Injured in a Car Accident? Your Jacksonville & Southeast Georgia Auto Accident Lawyers

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Jacksonville, Florida or Southeast Georgia, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to face the aftermath by yourself. Every year, thousands of drivers and passengers in North Florida and coastal Georgia are injured because of another driver’s negligence. Medical bills, lost wages, and physical pain can turn your life upside down in an instant.

At Barnes Cohen & Sullivan, we are trusted auto accident lawyers serving clients throughout Jacksonville, Duval County, and the surrounding areas of Camden County, Glynn County, and Brantley County in Georgia. We fight to protect your rights and help you recover the full compensation you deserve after a crash.

Auto Accidents Are Common in Our Area

According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Duval County alone sees more than 23,000 traffic crashes each year, many resulting in serious injuries. In Georgia, the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety reports over 1,700 fatalities and 125,000 injuries annually from vehicle crashes.

Highways like I-95, I-10, and US-17 in our region see heavy commuter and tourist traffic, making them hotspots for high-speed collisions.

Leading Causes of Auto Accidents in North Florida & Southeast Georgia

While car accidents can happen anywhere, our area sees a high number of serious crashes due to:

  • Distracted Driving – Cell phone use, texting, and multitasking behind the wheel are major contributors.

  • Speeding – Interstate driving and busy urban streets often lead to excessive speeds.

  • Drunk or Drug-Impaired Driving – Both Florida and Georgia see tragic accidents from impaired drivers every year.

  • Reckless Driving – Aggressive lane changes, tailgating, and running red lights put lives at risk.

  • Bad Weather Conditions – Heavy rain and wet roads in our coastal climate can quickly lead to dangerous situations.

  • Drowsy Driving – Fatigue is especially dangerous for commercial truck drivers passing through I-95.

What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident

If you’re involved in a crash in Jacksonville or Southeast Georgia, your actions can protect both your health and your legal rights:

  1. Call 911 – Even for minor accidents, get an official police report.

  2. Document the Scene – Photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, and weather conditions can be crucial.

  3. Get Witness Information – Independent witnesses strengthen your case.

  4. Seek Medical Care Immediately – Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away.

  5. Do Not Admit Fault – Let investigators determine liability.

  6. Contact Barnes Cohen & Sullivan – The sooner we’re involved, the stronger your case will be.

How We Handle Auto Accident Cases

As a Jacksonville personal injury law firm with decades of experience, we know how to fight for clients injured in crashes from Downtown Jacksonville to St. Marys, GA, and everywhere in between.

We:

  • Investigate Thoroughly – Police reports, surveillance footage, witness statements, and accident reconstruction.

  • Work with Medical Experts – To document the full extent of your injuries.

  • Calculate All Losses – Medical bills, lost income, reduced earning potential, pain and suffering, and more.

  • Negotiate Aggressively – We push back against lowball offers from insurance companies.

  • Litigate When Necessary – If negotiations fail, we’re ready to win in court.

Understanding Florida & Georgia Car Accident Laws

One reason you want a local attorney is the difference between Florida and Georgia laws:

  • Florida – Operates under a no-fault insurance system requiring Personal Injury Protection (PIP). You typically file first with your own insurer, but serious injuries may allow you to sue the at-fault driver.

  • Georgia – An at-fault state, meaning you file directly against the negligent driver’s insurance.

Our team handles cases in both states and knows how to maximize your recovery under each system.

Types of Compensation We Can Help You Recover

Our clients often recover damages for:

  • Medical Expenses – Emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.

  • Lost Wages – For time missed at work and loss of future earning capacity.

  • Pain & Suffering – Physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.

  • Property Damage – Vehicle repairs or replacement costs.

  • Wrongful Death – If you’ve lost a loved one, we can help you pursue justice and financial relief.

Safety Tips to Help Prevent Accidents

While not every accident can be avoided, you can reduce your risk:

  • Avoid using your phone while driving.

  • Keep a safe following distance.

  • Slow down in wet or foggy conditions.

  • Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • Get enough rest before long trips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do I have to file a claim?
In both Florida and Georgia, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.

What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
We can explore uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy.

Do I have to go to court?
Not always. Many cases are resolved through settlement, but we’re always ready for trial if necessary.

Why Choose Barnes Cohen & Sullivan

  • Local Knowledge – We know the roads, the courts, and the insurance companies in Jacksonville and Southeast Georgia.

  • Proven Results – Millions recovered for accident victims.

  • Personalized Service – Direct communication with your attorney, not just a case manager.

  • No Fees Unless We Win – You pay nothing unless we recover for you.

Call Your Jacksonville & Southeast Georgia Auto Accident Attorneys Today

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Jacksonville, FL, Duval County, or Southeast Georgia, don’t wait. The sooner we start, the stronger your case will be.

📞 Call Barnes Cohen & Sullivan now at (904) 396-5181 for a FREE case evaluation.

We’re here for you every step of the way — from the crash scene to the courtroom.