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Do Snowbirds Need a Florida Lawyer for a Car Accident in Palm Beach?
Palm Beach is one of Florida’s most popular destinations for “snowbirds” — seasonal residents who spend part of the year in Florida and the rest in their home states. Many snowbirds drive their own vehicles to Palm Beach, while others rent cars or rely on local transportation. With busy traffic along US-1, I-95, Okeechobee Boulevard, and A1A, accidents are common.
If you’re a snowbird and you’re injured in a Palm Beach car accident, you may wonder: Do I need a Florida accident lawyer, or can I just use an attorney from back home?
In most cases, the answer is clear: you may need a Florida lawyer to handle your case. Here’s why.
Florida Law Generally Governs Accidents That Happen Here
Even if you live in New York, New Jersey, or another state, if your crash occurred in Palm Beach, Florida law likely applies. That could mean:
- Statute of limitations – Most Florida car accident cases must be filed within two years of the crash.
- No-fault law – Florida requires Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which pays some medical expenses regardless of fault.
- Threshold for lawsuits – To claim pain and suffering, your injuries must meet Florida’s definition of a “serious injury.”
- Court jurisdiction – Most Palm Beach car accident cases are filed in Palm Beach County Circuit Court, or sometimes in federal court if out-of-state parties are involved.
Your home-state attorney generally cannot file a lawsuit in Florida unless they are admitted to practice here.
Insurance Issues for Snowbirds
Snowbird car accidents often involve complicated insurance questions:
- Out-of-state auto policies – Your home insurance may cover you while in Florida, but it must be coordinated with Florida’s no-fault system.
- Rental car coverage – If you rented a car, the rental company’s policy and your personal auto policy may both apply.
- Health insurance – Your health plan may cover part of your medical bills, but it may require repayment if another insurer is responsible.
- Uninsured/Underinsured coverage – This can be critical in Florida, where many drivers are uninsured.
A Florida accident lawyer can review which coverages apply and help maximize recovery.
Why Snowbirds Often Need a Florida Lawyer
Even if you have a trusted attorney back home, Florida accident cases typically require local representation:
- Knowledge of Florida law – Out-of-state attorneys may not understand Florida’s no-fault rules, thresholds, and damages caps.
- Court appearances – Cases filed in Palm Beach may be handled by Florida judges under Florida rules of civil procedure.
- Local insurers – Insurance companies in Florida may handle claims differently, especially for tourists and seasonal residents.
- Convenience – A Florida attorney can manage your case locally so you don’t have to return for every step.
What Compensation May Be Available
Snowbirds injured in Palm Beach accidents may be entitled to:
- Medical expenses and future care.
- Lost wages or diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering.
- Emotional distress.
- Property damage.
- Wrongful death damages for families in fatal crashes.
Steps to Take After a Palm Beach Car Accident
If you’re a snowbird hurt in Palm Beach:
- Call the police – Get a report from Palm Beach Police or Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.
- Seek medical care – Hospitals include Good Samaritan Medical Center and St. Mary’s Medical Center.
- Preserve records – Keep copies of rental contracts, insurance cards, and medical bills.
- Notify insurers – Report the accident but avoid giving detailed statements without legal advice.
- Call a Florida injury lawyer – They can explain your rights and help pursue compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my lawyer back home handle the case?
Usually not. Unless they’re licensed in Florida, they generally cannot file suit here.
Do I need to stay in Florida for my case?
Not necessarily. Many claims can be resolved without you returning.
What if I split time between Florida and another state?
You may still need a Florida accident lawyer if the accident occurred here, regardless of where you primarily reside.
Do I have to sue the other driver?
Not always. Many claims are resolved through insurance settlements without going to trial.
Contact Palm Beach Car Accident Lawyers
If you are a snowbird injured in a Palm Beach car accident, Florida law should apply to your claim. Call the Law Offices of Jason Turchin today at 800-337-7755 or connect with us through our live chat for a free consultation.