just compensation.

In addition, we will do everything in our power to make our long-distance representation as easy as possible for you. For example, we can conduct meetings virtually and over the phone. We can even fly to you to meet with you in person or conduct your mediations.

Call 813-774-3433 now to schedule your complimentary meeting with our experienced Florida Vacation Accident Attorneys.