Fort Walton Beach Car Accident Lawyer

Proudly Fighting For Pensacola Injury Victims Since 2011

At Michael E. Fenimore, P.A., we focus solely on personal injury cases. Our practice covers auto accidents, trucking accidents, motorcycle accidents, slip and fall accidents, wrongful death, brain injuries, medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, product defects, and more.

Our firm understands that experiencing a personal injury can negatively impact a person's quality of life and their entire future.

The legal issues that come with these situations often add extra stress and anxiety for accident victims. As your legal representative, we will vigorously advocate for you and ensure your experience with the legal process is smooth and free from unnecessary stress.

In these challenging times, you need legal counsel you can trust. Time is critical.

Car accidents can be serious, especially when they cause injury. In the worst cases, these accidents can be life-changing, leaving victims to rebuild their lives. If you’ve been in such an accident, you should know you have the right to compensation. Florida law allows those injured in car accidents to claim and recover damages. At Michael E. Fenimore, P.A., we believe your life shouldn’t be severely disrupted by a car accident. We understand you are likely facing significant expenses, including medical bills and other out-of-pocket costs.

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Testimonials

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Meet our lawyer
Michael E. Fenimore

Since 2011, Mr. Fenimore has used his superior experience in the insurance defense industry to exclusively represent individuals who have been injured in automobile accidents, slip and falls, product defect cases, and other cases involving serious accidents and injuries.

"Getting our clients the full compensation for their injuries is my top priority."

After establishing his own law firm, Michael quickly earned a reputation as one of Northwest Florida’s most aggressive and successful personal injury attorneys. His accomplishments include graduating with honors from the University of Florida, earning his law degree with Dean’s Scholar distinction from Saint Louis University School of Law, being recognized as a member of Top American Lawyers, securing millions of dollars in recoveries for his clients, and maintaining active membership in the American Bar Association, The Florida Bar, The Missouri Bar, and as an Eagle Member of the Florida Justice Association.

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Recent Case Results

Getting our clients the full compensation for their injuries is our top priority.
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Awards & Certifications

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Fort Walton Beach

After a car accident, prioritize safety and legal compliance. Ensure everyone is safe and call 911 to report the accident, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage (over $500), as required by Florida Statutes Section 316.065. Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries, and document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, injuries, and surroundings. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, gather witness details, and avoid signing any documents or accepting offers without consulting a lawyer. Notify your insurance company promptly and consider contacting a Fort Walton Beach car accident attorney for guidance.

Florida is a no-fault insurance state, meaning your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage typically compensates you for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. However, if your medical expenses exceed your PIP limits or you sustain a permanent injury, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance or pursue a lawsuit. Consulting a Fort Walton Beach car accident lawyer can help you navigate these limits and seek full compensation for your losses.

You may be eligible to recover both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life. If the accident results in a disability affecting your family relationships, your spouse or children may file a loss of consortium claim. The value of your claim depends on factors like injury severity and impact on your life, and an attorney can help calculate and pursue these damages.

In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is generally two years from the date of the crash. For wrongful death claims, the deadline is two years from the date of death. Claims against government entities have a shorter three-year deadline and additional notification requirements. Acting quickly is crucial, as missing these deadlines may prevent you from recovering compensation. Contact a Fort Walton Beach attorney promptly to ensure compliance.

Common causes include driver negligence (e.g., distracted driving, speeding, or running red lights), poor weather conditions, and hazardous road conditions, particularly at busy intersections like Highway 98 and Brooks Bridge or Mary Esther Cut Off. Defective vehicle parts or poorly designed roads may also contribute. In 2020, Okaloosa County reported 3,075 accidents, with distracted driving causing about 14% of crashes statewide. An attorney can investigate to determine fault and build your case.

In Florida, hit-and-run accidents are serious offenses under the Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act (Florida Statutes Chapter 316.027). Drivers must stop at the scene, provide aid, and report the crash. Penalties for fleeing depend on the damage caused, ranging from fines to felony charges for injuries or fatalities. In 2020, Okaloosa County saw 896 hit-and-run accidents. If you’re a victim, document the scene, report to police, and consult a Fort Walton Beach attorney to explore compensation options through your insurance or other avenues.

Have more questions? Contact us for a free consultation with a trusted Fort Walton Beach car accident lawyer.

Fort Walton Beach Car Accident Attorneys

A small firm dedicated to giving each case our full attention

Right after the accident, you might feel disoriented, confused, or frustrated. While these feelings are natural, it's important to take certain steps to improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Seek medical attention and evaluation: According to According to Florida Statute 627.736(1)(a), there is a 14-day treatment rule. This rule requires that you seek medical care within two weeks of a car accident. It’s important to report to a doctor or other medical professional as soon as possible to get an early medical record of your injuries and ensure proper documentation.
  • Keep a detailed record of the event: Gathering evidence is crucial for a successful car accident claim, whether through a lawsuit or an insurance claim. Take photos of the scene, the other vehicles, and your injuries from various angles. Talk to any witnesses and get their contact details. Also, note down the name and contact information of the other driver and any police officers at the scene.
  • Do not sign any documents: If you have a strong case, you might get calls from insurance companies or even an offer from the at-fault driver to compensate you for your injuries. Be cautious—these offers are often much lower than what your claim is actually worth, and accepting them could leave you underpaid. Be careful and consult with an experienced lawyer. Contact our Fort Walton Beach car accident attorneys for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Our Fort Walton Beach car accident attorneys can also assist you in claiming damages if you’re dealing with an uninsured driver.

The aftermath of a car accident can be traumatic, especially if you've sustained a serious injury. You shouldn't have to handle all that stress while also trying to get compensation.

You need a skilled Fort Walton Beach car accident attorney to guide you through the complexities of making your claim. Reach out to us today to discuss your case. We won’t charge you anything unless you win.

Let us guide you on the steps you should take right after a car accident.

The Fort Walton Beach car accident attorneys at Michael E. Fenimore, P.A. have assisted hundreds of people in getting their lives back on track and receiving the compensation they deserve. We can help you too. Determining fair compensation isn’t a straightforward process—it depends on the specific details of your case, and we’re here to handle it for you.

The court will look at several factors, such as the severity of your injuries, any worsening of pre-existing conditions, and expert assessments. We’ve worked with pain management doctors, radiologists, and other medical specialists in the past to help determine fair compensation for our clients’ injuries.

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