St. Petersburg Personal Injury Attorneys

Personal Injury Lawyer in St. Petersburg

When you have been involved in an accident, it can be a scary and confusing time. You may be faced with injuries, bills, emotional distress, and wondering what your next step should be. This is why if you have been involved in an accident in St. Petersburg, it is important to stay calm and contact the attorneys at the Khonsari Law Group, PC, as you may have a personal injury claim. We can review your claim for free and advise you of your rights and options for pursuing compensation. You can trust us to handle all aspects of your claim and increase your chances of getting the maximum compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Khonsari Law Group? Experienced Legal Representation

Since 2011, the Khonsari Law Group has been focused on ensuring that our clients’ rights are protected and that they are both confident and comfortable with our representation. Located in the heart of St. Petersburg, Florida, our attorneys are easily accessible and ready to put forth the time and effort for your case. The legal team at the Khonsari Law Group has extensive trial experience as well as both the knowledge and understanding of Florida law, so you can feel confident in our representation.

Types of St. Petersburg Personal Injury Claims We Handle

We represent a variety of personal injury cases, including the following:

Because every personal injury case is unique, fact-specific, and time-sensitive, it is essential to contact a reputable attorney as soon as possible. The Khonsari Law Group is dedicated to providing powerful advocacy for those in need of representation. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident and believe you have a personal injury claim, please do not hesitate to contact our legal team so we can start building your defense.

Our St. Petersburg Office Location and Headquarters

Khonsari Law Group has a law office and our law firm’s headquarters located at the following address: 150 2nd Avenue North Suite 970, St. Petersburg, FL 33701.

Drop by our office to speak with a personal injury attorney for free, or contact us to schedule an appointment for a free consultation regarding your St. Pete personal injury claim.

St. Petersburg Accident Statistics

St. Petersburg is a major city in Pinellas County with a population of over 258,000. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) has published the following reports of traffic accidents throughout Pinellas County for a recent year:

15,681 total traffic accidents, resulting in 9,223 injuries and 124 fatalities
578 bicycle accidents, with 13 fatalities
437 motorcycle accidents, resulting in 34 fatalities
475 pedestrian accidents, resulting in 38 fatalities
4,470 hit and run accidents, resulting in 870 injuries and 9 fatalities

The FLHSMV cites distracted driving, impaired driving, and speeding as the main contributors to serious injurious and fatal accidents throughout the state, including Pinellas County.

Common Injuries People Suffer in St. Petersburg Accidents

Accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, depending on the type and severity of the accident. Some common injuries that people may suffer in St. Petersburg accidents include:

Sprains and Strains: Overstretching or tearing of ligaments (sprains) and muscles or tendons (strains) can occur due to sudden movements or impacts.
Fractures: Broken bones can result from falls, car accidents, sports injuries, or other traumatic events.
Cuts and Lacerations: Sharp objects or debris can cause cuts or deep lacerations to the skin.
Burns: Accidents involving fire, hot liquids, chemicals, or electrical sources can lead to burn injuries of varying degrees.
Head Injuries: Trauma to the head can result in concussions, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
Spinal Cord Injuries: High-impact accidents can damage the spinal cord, potentially leading to paralysis or other neurological issues.
Neck Injuries and Whiplash: Often associated with car accidents, whiplash is a neck injury caused by sudden acceleration-deceleration forces.
Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma or accidents can cause damage to internal organs, such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys.
Abrasions and Road Rash: These injuries occur when the skin scrapes against a hard surface, often in motorcycle or bicycle accidents.
Injury to Extremities: Fingers, toes, arms, and legs can sustain various types of injuries, including fractures, amputations, or crushing injuries.
Soft Tissue Injuries: These include injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, such as tears or contusions.
Eye Injuries: Accidents can result in eye injuries, including foreign object penetration, corneal abrasions, or retinal damage.
Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Accidents can also lead to emotional distress, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Respiratory Injuries: Inhalation of smoke, toxic fumes, or other harmful substances can lead to respiratory problems.

It’s important to note that the severity of these injuries can vary widely, and some may require immediate medical attention and long-term care. In the event of an accident, it is crucial to seek medical help if needed and follow appropriate medical advice and treatment plans to ensure the best possible recovery.

What Should I Do After an Accident in St. Petersburg?

If you’re involved in an accident in St. Petersburg, whether it’s a car accident, a slip and fall incident, or any other type of accident, it’s important to follow certain steps to ensure your safety, gather necessary information, and protect your legal interests. Here’s a general guideline of what you should do:

Ensure Safety: First and foremost, check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. If it’s safe to do so, move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further accidents or hazards. Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Notify Authorities: In case of a motor vehicle accident, call the local police or the Florida Highway Patrol to report the accident. An official accident report may be necessary for insurance claims and legal purposes.
Exchange Information: Collect information from all parties involved, including names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information. Get contact information for any witnesses who can provide statements about what they saw.
Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, property damage, road conditions, and any relevant road signs or signals. Make notes about weather conditions, date, time, and any other relevant details.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t believe you’re seriously injured, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not show immediate symptoms. Follow all recommended medical treatment and keep records of your medical expenses.
Report to Insurance: Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all relevant information and documentation. Be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters and avoid admitting fault.
Preserve Evidence: Keep records of all documents related to the accident, including medical bills, repair estimates, and correspondence with insurance companies. Do not repair or dispose of your damaged vehicle until you’ve documented it for insurance purposes.
Consult with an Attorney: If the accident resulted in injuries, significant property damage, or liability disputes, consider consulting with a personal injury attorney who specializes in accidents in Florida. They can help protect your legal rights and guide you through the process.
Adhere to Legal Requirements: In Florida, there are specific legal requirements and deadlines for filing insurance claims and lawsuits related to accidents. Be sure to follow these guidelines. Your attorney can help you with this.
Emotional and Physical Well-being: Accidents can be traumatic. Seek emotional support from friends, family, or counseling services if needed.

Remember that the specific steps you should take may vary depending on the nature and severity of the accident. It’s important to prioritize safety, gather information, and consult with legal and medical professionals as necessary to ensure a smooth recovery process.

How Do I Know If I Have a Personal Injury Case in St. Petersburg?

Determining whether you have a personal injury case in St. Petersburg, Florida, or any other location, involves several factors. The following are some general guidelines, but it’s essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney in Florida to assess the specifics of your situation. Here are some key considerations to help you determine if you may have a personal injury case:

Duty of Care: First, you (or better yet your attorney) need to establish that the person or entity you believe is responsible for your injuries owed you a duty of care. For example, in a car accident case, drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely and follow traffic laws. In a slip and fall case, property owners have a duty to maintain their premises in a reasonably safe condition for visitors.
Breach of Duty: Your lawyer must show that the responsible party breached their duty of care. This means they failed to act as a reasonable person or entity would under similar circumstances. For example, a driver who runs a red light or a property owner who fails to fix a hazardous condition may be considered to have breached their duty.
Causation: Your attorney needs to establish a direct link between the breach of duty and your injuries. In other words, they must show that the responsible party’s actions or negligence directly caused your injuries. This may involve medical records, expert opinions, and other evidence.
Damages: To have a viable personal injury case, you must have suffered actual damages. This can include medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other tangible and intangible losses. Your attorney can help you document your damages.
Statute of Limitations: In Florida, there are specific time limits within which you must file a personal injury lawsuit. The statute of limitations varies depending on the type of case, so it’s crucial to consult an attorney promptly to ensure you don’t miss the deadline.
Insurance Coverage: Consider the insurance coverage available to you and the responsible party. Often, personal injury claims are resolved through insurance settlements.

Keep in mind that personal injury law can be complex, and every case is unique. What may appear as a straightforward matter may have legal nuances that affect the outcome. The most reliable way to determine if you have a personal injury case is to consult with a personal injury attorney. They can evaluate the specific facts of your case, determine liability, and provide guidance on the best course of action.

How Much Is My St. Petersburg Personal Injury Claim Worth?

The value of a personal injury claim in St. Petersburg depends on numerous factors and can vary widely from one case to another. To determine the potential value of your personal injury claim, you should consider the following:

Nature and Severity of Injuries: The extent and severity of your injuries play a significant role in determining the value of your claim. Generally, more severe injuries that result in long-term or permanent disabilities will lead to higher compensation.
Medical Expenses: Your past and future medical expenses related to the accident are a crucial component of your claim’s value. This includes costs for hospitalization, surgeries, doctor’s visits, medications, rehabilitation, and any necessary medical equipment.
Lost Income: If your injuries caused you to miss work or resulted in a decreased earning capacity, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes both past and future income losses.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life is subjective and can vary widely. Factors such as the nature of your injuries, their impact on your daily life, and the duration of your pain and suffering will be considered.
Property Damage: If your personal property, such as your vehicle, was damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for repair or replacement costs.
Insurance Coverage: The insurance policies of the at-fault party and your own insurance coverage can impact the potential compensation you can recover.
Liability and Negligence: The strength of your case in establishing liability and proving the other party’s negligence will affect the potential value of your claim.
Comparative Negligence: If you were partially at fault for the accident, Florida’s comparative negligence system may reduce your compensation proportionally to your level of fault.
Non-Economic Damages: These include compensation for pain, suffering, emotional distress, loss of consortium (companionship), and other intangible losses. Florida law places a cap on non-economic damages in certain cases.
Legal Representation: The quality of your legal representation can also impact the outcome of your claim. An experienced personal injury attorney may negotiate a higher settlement or win a larger judgment if your case goes to court.

Given the complexity and variability of personal injury cases, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney in St. Petersburg. They can assess the specific details of your case, calculate the potential value based on relevant factors, and help you pursue fair compensation. Keep in mind that initial consultations with many personal injury attorneys are often free, so you can discuss your case without incurring upfront costs.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in St. Petersburg?

In St. Petersburg, Florida, the time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit is governed by the statute of limitations. The specific statute of limitations can vary depending on the type of personal injury claim you want to pursue. Here are some common types of personal injury claims and their associated statutes of limitations in Florida:

Personal Injury (e.g., car accidents, slip and fall): In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Florida.
Medical Malpractice: Generally, you have two years from the date of the alleged medical malpractice or the date when the malpractice should have been discovered (known as the “discovery rule”), but not more than four years from the date of the alleged malpractice, to file a lawsuit.
Wrongful Death: If you are filing a wrongful death claim on behalf of a deceased loved one, you typically have two years from the date of death to file a lawsuit.
Product Liability: You generally have four years from the date of injury or damage caused by a defective product to file a product liability lawsuit.
Government Claims: If the defendant in your personal injury case is a government entity or employee, you may have a shorter time frame to file a notice of claim, often within three years of the incident.

It’s crucial to consult with a personal injury attorney in St. Petersburg as soon as possible if you believe you have a valid claim. Failing to file within the statute of limitations can result in your case being time-barred, meaning you may lose your right to pursue compensation. An attorney can help you understand the applicable statute of limitations and ensure that you take legal action within the required time frame.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a St. Petersburg Personal Injury Attorney?

The St. Petersburg personal injury attorneys at Khonsari Law Group work on a contingency fee basis for personal injury claims. This means we do not charge an upfront retainer or bill you monthly for our services. Instead, we will handle all aspects of your claim and work to help you get the compensation you need at no out-of-pocket costs to you. We will only accept payment if we recover compensation for you through an insurance settlement or court award. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.

Since we also offer free consultations, you can get a comprehensive evaluation of your claim and the effective legal counsel you need without it costing you a dime. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn of your options.

How Long Will My St. Petersburg Personal Injury Case Take to Resolve?

The duration of a personal injury case in St. Petersburg, Florida, or anywhere else, can vary significantly depending on several factors. While it’s challenging to provide an exact timeline because each case is unique, here are some factors that can influence the length of time it takes to resolve a personal injury case:

Severity of Injuries: Cases involving severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation may take longer to resolve. This is because it may be necessary to wait until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement before assessing the full extent of your damages.
Liability Disputes: If there are disputes over who is at fault for the accident, it can prolong the case. Investigations and legal proceedings may be needed to establish liability.
Insurance Company Negotiations: Negotiating a settlement with insurance companies can take time. Insurance adjusters may need to review medical records, gather evidence, and engage in back-and-forth negotiations with your attorney.
Legal Process: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, the case may go to trial. The court’s schedule, trial preparation, and the availability of court dates can extend the timeline.
Complexity of the Case: Complex cases involving multiple parties, extensive discovery, expert witnesses, or legal disputes may take longer to resolve than straightforward cases.
Statute of Limitations: The applicable statute of limitations sets a deadline for filing a personal injury lawsuit. Waiting too long to file may limit your legal options.
Pretrial Motions: Before trial, both sides may file motions, such as motions to dismiss or motions for summary judgment, which can add time to the case.
Mediation or Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Some cases may benefit from mediation or other forms of ADR, which can expedite resolution but still add time to the process.
Appeals: If either party is dissatisfied with the outcome of a trial, they may appeal the decision, which can extend the time it takes to resolve the case.
Cooperation of Parties: The willingness of all parties involved to cooperate and work toward a resolution can affect how quickly the case progresses.

It’s essential to work closely with your personal injury attorney to get a better estimate of the timeline for your specific case. They can provide you with regular updates on the progress of your case and help you understand the factors that may influence how long it takes to reach a resolution. While some cases can be resolved relatively quickly, others may take months or even years to complete. Your attorney can provide guidance and advocacy throughout the process to help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

If I’m Partially At Fault for the St. Petersburg Accident, Can I Still Recover Compensation?

Yes, you can still recover compensation in St. Petersburg for a personal injury claim even if you are partially at fault for the accident. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system, which means your ability to recover compensation is not barred as long as you are 50% or less at fault for the accident.

Here’s how it works:

Apportionment of Fault: When you are partially at fault for an accident, your compensation is reduced in proportion to your level of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for an accident, your compensation award will be reduced by 20%.
Determining Liability: Liability for the accident is typically determined during negotiations with the insurance company or in court if a lawsuit is filed. Both parties, your attorney, and the insurance adjuster will assess the evidence to determine each party’s degree of fault.
Compensation Calculation: Once liability is determined, your total damages (including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, etc.) are calculated. Then, your percentage of fault is applied to determine your final compensation amount.

For example, if you were injured in a car accident and incurred $100,000 in damages but were found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced to $80,000 ($100,000 – 20%).

It’s important to note that Florida’s comparative negligence system allows you to seek compensation even if you were mostly at fault for the accident. However, it also underscores the importance of having skilled legal representation. Insurance companies may try to attribute more fault to you to minimize their liability. Having an experienced personal injury attorney can help protect your interests and ensure that your level of fault is accurately assessed.

Keep in mind that your ability to recover compensation depends on the specifics of your case, so it’s essential to consult with a personal injury attorney who can provide guidance tailored to your situation.

What Is the Personal Injury Claims Process in St. Petersburg?

The personal injury claims process in St. Petersburg is a multi-step procedure that typically involves the following stages. Keep in mind that every case is unique, and the specific details may vary, but this provides a general overview of what you can expect:

Initial Consultation with an Attorney: Seek legal representation from an experienced personal injury attorney in St. Petersburg. Discuss the details of your case, including the accident, injuries, and potential liability.
Investigation and Gathering Evidence: Your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and any other relevant documents. They may consult with experts, like accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals, to strengthen your case.
Treatment and Recovery: If you haven’t already, continue with necessary medical treatment and rehabilitation to reach maximum medical improvement (MMI). Keep detailed records of all medical expenses, including bills and receipts.
Filing an Insurance Claim and Negotiations: Your attorney will submit your injury claim to the at-fault party’s insurance company, outlining your case, injuries, and the compensation you are seeking. Negotiations will ensue between your attorney and the insurance adjuster in an attempt to reach a fair settlement.
Filing a Lawsuit (if necessary): If negotiations do not result in a satisfactory settlement, your attorney may file a lawsuit on your behalf. This initiates the formal legal process, and the defendant will be served with a summons and complaint.
Discovery: Both parties exchange information through the discovery process, which may include interrogatories, requests for documents, and depositions. Depositions involve recorded interviews with witnesses, experts, and parties involved in the case.
Mediation or Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Before trial, parties may engage in mediation or ADR to attempt to settle the case without going to court.
Trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, the case goes to trial. Both sides present evidence, witnesses, and arguments before a judge and/or jury. The length of a trial can vary, but it typically takes several days to weeks.
Verdict and Appeals (if necessary): If the case goes to trial, the judge or jury will render a verdict. Either party may choose to appeal the decision if they believe there were legal errors during the trial.
Collecting Compensation: If you win your case or reach a settlement, you will receive compensation. Your attorney will help ensure that all liens and outstanding medical bills are paid before you receive your share of the settlement or judgment.
Case Closure: Once compensation is received and all legal matters are resolved, your case will be closed.

Throughout the process, your personal injury attorney will provide guidance, advocate on your behalf, and keep you informed about the progress of your case. It’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the complex legal procedures and work toward obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Contact the Khonsari Law Group Today

If you or your loved one has been involved in an accident or other case involving personal injury, it is undoubtedly a difficult and confusing time, but the legal team at the Khonsari Law Group can help. We would love to meet with you personally to discuss the details of your specific case and establish the appropriate and necessary actions. Through our experience and knowledge, we can guide you through this trying time and garner the best outcome possible. Learn more about our mission, and us, or contact KLG today for your free consultation.

Additional Resources

St. Petersburg Emergency Rooms

Several emergency rooms and urgent care centers serve the greater St. Petersburg area. A few include:

HCA Florida St. Petersburg Hospital Emergency Room: 6500 38th Ave N First Floor, St. Petersburg, FL 33710
Bayfront Health St Petersburg Emergency Room: 701 6th St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
St. Anthony’s Hospital- Emergency Center: 1200 7th Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33705

Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries you suffered due to someone else’s negligence and contact the Khonsari Law Group as soon as possible.

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

St. Petersburg Courthouses

St. Petersburg Judicial Building: 545 1st Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller: 315 Court St., Clearwater, FL 33756