A local, seasoned Florida car accident lawyer can work with you to maximize your compensation.
Summary
- Car accidents can leave victims with serious injuries and substantial bills.
- Victims are entitled to compensation for the damages they suffer, like medical costs, car repair, and emotional damages.
- Insurance companies may be reluctant to pay what you’re owed.
- An experienced car accident lawyer is crucial for defending your rights and winning fair compensation.
Florida’s sunny roads can be a blessing and a curse. While they offer scenic drives and convenient commutes, they also pose a constant risk of car accidents. Victims of auto accidents face a mountain of medical bills, lost wages, and emotional stress.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the team at Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia. We are dedicated to seeking justice for victims of auto accidents, and our experienced car accident lawyers will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Call us at (800) 320-HELP or contact us online to get started.
What You Need to Know About Car Accidents
Car accidents are a frighteningly common occurrence in Florida. While most are minor fender-benders, even seemingly insignificant collisions can have serious consequences. These accidents can lead to injuries, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Many types of car accidents are caused by driver negligence, such as:
- Distracted driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving can divert your attention from the road.
- Speeding: Driving too fast increases the risk of losing control and the severity of a crash.
- DUI: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol significantly impairs your judgment and reaction time.
- Reckless driving: Aggressive maneuvers like tailgating or running red lights put yourself and others at risk.
In legal terms, negligence refers to a failure to exercise the care that a reasonable person would in the same situation. In car accidents, negligence applies when a driver breaches their duty to drive safely, resulting in an accident and injuries to others.
Common Injuries from Car Accidents
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, some minor and some life-altering. Here are some of the most common auto accident injuries:
- Whiplash: This is a soft tissue injury to the neck, caused by the sudden back-and-forth movement of the head. Whiplash side effects can last for days, weeks, or even months.
- Broken bones: Fractures can occur anywhere in the body due to the impact of a crash.
- Lacerations (cuts): Broken glass, debris, or sharp objects can cause cuts and abrasions.
- Head injuries: Concussions and more serious head trauma can occur in car accidents.
- Back and spinal cord injuries: These injuries can be debilitating and have long-term consequences.
Even if you feel okay after an accident, it’s important to see a doctor right away. Adrenaline can mask symptoms, and some injuries may not become apparent until later. A medical evaluation creates a record of your injuries and is crucial for insurance claims and future legal action.
What to do After a Florida Car Accident
The aftermath of a car accident is a crucial time for your recovery and your long-term financial outcomes, but it can be confusing and disorienting. Here’s a few steps you can follow to make sure you’re covered:
- Check for injuries: Call 911 if anyone is seriously hurt.
- Secure the scene: Hazard lights on, move vehicles if safe.
- Call the police: Report the accident, and get an official report.
- Gather evidence (if possible): Pictures, witness info, exchange info with other drivers.
- Don’t admit fault: Just explain what happened to the police.
- Seek medical attention: Get checked out by a doctor, even if you feel fine.
- Contact your insurance company: Report the accident and get the next steps.
- Don’t talk to other insurance companies: Consult a Florida auto accident lawyer first.
As soon as the immediate situation is handled, get in touch with a lawyer. An experienced Florida car accident lawyer can make sure things go smoothly, help you avoid common mistakes, and work to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Compensation for Florida Auto Accident Victims
Even your own insurance company may not be on your side–insurance companies will often offer lowball settlements, hoping you’ll take it just to save time. Your lawyer will fight for maximum compensation in your car accident claim to address the full value of what your damages are worth.
Compensation available for car accident victims includes:
- Medical bills: This includes your current medical bills and the projected costs of future medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: Compensation for any wages you lose due to missed work as a result of your injuries.
- Pain and suffering: The physical and emotional pain you’ve endured due to the auto accident should be accounted for in the settlement.
- Property damage: The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other belongings should be covered.
- Loss of earning capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work or limit your ability to earn a living, your lawyer will fight for compensation for this loss.
- And more
Every case is different. An experienced Florida car accident lawyer can help you understand the damages you can pursue. Then, they will employ various tactics to negotiate your auto accident claim.
Why You Need a Florida Car Accident Lawyer After an Accident
While Florida is a no-fault car insurance state, which means your own insurance typically covers your initial medical bills regardless of who caused the accident. Navigating the claims process and maximizing your compensation can be complex. When you’re dealing with the aftermath of an accident, possibly even a serious injury, you don’t want a drawn-out legal battle on your plate.
Here’s why a Florida car accident lawyer can be essential:
- Protecting Your Rights: Lawyers can explain the intricacies of Florida’s laws and ensure you understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation beyond initial medical coverage.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies focus on minimizing payouts. An experienced lawyer knows how to negotiate a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your car accident damages.
- Gathering Evidence: Building a strong case requires evidence like police reports, medical records, witness testimonies, and accident scene photos. A lawyer will know how to gather and analyze this evidence effectively.
- Representing you in court: If necessary, your lawyer will represent you at trial.
Ask a WHG Florida Car Accident Attorney for Help With Your Claim
Lawyers take care of the legal complexities, paperwork, and communication with insurance companies, allowing you to focus on healing. Having a skilled Florida personal injury lawyer by your side levels the playing field against insurance companies. They can protect your interests throughout the process.
At Werner, Hoffman, Greig, & Garcia, our team of Florida car accident lawyers has years of experience and a proven track record of winning compensation for our clients. Our empathetic approach gives you the support you need in a difficult time, while we fight to defend your rights.
Give us a call at (800) 320-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I contact a Florida car accident lawyer even if the other driver admits fault?
Consulting an auto accident lawyer is still wise, even if the other driver admits fault. Insurance companies may downplay your injuries or offer a settlement that doesn’t cover all your damages. A Florida car accident lawyer can ensure you receive fair compensation for present and future medical needs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
How long will it take to resolve my car accident case?
The time frame depends on factors like injury severity, case complexity, and whether it goes to court. Simple cases with a lawyer’s help can settle in six months, while complex cases may take longer. Your lawyer can provide a more specific estimate based on your case details.
What happens if my insurance company denies my auto accident claim?
A denial doesn’t mean it’s over. A Florida car accident lawyer can help you appeal the decision and fight for the coverage you deserve. Their experience allows them to navigate the appeals process and present a strong case on your behalf.
