South Florida Injury Law Firm Attorneys Broward Palm Beach Case Review

COVID-19 Action on Accident and Insurance Legal Claims

April 30, 2020

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Personal Injury Personal Injury Claims Surgery Technology Traumatic Brain Injury Vacation Injuries

At The South Florida Injury Law Firm, we stand in support of the many brave men and women working in our hospitals, as well as our first responders fighting against COVID-19. We are taking care of our clients, our employees and our families and are doing whatever we can during these unprecedented times.

In order to help you through this trying time, we’ve put together some information on commonly asked COVID-19 legal questions:

Should I Get Medical Treatment During This Pandemic?

Yes. The most important thing to do after an auto accident is to obtain proper medical treatment. Your health is most important, and we want to ensure your concerns are safely addressed. In both Dade and Broward County, all medical practices are expected to follow proper health procedures to prevent the spread of disease

How do I file my car insurance claim during the new Coronavirus outbreak?

When filing a claim during this time, there is a very good chance you will have to meet with an adjuster virtually, instead of in person. In some cases, it may be that compensation for damage to your car, medical bills, and more may be delayed, since several insurance companies are struggling to adjust and appropriately deal with the virus. That being said, you can have peace of mind knowing that our experienced team at the South Florida Injury Law Firm will represent your interests every step of the way to help ensure you receive the compensation you need to get back on your feet again.

How can I contact my car insurance company during the COVID-19 outbreak?

Many businesses, including insurance companies, are now working remotely and are not going into their offices, which means that if you want to speak with your insurance company, you will most likely have to do so either over the phone, on their website/mobile app, or through email. Unfortunately, certain aspects surrounding the claims process may also be delayed, since local body shops and other businesses associated with car accident claims are now, for the most part, closed to the public.

Should I Settle My Case?

For many of you, you are the family worried about how they will pay their bills while in quarantine. This may cause you to accept the first offer from the insurance company without considering whether it’s enough.

Don’t let panic and desperation coerce you into accepting the insurance company’s first offer. They’re looking out for them and you should speak to your attorney who is looking out for you.

Do Not Delay Your Personal Injury Case Because Of COVID-19

Even with any roadblocks that could be encountered along the way, if you wait until after this crisis passes to call us a delay in hiring an attorney could hurt your case. Even a few days of delay in starting treatment can significantly reduce case value.

We Can Handle Your Case Remotely, Thus Reducing Your Exposure To The Coronavirus

The team at the South Florida Injury Law Firm all take calls from injured clients 24/7, 365 days a year and located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. We’re happy to speak with you by phone, and not have to worry about going to another public place, risking germ exposure. However, if you have the need, one of our personal injury lawyers can visit you in your home or, if necessary, in the hospital. To contact an accident lawyer, you can call The South Florida Injury Law Firm anytime at 954.764.7377 – seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Or fill out the convenient online form for a free case evaluation. Remember, the consultation is free and you will owe nothing until recovery of benefits is made.

We understand how significantly the virus has impacted our nation and others, which is why it is crucial you stay calm, stay inside, and practice good hygiene until the virus is eliminated.

Living Through The Consequences of the Coronavirus Epidemic

April 20, 2020

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Personal Injury Personal Injury Claims Surgery Technology Traumatic Brain Injury Vacation Injuries

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has completely changed the way of life for people all over this country. The court system has been dramatically affected, and those with ongoing personal injury lawsuits are having to make adjustments. COVID-19 is bringing numerous businesses, healthcare facilities, and court systems to a standstill. From a legal standpoint, the coronavirus will present both short term and long-term complications to personal injury claims.

There are so many unknowns with the current situation. Never before have we been faced with a pandemic of this magnitude. Every aspect of our lives is impacted. And the legal process and institutions are no exception.

At The South Florida Injury Law Firm, we are closely monitoring the effects of COVID-19 and monitoring how the virus is affecting our current cases. Accordingly, we are advising our clients on how best to stay on track with their medical treatments throughout the coming weeks.

How Does The COVID-19 Pandemic Affect My Personal Injury Lawsuit?

Our personal injury lawyers know several elements of your case could be affected by the pandemic, but the most important things to know are: You should not delay seeking medical treatment or consulting with an attorney. These are the quickest ways to jeopardize your health and reduce the value of your claim.

To help stay on track with your personal injury case, we recommend:

Continue medical treatment, if possible.

With many closures, appointments are likely to be canceled. Elective surgeries are canceled. If your medical provider can provide treatment or appointments through telemedical, and you can meet with your provider though video conference or phone, do so. If not, it’s important to be diligent in rescheduling any appointments that may be canceled. If you can receive medical treatment, we recommend following the advice and recommendations from the CDC and practice social distancing, frequent handwashing, and other precautions.

Keep your legal team Informed.

As appointments get canceled or rescheduled, it is important to keep your lawyer up to date on your treatment plans. Your case and its value can depend on continued treatment.

The vast majority of personal injury cases are settled before they go to trial. However, the COVID-19 pandemic will also affect the negotiation and settlement process. Due to staying at home orders and social distancing efforts, most aspects of case preparation could be altered or delayed. This includes investigation, seeking witnesses, and taking depositions, and more.

This is an unprecedented time for Florida and the rest of the United States, but that will not stop our dedicated team of attorneys from working to obtain compensation for personal injury victims.

If you are involved in an auto accident or suffer a personal injury, it is important to keep receiving your doctor-recommended medical treatment or therapy. We understand that many people are hesitant to receive treatment at an emergency room or local hospital during the coronavirus pandemic.
If you are involved in an auto accident that results in injuries, you must not wait to receive medical treatment. If you wait until this crisis has lessened, it may be too late to receive appropriate medical care, your insurance company may not pay and could jeopardize the compensation you would otherwise be entitled to for your injuries.

We understand that this is a difficult time for you and your family. Rest assured that we will continue to monitor every case we take. This includes keeping track of court deadlines and court closures.

Tips To Protect Yourself From A Spring Break Accident in South Florida

March 9, 2020

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Auto Accidents No-Fault Laws Personal Injury Personal Injury Claims

Every year between late February and early April, traffic fatalities rise in certain areas of the country.

Why? What’s happening?

Two words: spring break.

Those findings are from a new study that illustrates the spike in deadly auto accidents specific to “spring break destinations.

Traffic fatality rates in these areas during this time rise significantly for
- Drivers under the age of 25
- Among those who travel from other states
No increases are noted for areas that are not destinations for spring break

Below, we’re going to detail how Florida personal injury claims work if you are hurt in a spring break car crash.

Filing a Florida Claim after a Spring Break Car Crash

If you’re injured in an auto accident, the first thing you need to do isn’t file a claim, but seek medical care. Not only is this a good way to make sure your injuries get taken care of and that you aren’t hurt more than you realize, it increases your chances of winning compensation as well.

Your medical record will be a key piece of evidence in proving that the crash caused your injuries and that you deserve compensation for your medical expenses.

Next, your best course of action is to consult with a knowledgeable Florida injury attorney. He or she will be able to evaluate your case, and will make sure that you adhere to and understand the process.

Some important things to know:

Florida’s Injury Statute of Limitations.
Under Florida law, you must file an injury lawsuit no more than four years from the date of the accident. File outside of that timeline and your case will likely be dismissed.
Florida’s Pure Comparative Negligence Rule.
When discussing your possible compensation amounts with a personal injury lawyer, it’s important to know that the amount may be adjusted according to the pure comparative negligence rule. This rule says that winning plaintiffs will receive compensation for their injuries according to their percentage of fault in the accident.

For example, if a drunk driver hit you and caused your injuries, but you were speeding at the time of the accident, the court may determine that you are 30 percent at fault for the accident. This means that any compensation you receive will only be 70 percent of the awarded total. If your total award is $100,000, you will be eligible to receive $70,000 due to the 30 percent reduction under the pure comparative negligence rule.

Florida’s No-Fault Car Insurance Law.
In the majority of traffic accidents, each driver’s insurance company will be responsible for up to $10,000 in various expenses like medical bills and lost income – no matter who is at fault for the accident.

It is only when serious injuries occur that you can sue for additional damages. The requirements include the following types of injuries resulting from a car crash:

Significant or permanent bodily function loss
Significant or permanent disfigurement or scarring
Permanent injury

A skilled attorney will know if your injuries meet the serious injury threshold, and therefore will be eligible for greater compensation.

Damage Limits in Florida Personal Injury Lawsuits.
In car accident lawsuits, Florida courts set limits on the amount that can be compensated for punitive damages, which often apply to non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

You can file for the greater of either triple the amount of damages or $500,000. This normally applies only to extreme cases where the behavior of the driver was exceptionally reckless or dangerous.

How a Florida Personal Injury Attorney Can Help You Fight Back

If you are hurt in a Florida spring break car crash due to another’s negligence, you shouldn’t be stuck with all the bills for a serious injury. Unfortunately, dealing with insurance companies is often a tough challenge, and you have additional hurdles if you were injured on a visit to Florida as so many spring breakers are.

A skilled Florida personal injury attorney can ease your burden in dealing with all of this and help you fight to get the compensation you deserve. Reach out today for a free case review. We will look over the details of your situation and let you know what options are available to you.

When your life has been turned upside down due to another’s negligence and you are drowning in bills and struggling to recover, you want to make sure you work with the best law firm you can find.

What is the difference between a high-quality injury firm and one that will only do the bare minimum? The people who work there. That is why The South Florida Injury Law Firm is made up of some of the most well-respected and successful injury attorneys around.

Our lawyers have more than 60 years of combined injury law experience, and they have handled just about every type of Florida injury case you can imagine. They are members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an elite group of attorneys who have helped settle injury cases worth more than a million dollars. They have been named to Florida Trend’s Legal Elite. They are recognized by the Florida Workers’ Advocates group.

Perhaps even more importantly, they have received glowing reviews from clients – and they get results.

accidente motorcicleta attorney injury law firm

5 Common Ways Motorcycle Accidents Happen

February 24, 2020

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Auto Accidents Automobile Safety Motorcycle Accidents

Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating. The roar of the engine provides the soundtrack for flying down the open road – just you and your bike. But riding a motorcycle can also be dangerous. The thrill of riding a motorcycle can quickly become risky if you’re not careful or riding safely.

If you’re going to take a motorcycle on the road, you should complete a basic motorcycle rider course and know the Florida motorcycle laws, in addition to being equipped with the proper safety gear.

What kind of safety gear?

Helmet, gloves, protective eyewear, boots, leather clothes, and body armor. This kind of gear can both make riding a motorcycle more comfortable and help to protect you from injuries if you are involved in an accident.

But the best thing you can do is try to avoid accidents altogether.
To help you do that, here are 5 of the most common types of motorcycle accidents and how to prevent them.

A car turns left in front of you.

This is probably the most common motorcycle accident. Why does it happen? Lots of reasons. A car might not see you or can’t correctly judge your speed. They might also be distracted or driving recklessly. Additionally, cars waiting to turn at intersections are particularly dangerous, as are gaps in traffic at an intersection, parking lot, or driveway.

As a motorcyclist, you need to be prepared for these kind of mistakes. Drivers might display certain signs that can foreshadow their turning in front of you. One thing to look for is the direction of cars’ wheels. The direction of a car’s wheels is the first sign of what the car might do next.

You turned too fast into a corner.

You’re going too fast into a corner and you realize you might not totally make it. What do you do? Well, first of all, you shouldn’t be going too fast. You should also be paying attention to visual cues from the road to know what’s coming up ahead.

If you’re in that situation though, try to ride it out. Don’t slam on the brakes or do anything that may cause a loss of traction. Lean into the corner and be in control of the bike.

A car suddenly changes lanes into you.

Motorcycles can easily fit into a car’s blind spot, so unfortunately it’s easy for a car to drift into your space.

As a motorcyclist, you should know this and be aware of where blind spots are and avoid riding into those spots. A good note: if you can see a driver’s eyes in their mirror, they can see you too. You should also be watching the road to see if cars will need to be changing lanes quickly.

Also watch for signs a car might be changing lanes:

- Turn signals
- Turning wheels
- A driver is checking their mirrors
- A driver’s head is moving

A car hits you from behind.

With cars, fender benders are the most common accident. But a fender bender with a motorcycle could kill a motorcyclist.

Avoid this accident by using other cars as barriers. When you stop, politely pull in front of another stopped car to cushion yourself from any cars coming up behind you. Or pull in between a line of cars.

If there aren’t any stopped cars, stop to the side of your lane instead right in the center. Flash your brake lights and be aware of what’s happening behind you in case you need to quickly get out of the way.

A car opened its door.

If there are parked cars on the side of the road, never ride between them and an active lane of traffic. Even if there’s a ton of extra room. Car doors can open. Pedestrians can step into the road. Cars can pull out. And so on. Motorcyclists and bicyclists call the area next to parked cars The Death Zone for this very reason.

If, however, you end up in this situation, brake as hard as possible to avoid a collision. If a collision is going to happen anyway, you can at least decrease your speed.

Hopefully, when you’re on your motorcycle, you ride safely and exercise caution while on the road. If for some reason you or a loved one is injured in a motorcycle accident, seek medical attention immediately. Then contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who can look at the facts of your case and determine if you’re entitled to any damages.

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What Are Your Rights When Involved In A South Florida Trucking Accident?

October 1, 2019

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Auto Accidents Truck Accidents

Nowadays, many more trucks are entering our roadways, sharing the same space we use in our everyday life. Product demand has significantly increased, and so does the congestion of commercial trucking. Unfortunately, with the increased numbers of trucks entering service they bring with them an ever-increasing number of accidents and resulting injuries.

A central question in most truck accident cases is whether the trucker’s actions violated their duty of care. Some trucking accidents make this question abundantly clear: if a police officer cites a trucker for speeding, failing to yield, or carrying too much weight, the law assumes that the trucker is at fault for any ensuing accident. However, in other cases, a more in-depth investigation is required to prove trucker fault, for which a South Florida truck accident attorney can provide significant assistance in collecting evidence.

Trucking Accident Common Factors

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Ensuring that a vehicle is maintained correctly is essential for every driver, and it’s vital to the safety of commercial truck drivers. Commercial vehicles experience more wear and tear than ordinary cars as trucks are driven for hundreds of miles every day. If routine maintenance is skipped, it could lead to mechanical problems or equipment failure that could lead to an accident. Something as simple as a worn brake pad could be the difference between stopping in time and causing a multi-car pileup. Victims of a commercial trucking accident should have the company’s maintenance records checked to see if repair negligence contributed to the collision.

Incentivize Programs that Promote Unsafe Truck Driving

While it’s easy to blame the driver involved in the accident, looking at the underlying issues may solve the root problem. Shippers and logistics firms may inadvertently create dangerous driving conditions by the way they pay drivers. For example, some compensation programs encourage faster vehicle speeds or more hours of continuous vehicle operation than would usually be unadvisable. Giving drivers unrealistic schedules encourage drivers to hurry, despite the safety risks involved.

Improper Cargo Loading

Commercial trucks carry so much cargo that weight imbalances can significantly affect the safety of the vehicle. Cargo that has been loaded incorrectly can cause accidents in several ways.

The shipment could fall off and become a hazard to other drivers, and the cargo itself could affect the vehicle’s steering. To prevent these issues, truckers and cargo loading teams have to abide by industry-specific rules when it comes to loading the bed of a commercial truck.

These rules determine limits for weight, size, length, width, and load height. The rules also specify special methods of securing cargo for transportation.

South Florida Truck Accident Laws

Truck drivers have the same responsibilities under Florida law to drive their vehicles in a safe manner as all other motorists. This includes a duty to protect all other people they may encounter while behind the wheel. This extends to:

Other drivers
Passengers in other vehicles
Pedestrians
Cyclists
Motorcyclists

If a truck driver fails in this responsibility, and someone is injured, that person can file a lawsuit alleging that the driver’s negligence caused their injuries. Unfortunately, even the clearest example of truck driver negligence may fail to bring compensation if a plaintiff does not act in time.

According to Florida Statute §95.11, plaintiffs must file a case within four years of the date of the accident if they hope to collect compensation. Insurance companies may break off all settlement negotiations if this time has passed. This makes it important to act quickly when considering a claim.

Common Injuries related to South Florida Truck Accidents

Even truck accidents that occur at low speeds place great strain on the bodies of the occupants of smaller vehicles. Even if their bodies do not come into direct contact with the truck, their car may be subjected to significant force or perhaps even crushed.

This can result in life-threatening injuries. It is not uncommon for the victims in these accidents to suffer:

Broken bones
Separated joints
Severe cuts
Burns
Concussions
Paralysis

Any form of physical injury is enough to make a claim. A complete claim should also demand compensation for lost wages and mental anguish. A truck accident law firm in South Florida can work with clients to understand the full impact of the accident on their lives and receive the compensation they deserve.

Far too often injury attorneys treat trucking accident cases like car accidents. One can easily understand the force from a 60,000 pound truck striking a family vehicle are significantly higher than the force from a 7,500 pound pickup truck or 3,500 sedan traveling the same speed. This difference in force often results in much more serious injuries, even death.

Attorneys specialized in trucking accidents know that car accidents and trucking accidents are not the same. Beyond the federal regulations that apply to commercial trucking, drivers must also undergo extensive training. 18-wheelers simply do not operate the same as family-size passenger vehicles. They are harder to maneuver and some operations that can be done in family passenger vehicles are strictly prohibited by 18-wheel operators.

Post-Accident Checklist

After any type of traffic accident, you should run over a checklist of information to get from other drivers or passengers who were involved: insurance information, injuries, names and contact information of witnesses, etc.

Hopefully, knowing this information and practicing safer driving will help you reduce the chances of getting into a truck accident. But if you or someone you love is injured in a crash with a truck due to another’s negligence, you should know what to do next. The first and most important thing to do is check to see if you or anyone around you is injured and, if so, instantly seek medical attention.

The next step you take should be contacting a skilled Florida accident attorney who will look into the incident. Your lawyer will likely have to ask you a lot of questions, so it’s helpful to prepare yourself ahead of time.

Researching and slogging through legal meetings may be the last thing you’re interested in doing after getting hurt in an accident, but it’s worth it. Medical bills can pile up fast, and that’s not even dealing with money you lose due to not being able to work and other expenses. These are things that can seriously derail your life, and if someone else is responsible, you shouldn’t have to pay for their mistake.

Construction cranes of high-rise residential buildings in the big city, view of the evening sky

Crane Accidents and Construction Injuries

September 11, 2019

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Children Injuries & Accidents Construction Accidents Hurricane Property Damage Insurance Claims Parking Lot Accidents Personal Injury Personal Injury Claims Personal Injury Law Suit Personal Injury Lawyer Premises Liability Property Damage Work Related Injuries Workers Comp Wrongful Death

Imagine sleeping soundly in bed and then a loud crashing crane comes through your roof.
It was a scene that happened this week in North Miami Beach, where a crane that was being used to repair a seawall slid off a barge and struck the roof of a condominium building.

Crane Accidents and Construction Injuries 6 Personal Injury South Florida Injury Law Firm

“I was very lucky because that crane was in front of my apartment two days ago.” said by C. Spetsiotas, a resident of the condo.

Eight units of the building are now off-limits while structural engineers assess the safety of the building. The U.S. Coast Guard is also investigating, along with OSHA

Crane accidents have happened in the past, with unfortunately worse outcomes. In Hallandale Beach, a 27 year old was killed when a crane toppled over. One man died and two others were left injured in Hollywood when the scaffolding collapsed.

Causes of Construction Accidents

Florida construction sites are littered with hazards at every turn. To execute dangerous tasks that these projects require, heavy construction equipment and tools are used, many of which are performed at great heights and under extremely hazardous conditions.

Although federal and state laws that require employers to maintain a safe workplace, some do not. There are instances where contractors take shortcuts to turnaround projects faster and reduce expenses, posing a risk to people who work on the sites and the local pedestrians.

Some common causes of construction accidents include:

Cranes, ladders and fixtures falling from buildings and walls
Toxic substance exposure
Defective construction and tool equipment
Improper use of equipment
Improper or insufficient training
Misuse of tools and other equipment
Poor safety precautions and oversight

Construction Site Safety and Your Rights

Safety measures on construction sites are supposed to be followed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. There are clear standards for cranes, crane operations, crane training, fall protection, scaffolding, ladders, hazard communication, machinery, and many other aspects of a construction site project and operations. A party’s failure to abide by OSHA standards may be evidence of negligence if that failure caused an accident.

If you or someone you know have suffered any construction related injuries, or others that are not listed, compensation may be awarded and should contact our experienced Florida construction accident lawyers at South Florida Injury Law Firm today to discuss your legal options with our Free Case Review

Also, you may be entitled to recover more money than a workers’ compensation claim alone could provide. You may also have claims for medical bills, pain and suffering, permanent limitations and past and future lost earnings.

Because of the numerous contractors, subcontractors and other parties often involved in construction sites, it can be difficult to determine exactly who should be held responsible for your injuries or the death of a loved one.

Types of Available Compensation

Workers’ Compensation
Almost every employer is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. These benefits can help an injured worker cover medical expenses and lost wages and are available to a worker regardless of the circumstances surrounding an accident that causes injury.

Personal Injury
Although a worker cannot file an injury lawsuit against their employer, it may be possible to file a claim against a third party whose negligent actions led to your injury. A personal injury claim is also available to non-workers who are injured on a construction site.

Product Liability
If a defective product caused your injuries, it may be possible to bring a claim against the manufacturer, retailer or wholesaler of that product.

Wrongful Death
If you have lost a loved one in a construction accident, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for your loss.

Construction Related Accident and Injury Help

With decades of experience handling these types of complex cases, our South Florida Injury Law Firm construction accident lawyers have the skills and the resources needed to conduct a thorough investigation. You can rely on us to put your interests first and will work to help you recover the maximum compensation you are entitled.

Schedule a free consultation by calling (954) 488-JEFF (Fort Lauderdale), (954) 488-JEFF (Boca Raton & West Palm Beach), or 877-566-8759 (toll-free). You can also fill out this online form to set up your case evaluation. We’re a dedicated team of personal injury lawyers who work on a contingency basis and will take your calls at any time, on any day of the week.

car crash home miami dade gardens attorney law firm accident

Car Accidents At Home

August 22, 2019

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Auto Accidents Automobile Safety Children Injuries & Accidents Multi Car Accidents Personal Injury Personal Injury Claims Personal Injury Lawyer Property Damage Wrongful Death

Car accidents can happen anywhere. Especially where you least expect it. Parking lots, driveways, parking garages, and drive-thrus are well-known for accident scenes.
Even your own living room.

On Wednesday, August 21^st, an accident involving two cars ended up crashing into a Miami Gardens home. One of the drivers was air lifted to a nearby hospital.

The resident, who was inside his home at the time of the crash, stated:

“This isn’t the first time something like this has happened”

He’s right. In just the last few months of 2019, there have been multiple car accidents in South Florida that have also caused damages to a home. In March, a driver smashed into a house in North Lauderdale in the middle of the day. Another driver was hospitalized in April after crashing into a house in Lauderhill. Another driver attempting to avoid a collision drove straight into a Miami home in May.

Unfortunately, these instances are becoming too common throughout Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. It’s important to pay attention while on the road and arm yourself with knowledge, whether you’re the driver or passenger in a car accident or inside a home and have sustained damage or injuries from a car collision.

Know Your Rights

Under Florida Law, you may be entitled to monetary damages if you have been injured through the negligence or recklessness of another person. Damages may include reimbursement or compensation for:

Past and future medical costs
Home damage liabilities
Pain, suffering, and inconvenience
Lost wages or economic opportunities
Funeral expenses
Grief and suffering

A Personal Injury Case Begins Before You Leave the Scene of a Crash

While the circumstances behind each of these accidents are different, one fact holds true for all—the time immediately following the crash can be stressful and confusing.

Here are the seven most important things to do if you are involved in a South Florida auto accident.

Remain at the scene.
If an accident has occurred, it is essential for you to remain at the scene. It is your legal obligation to stop if you collide with anything, even if you do not think there is any damage.
Prioritize safety.
Take steps to ensure the safety of you, your passengers, and other drivers. If your vehicle is causing a major traffic obstruction, move it out of the road to a safe location and turn on hazard lights. Check for injuries and determine if anyone needs major care.
Contact the police.
Even if the accident is minor, call the police. When cops arrive at the scene of the accident, request that a police report be filed and get the names and badge numbers of the cops involved.
Document information.
Document as much information about the accident as you can while limiting discussion of the incident with the other driver.
Report the incident to your insurance company.
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Many insurers have a policy that requires you to report the accident within a certain time frame in order for the incident to be covered.
Seek medical attention.
Even if you do not notice any serious injuries at first, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. This is particularly true if you notice any pain or strange effects in the aftermath of an accident, but it’s not uncommon to begin feeling more pain a day or two after a car collision, and you don’t want to wait that long if you can help it.
Consult with an auto accident attorney.
Even if your case seems straightforward, it’s highly advised to consult with a car crash lawyer after an accident. Working with an attorney can improve your odds of obtaining the maximum amount of compensation. If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will be ready to take your case to court.

Find out more on what do after a car accident in South Florida

Help protect your friends and family by giving them the one essential tool they need to drive safely—knowledge.

Get The Help You Need

If you’ve been hurt in a vehicle accident in a parking lot, drive-thru, parking garage or inside a home where an accident has occurred, you may be eligible for compensation for your injuries. The South Florida Auto Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers understand your needs and dedicated to helping their clients get the maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

826 Palmetto Expressway and I-75 Lane Closure and Construction Schedule 2019

August 9, 2019

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Auto Accidents Personal Injury

Dade and Broward county roads are about to become a bit more confusing and request drivers to be more attentive to the road and the scheduled construction plans on the 826 Palmetto Expressway and I-75 throughout August 2019, while making room for a new Express Lane on the 826 Palmetto Expressway.

As auto accident attorneys with years of experience winning cases throughout South Florida, we know how important it is to constantly be aware of all new laws affecting drivers. We’ve put together a list below that outlines the lane closure dates and available detours provided by the Florida Deportment of Transportation (FDOT) to help you plan ahead and avoid potential hazards.

LANE CLOSURE SCHEDULE FOR DADE/BROWARD COUNTY ROUTES ON SR 826/PALMETTO EXPRESSWAY, AND I-75:

August 8^th , 11PM to August 9^th 5AM

On I-75 two southbound outside lanes will be closed between NW 170 Street and SR 826/Palmetto Expressway.
On I-75 two northbound outside lanes will be closed between SR 826/Palmetto Expressway and NW 170 Street.

August 8^th , 9AM to August 9^th 4PM

On SR 826/Palmetto Expressway the northbound and southbound outside shoulders will be closed between NW 25 Street and NW 103 Street/West 49 Street.

August 8^th 10PM to August 9^th 5AM

On I-75 two southbound inside lanes will be closed at SR 826/Palmetto Expressway.

August 8^th 9PM to August 9^th 5AM

On SR 826/Palmetto Expressway one northbound inside lane will be closed between West Flagler Street and NW 25 Street
On SR 826/Palmetto Expressway one southbound inside express lane will be closed at Okeechobee Road.

August 9^th 9PM to August 12^th 5AM

On SR 826/Palmetto Expressway, the entrance ramp from southbound I-75 and westbound SR 924/Gratigny Parkway will be closed.

Available Detours:

Take the northbound SR 826/Palmetto Expressway entrance ramp
Exit NW 154 Street westbound
Take the entrance ramp to SR 826/Palmetto Expressway

August 9^th 10PM to August 10^th 5AM

On West 20 Avenue one northbound lane north of West 44 Place will be closed.

August 12^th 9AM to August 16^th 4PM

On SR 826/Palmetto Expressway the northbound and southbound outside shoulders will be closed between NW 25 Street and NW 103 Street/West 49 Street.

Stay alert when driving and especially through these areas. Avoid any driver who is obviously not paying attention to the road. Never get into a car driven by someone who has been drinking and watch out for traffic from local bars and/or clubs. Steer clear of any driver who refuse to yield the right-of-way, don’t obey traffic signals, tailgate or pass improperly.

In the event you are involved in an accident, know what to do and your rights. With the help of an attorney, you can hold the guilty party responsible

Find out more about what to do after a car accident in South Florida

Always remember that how you respond following an accident can be the difference between being properly compensated for all damages or potentially not obtaining what you deserve in terms of a financial settlement. Auto insurance companies deal with accident claims daily and the claims adjusters are obligated to the company and their client first. Always select a law firm that specializes in auto accidents with a solid track record of results for their injured clients to make the most impact to your claim. A skilled attorney can help you obtain compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and overall pain and suffering.

The South Florida Injury Law Firm is a trusted car accident law firm serving Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. We’re proud to provide each of our clients with high-quality legal representation. We’re committed to helping you receive the compensation that you deserve and owed. Helping you stay on the right track and safe on the road.

Food Poisoning: A Bigger 4th of July Danger Than Floridians Realize

June 29, 2019

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Food Borne Illness Food Poisoning

When most of us think about Fourth of July safety, we think about fireworks. Although improper use of fireworks can cause serious injuries, there’s a less obvious risk: food poisoning.

Most Fourth of July celebrations involve outdoor gatherings, with perishable food that’s often brought in by a number of people, some of whom may not be aware of good food safety practices.

To help you enjoy your Fourth of July and other summer festivities safely, we’ve put together this guide for preventing food poisoning.

Swimming Pool Liability: How Injury Cases Work in Florida

June 20, 2019

by South Florida Injury Law Firm Swimming Pool Accidents

Summer is upon us, and it’s peak swimming pool season in the sunshine state. Although swimming is a great way to cool off and get some exercise, it can also be dangerous.

Statistics show three children die every day from swimming pool accidents, and many more people sustain serious injuries.

In many cases, these tragic accidents can be prevented — and it’s the pool owner’s responsibility to do what they can to help. When the pool owner breaches this duty of care, he or she may be liable for the resultant injuries.

Let’s take a look at how swimming pool injury cases work in Florida.

Florida Injury Statutes of Limitations

If you are considering bringing a swimming pool liability case in Florida, understand you must do so within a set limit of time, the “statute of limitations.”

Victims sustaining an injury in a swimming pool accident have four years from the date of the accident to file suit. If a victim dies during the accident, relatives have only two years to bring a wrongful death suit.

Any lawsuits outside of these statutes of limitations will be dismissed.

Further, waiting too long before filing suit brings the severity of your injuries under question. It is important to act as soon as possible if you determine it’s appropriate to seek damages.

Determining Liability for FL Swimming Pool Accidents

The owners of both public and private swimming pools carry a heavy legal burden. They are not automatically liable for injuries sustained on their premises, but have to adhere to much stricter rules than other types of property owners.

Because a pool is considered part of a person’s property, premises liability rules apply to swimming pool injuries. Under premises liability, there are three types of entrants, with varying duties of care:

Invitee

An invitee is a patron of a public pool, and pool owners owe the greatest duty of care to invitees. Owners are required by law to maintain and repair the pool to prevent injuries to invitees. In public pools, the owners are also obligated to do the following:

Provide supervision
Provide adequate emergency equipment
Maintain the pool and surrounding areas
Post adequate signage for the pool
Post warnings regarding pool hazards

Licensee

A licensee is a guest on private property that was invited by the homeowner. The homeowner is obligated to warn licensees of any hazards that are not obvious to a reasonable individual, but their level of liability isn’t as high as that of a public pool owner.

Trespasser

A trespasser does not have permission to be on the property or in the pool. Therefore, a pool owner does not owe a duty of care to this type of entrant — unless the trespasser is a child, as we cover below.

To establish liability in a private pool, the victim must prove that the risk that caused the injury was not an obvious hazard, and that the injuries were not a result of the victim’s own negligent behavior.

Pools and Florida’s Attractive Nuisance Doctrine

Circling back to children trespassing, the law considers children too young to understand the risk of drowning. Therefore, Florida law holds property owners liable for maintaining an “attractive nuisance.”

An attractive nuisance is any object on a property that makes children curious and drawn to the property, including swimming pools.

Property owners are obligated to take extra precautions to keep children away from swimming pools. Ideally, it is fenced on all four sides with a child-proof gate. Otherwise, the pool must be properly covered when not in use, or alarms for all doors and windows directly accessing the pool must be installed.

Ultimately, both homeowners and public pool operators have an obligation to provide a reasonably safe environment, and to protect pool users from unreasonable hazards. If you or a loved one have suffered a pool injury, and feel it was due to a breach in their duty, you may have grounds to seek damages with the guidance of a South Florida personal injury attorney.

About the Author:

Jeffrey Braxton is a trial lawyer in Fort Lauderdale who has devoted his career to the practice of personal injury law. As lead trial attorney for the South Florida Injury Law Firm, Jeff has litigated thousands of cases and is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an exclusive group of attorneys who have resolved cases in excess of one million dollars.