​Tallahassee Personal Injury Lawyer

December 21, 2023 | Attorney, Matthew Dolman
​Tallahassee Personal Injury Lawyers

Have you ever been shopping in a Tallahassee mall and fallen because you slipped on a wet spot on the floor? Or have you driven on Meridian Road only to be hit by another driver who was busy texting and driving?

While some accidents only result in minor bumps and bruises, others can result in catastrophic injuries that forever change your life. This is when you need a personal injury lawyer in Tallahassee you can trust.

If another person negligently injured you in a Tallahassee accident, you do not have to face the consequences alone. When you partner with Dolman Law Group, you can take legal action to fight for the compensation and justice you deserve. One of our personal injury lawyers in Tallahassee is available to speak with you in person, virtually through our online contact form, or by phone at 850-790-5830.

Our Tallahassee offices are conveniently located on Killarney Way near highways 10 and 319, and with other locations throughout Florida, it's easy to find an office near you.

When You Need TenaciousTallahassee Lawyers to Handle Your Personal Injury Claim, Trust Dolman Law Group

Do You Need a Tenacious Personal Injury Lawyer in Tallahassee? Trust Dolman Law Group

Finding an experienced legal team ready to help you may be challenging after an accident where you suffered severe injuries. Fortunately, the legal team at Dolman Law Group is skilled, knowledgeable, and ready to offer the legal support you need.

As one of the award-winning law firms in Tallahassee, we are known for getting results.

Since our founding, we have recovered more than $400 million for our clients, including recent financial awards of:

  • $5 million for a car crash involving burn injuries
  • $6.7 million for a wrongful death case
  • $3.85 million for a semi-truck accident resulting in brain injuries

While we cannot promise these exact results in every case, when you work with us, we will provide the personalized attention you need while fighting for every last dollar you deserve.

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Common Types of Injury Accidents Our Tallahassee Personal Injury Attorneys Handle

Common Types of Personal Injury Accidents Our Tallahassee Injury Attorneys Handle

Although a personal injury claim could involve any accident caused by negligence, certain types of accidents occur more frequently in Tallahassee, including:

While these situations can occur frequently in Tallahassee, they are not the only accidents that can give rise to a personal injury claim. If you are unsure whether you have a viable case, reach out to a personal injury lawyer in our Tallahassee office for a free consultation concerning your claim.

Our Tallahassee Office is Conveniently Located

Dolman Law Group has a law office in Tallahassee located at 2707 Killarney Way, Suite 205, Tallahassee, FL 32309.

You can come by our office to speak with an experienced Tallahassee personal injury attorney for free, or you can call us to set up an appointment. We can also come to your home, your hospital room, or another location convenient for you, and we offer video teleconferencing for clients who are physically restricted.

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Important Tallahassee Accident Statistics

Tallahassee Accident Statistics

Florida's capital, Tallahassee, serves as the Leon County seat, with a population of just over 197,000. The capital city is home to many government buildings along with other attractions, such as Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park and the Museum of Florida History.

As a result, Tallahassee sees a lot of visitors each year. Unfortunately, this means you run the risk of getting into a serious vehicle accident virtually anywhere in the city.

According to reports from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), Leon County and the Tallahassee area reported the following accidents in one recent year:

  • 6,218 total traffic accidents, resulting in 3,746 injuries and 35 fatalities
  • 90 total motorcycle accidents, resulting in 2 fatalities
  • 48 total bicycle accidents, resulting in 2 fatalities
  • 208 pedestrian accidents, resulting in 9 fatalities

Additionally, the area reported 1,972 hit-and-run accidents, with 363 injuries and 2 fatalities.

Common Injuries Our Tallahassee Personal Injury Attorneys Handle

​Tallahassee Personal Injury Lawyers

Accidents can harm almost every part of the body. Although the severity of these injuries depends on the circumstances of the accident, common injuries in Tallahassee include:

Many of these injuries require life-long treatment and generate astronomical medical bills. Due to the high cost of medical treatment, working with an experienced lawyer to calculate losses and estimate future costs is crucial. Our team can consult with your doctor or hospital to clarify your needs now and in the future.

Where Do Tallahassee Personal Injury Accidents Commonly Occur?

Where Do Tallahassee Personal Injury Accidents Commonly Occur

Every year, individuals in Tallahassee negligently injure others. For instance, in just one year, 34 people were in fatal automobile accidents, drunk drivers caused three fatal car crashes, and seven pedestrians died.

While these accidents can occur anywhere, some intersections in Tallahassee are more dangerous than others, including:

  • Monroe Street and Orange Avenue
  • Apalachee Parkway and Magnolia Drive
  • Tennessee Street and Monroe Street
  • Orange Avenue and Springhill Road
  • White Drive and Pensacola Street
  • Calhoun Street and Apalachee Parkway

Fortunately, our team of Tallahassee personal injury lawyers has the skills, resources, and local knowledge needed to take on your legal case and pursue the financial recovery you deserve.

5 Things to Do Following an Injury Accident in Tallahassee

What You Should Do Following a Personal Injury Accident in Tallahassee

After an accident, you may not be able to talk to witnesses or gather evidence. However, taking these steps, if possible, can help keep you safe and protect your legal rights. While a Tallahassee personal injury lawyer at Dolman Law Group can also gather evidence as soon as possible on your behalf, it's best to take the first two steps right away.

1. Call the Authorities

If someone injures you in an accident, call 911 to alert the authorities and ask for immediate medical attention. After the medics and police arrive and investigate your accident, the police will write down their findings in a police report, which your lawyer can use in your legal case if you decide to pursue legal action.

2. Visit a Doctor Immediately

Even if medics do not take you to the emergency room after your accident, you should still see a doctor right away. Medical professionals can ensure you do not have a hidden injury, such as a brain injury, spinal cord damage, or internal bleeding.

Once you see a doctor, they can also provide a medical report that explains the severity of your injuries and the direct connection between the accident and your trauma. This evidence is crucial to a personal injury claim.

3. Gather Evidence

If you can safely do so after an accident, try to gather evidence from the scene.

You can take photos and videos of:

  • The vehicles involved and their placement on the road
  • The damage to these vehicles
  • The weather conditions at the time of the accident
  • Hazardous conditions that contributed to the accident
  • Visible injuries
  • Traffic signals and signs
  • The condition of the area that caused a premises injury
  • What caused you to fall if you were injured in a slip-and-fall accident
  • Other important details that relate to your injuries

However, if you cannot collect this evidence because of your injuries, do not worry. Once you retain an experienced personal injury lawyer, they can gather evidence for you.

4. Collect Witness Information

If other people saw the accident, try to get their names and phone numbers. These individuals can often provide valuable evidence regarding what happened and testimony that substantiates your claim.

5. Provide All Information to Our Tallahassee Personal Injury Lawyers

Once you receive the medical treatment you require, make sure you share the evidence you gathered with your lawyer. Give them photos of the accident, the police and medical report, and bills related to the accident. Your lawyer will use this evidence to prepare legal arguments proving fault and damages in your case.

How Do You Know If You Have a Valid Tallahassee Personal Injury Claim?

Do I Have a Valid Tallahassee Personal Injury Case

Determining whether you have a strong personal injury case in Tallahassee involves assessing several key factors. It's essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can evaluate the specific details of your situation.

In the meantime, here are some general considerations that can help you determine if you might have a valid case:

  1. Duty of Care: You must establish that the defendant (the party you're seeking compensation from) owed you a duty of care. For instance, drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely, and property owners have a duty to maintain safe premises.
  2. Breach of Duty: You need to show that the defendant breached their duty of care through negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. This breach must have directly caused your injuries.
  3. Causation: There must be a clear link between the defendant's breach of duty and your injuries. In other words, you must demonstrate that the defendant's actions (or lack of action) directly led to your injuries.
  4. Damages: To have a valid personal injury case, you must have suffered actual damages. These damages can include physical injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more.

Personal injury cases can arise from various types of accidents, including car crashes, slip and fall accidents, medical malpractice, product liability, and more. Each type of accident has its own set of legal principles and requirements. The extent of your injuries and the impact they have on your life will also play a role in determining the strength of your case.

For a clear understanding of whether you have a valid personal injury claim in Tallahassee or any location, it's best to consult with a personal injury attorney who can provide personalized legal advice based on the specific details of your situation. As you consider the best injury law firms in Tallahassee, rest assured that our personal injury attorneys are among the most well-respected in the area by clients, judges, and even opposing counsel and insurance companies.

We can evaluate your case, guide you through the legal process, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. We will gather the evidence needed to support your claim, including medical records, accident reports, photographs, witness statements, and any other documentation that corroborates your version of events.

What Compensation Can Our Dedicated Personal Injury Attorneys in Tallahassee Recover For You?

What Financial Compensation Can Our Dedicated Personal Injury Attorneys in Tallahassee Pursue For You

If another person's intentional, negligent, or reckless actions hurt you, you may be entitled to financial damages. In Florida, many accident victims seek:

Economic Damages

These damages refer to the measurable losses that occur after an accident. They include:

  • Past and current medical bills related to hospital and nursing care, doctor visits, assistive medical devices, prescription medications, emergency services such as ambulance rides, and other medical treatments
  • Future medical care
  • Lost wages
  • Reduced earning capacity
  • Costs related to domestic replacement services
  • Personal property damage, including replacement costs or repair expenses
  • Other out-of-pocket expenses

Non-Economic Damages

These damages refer to subjective losses that result from an accident. Due to the nature of these losses, they are more challenging to prove or value in dollars.

These losses include:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of reputation
  • Inconvenience
  • Scarring, disfigurement, or loss of a limb
  • Mental anguish
  • Loss of enjoyment and quality of life
  • Loss of companionship

Punitive Damages

In addition, negligence victims may sometimes seek punitive damages. Unlike the other damages that compensate the victim for their losses, courts award punitive damages to penalize the wrongful party for their actions and deter others from committing similar acts. To receive punitive damages, the victim must present clear and convincing evidence to show that the wrongful party was guilty of gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

As you can imagine, obtaining damages following a Tallahassee personal injury accident is no easy feat and requires detailed evidence showing fault and the extent of your harm. The personal injury lawyers at Dolman Law Group can determine which damages apply to your claim. Then, they can start building a strong legal case to pursue compensation.

What is Your Injury Claim Worth?

Because so many factors can impact compensation, it's challenging to determine exactly how much your claim is worth. However, one of our skilled personal injury attorneys can fully assess your case and determine the types and amounts of compensation you need based on your medical records, expenses, and other associated damages.

We can then negotiate with the insurance company to achieve the highest settlement possible or fight for you in court to improve the odds the judge or jury decides in your favor and awards you the maximum amount possible. We are fully committed to helping you get the full and fair compensation you deserve so you can move forward with confidence,

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What is the Statute of Limitations Controlling Tallahassee Personal Injury Accidents?

What is the Statute of Limitations Controlling Tallahassee Personal Injury Accidents

Tallahassee accident victims should be aware of the time limitations for filing personal injury accident lawsuits. The statute of limitations restricts the amount of time a person has to file a lawsuit in Florida.

In Tallahassee, accident victims only have two years to file a lawsuit from the date someone negligently injured them. This limit might be even shorter, depending on the facts of your case. A judge will likely dismiss your case if the deadline passes before you file your lawsuit.

Because of the strict deadlines, it is a good idea to reach out to a skilled Tallahassee personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Our team can verify how much time you have left to file your case, prepare all legal documents, and submit everything to the correct court before time expires.

How Much Does a Tallahassee Personal Injury Attorney Cost?

Like most personal injury attorneys, the lawyers at Dolman Law Group work on a contingency fee basis. This means we charge you nothing upfront to represent you, and we only accept a fee if we recover compensation for you through an insurance settlement or jury trial.

You won't have to worry about the cost of retaining experienced legal counsel for your Tallahassee personal injury claim, so you can focus your energy on your physical recovery. Your attorney will discuss our fee schedule and how we obtain fees following a successful resolution of your case during your free consultation and before you sign a contract.

How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Tallahassee Personal Injury Case?

The time it takes to resolve a personal injury case in Tallahassee can vary significantly based on several factors. Every case is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Some cases can be resolved relatively quickly, while others may take months or even years.

Here are some factors that can influence the timeline of your personal injury case:

  • Severity of Injuries: Cases involving more severe injuries often take longer to resolve because the full extent of the injuries and their long-term effects may not be immediately apparent.
  • Medical Treatment: The duration of your medical treatment and recovery can impact the timeline. It's important to wait until you have a clear understanding of your medical condition and prognosis before seeking a settlement.
  • Negotiations: Negotiating with insurance companies or the at-fault party can take time. Both parties may need to exchange information, assess evidence, and negotiate the terms of a settlement.
  • Court Schedule: If your case goes to court, the availability of the court, judge, and other parties involved can affect the timeline. Court schedules can sometimes lead to delays.
  • The complexity of the Case: Complex cases, such as those involving multiple parties, disputed liability, or intricate legal issues, may take longer to resolve due to the need for thorough investigation and legal analysis.
  • Preparation: Properly preparing your case for negotiation or trial takes time. Your attorney needs to gather evidence, interview witnesses, review medical records, and build a strong case on your behalf.
  • Settlement vs. Trial: Cases that are settled out of court tend to be resolved more quickly than cases that go to trial. Trials involve additional steps such as jury selection, court proceedings, and even appeals if the case does not end favorably.
  • Insurance Company's Response: The responsiveness and willingness of the insurance company or the at-fault party to engage in negotiations or provide a fair settlement offer can impact the timeline.
  • Dispute Resolution Process: Some cases might go through alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation or arbitration, which can affect how long it takes to reach a resolution.
  • Statute of Limitations: The statute of limitations dictates the timeframe within which you must file a lawsuit. If the statute of limitations is approaching, it might impact the speed at which your case needs to move forward.

It's important to keep in mind that while you may want a quick resolution, prioritizing a fair and just outcome is essential. Rushing through the process could potentially lead to a settlement that doesn't adequately compensate you for your injuries and damages. Your attorney can provide you with a better estimate of the timeline based on the specific details of your case and their experience with similar cases.

What If I'm Partially At Fault for My Injuries? Can I Still Receive Compensation?

What If I'm Partially At Fault for My Injuries Can I Still Receive Compensation

In all likelihood, yes--but it does depend. Florida recently amended its tort policy to follow a modified comparative fault rule. This is what the courts use to determine awarding damages, and there may be shared liability among all parties involved.

The rule states that accident victims found to be more than 50% responsible for their injuries cannot recover compensation. Also, the damages you could receive will be reduced by the percentage you are found to have for causing the accident and your injuries.

For example, If the total amount of damages is $100,000 and the court finds you 20% at fault, you may only recover 80% of the damages, or $80,000.

Because of the modified comparative fault rule, insurance companies and the other parties' legal counsel may try to assign a higher percentage of fault to you. They could claim you were using your cell phone, for instance, or violated traffic laws. Defendants may outright deny any liability for your injuries in an attempt to shift blame and avoid paying damages. The personal injury lawyers at Dolman Law Group understand these tactics and will fight to hold all liable parties fully accountable for your injuries and losses.

How Do Tallahassee Law Firms Obtain Compensation in a Personal Injury Claim?

What's the Process of Obtaining Compensation from a Tallahassee Personal Injury Claim

To receive compensation from a personal injury claim in Tallahassee, you will need to follow a series of steps that typically include the following:

  • Getting Medical Attention: Your health is your top priority. Seek medical treatment immediately after the injury to assess and document your injuries. This medical documentation will serve as evidence of your injuries and their severity.
  • Gathering Evidence: Collect and preserve evidence related to the accident or incident that caused your injuries. This can include photographs, accident reports, witness statements, and any other documentation that supports your claim.
  • Consulting an Attorney: It's highly recommended to consult with a personal injury attorney who has experience with cases in Tallahassee. They can provide legal advice, assess the strength of your case, and guide you through the process.
  • Investigating the Accident: Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, which may include gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing relevant documents.
  • Filing Your Claim with the Insurance Company: Your attorney will file a claim with the appropriate insurance companies, and they may send a demand letter that outlines the details of the incident, your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and a demand for compensation.
  • Negotiations: Your attorney will engage in negotiations with the insurance company or the at-fault party's representatives to reach a settlement. This can involve back-and-forth discussions to agree on a fair compensation amount.
  • Medical Records and Bills: Your attorney will gather all medical records and bills related to your injuries. These documents are crucial in calculating your damages.
  • Lost Wages and Other Damages: Your attorney will also calculate the value of other damages such as lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any other losses you've incurred due to the injury.
  • Settlement Agreement: If negotiations are successful, you'll reach a settlement agreement. This agreement outlines the terms of compensation and typically involves signing a release that waives your right to pursue further legal action related to the incident.
  • Disbursement of Funds: Once a settlement is agreed upon, the compensation is disbursed. Your attorney will deduct their fees and expenses, and the remaining funds will be provided to you.
  • Filing a Lawsuit (If Necessary): If negotiations fail to result in a satisfactory settlement, your attorney might recommend filing a lawsuit. This involves preparing and filing a formal complaint in court.
  • Discovery: If a lawsuit is filed, both parties will engage in the discovery process, where they exchange relevant information, evidence, and documentation.
  • Pre-Trial Proceedings: Pre-trial motions and hearings might take place to address various issues before the trial begins.
  • Trial (If Necessary): If the case goes to trial, both sides will present their arguments and evidence in front of a judge and potentially a jury. The judge or jury will make a decision based on the evidence presented.
  • Judgment and Appeals: If a judgment is reached, the court will issue a decision on the case. Either party might have the option to appeal the decision if they believe legal errors occurred during the trial.

Keep in mind that the timeline and specific steps can vary based on the circumstances of your case. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney in Tallahassee from Dolman Law Group can help ensure that you navigate the process correctly and maximize your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

Let Us Deal With the Insurance Company

Although you may be gathering evidence, you should avoid talking with the insurance company without speaking to your lawyer first. You may think you can rely on the insurance company to pay you the money you need after an accident, but this is not how insurance companies work.

Insurance companies want to make a profit; they will do everything they can to blame you for the accident or whatever it takes to reduce the amount of money you can receive.

Your lawyer will help you understand what to expect from the insurance company and warn you about the deceitful practices they may attempt. Your lawyer can also communicate with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring you do not accidentally say something to hurt your case.

Contact a Tallahassee Personal Injury Lawyer at Dolman Law Group Today

Matthew A. Dolman, Attorney
Matthew Dolman, Tallahassee Personal Injury Lawyer

You don't need to face aggressive insurance adjusters or opposing counsel alone. A Tallahassee personal injury lawyer at Dolman Law Group can guide you through the complicated personal injury claim process or trial litigation and help recover the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us online or at 850-790-5830 for a free case evaluation.

Find out how our legal professionals can help you seek the money you need and the justice you deserve. With offices across Florida, including our Tallahassee office, our tenacious legal team is prepared to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Tallahassee Office
2707 Killarney Way, Suite 205
Tallahassee, FL 32309
850-790-5830


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Tallahassee Emergency Rooms

If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries in a Tallahassee accident someone else caused, get immediate medical treatment from one of the area's emergency rooms or urgent care centers.

*Disclaimer – Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA does not endorse these medical providers, nor do we profit from having them listed on our website.

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Neighborhoods We Serve in Tallahassee

Cascades Park 32301, F.A.M.U. 32301, Killearn Estates 32309, Betton Hills 32308, Sweetwater Oaks 32308, Wilson Green 32305, Whitfield Plantation 32309, Leon Arms 32310, Amelia Circle 32304, Kenilwood 32309, Apalachee Ridge Estates 32301, Blairstone Forest 32301, Brewster Estates 32308, Maclay Hammock 32312, Golden Park 32303, Breckenridge on Park 32301, Hartsfield Woods 32303, Buckwood 32317, Melody Hills 32308, Hillcrest Court 32308

 

Matthew Dolman

Personal Injury Lawyer

This article was written and reviewed by Matthew Dolman. Matt has been a practicing civil trial, personal injury, products liability, and mass tort lawyer since 2004. He has successfully fought for more than 11,000 injured clients and acted as lead counsel in more than 1,000 lawsuits. Always on the cutting edge of personal injury law, Matt is actively engaged in complex legal matters, including Suboxone, AFFF, and Ozempic lawsuits.  Matt is a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum for resolving individual cases in excess of $1 million and $2 million, respectively. He has also been selected by his colleagues as a Florida Superlawyer and as a member of Florida’s Legal Elite on multiple occasions. Further, Matt has been quoted in the media numerous times and is a sought-after speaker on a variety of legal issues and topics.

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