After a car accident, everything moves fast and not in your favor. The insurance company may sound helpful, but its goal is simple: to pay you as little as possible or shift part of the blame onto you.
What you say early on matters. What you sign matters even more. One mistake can cost you the compensation you actually need to recover.
At Steinger, Greene & Feiner, our experienced auto accident attorneys step in from day one to protect you. We deal with the insurance company, build your case, and make sure your side of the story is heard.
Every car accident is different, but one thing stays the same. You shouldn’t have to figure this out on your own. We know how these cases work. And we know how to fight back.
- Serving injury victims since 1997
- Over $2B recovered for more than 30,000 of our clients
- Available 24/7 to take your call
- No fees unless we win
Think You Can Handle It Alone? Here’s When to Call a Lawyer
Most people don’t plan to call a lawyer after a car accident. At first, it feels like something you can handle, such as filing an insurance claim, getting your car fixed, and moving on.
But it rarely stays that simple.
Accidents caused by distracted driving, fatigue, speeding, or impaired drivers often lead to more than just vehicle damage. Injuries can take days to show up. Medical bills start adding up. Time away from work turns into lost income.
Then the insurance company gets involved. They’ll ask for statements. They may try to shift the blame onto you. They may downplay your injuries or argue that your treatment isn’t necessary. Sometimes they’ll offer quick money before you even know what your case is worth. Once you accept, you don’t get a second chance.
That’s where people run into trouble. If you were injured, if fault is unclear, or if the insurance company is already calling you, it’s time to at least speak with an auto accident lawyer. Because the reality is that the insurance company already has a strategy, you should too.
With the right legal team, you can:
- Move your case forward faster and avoid costly delays.
- Recover more compensation than what’s initially offered.
- Let us handle the paperwork and legal process from start to finish.
- Avoid saying the wrong thing to insurance adjusters.
- Strengthen your case early with the right evidence and documentation.
- Stay focused on your health and recovery, not the stress of the claim.
What to Do After a Car Accident
A damaging auto collision can occur within the blink of an eye. Still, knowing what to do immediately after a wreck is crucial for you and other parties to ensure everyone has the necessary help. Taking the appropriate steps can also aid in your car accident claim if the collision occurs due to somebody else’s negligence.
- Assess Your Condition: Before you do anything, you should determine if you have a noticeable injury. Sometimes injuries don’t present symptoms right away, yet you should quickly assess your health and seek immediate medical attention for treatment.
- Call 911: If you or another person sustains injuries or dies from the accident, call 911 immediately or have someone else do it if you’re unable to do so. You’ll need to report the crash and initiate a police report.
- Wait for Help: Do not leave the scene of the accident; wait until first responders arrive to administer help. If dangers are present, such as a fire or moving vehicles, you may move to a safe location near the accident scene.
- Document Everything: If possible, take as many photographs as possible of your injuries, injured passengers, your vehicle, and the surrounding collision site. Consider collecting the names and contact information of witnesses to the crash.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: After receiving medical attention, contact your insurance agency to alert them of the accident.
- Call a Car Crash Lawyer: An auto accident attorney can provide legal advice and evaluate your case to determine if you have a claim.
These steps may seem simple, but they can make or break your case.
Understanding Car Accident Laws in Florida, Tennessee, and Texas
Once immediate steps are handled, the next question becomes how the law applies to your case, and that depends on where your accident happened.
Florida
Florida follows a no-fault system, which means your own insurance pays first through Personal Injury Protection (PIP), regardless of who caused the accident. While this can provide quick access to medical benefits, it also creates limitations. PIP coverage is capped and does not include pain and suffering, which means many car accident victims must step outside the no-fault system to pursue full compensation. On top of that, strict rules apply, like seeking treatment within a limited timeframe, which can directly impact your ability to recover benefits.
Tennessee
Tennessee operates under an at-fault system, allowing injured victims to pursue compensation directly from the driver responsible for the crash. This can open the door to recovering a wider range of damages, including pain and suffering. However, Tennessee’s biggest challenge is timing. With one of the shortest statutes of limitations, waiting too long, even while dealing with injuries, can prevent you from bringing a claim at all. Acting quickly is critical.
Texas
Texas also follows an at-fault system, but cases often involve more complexity, especially in high-speed collisions or accidents involving commercial vehicles. Liability plays a major role, and insurance companies often focus heavily on shifting blame to reduce payouts. Because Texas allows recovery only up to a certain fault threshold, even small disputes over responsibility can significantly impact the outcome of a case.
Understanding these differences isn’t just about knowing the law, but about knowing what to expect and how to protect your claim from the start. The comparison below breaks down the key differences in insurance coverage, fault rules, and deadlines across Florida, Tennessee, and Texas.
| Category | Florida | Tennessee | Texas |
| Insurance System | No-fault (PIP) | At-fault | At-fault |
| Who Pays First | Your own PIP insurance | At-fault driver’s insurance | At-fault driver’s insurance |
| Minimum Coverage | $10K PIP + $10K Property Damage | Liability required (bodily injury + property damage) | Liability required (30/60/25 minimum) |
| Medical Coverage | PIP covers part of medical bills & lost wages | No automatic coverage; you pursue at-fault driver | No automatic coverage; you pursue at-fault driver |
| Pain & Suffering | Only if injury meets “serious injury” threshold | Available in most cases | Available in most cases |
| Comparative Fault Rule | Modified (50% bar) | Modified (49% bar) | Modified (51% bar) |
| Time to File (Statute of Limitations) | 2 years | 1 years | 2 years |
| Key Challenge | PIP limits + threshold to step outside system | Short deadline | Fault disputes + high-value claims |
The law might sound simple, but in practice, it’s not. The fault gets disputed. Evidence matters. And insurance companies are trained to minimize what they pay.
That’s why getting a lawyer involved early can make a real difference. We build your case, protect you from unfair blame, and push for the full compensation the law allows in your state.
Common Types of Car Accidents
Most car crashes come down to the same issue: someone made a careless or distracted decision behind the wheel. But the type of accident can play a big role in how fault is determined and how insurance companies respond.
We regularly see cases involving:
- Rear-end collisions: These may seem straightforward, but insurance companies still look for ways to shift blame, arguing sudden stops or shared fault.
- Distracted driving accidents: Proving distraction isn’t always easy. Phone records or witness statements may be needed to show what really happened.
- Speeding and aggressive driving: High-speed crashes often lead to more serious injuries, but insurers may still argue that other factors contributed to the accident.
- Drunk driving accidents: Liability may seem clear, but insurance companies can still dispute the extent of damages or try to minimize payouts.
- Intersection accidents (T-bone crashes): These often come down to conflicting stories about traffic signals or right-of-way, making evidence critical.
- Multi-vehicle accidents: Liability can quickly become disputed between several drivers, with each insurance company trying to shift responsibility elsewhere.
- Hit-and-run accidents: These are some of the most challenging cases, often requiring investigation to identify the driver or pursue alternative insurance coverage.
Each type of accident raises different questions about fault, evidence, and insurance coverage. That’s why understanding how your accident happened, and proving it, is a critical part of your case.
How Compensation Is Calculated in Car Accident Cases
There’s no fixed formula for what a car accident case is worth. Every case comes down to the details, such as your injuries, your recovery, and how the accident has impacted your life.
In a car accident claim, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses (emergency care, hospital bills, surgeries, therapy, future treatment)
- Lost wages and reduced ability to earn a living
- Property damage, including vehicle repair or replacement
- Pain and suffering from physical injuries
- Emotional distress and the mental impact of the accident
- Permanent injuries, scarring, or disability
- Out-of-pocket costs related to your recovery
- In fatal cases, wrongful death damages for surviving family members.
When we evaluate your personal injury claim, we look at the full picture, including:
- The severity of your injuries and how long recovery will take
- Medical expenses, both current and future
- Lost income and any impact on your ability to work
- Long-term effects like disability or disfigurement
- Ongoing care, including physical therapy or rehabilitation
- Pain, suffering, and the emotional toll of the accident.
But here’s what most people don’t see coming. The insurance company is already calculating your case, too. And they’re not doing it to be fair. They’re doing it to pay as little as possible. They may question your injuries, argue that your treatment wasn’t necessary, or claim your condition existed before the crash. Sometimes, they’ll try to shift part of the blame onto you to reduce what they owe.
That’s why documentation matters. Medical records matter. And timing matters. The value of your case is not only about what happened, but also about what you can prove.
At our firm, we don’t just add up bills. We build the story of how this accident changed your life and make sure the insurance company sees the full impact before any settlement is on the table.
The Process of Working with a Car Accident Lawyer
Every claim is different, but when you work with Steinger, Greene & Feiner, the process follows a clear path, and we guide you through every step.
It starts with a free consultation. We take the time to understand what happened, how you were injured, and how the accident has affected your life. At the same time, we explain your legal options, what your case may involve, and what steps you should (and shouldn’t) take right away.
Once we take your case, we get to work immediately.
We begin by investigating the accident, gathering police reports, reviewing medical records, speaking with witnesses, and, when needed, working with accident reconstruction experts. If there’s video footage, dash cam recordings, or nearby surveillance, we move quickly to preserve that evidence before it disappears.
At the same time, we help you stay on track with what matters most, and that’s your recovery. That includes:
- Making sure you’re getting proper medical treatment
- Helping coordinate care if you’re unsure where to go
- Documenting your injuries and progress over time
- Keeping records of missed work, expenses, and daily limitations
Because the truth is, your case is only as strong as the evidence behind it.
As your treatment progresses, we calculate the full value of your damages, including what this accident may cost you in the future. Many claims take time here because settling too early can leave money on the table.
Once we’ve built a strong case, our personal injury attorneys handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance company. You won’t have to deal with adjusters, recorded statements, or pressure to accept a quick settlement. We present the full impact of your injuries and push for the compensation you deserve.
If the insurance company refuses to be reasonable, we are fully prepared to file a lawsuit and take your case to court. From pre-suit negotiations to trial, we stand with you and advocate for your best outcome.
Throughout the process, we keep you informed, answer your questions, and make sure you always know where your case stands. You’re not left guessing; you’re supported every step of the way.
The best way to understand what we do is to hear it from the people we’ve helped. Here’s what our clients experienced working with our firm.
Client Testimonials
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I was a Client for Josh Kon at Steinger, Greene &Feiner recently and I am extremely happy with the Services I recieved, I felt like family to them, the caring and support as well as how hard Attorney Josh Kon worked on my case. Josh,Shashana … More and Mallory were absolutely wonderful I never felt like I was forgotten or pushed to the side they worked on my case wonderfully and diligently and I was Extremely satisfied with my outcome actually more then I expected I am so grateful to Attorney Josh and his team thank you so very much for all u have done for me. I dont usually write reviews because of my busy schedule but I have taken time out just to write this review because of how happy I am with my results and treatment . I absolutely give them 5 stars without a shadow of a doubt and recommend them to all who read this :)Thank you Josh and team!! -
Matt and Rox were an amazing duo to help me on the path of healing after a car accident and get me compensated for everything that transpired. Their professionalism, attention to detail and genuine care is unmatched. I had to get surgery … More and not only received phone calls to check in on me but hand written letters, here you’re not just another paycheck to them with a lawsuit. They genuinely care about their clients and I highly recommend both of them! I couldn’t imagine going through this process with anyone else.
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I cannot recommend Orel Kupeer enough. I was involved in two car accidents back-to-back while pregnant, and it was one of the most stressful times of my life. From the very beginning, Orel and his team were professional, compassionate, … More and incredibly supportive.He took the time to explain every step of the process, handled both claims efficiently, and made sure I felt protected and informed throughout everything. Being pregnant during the accidents made the situation even more overwhelming, but Orel truly advocated for me and made my well-being a priority.He communicated clearly, stayed on top of everything, and fought to make sure I was treated fairly. I am beyond grateful for his dedication and hard work. If you’re looking for an attorney who is knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely cares about his clients, I highly recommend Orel Kupeer.
What to Look for in a Car Accident Attorney
Despite there being many automobile accident attorneys in the country, it’s important to choose the right lawyer to represent your case. It’s always best to work with a car accident lawyer knowledgeable about your state’s car accident laws and other regulations that may be relevant to your claim. They should be comfortable using that knowledge and their years of experience representing clients in car accident cases to assist you.
A qualified lawyer will know how to dive deep into legal research and explore the outcomes of past cases to create legal strategies for you. You should expect the attorney on your case to thoroughly investigate your accident damages and document everything, leaving no stone unturned.
Reputable car accident lawyers also have a solid reputation for providing personalized services and working closely with them, which they can back up with positive client testimonials. To fully understand your case and develop legal strategies, your car accident injury lawyer must be willing to communicate, show transparency, and engage with you.
Credentials are also important. Attorneys should have extensive experience in their areas of practice, in this case, personal injury law, and a proven track record of case results.
Car Accident Lawyers Near You
When a car accident turns your life upside down, you shouldn’t have to fight for fair compensation alone. At Steinger, Greene & Feiner, our experienced legal teams are here to support you, wherever you are.
Across Florida, we proudly serve clients in:
- Miami
- West Palm Beach
- Coral Gables
- Fort Lauderdale
- Fort Myers
- Jacksonville
- Tampa
- Okeechobee
- Orlando
- Port St. Lucie
- St. Petersburg
Whether your crash happened on I-95, I-4, or a neighborhood road, our attorneys understand the unique challenges car accident victims face in every corner of the state.
We also help injured clients beyond Florida, with trusted legal support in Tennessee, in:
In Texas, in:
No matter where your crash happened, we bring decades of personal injury experience and a results-driven approach to every case. From handling insurance negotiations to taking on negligent drivers in court, we’re ready to fight for the full compensation you deserve, so you can focus on healing and moving forward.
Our Auto Accident Attorneys Will Fight for Your Rights
The aftermath of a car accident can quickly turn a person’s life upside down. If you have injuries from an auto wreck due to another person’s negligence, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced car accident lawyer from Steinger, Greene & Feiner. Our personal injury lawyers will go above and beyond to protect your rights and provide rigorous legal representation inside and out of the courtroom. We understand that dealing with injuries and other consequences from an unfortunate car accident can be overwhelming. Our legal professionals will do what’s best to help you during such a trying time. We have 24/7 availability and multiple convenient locations. Call us to request a consultation with one of our courteous Steinger Greene & Feiner attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some people find working with an auto attorney for the first time daunting. For more clarity, consider the following answers to common questions about car accident claims and vehicle collision attorneys.
Car accidents happen more often than most people expect, and the numbers show how serious the risk really is.
In Florida, there were over 380,000 crashes in 2024, including nearly 3,000 fatal accidents and more than 14,000 serious injuries.
In Texas, the numbers are even higher due to the size of the state, with over 550,000 total crashes, more than 4,000 fatalities, and over 18,000 serious injuries reported in 2024.
In Tennessee, there were over 38,000 crashes in 2024, including around 950 injury crashes and more than 200 fatal accidents.
Serious crashes happen every single day, and when they do, the impact can follow you for months or even years.
In most cases, you have about two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim, but that deadline depends on where the crash happened.
– Florida: Generally 2 years
– Texas: Generally 2 years
– Tennessee: Typically 1 year, which is much shorter
Waiting too long can cost you your right to recover anything, so it’s important to act quickly and understand the timeline that applies to your case.
Being partially at fault doesn’t automatically prevent you from recovering compensation, but it can reduce how much you receive, depending on the state.
Florida: You can recover if you are 50% or less at fault
Texas: You can recover if you are 50% or less at fault
Tennessee: You must be less than 50% at fault
In all three states, your compensation is reduced based on your share of fault. That’s why it’s important to have someone protect your side of the story and push back if blame is being unfairly shifted onto you.
Yes, and those differences can directly affect your case.
Florida sees a high number of accidents and uses a no-fault system, which means many claims start with limited PIP coverage and may require additional legal action for full compensation.
In Texas, accidents often involve higher speeds and commercial vehicles, which can lead to more severe injuries and larger, more complex claims.
Tennessee has fewer overall claims but a much shorter filing deadline, which can catch people off guard if they wait too long to act.
Where your accident happens matters. The laws, timelines, and even how insurance companies handle claims can change from state to state.
If a car insurance agent from the negligent party contacts you about the accident or a possible settlement, it’s best not to give them any information or details. Since insurance adjusters operate according to the best interests of their agency, you should seek legal advice before providing them with statements or details to protect your interests and rights.