The Basics Of Filing A Tampa Car Accident Lawsuit (2025)

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Sarah Edwards

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Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.

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Summary

  • After sustaining serious injuries in a crash, you can file a Tampa lawsuit
  • You can recover economic and non-economic damages
  • A lawyer’s help is essential

A car accident can leave you with injuries and property damage. To recover your losses, you may be entitled to file a lawsuit against the other party. With help from a Tampa car accident lawyer, you have a chance to receive a fair settlement or jury award.

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Who Can Be Held Liable After a Tampa Car Crash?

If you suffered injuries that allow you to file a Tampa car accident lawsuit, you will need to prove that another party was responsible for the crash.

Liable parties can be:

  • Another driver
  • Auto manufacturers, if a part malfunctioned and caused the collision
  • Government entities in charge of maintaining the road and

Other third parties who might have contributed to the accident may also be liable.

How to Start a Car Accident Lawsuit in Tampa

The first thing to do is to hire a lawyer to represent you. They can help you send a demand letter. You’ll need to present substantial evidence that shows your injuries are serious enough to step outside of no-fault laws and that the other party was responsible for the crash.

If you can’t reach a settlement with the other party, you can file an official complaint with the court to start the lawsuit.

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Filing Deadlines and Notice Requirements in Florida

In Florida, the statute of limitations for car accidents is two years. If you’re filing against a government entity, however, you must send a notice of your intention to do so. They will then have 180 days to respond.

What Types of Damages You Can Recover in Tampa Lawsuits

In Tampa car accident lawsuits, you can receive economic and non-economic damages. Economic ones compensate you for your medical expenses, property damage and lost wages. Non-economic damages address pain and suffering and your loss of enjoyment of life.

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How Evidence Is Collected in a Tampa Car Lawsuit

Gathering evidence at the scene of the accident right after it occurs is vital. You can take photos and videos, and get statements from witnesses. Your lawyer can help you collect your medical records and information on your total losses. When you begin the lawsuit, you can get further evidence via the discovery phase.

What Happens During Negotiations or Trial?

Your lawyer can negotiate to get you a fair settlement. If that’s not possible, they can take the case to trial. The process begins with the discovery phase, where both parties exchange information, and then it proceeds to court. A jury will then decide whether to award you damages or not.

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Start a Tampa Car Accident Lawsuit

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • These lawyers generally work on a contingency fee basis. They will not charge anything up front but will instead receive a percentage of your winnings.

  • The claim leading up to the lawsuit can often be resolved in a few weeks via a settlement, but if you need to go to court, the process can take months.

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