No Fees Unless We Win – Free Consultation 24/7
A serious car accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. You may be facing painful injuries, mounting medical bills, vehicle damage, and time away from work. During this stressful time, you deserve a compassionate advocate who will prioritize your needs. Our Fort Myers car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine understand what you’re going through, and we’re here to help you seek the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
With over 20 years of experience serving injured Floridians, our firm has a proven track record of success in car accident cases. We’ve recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for clients just like you. Whether you were hurt as a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or bicyclist, our team is ready to fight for you. We treat every client like family, providing personalized, responsive legal support from start to finish. You will also receive your attorney’s cell phone number, allowing you to reach us at any time with questions. Our commitment is to handle every detail of your claim, allowing you to focus on your healing. We are a leading personal injury law firm in Fort Myers.
Free Consultation & No Upfront Costs: Don’t let worries about cost stop you from getting legal help. We offer 100% free initial consultations, and you pay nothing out of pocket unless we win your case. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis – if we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing. You have zero risk and absolutely no upfront fees to get an experienced Fort Myers car accident attorney on your side today.
Why Choose Anidjar & Levine for Your Fort Myers Car Accident Case?
Choosing the right Fort Myers car accident lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Here’s what sets our Fort Myers car accident attorneys apart:
- Decades of Combined Experience: Our legal team has decades of combined experience handling car accident and personal injury cases in Southwest Florida. We know the local courts, insurance companies, and common tactics used to dispute claims. This experience helps us build the strongest case for you from day one.
- Proven Results: We’re dedicated to pursuing maximum compensation for every client. Our attorneys have obtained numerous six- and seven-figure results for accident victims. We won’t settle for less than you deserve – and we are always prepared to take your case to trial if that’s what it takes to get justice.
- Personalized “Clients First” Approach: At Anidjar & Levine, you’re never just a case number. We provide each client with the personal attention and compassion they deserve. You will receive regular updates on your case, prompt answers to your questions, and as mentioned, direct access to your attorney. We even help with day-to-day concerns – for example, coordinating your car repairs and medical appointments – so you have one less thing to worry about.
- 24/7 Availability & Support: Car accidents don’t only happen between 9 and 5. That’s why our team is available 24/7 to take your call. When you need us, we’ll be there. You can contact us anytime, day or night, and speak to a live person who is ready to assist. Our open-door policy means we prioritize your needs at all times.
- No Fee Guarantee: Our “No Win, No Fee” promise means you can hire us with confidence. There is no upfront cost to retain our firm. We only get paid if and when we secure compensation for you. This contingency fee arrangement aligns our interests with yours – we are motivated to secure the maximum possible compensation for your claim.
When you choose our firm, you get a hardworking Fort Myers car accident attorney – and an entire team of legal professionals – dedicated to your recovery. We handle the legal heavy lifting while you take back control of your life.
How Our Fort Myers Car Accident Lawyers Can Help You
Insurance companies deal with car accident claims every day, and their goal is to protect their profits, not to pay you what you truly deserve. By working with our experienced car accident lawyers, you level the playing field. We know the tactics insurers use to minimize or deny claims, and we won’t let them take advantage of you.
When you turn to Anidjar & Levine for help after a crash, you can count on us to:
- Provide Caring Guidance: We will clearly explain your legal rights and options from the outset. Our attorneys will answer all your questions and give you honest advice about your case and what to expect at each step.
- Investigate Your Accident: Our team will conduct a thorough investigation into the crash to determine exactly how it occurred and who is liable. We gather critical evidence such as police reports, photos of the scene, traffic camera footage, 911 call recordings, and more. We will also collect witness statements and, if needed, collaborate with accident reconstruction experts to build a strong case.
- Handle All Communication: You shouldn’t have to deal with insurance adjusters or confusing paperwork while you’re injured. We take over all communication with insurance companies and other parties on your behalf. This protects you from saying anything that could hurt your claim and relieves you of the stress of dealing with adjusters who may pressure you to settle quickly.
- Document Your Damages: To seek full compensation, we carefully document all of your damages. This includes reviewing medical records, hospital bills, and doctors’ notes to understand the extent of your injuries. We will consult with your physicians or medical experts to get reports on your prognosis and any future care needs. We also gather proof of lost income from missed work and the impact the injury has on your daily life.
- Calculate a Fair Settlement Value: Our Fort Myers car accident attorneys will use their experience, along with input from economists and life-care planners when appropriate, to calculate the actual value of your claim. We account for future medical expenses, rehabilitation, diminished earning capacity, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Our goal is to ensure no loss is overlooked before we enter settlement talks.
- Negotiate Aggressively: We will present a compelling, evidence-backed demand to the at-fault driver’s insurance company and negotiate for the maximum payout available. Our lawyers are tough negotiators who won’t let the insurer lowball you. We fight for every dollar you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
- Take Your Case to Trial if Needed: While many car accident claims can be resolved through negotiations, we prepare every case as if it will go to trial. If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we will not hesitate to file a lawsuit on your behalf. Our trial attorneys possess decades of litigation experience and a proven track record of success in court. We will be prepared to present your case before a Lee County jury to pursue justice on your behalf.
By handling all these aspects of your claim, our team allows you to focus on what’s most important: your recovery and well-being. You won’t have to juggle calls with adjusters, mountains of paperwork, or legal deadlines. We take care of everything, giving you peace of mind during a challenging time.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Fort Myers Car Accident?
After a car accident in Fort Myers, you may be entitled to significant compensation (“damages”) for the many losses you have suffered.
Every case is unique, but our attorneys will pursue all forms of compensation that apply to your situation, such as:
- Medical Expenses: This includes emergency room visits, hospital bills, surgeries, doctor appointments, prescription medications, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and any future medical care you will need due to your injuries. We will seek compensation for both your current treatment costs and reasonably anticipated future medical expenses.
- Lost Income and Future Earnings: If your injuries caused you to miss work, you can recover your lost wages. If you have a lasting impairment that affects your ability to earn a living or advance in your career, we will also pursue compensation for reduced earning capacity in the future. This ensures you and your family are supported financially even if you cannot return to your prior occupation.
- Pain and Suffering: Car accident victims can receive damages for the physical pain and emotional suffering they endured because of the crash. This can include compensation for trauma, mental anguish, inconvenience, depression or anxiety, loss of enjoyment of life, and other intangible impacts. Although money can’t erase your pain, it’s meant as a measure of justice for what you’ve been through.
- Property Damage: You deserve to have your vehicle repair or replacement costs covered by the at-fault party. We will include the cost to fix or replace your car (or other damaged personal property) as part of your claim. We can also help ensure you are reimbursed for towing expenses or a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired.
In some cases, you might also be entitled to additional damages. For example, if the at-fault driver’s behavior was especially reckless or egregious (such as drunk driving), we may pursue punitive damages to punish that wrongdoing. Our Fort Myers car accident attorneys will explore every potential avenue of compensation to maximize your recovery.
It’s essential to account for both future and past losses. Once you accept a settlement, you cannot ask for more money later on. That’s why our lawyers work with medical and financial experts to project any ongoing or lifelong needs resulting from your injury. We want to ensure that a settlement or verdict fully covers not only what you have already lost, but also expenses and hardships you may encounter down the road.
Wrongful Death Damages for Fatal Fort Myers Car Accidents
Sadly, many serious car accidents result in fatalities. If you lost a loved one in a Fort Myers car accident, we extend our deepest condolences. No amount of money can fill the void left in your family, but a wrongful death claim can provide financial relief and hold the responsible party accountable.
Under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act, the personal representative of your loved one’s estate can pursue damages such as:
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: Reasonable costs for your loved one’s funeral service, burial, or cremation.
- Medical Bills for the Final Injury/Illness: Any medical expenses incurred to treat your loved one’s injuries before they passed.
- Lost Financial Support: The income and benefits your loved one would have contributed to the household if the accident had not occurred, including lost wages and lost future earnings.
- Loss of Companionship and Guidance: The intangible losses suffered by the surviving spouse, children, or other close relatives, including loss of companionship, protection, instruction, and emotional support that the deceased would have provided.
- Pain and Suffering of Survivors: In some cases, surviving family members (especially a spouse or children) may recover for their mental pain and suffering from the sudden loss of their loved one.
- Punitive Damages: If the at-fault party’s actions were grossly negligent or intentionally harmful (for example, in a DUI manslaughter case), the court might award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer. Florida law typically caps punitive damages; however, they can still be substantial in egregious situations.
Florida generally allows two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Our compassionate attorneys can guide your family through this process. While you take the time to grieve and heal, we will handle the legal burdens – from investigating the fatal crash to dealing with insurance and fighting for justice for your loved one.
Can I Sue the At-Fault Driver in a Fort Myers Car Accident?
Florida is a “no-fault” insurance state, which affects your ability to file a lawsuit after a car accident. In Florida, every driver must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which pays for a portion of your medical bills and lost wages after an accident, regardless of who was at fault. Typically, you will first turn to your own PIP insurance after a crash.
However, PIP benefits in Florida are limited (generally up to $10,000 minus deductible) and often do not cover the full extent of injuries from a serious crash. You can step outside the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver for additional compensation if your case meets certain criteria. Florida law allows you to pursue a liability claim against the responsible party if you suffered “serious injuries.” According to Florida Statutes § 627.737, a serious injury may include:
- Significant and permanent loss of an important bodily function (for example, loss of mobility in a limb).
- Permanent injury within a reasonable degree of medical probability (this could include chronic pain or impairment).
- Significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement.
- Death (in wrongful death cases, as discussed above).
If your injuries meet Florida’s threshold, you are not limited to PIP coverage – you can file a claim or lawsuit against the at-fault driver’s insurance for the full extent of your damages, including pain and suffering (which PIP does not cover).
Important: Even if your injuries are not obviously permanent, do not assume you are ineligible to pursue a claim against the other driver. It’s best to consult with a Fort Myers car accident attorney who can review the specifics of your case. We will examine your medical records and, if needed, get opinions from doctors about the long-term effects of your injuries. Often, injuries that seem moderate at first can lead to lasting complications, so it’s crucial not to write off your right to compensation.
Additionally, Florida recently updated its statute of limitations for car accident lawsuits. For accidents occurring on or after March 24, 2023, you generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. (Accidents before that date may still have a four-year window under the old law.) This time limit makes it even more important to act quickly. If you wait too long and the deadline passes, you could be barred from recovering anything at all. By getting an attorney involved early, you protect your right to take legal action if needed.
Our lawyers will ensure all the proper steps are taken – from PIP claims to potential third-party claims – so that you receive the maximum compensation available under Florida law. We can advise you on when a lawsuit is warranted and handle all the legal filings and court requirements on your behalf.
Dealing With Florida Insurance Adjusters After a Crash
Not long after your accident, you might get a phone call from the other driver’s insurance company. Be cautious: No matter how friendly the insurance adjuster sounds, remember that their job is to save the insurance company money. They may call you asking for a recorded statement or try to get you to settle quickly for a low amount.
Here are a few tips on dealing with insurance companies:
- Do not admit fault or even say things like “I’m sorry” for the accident – such comments can be twisted into an admission of liability.
- Do not downplay your injuries. Sometimes people say “I’m okay” or “It’s not too bad” out of politeness or shock, but insurers will use those words against you. The truth is you may not even know the full extent of your injuries yet.
- Do not agree to give a recorded statement without consulting a lawyer. You are not required to give the other insurer a statement. It’s often best to let your attorney handle all communications. Adjusters are trained to ask questions that might get you to say something that hurts your claim accidentally.
- Do not accept the first settlement offer if it seems low or if you’re still unsure of your prognosis. Early offers often undervalue future costs, such as ongoing medical treatment or lost earning potential. Once you settle, you cannot ask for more money later, even if you discover additional injuries or expenses.
The safest route is to politely decline discussing the accident details with the other insurer and inform them that your attorney will be in touch. When you have our Fort Myers car accident lawyers handling your case, we will take over these conversations. We know the tricks insurance companies play and how to counter them. Our team will ensure your claim isn’t undermined by unfair tactics.
Remember: the insurance company, no matter what they say, is not on your side. We are. Before you sign anything or give any statements, call us for guidance. We’ll protect your rights and prevent you from being taken advantage of during this vulnerable time.
What If I’m Partially At Fault for the Fort Myers Car Accident?
Determining fault in a car accident isn’t always clear-cut. Both drivers may share some blame. Maybe you were going slightly over the speed limit, but the other driver ran a red light – you might each be assigned a percentage of fault. If you’re worried that you were partially at fault for the crash, don’t panic. You may still be able to recover compensation thanks to Florida’s comparative negligence rules.
Florida now follows a modified comparative negligence standard (as of 2023). Under this law, you can recover damages from another at-fault party as long as you were less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation would be reduced according to your share of the blame. For example, if you were found 20% responsible for a crash and the total damages were $100,000, you could still recover $80,000 (which is the total minus 20%).
On the other hand, if you are 51% or more at fault, you would be barred from receiving money from other parties involved. This makes it crucial to combat any unfair blame that the insurance company might try to pin on you. Insurers often attempt to exaggerate the victim’s share of fault to reduce what they have to pay. Our attorneys are well-versed in these tactics and will work diligently to protect you from unjust accusations.
We conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence that proves exactly how the crash occurred. Sometimes, initial police reports or insurance determinations might contain errors or incomplete information. For instance, if the police report listed you as at fault, or you received a traffic ticket after the accident, don’t lose hope. A citation or a police officer’s opinion is not the final word on liability. In fact, under Florida law, most statements made in a police report (and even the report itself) cannot be used as evidence of fault in court. We’ve often been able to uncover additional evidence that shifts fault away from our client and onto the other party, where it belongs.
Our Fort Myers car accident lawyers will utilize witness testimony, traffic camera footage, vehicle black box data, skid mark analysis, cell phone records (to investigate distracted driving), and other evidence to establish a clear picture of fault. If necessary, we bring in expert witnesses to reconstruct the accident or to refute the insurance company’s version of events. Our goal is to minimize any blame on you, so you can still recover the compensation you need.
Fort Myers Car Accident Statistics and Common Causes
The Fort Myers area, unfortunately, sees a high number of traffic accidents each year. Understanding the common causes and impact of these crashes highlights why experienced legal help is crucial for victims.
Here are some eye-opening local statistics:
- High Volume of Crashes: In 2022, there were 15,282 traffic crashes in Lee County (which includes Fort Myers), resulting in 8,844 injuries and 136 deaths. That averages to over 42 crashes per day in our county.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents: Hit-and-run crashes are a serious problem in Southwest Florida. In 2022, Lee County saw 4,191 hit-and-run accidents, causing 796 injuries and 12 fatalities. Many victims of hit-and-runs face challenges getting compensated, which is why having a knowledgeable attorney to explore all insurance options (like uninsured motorist coverage) is crucial.
- Danger to Pedestrians: Fort Myers and neighboring Cape Coral were recently ranked 23rd among the most dangerous U.S. metro areas for pedestrians, and Florida is the second most dangerous state for pedestrian fatalities. In 2022, 32 pedestrians and 9 bicyclists lost their lives in traffic accidents in Fort Myers. These tragedies often result from driver negligence, such as not yielding or distracted driving.
- Deadliest Roadway Identified: A Fox 4 News investigation identified a stretch of U.S. 41 (Tamiami Trail) in North Fort Myers as the deadliest roadway in Southwest Florida. The Florida DOT cited speeding, aggressive driving, distracted driving, and lane departures as major contributing factors in crashes along this road.
- Drunk Driving Incidents: Driving under the influence remains a threat on our roads. In 2022, at least 160 crashes caused by alcohol-impaired drivers resulted in injuries, and 20 people were killed in alcohol-related crashes. These senseless tragedies could have been prevented if not for the reckless choices of drunk drivers.
Leading causes of car accidents in Fort Myers reflect many of these issues. Some of the most common factors include distracted driving (such as texting or phone use), speeding, drunk driving, running red lights or stop signs, following too closely, and failing to yield the right of way. Tourist traffic and congested roadways (especially during the season) add to the risks, as do occasional heavy rains that make roads slick.
No matter what caused your accident – whether it was a careless local driver on Colonial Boulevard or a confused tourist on I-75 – our attorneys have likely handled a similar case. We have seen it all, from rear-end collisions and T-bone crashes at intersections to rollovers, multi-car pileups, and more. This experience helps us anticipate the challenges in each case and develop effective strategies to overcome them.
If you were hurt by a negligent driver in the Fort Myers area, you shouldn’t have to bear the consequences alone. Florida law is on your side, and so are we. Our job is to hold reckless drivers accountable and make our community safer by fighting for the victims of these accidents.
Call Our Experienced Fort Myers Car Accident Attorneys Today
You don’t have to navigate the aftermath of a serious car accident by yourself. Let our experienced, compassionate legal team step in and handle everything so you can concentrate on recovering.
At the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine, we truly go the extra mile for our clients:
- Free Consultation: Discover your legal options and receive honest case advice at no cost. We will review the details of your accident, answer your questions, and explain how we can assist – all at no cost and with no obligation.
- No Fees Unless You Win: There are no upfront costs to hire us, and if we don’t secure compensation for you, you owe us nothing. This means zero financial risk for you.
- Prompt and Personalized Service: We will begin working on your case immediately. You will have direct communication with your attorney and our team throughout the process. We are always just a phone call or text away.
- Proven Advocates: Our Fort Myers car accident lawyers have the skill, resources, and reputation to take on deep-pocketed insurance companies. We won’t back down until we secure the fair outcome you deserve.
Time is critical after an accident – evidence can fade and deadlines can pass. Don’t delay seeking the help you need. Contact Anidjar & Levine today to get a top-rated Fort Myers car accident attorney fighting in your corner.
Call us at 1-800-747-3733 (our phones are answered 24/7) or complete our quick online contact form to schedule your complimentary case review. We can also arrange to meet you at your home or hospital if you are unable to come to our Fort Myers office. Let us handle the legal burdens while you focus on getting better.
Your road to recovery starts now – and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Fort Myers Car Accident FAQ
Q: What should I do immediately after a car accident in Fort Myers?
A: Your priority is safety. Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 to report the accident and request medical help if needed. If you are able, move to a safe area out of traffic. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Do not admit fault for the crash. Take photos of the vehicles, damage, and the scene (skid marks, traffic signals, etc.). Get contact information for any witnesses. Even if you feel okay, see a doctor as soon as possible – some injuries are not obvious right away. Finally, consider consulting a car accident lawyer before talking to insurance companies to protect your rights.
Q: How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer in Fort Myers?
A: At Anidjar & Levine, it costs nothing upfront to hire our car accident attorneys. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means our payment is a percentage of the settlement or verdict we obtain for you. If we don’t win you money, you pay $0 in attorney’s fees. The initial consultation is also free. This fee arrangement allows anyone, regardless of financial situation, to get high-quality legal representation after an accident.
Q: How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Florida?
A: For accidents that happened in Florida on or after March 24, 2023, you generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. (If your accident occurred before that date, a four-year deadline may apply.) If you are filing a wrongful death lawsuit because you lost a loved one, the time limit is also typically two years from the date of death. It’s crucial not to delay, because missing the statute of limitations usually means losing your right to pursue compensation in court. An attorney can make sure all filings are done on time.
Q: Will my car accident case go to trial?
A: Most car accident claims are resolved through insurance settlements without going to trial. Our lawyers are often able to negotiate a fair settlement by presenting a strong case to the insurance company. However, if the insurer refuses to offer a reasonable amount, we will file a lawsuit and be fully prepared to take your case to trial. Rest assured, our trial attorneys have extensive courtroom experience. The decision to settle or go to trial will always be made with your best interests in mind – and we will advise you throughout the process.
Q: What if the other driver was uninsured or fled the scene?
A: If a hit-and-run driver injured you or someone with no insurance (or not enough insurance), you still have options. One possibility is making a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, if you carry it, which is designed for these situations. Another option could be to pursue other liable parties (for example, if the at-fault driver was working at the time, their employer might be held liable). These cases can be complex, but our attorneys will investigate all avenues to make sure you aren’t stuck with the bills. We have experience handling hit-and-run and uninsured driver claims and can guide you through the process.
Contact the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine today at 1-800-747-3733 for your free consultation. We proudly serve clients in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Lehigh Acres, Bonita Springs, Naples, Port Charlotte, and throughout Lee County and Southwest Florida. Our Fort Myers office is located at:
Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine, P.A.
2180 West First Street, Suite 540
Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: (239) 417-0050 (Available 24/7)
Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve after a Fort Myers car accident.