Car Accident Lawyer
Call Moody Law Now To Book Your Free Consultation
Whether you are at the scene of a car accident waiting for police to arrive or at home after having spoken to the police and undergone an exam by paramedics, reach out to us now. If you have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit against a negligent third party, you need a legal advocate who can immediately set to work collecting evidence and building your case for maximum restitution.
Car accident attorney Daniel D. Moody and the team at Moody Law help victims of rear-end collisions and other types of car accidents in and around Lakeland, FL, collect compensation when carelessness takes its toll. During your free case review, we can determine if you have grounds for an injury claim and start building your case right away. We work strictly on contingency. That means we don't get paid unless we win, and we won't take your case unless we are certain we can achieve justice on your behalf through a settlement or litigation. Use our online form to request a time to discuss your car accident, or call:
(863) 733-9090
Hear From a Lakeland Client
"As a first timer ever involved in any kind of car accident, I did not know what to do. My sister-in-law recommended Moody Law. She knew of his reputation from her time working at the sheriff's office. From my first consult visit with Mr. Moody (Sr.) and Samantha (Paralegal) I felt comfortable and assured that they would look only after my best interest. Communication between myself and the office was phenomenal. They took their time to explain my many questions and concerns." Esperanza de Jesus
Should I File an Injury Claim? Knowing When a Car Accident Warrants Legal Action in a "No-Fault" State
Florida is a big state whose economy is largely dependent upon tourism. As a result, we see an immense volume of traffic on our roadways, from the world-famous A1A to the local thoroughfares of Lakeland that pass iconic Frank Lloyd Wright architecture. With so much traffic, and with human error being a constant hazard, the court system tries to temper the number of personal injury cases in the system by requiring all motorists to carry at least $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. With PIP, no matter who is at fault in a car accident, each driver's insurance company covers 80% of their own medical expenses and 60% of lost wages—but only up to $10,000.
When losses resulting from a car accident exceed what the insurance company will cover, you have the right to take legal action against the negligent third party. As your legal advocates, Moody Law will scrutinize the facts of your car accident to not only determine fault, but also assess the value of your losses so that you aren't denied the restitution you truly deserve. If rebuilding your life after a car accident is going to require more than your insurance policy will cover, a car accident attorney with Moody Law in Lakeland is ready to help hold the other driver responsible for your losses.
Settlements and Legal Damages in a Car Accident Case
During a lawsuit, settlements and legal damages may be awarded to address the injuries sustained in an auto collision. Settlements and legal damages differ in important ways.
Pre-Trial
Settlement
The vast majority of personal injury lawsuits are settled before they even go to trial. The attorneys of Moody Law, P.A. will evaluate all out-of-court settlement offers closely. We will help negotiate a better settlement offer in your favor whenever possible.
Legal
Damages
During a trial, we will seek compensatory and punitive damages, if they apply. Compensatory damages cover medical bills, property damage, and other material losses. Punitive damages are sought to punish negligent parties for their dangerous actions.
Comparative Negligence
In the state of Florida, there is a pure comparative fault rule in place. This means that both drivers may be considered partially negligent in a crash. Partial negligence in a collision will affect the amount of legal damages recovered from a trial.
Our Lakeland Office Is Here For You
Our office in Lakeland was established to make it as convenient as possible for car accident victims throughout Polk County to consult with our team. It is located on the southwest corner of US-98 (Bartow Road) and Salem Road, on the east side of the city. However, we want injured people and their loved ones to know that if you are unable to meet us at our offices, we are glad to meet you at the hospital, at home, or any other location that suits you.
There is no need to venture into Tampa or Orlando to find the aggressive representation you need following a car accident. A firm that has secured multimillion-dollar victories for so many victims is right here to serve you.
Auto Accident Attorneys You Can Count On Serving the People of Lakeland
Paradise Is KSV
2022
This firm is so awesome and was very patient with our case. They were able to get my mom the best result and kept her informed every step of the way! I highly recommend them.
View On Google
cordogg84
2021
Mr. Moody and his team are wonderful. Helped my wife and I every step of the way. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for an honest firm.
View On GoogleAuto Accident Statistics in the Lakeland Area
To understand the impact of serious car crashes in the area, it helps to take a look at the numbers. According to data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there were 13,391 total auto accidents in Polk County in 2021. That's an average of over 36 accidents a day. These collisions included:
Injury Auto Accidents
The FLHSMV recorded 5,742 injury accidents in 2021, which led to 9,102 injuries in Polk County.
Fatal Car Accidents
In 2021, 173 fatal auto collisions were recorded in greater Polk County causing 183 fatalities.
Property Damage Crashes
7,476 motor vehicle crashes that only resulted in property damage in 2021 throughout Polk County.
Common Causes of Auto Accidents
There are many reasons why car accidents occur. Here are some of the most common causes of collisions in Lakeland and throughout Polk County.
Speeding is a major contributing factor to motor vehicle accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that speeding plays a role in one-third of all fatal collisions.
Reckless driving takes many forms. This includes frequent lane changes, not using turn signals, failure to yield, and cutting off other drivers. Always abide by the rules of the road to avoid crashes.
Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol poses a danger to yourself and others. Controlled substances impair a driver's coordination, reaction times, and decision-making skills.
Distractions draw a driver's full attention away from the road. This includes texting while driving, cellphone use without a hands-free set, eating or grooming behind the wheel, and rubbernecking.
Inclement weather reduces visibility and can affect traction while on the road. Be extra careful when driving during rainstorms or while traveling in the fog. Plan ahead by checking weather updates.
Debris on the road, poor lighting, potholes, and a lack of signs can all result in dangerous road conditions. These roadway issues can be exacerbated by poor weather or reckless decisions made by drivers.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Car Accident Attorney
The people of Lakeland, FL can count on the car accident lawyers of Moody Law, P.A. Our team will hold negligent motorists accountable for their actions, and make sure that you and your loved ones understand all of your legal options every step of the way during your car accident claim.
Daniel D. Moody is a board-certified Civil Trial Specialist by The Florida Bar, and has practiced law since 1985. This wealth of legal knowledge and history of tackling high-profile cases benefits clients, and has led to consistent multi-million dollar recoveries over the years. Mr. Moody has an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, a trusted, peer-reviewed resource for those in need of legal counsel.
To schedule a free consultation with car accident lawyers who care about you, contact Moody Law, P.A. online. You can also reach our personal injury law firm by phone at:
(863) 733-9090
Five-Star Reviews for Our Attorneys A Trusted Lakeland Law Firm
Elizabeth Lattimore
2022
Moody Law was wonderful in getting our case resolved. Ms. Debbie was great at staying in touch and keeping us updated on the progress. It was a relief to have such a professional, respected law office represent us during what was a challenging situation. I would definitely recommend Moody Law!
View On Google
Ken Carle
2020
I’ve had several patients use Moody Law for their auto accident cases. They have been extremely helpful and they find that the Moody law firm is professional and aggressive in settling their claims. I would highly recommend using them if you’ve been involved in an accident.
View On GoogleFiling a Car Accident Lawsuit Why You Need a Lawyer
The attorneys at our Lakeland law firm want to focus on three key aspects of filing a car accident lawsuit, and why having a lawyer on your side is essential.
Car accident cases are more complicated than you may realize, which is why it's important to have an attorney on your side. Car accident lawyers can evaluate your case and help you understand if it's worth seeking legal action.
A statute of limitations is a set amount of time during which a lawsuit can be filed. In the state of Florida, the statute of limitations for auto accidents is four years to the date of the crash. A lawyer helps you file your case as soon as possible.
Proving fault means establishing that a motorist's actions resulted in a collision. An at-fault driver may have been under the influence or failed to obey traffic laws. A car accident lawyer evaluates the evidence to help prove fault.
What You Should Do After a Car Accident
Knowing what to do after a collision can save lives and prevent problems with insurance and legal claims. Our Lakeland car accident lawyers recommend the following.
"In the state of Florida, the statute of limitations for auto accidents is four years to the date of the crash."
Injuries from Automobile Accidents
Auto accidents can result in catastrophic injuries, often involving long recovery times and expensive medical bills. These are some of the most common injuries sustained.
Lacerations
Cuts and scrapes are common after a car crash. They are often the result of glass from the windshield and windows as well as objects in the car. Severe lacerations can be disfiguring and life-threatening.Broken Bones
The impact from an auto collision can result in fractured bones. The force of impact from car crashes has caused broken arms and legs, cracked ribs and sternums, as well as fractured skulls.Traumatic Brain Injury
Caused by forceful blows to the head, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) include concussions, contusions, and penetrating head injuries that affect the brain. The long-term effects can be devastating.Neck Injuries
Sudden head movement from a collision can injure your neck in numerous ways. Whiplash is one of the most well-known neck injuries from car crashes, and can even occur while traveling at low speeds, especially in cases of a rear-end collision.Spinal Cord Injury
Injuries to the lumbar, thoracic, and cervical spine can affect mobility. The most severe spinal cord injuries are paraplegia and quadriplegia, both of which render victims wheelchair dependent for the rest of their lives.Internal Injuries
Not all physical trauma sustained in a collision is visible. Internal injuries affect all sorts of bodily organs, and include ruptured spleens, collapsed lungs, and internal bleeding. Immediate medical attention is crucial.
Car Accident Lawyers Who
Will Fight for You
Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm
Established in 2007, Moody Law, P.A., is committed to the people of Lakeland, FL, and beyond. Daniel D. Moody is a fifth-generation Polk County resident who strives to give back to the community. He assists clients with their civil cases, and ensures all questions are answered with honesty, respect, and compassion. For personal injury cases, no attorney fees are collected until we successfully obtain a recovery for our client.
Mr. Moody is a trusted and established authority on legal matters. In addition to his board certification by the Florida Bar and AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, he has made multiple media appearances to discuss legal issues, including an appearance on NBC's The Today Show. His goal is always to maximize recoveries for his clients to address financial losses and other hardships.
To schedule a free consultation with car accident lawyers who will listen to you, contact Moody Law, P.A., online. You can also contact our personal injury law firm by calling:
"Moody Law is a 5-star firm."
Jeff Layne
2020
Very professional and friendly. Dan and his paralegal Debbie were wonderful. Always picked up the phone and answered all of my questions at anytime, from the first day to the day we closed. 5 stars forever.
View on Google
Gina Tetter
2020
Moody law is a 5 star firm. Debbie is an amazing woman to work with, she is a major asset to the company, very professional and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend this law firm for any legal matters. Great law firm, Mr. Moody was very pleasurable and easy to work with.
View On GoogleTake Action Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, there is no better time than now to reach out to a lawyer. You can connect with us in three ways:
Car Accident FAQ
In preparation for your consultation with a car accident lawyer, we have provided answers to common questions our clients ask:
Why Do I Need a Car Accident Lawyer If Florida Is a No-Fault State?
If 80% of your medical expenses and 60% of your lost wages total more than $10,000, you have the right to take legal action in pursuit of compensation from the other driver. Don't make any assumptions when it comes to dealing with the aftermath of a car accident—call Moody Law to get a car accident lawyer's perspective on your case.
I Think a Little Negligence of My Own May Have Contributed to the Accident. Should I Just Forget About Legal Action?
Not without consulting a lawyer about your car accident. Florida recognizes comparative negligence, which is the concept that restitution may be awarded to an injured party even if they were partly responsible for the car accident. If a jury determines that the other party's negligence was a bigger contributor to the car accident than your own negligence, you could still stand to collect. However, bear in mind that it will be less than if you shared no responsibility at all.
I Walked Away From This Car Accident Feeling Fine, and There Is No Way I'm Going To Need Compensation Beyond $10,000. Can I Skip the Doctor's Exam?
There are two reasons why this is a bad idea: first, even if your injuries are minor, they must be documented by a medical professional within 14 days, or you will receive no compensation from your insurance policy. Second, serious injuries aren't always immediately apparent. Don't take chances or assume you walked away from the accident unscathed. Get a professional opinion.I Visited the ER Right After My Accident. Are Their Conclusions All the Evidence I Need?
No. The emergency room is there to make sure you don't have any serious immediate trauma requiring hospitalization. We cannot overstate that car accident injuries are notorious for taking time to reveal their true extent. Make an appointment with your general care provider as soon as possible so they can arrange for a more extensive assessment of the physical impact of your car accident.
A Reputable Personal Injury Law Firm Committed to Lakeland Families
Karen McDonough
2022
Had a great experience with Moody Law. Used them for 2 different cases over the years and would use again!
View On Google
Just me Jae
2020
I would highly recommend Moody law firm in Lakeland,Fl. They are awesome...!
View On Google
