Injured in a car crash? You deserve answers, not more stress.
At Steinger, Greene & Feiner, our Port St. Lucie car accident lawyers have recovered millions for Florida crash victims. We understand the pain, frustration, and financial strain that follow a wreck, especially when insurance companies try to pay less than you deserve.
But if you’ve been injured physically or emotionally in a wreck that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to compensation. With decades of experience handling car accident cases, we’re here when you need us.
Call or visit today for trusted, no-cost legal advice.
Your Rights After a Car Accident
Florida’s no-fault insurance system means your own insurance initially covers your medical expenses under Personal Injury Protection (PIP). However, that coverage can be limited to $2,500 unless a doctor determines you have an Emergency Medical Condition (EMC).
You also have rights under the state’s comparative negligence rule. Even if you were partly at fault, you may still be eligible for compensation, but the amount can be reduced by your share of responsibility. And remember, you generally have two years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit.
These details matter. Missing a deadline or signing the wrong document can weaken your claim. That’s why speaking with a lawyer early can make all the difference.
Compensation for Your Car Accident
In general, the compensation for damages is divided into two main categories: economic and non-economic. Economic damages aim to compensate you for the actual financial losses incurred, such as:
- Medical expenses above the PIP policy limit of $10,000
- Lost wages exceeding the PIP limit of $10,000
- Property damage costs
- Out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident
Additionally, your lawsuit may help you recover compensation for non-economic damages suffered. These are losses unrelated to direct monetary costs. Non-economic damages may include:
- Pain and suffering endured
- Mental anguish and emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment or quality of life
- Permanent disabilities or impairments
Our knowledgeable team of Port St. Lucie car accident injury lawyers understands the tactics that insurance companies use to minimize payouts and maximize their profits. They work hard to ensure you receive fair compensation for both economic and non-economic damages in these situations.
Can You Still Recover Compensation if You’re Being Blamed for a Car Accident in Florida?
In Florida, even if you share some responsibility for a car accident, you may still be eligible to recover compensation. Recent changes in Florida law, however, limit this recovery. Under the modified comparative fault rule introduced in March 2023, you can seek damages only if you’re less than 50% at fault. If your share of responsibility exceeds 50%, you won’t be able to recover any compensation. For example, if you’re found 40% at fault, your total compensation will be reduced by 40%. This shift in legislation makes it crucial to work with an attorney who can effectively challenge any unfair assignment of fault to maximize your potential recovery.
How We Prove Negligence
To recover compensation, we must show that another driver’s negligence directly caused your injuries. Our Port St. Lucie car accident attorneys handle every detail from gathering police reports and medical records to interviewing witnesses and working with accident reconstruction experts.
We prove:
- The other driver had a duty to drive safely.
- They breached that duty through careless or reckless behavior.
- Their actions caused your injuries and losses.
Establishing these points is the foundation of your claim. To do that, our team looks closely at how the crash happened, such as its cause and type, because every accident tells a story about negligence.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Port St. Lucie
Port St. Lucie is one of the largest cities in Florida, which presents many opportunities for drivers to fall victim to collisions. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were a total of 5,675 car accidents in St. Lucie County in 2023. These crashes resulted in 47 fatalities and 3,317 injuries.
Each cause of an accident not only explains how the crash occurred but also influences who is liable, and how much compensation you may receive. Here are some of the most common causes and their impact on liability:
- Speeding: Driving above the limit reduces stopping distance and reaction time. In most cases, the speeding driver is found fully at fault because this behavior violates Florida traffic law and demonstrates negligence.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Impaired drivers are often held strictly liable for injuries they cause. DUI evidence can also justify higher compensation or punitive damages.
- Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating or weaving through lanes can show willful disregard for safety, strengthening your claim for maximum damages.
- Hazardous Weather: When weather plays a role, fault can depend on whether the driver adjusted to conditions (e.g., slowing down in rain). Failing to adapt may still count as negligence.
- Running Intersections: Violating traffic signals is clear evidence of fault and can lead to both criminal charges and civil liability for injuries caused.
- Inexperienced Drivers: Teenage or new drivers may not react properly, but liability often rests with the driver, and sometimes their insurer or vehicle owner, under Florida’s dangerous instrumentality doctrine.
- Vehicle or Road Defects: In cases involving mechanical failure or poor road maintenance, responsibility may extend to manufacturers, repair shops, or local government agencies, allowing multiple claims.
By identifying the cause, we can pinpoint every responsible party and pursue all potential sources of compensation
Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle in Port St. Lucie
Our personal injury law firm specializes in representing clients involved in a wide range of car accidents. Whether you’ve been in a rear-end collision, a T-bone crash at an intersection, or a head-on collision, we have the expertise to navigate your case. We handle:
- Rear-End Collisions: Usually the fault of the driver who failed to maintain distance, though we also investigate whether faulty brakes or sudden stops contributed.
- T-Bone or Intersection Crashes: Often caused by red-light violations or left-turn errors. These are complex because multiple parties may share fault, including municipalities with poor traffic signal maintenance.
- Sideswipe Accidents: Result from improper lane changes or blind-spot errors. Liability depends on which driver drifted out of their lane or failed to signal.
- Rollover Accidents: Often tied to speeding, defective tires, or top-heavy vehicle designs. These may involve both the driver and the manufacturer.
- Multi-Vehicle Pileups: Chain-reaction crashes can involve several insurers. We determine fault distribution to ensure you don’t get unfairly blamed.
- Single-Vehicle Crashes: Even if you were the only one injured, a third party — such as a parts manufacturer or government entity responsible for unsafe roads — may still be liable.
Our car crash lawyers also handle cases involving DUI-related accidents, which often involve complex legal challenges, but we are prepared to advocate for the compensation you deserve. We also represent victims of commercial vehicle accidents, are well-versed in the unique regulations governing commercial drivers, and can help you pursue claims against the driver, the company, or other responsible parties.
No matter the cause or type of crash, our team’s goal is the same: to identify every liable party, prove fault with evidence, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident
- Prioritize Safety. Move to a safe spot and call 911. Get medical attention immediately — even for minor injuries — to document them for your claim.
- Exchange Information. Collect the other driver’s contact and insurance details, but never admit fault or discuss blame at the scene.
- Document Everything. Use your phone to take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries. Record witness info and statements.
- File a Police Report. Request an official report to support your insurance or injury claim.
- Talk to a Lawyer Before Your Insurer. Insurance adjusters aim to limit payouts. Contact a local car accident lawyer in Port St. Lucie who will protect your rights and handle communication.
- Stay Private. Don’t discuss your case publicly or on social media — anything you share can be used against you.
Our car accident attorneys handle everything from evidence collection to settlement negotiations for you.
Filing a Car Accident Claim
After the accident, but before filing a car accident claim, get medical attention right away, and no matter how insignificant you think your injuries might be. Receiving prompt treatment documents your injuries from the accident. If your injury results in medical and other expenses exceeding the scope of your PIP coverage, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover additional losses.
Next, gather evidence from the accident scene, which we’ve mentioned earlier. This can include photos/videos of vehicle damage, injuries, and road conditions. If you can, capture witness contact information and accounts.
Report the accident to your insurance company, but avoid giving a recorded statement until you speak with a car accident attorney. Insurance companies try to minimize payouts, and consulting with an experienced Port St. Lucie car accident lawyer as soon as possible will ensure maximum compensation.
How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help?
If you’ve been in a car accident in Port St. Lucie or the surrounding area, the right lawyer can make all the difference. At Steinger, Greene & Feiner, we help guide you through insurance claims, settlements, and, if needed, court proceedings. Our team will:
- Guide You Through the Process.
Our accident lawyers handle everything from insurance claims and settlement negotiations to court representation if needed. - Protect You From Missed Deadlines.
Florida’s strict legal deadlines limit how long you have to take action. We make sure your claim is filed on time so you don’t lose your right to compensation. - Gather and Preserve Evidence.
We collect critical proof such as police reports, medical records, photos, and witness statements, to build a strong foundation for your case. - Handle the Insurance Companies.
Insurers often try to minimize payouts. We deal with them directly, pushing back against unfair offers and protecting your interests. - Secure Compensation for Your Recovery.
Our goal is to help you move forward, physically, emotionally, and financially. We fight to recover the maximum compensation for your medical care, lost wages, and long-term healing.
Choosing the Right Car Accident Lawyer in Port St. Lucie
There are a variety of criteria to consider when selecting the best car accident lawyer in Port St. Lucie. If you’ve been in an auto accident and need legal representation, consider first and foremost the results.
- Results: We’ve recovered millions for injury victims.
- Reputation: Our clients across Port St. Lucie recommend us — see their reviews below.
- Resources: With over 30 attorneys and a large support staff, we have the experience and tools to build a strong case for you.
Our team knows Port St. Lucie’s roads, insurers, and courts inside out, and we’re ready to stand up for your rights from day one. We’ve helped thousands of clients recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and the pain that can’t be measured in dollars.
Client Testimonials
507 NW Lake Whitney Pl UNIT 211, Port St. Lucie
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Steiger,Iscoe ,and, Greene were the second phone call I made after I was in an accident. They were very kind and patient. I felt as if they truly care about your well-being. They were so very helpful and help me navigate a chaotic situation. … More I'm very grateful to have them as my team. -
As I walked into the lobby, the receptionist acknowledged me right away with a welcoming smile. The environment had an air of a calming effect. I did not wait very long before Attorney Mitchell came out to greet me and escorted me to the … More consult room. During my consultation with him, he informed me of a few hick ups in my case; but he never wavered nor ushered me out the door. He was very professional, patient, kind and caring regarding my situation. I'm very happy and pleased that David is taking my case because I feel assured that he will do his very best to help win my case.
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David Mitchel is an incredible attorney and person, always responsive as well as making sure I understood every step of the process. Through states of stress and overwhelm David helped keep me calm and focused on my healing. Thank you. … More
Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer Near You
If you’ve been injured in a crash around Port St. Lucie, we’re ready to help. At Steinger, Greene & Feiner, our team is part of the local community and ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us at (772) 200-4696 or contact us online to schedule your free, confidential, no-obligation consultation with a Port St. Lucie car accident lawyer today. You may also visit us at our office in person: 507 NW Lake Whitney Pl, Port St. Lucie, FL 34986.
Our office is located just off St. Lucie West Blvd, with easy access from I-95. We’re part of the Lake Whitney Professional Park, with plenty of convenient parking available. Get Directions.
If you’re nearby and ready to take the next step, don’t wait — we’re here to help.
FAQs on Car Accidents in Port St. Lucie
Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system, requiring drivers to carry at least $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. This means after an accident, you must first seek compensation from your own insurance for medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault. However, if your serious injuries are severe or exceed PIP limits, you may step outside this system and pursue a claim against the at-fault driver. An attorney can guide you through these legal complexities, ensuring you take the right steps to maximize your recovery.
To prove negligence in a Florida car accident, you must demonstrate that the other driver owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and directly caused your injuries as a result. This often involves gathering evidence like witness statements, traffic camera footage, and police reports. An experienced attorney can help collect and present this evidence, ensuring your case meets the necessary legal standards to hold the negligent party accountable.
Liability for damages in a Florida car accident can extend beyond the at-fault driver. Depending on the circumstances, a commercial employer, vehicle manufacturer, or even a local municipality may share responsibility. An attorney can investigate all possible avenues of liability, ensuring that you pursue compensation from every responsible party, maximizing your chances for recovery.
In Port St. Lucie, Florida, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim, based on recent legislative changes in 2023. This shortened timeframe makes it crucial to act quickly. A knowledgeable attorney can help you meet all necessary deadlines and navigate the legal process to ensure you don’t lose your right to seek compensation.