You're in a Car Crash – What Florida Law Requires You to Do

Auto Accident in Plantation Leaves 2 Dead on Sunrise Boulevard

 

 

  • A deadly auto accident happened in Plantation Florida near 441 on NW 47th Avenue and Sunrise Boulevard.
  • Two people were killed in a sedan after being hit by an SUV.
  • The impact tore the sedan’s front and rear axles completely off.
  • Sunrise Boulevard  was completely reopened just before 1PM

 

 

According to initial reports by Plantation police, the Honda sedan was attempting to turn from the eastbound lanes on Sunrise Boulevard with the intention of either going north on 43rd Avenue or making a U-turn to go west on Sunrise Boulevard. Lanes of West Sunrise Boulevard in Plantation were closed in both directions shortly after 5 a.m. By 9:45 a.m., only the two left lanes had remained closed.

 

 

 

 

The Honda can be seen missing its entire front end and almost appears to be split in half. The Mercedes SUV sustained significant front end damage. The accident is still under investigation by Plantation police and fire departments and charges are reportedly pending related to the accident.

 

 

auto accident on sunrise boulevard

Every driver has a responsibility to drive in a cautious and courteous manner. With so many drivers sharing Florida roadways, no amount of defensive driving can protect you from the negligent and reckless behavior of another driver.

 

For many Floridians, it isn’t if you will be involved in a crash, but when.

 

If you find yourself in a car accident, there are a number of different things that you should probably do. Get yourself medical help. Take pictures and gather evidence. Call a lawyer. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and even confused following a car accident. Let alone the concerns surrounding medical bills, repair needed and whether or not you will be able to return to work.

 

In fact, we’ve written guides about what to do after a crash. However, you don’t have to do many of those things. If you wanted to, you could skip a lot of them.

 

Not all of them, though. There are some things that Florida law actually requires you to do if you are involved in a crash. Below, we’re going to go over what those are.

Stop at the scene of the auto accident

 

Hopefully, this goes without saying, but you cannot simply drive away after the car crash. You must first stop and fulfill the other duties detailed below first. Otherwise, it could be classified as a hit and run.

Hurt in a Florida Spring Break Car Crash? You Can Fight BackIf you leave a crash where someone else was injured, this is a third-degree felony, and you can face up to five years in prison or five years of probation, a $5,000 fine, and driver’s license revocation. If someone dies in the car crash, then it is a first-degree felony, with penalties of up to 30 years in prison, a $10,000 fine, and driver’s license revocation. There is a mandatory minimum prison sentence of two years if you were driving under the influence.

 

If it is only property that was damaged, then it is a second-degree misdemeanor, with penalties of up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.

 

Get help for anyone who has been injured

 

If the other person requires or requests medical treatment, you are obligated to provide “reasonable assistance.” This means things like transporting or making arrangements to transport the person to a doctor or hospital. Often, your best course of action is to call 9-1-1.

 

Move your car out of the way

 

If your car is blocking traffic, you are required to move your car or call for help, such as from a tow truck, if you are unable to do so.

 

Provide your name and address to the other driver

 

You must also show your driver’s license or permit and vehicle registration number if requested. In the situation where the other person is not able to receive that information, then you are required to report the crash.

 

Provide information to investigating police officers

 

You must share your driver’s license, vehicle registration, address, and other information. Don’t discuss fault at this point. Just answers questions honestly. You never know what the other driver may or may not have been doing.

 

Boca Raton Car Accident Attorneys

Report the accident in some cases

 

You are required to report the accident to the local police department, sheriff, or the Florida Highway Patrol if there are injuries, death, or damage over $500. You are also required to do so if either driver is intoxicated.

 

You don’t have to file a crash report if the investigating officer does so, but you should confirm that they actually did so. Also, your crash report should include up-to-date information about your car insurance.

 

Once you do these things, you can be on your way if you wish. However, you could be missing out if the other driver’s negligence caused the accident. This is something that’s not always easy to tell when you’re involved. The best way to know for sure is to reach out to a knowledgeable Florida car crash lawyer and talk to them about your case.

 

 

 

south florida thunderstorm rain auto accidents

Keeping Safe While Driving In South Florida Rain

Living in South Florida, it’s inevitable to deal with rain. According to statistics by US Climate Data, the West Palm Beach alone area receives 62 inches of precipitation annually. When researchers ranked the top 10 wettest cities to live in, two of which are in South Florida (Miami and West Palm Beach).

 

Driving  in South Florida is a dangerous and even deadly situation to be in under wet conditions. More than 7 thousand people lose their life in weather-related auto accidents.
According to statistics by US Climate Data, the West Palm Beach area receives 62 inches of precipitation annually.
When researchers ranked the top 10 wettest cities to live in, two of which are in South Florida (Miami and West Palm Beach).

 

The AMA (American Meteorological Society) published a study that highlights the increase of dangerous road conditions and the elevated risk involved.

 

“[Scott] Stevens, a data analyst and meteorologist at the North Carolina Institute for Climate Studies, and colleagues looked at 125,012 fatal car crashes in the Lower 48 states from 2006 to 2011, factoring in how many cars are on the road, to calculate the risk of a fatal accident. While other studies have used police reports and the nearest weather station to calculate rain and snow conditions, Stevens said his is the first study to use more precise weather radar data. It was able to distinguish how hard the rain or snow was falling to come up with results showing an increase in fatal crashes even in rain of less than one-tenth of an inch per hour.”

 

All the evidence points to the same: when the road is wet, your chance of being involved in an accident can drastically increase. As the visibility level lowers due to rain and how the road becomes slippery when water has accumulated on it.

Hydroplaning becomes an issue when rain is especially heavy – a common occurrence in Florida. Hydroplaning refers to a situation when a car starts to slide uncontrollably because of the tires encountering more water that it can scatter. As the water carries the car, the brakes and other controls become useless. Quick turns and movements on wet roads can also cause the vehicle to hydroplane as well.

 

 

The Hazard of Hazard Lights

You may see other drivers with hazard lights flashing to indicate they are moving slower than surrounding traffic during stormy conditions. But in Florida, it’s actually illegal to use hazard lights while driving unless you are part of a funeral procession. Flashing lights were designed with the express purpose of indicating a hazard to other drivers, and they should only be activated when your vehicle is a hazard on the side of the road. Using them under any other circumstance is not only unnecessary, but it also causes confusion. If it’s raining, the only lights you should turn on are your headlights.

Rainy weather may make driving more difficult, but it does not relieve drivers of their responsibilities behind the wheel. With proper vehicle maintenance, knowledge of local laws and a bit of common sense, you can travel safer during a downpour along with a helpful tips to keep in mind.

 

 

Keeping Safe While Driving In South Florida Rain 1 Personal Injury South Florida Injury Law Firm

5 Tips to avoid an auto accident
in slippery road conditions

Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Tires with weak tread may not grip a wet road as well as newer tires with thicker tread. Make sure your tires are safe for the roads.
Before setting out when rain is present or forecasted, it is even more important than normal to make sure your tires are in good shape and have adequate tread depth since bald tires can increase the risk of hydroplaning.

Gust Awareness
Drive at a speed that compensates for high speed gusts that can otherwise impact your vehicle.
Watch out for larger vehicles.
Larger vehicles are much harder to control when it is windy and can have difficulty staying in their lane.

Maintain Distance
Maintain a large distance with the car in front of you. Cars may have difficulty stopping due to wet conditions. Brake earlier than usual, and apply less force to increase the stopping distance between your vehicle and the car in front of you while also alerting the driver behind you that you are reducing your speed.

Know Anything Can Happen
Often times during storms, other drivers fail to drive safely. Make sure to watch around you and drive defensively.

Get There Safe, Not Fast
Getting to your destination without an accident is more important than keeping a schedule. Maintain a safe speed limit and be sure to obey all traffic rules and signals. Drive more slowly, take turns slowly, and be sure to give your fellow motorists ample following distance.

In other words, when it rains, whether heavy or light, slow it down. The most important thing you can do to protect yourself and others when driving in the rain is adjusting how you drive according to the current weather conditions.

 

 

Keeping Safe While Driving In South Florida Rain 2 Personal Injury South Florida Injury Law Firm

Have you been involved in an
auto accident under rainy conditions?

Sadly, even riders who follow the above tips can still end up hurt by a reckless or distracted driver.
Determining which driver is at fault for an accident requires an investigation of the collision. The investigation involves the review of all pieces of evidence that are available, such as photographs or video surveillance of the accident, testimony from any witnesses to the accident, and a digital reconstruction of the accident that incorporates all relevant factors, such as the rainy weather.

If you were hurt in an auto accident because of a drunk, distracted, or otherwise reckless driver, you can call The South Florida Injury Law Firm anytime at (954) 488-JEFF – we’re available seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Complete our online form to get a free case evaluation and our team will assist with the legal aspects of your claim so you can focus on your health . Remember, the consultation is completely free! That means you don’t owe us anything until we recover for you.

injury law firm james white car accident death patriots

Fatal Car Accident of Miami-Dade Police Capt. Tyrone White

On a Sunday afternoon in September, one car overturned and erupted in flames, the other was left badly damaged after a car accident at the intersection of Griffin Road and Southwest 118th Avenue in Cooper City.

 


Tyrone White, captain of the Miami-Dade Police Department, was killed in the automobile accident.
Tyrnoe White’s wife and the mother of James White, Lisa,  remains in the hospital.
The accident is actively being investigated by the Broward County Sheriff’s Office.

 


 

White is the father of New England Patriots running back and Fort Lauderdale native, James White, who had been told of the tragic accident only 90 minutes before Sunday’s night’s 35-30 loss against the Seattle Seahawks. He had been listed by the Patriots as inactive for the game due to personal reasons.

 

 

During NBC’s broadcast, sideline reporter Michelle Tafoya said Patriots owner Robert Kraft offered to fly White immediately to Miami, but White declined and elected to remain in Seattle.

White has played for the Patriots for seven years. He’s been a captain for the last three seasons.

The New England Patriots’ players dedicated their team’s 36-20 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders the following Sunday to running back James White

It’s an unfortunate reality that fatalities can be a result of an auto accident throughout South Florida every day. Circumstances behind them are sometimes preventable and consequences of carelessness, negligence or intoxication while behind the wheel. Intoxication is a leading cause of crashes and can end in devastating injuries or even death.

 

 


 

When someone is injured in a car accident, they can sue the at-fault driver for compensation for sustained injuries. If a fatality is involved, surviving family members can bring the lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

 


 

Wrongful Death Legal Rights

 

A wrongful death is one that is caused by another person’s or business’ criminal, intentional, reckless, or negligent actions. Every case has their own set of circumstances surrounding the case, and an attorney will need to analyze them to see whether you have a valid wrongful death claim.

In an auto accident, the driver might be responsible if they:

  • Proof of intoxication or under the influence of drugs
  • Engaged in distracted driving
  • Evidence of careless error, (example:  failing to look in their rearview mirror when passing or backing up)
  • Drove recklessly or aggressively, by speeding, swerving, or passing on the right

Additionally, a business can be held responsible in a wrongful death case. By example, a defective airbag, brakes or seatbelts malfunctioning might have been the root cause of death in the accident.

 


 

 If you lost a spouse, parent, child, or relative due to the negligence of another person or entity, you should talk to a lawyer immediately to learn more about your rights.

Also, surviving family members could be entitled to compensation for losses associated with the wrongful death case, including:

  • Loss of care
  • Loss of companionship
  • Lost wages and benefits that the deceased would have earned had they lived
  • Emotional grief

How to calculate these losses can be difficult. Lost wages and benefits are somewhat speculative, especially if your loved one was young. No one knows with confidence what jobs they would have worked and how much they would have made.

Regardless, an experienced and knowledgeable wrongful death auto accident attorney will be able to estimate these amounts with you.

 


 

 


Although difficult to talk about, the fact is that driving a car is dangerous.
Almost 3 million Americans find themselves in a hospital emergency rooms annually because of auto accident injuries. Much of the time, the damage is invisible at first glance.
About 50% of ER visits are due to trauma from a car accident.

 

If your loved one was killed in a car accident in Florida, you may be entitled to seek remedy in the form of a wrongful death lawsuit. This is a civil action that allows immediate family members to seek compensation from drivers who were careless, reckless, drunk, distracted, aggressive, tired or inexperienced and in turn caused a death.

An attorney will be able to uncover evidence of liability you would never be able to get to on your own, using legal tactics such as depositions, interrogatories, expert testimony, and more.
We will fight to get you the best possible compensation from the parties who are responsible. Call today for a free case review. We’ll look at all the facts of your case and let you know what options are available in your situation.

 

covid-19 coronavirus accidents

COVID-19 Auto Accidents in South Florida

COVID-19 has created a dramatic shift in all of our lives and even on our South Florida roadways. With residents holed up at home, working remotely and running fewer errands than ever, rush hour traffic has dipped considerably. Shuttered bars and restaurants has meant fewer drunk drivers on the roads and less auto accidents.

 

Those who must and do go out may be under the impression that the roads are safer due to this dip in traffic congestion we’ve seen throughout the state. They have evidence to support that belief too.

 

Florida drivers were involved in 9,469 crashes in June compared to 31,128 in 2019.

 

However true, that belief for many drivers contributes to the most serious and fatal auto accidents that can happen.

 


 

The Need For Speed

A recent report by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) stated that many drivers across the U.S. are pushing the needle to speeds greater than 100 mph. FHP have also reported drivers are traveling at speeds of 20-40 mph over the posted speed limit on average.

“Law enforcement officials have the same mission as health care providers — to save lives. If you must drive, buckle up, follow the posted speed limit and look out for pedestrians and bicyclists. Emergency rooms in many areas of the country are at capacity, and the last thing they need is additional strain from traffic crash victims,” said GHSA Executive Director Jonathan Adkins.

 


 

coronavirus south florida auto accidents

Caution Your Confidence

The roads may appear empty and safe for you to push the pedal a little further. Just a few MPH over the speed limit is no big deal, right?

Out of the 9,469 crashes in June, 54% were speed related and 37% of those were fatal.

 

Due to distracted driving, unsafe road conditions and a myriad of circumstances we’ve seen can happen here at The South Florida Injury Law Firm, we know the roads are never as safe as they may seem.

It’s difficult to foresee auto accidents, the injuries that can come from them and the lifelong effects they have. It can put even a bigger dent in finances that COVID-19 have already burdened so many with. It is even worse when you know somebody else through their negligence caused you suffering, and that’s why you need to fight hard to get compensated for your loss. Be cautious and remember these steps we’ve put together for you to be better prepared:

 


 

What to do at the scene of an auto accident during this time of COVID-19

  • Get medical attention for those who are injured.
  • Still Practice Safe Distance. Stay 6 feet away from the other driver.
  • If you are able to without discomfort, pay mind to and keep your mask on.
  • Get the name and the driver’s license of the driver of the car that caused the collision.
  • If the driver leaves, get the license plate number of the car. If this is not possible, at least get a description of the car including the make, model, color, and any descriptive information you can.
  • Call the police. If the car leaves, do not endanger yourself by following or chasing it. The police will do their best to track down the culprit.
  • Wait in a safe place for the arrival of the police.
  • If there are witnesses, try to get their names, contact information, and statements.
  • Take photos of the scene of the accident as well as of the damage to your car.

 

As soon as possible with auto accidents, make your own written statement about what happened. Include as many details as you can about how the accident occurred. Note exactly where the accident occurred, whether there were traffic lights or a stop sign, what you observed the other driver doing, and any other information that seems relevant.

 

If someone sustains a head wound, broken arm or puncture wound, the injuries are obviously serious, and medical assistance should be sought immediately. But many times, accidents result in aching or overall soreness. It can be tempting to shrug this soreness off, as the pain may even subside over the following days. Not seeking medical attention can be a major mistake.

 


 

Get an Attorney

When searching for the best personal injury lawyers in South Florida, or if you have experienced an auto accident or injury, be sure to check for experience, track record, and reviews from their past clients.

Our team have 100+ years of combined legal experience, so we’ve handled just about every kind of injury and accident case you can imagine. We also come from diverse legal backgrounds that help us when preparing for cases, counting a former public defender and a lawyer who worked for insurance companies and knows their tactics among our partners.

During this time, we urge you to be safe on the road and if you have been in an accident, know that you deserve to be compensated for your pain and suffering – and those responsible deserve to be held accountable for their actions. That was The South Florida Injury Law Firm’s goal when it was founded in South Florida in 1991, and it has remained the centerpiece of the firm’s mission ever since that time.

covid 19 coronavirus broward attorney

COVID-19 Action on Accident and Insurance Legal Claims

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.

south florida covid19 injury law firm

Living Through The Consequences of the Coronavirus Epidemic

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.

 


 

Living Through The Consequences of the Coronavirus Epidemic 3 Personal Injury South Florida Injury Law FirmThe 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.

spring break car accident tips

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

 

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.

 

Filing a Florida Claim after a Spring Break Car Crash

 

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.

 

firm-attorneys-injuyr law

 

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.

 

 

 

Boca Raton Personal Injury Lawyers

Do I Have a Personal Injury Lawsuit?

 

Have you recently been injured on another’s property or because someone else made a mistake? Are wondering if you have a personal injury case on your hands?

 

There are a variety of situations that may seem like viable personal injury claims, but it’s not always clear whether or not you really have a case. How do you know? The only way to know for sure is to seek counsel from an experienced personal injury attorney. By going over the specific details of your case, he or she will be able to let you know if you are likely to win a claim and what options are available to you.

 

What are some things that you will want to be ready to talk about when you meet with an injury lawyer?

Boca Raton Personal Injury Lawyers

Circumstances Surrounding Your Injury.


When you’re injured, it’s often hard to recall the exact events. But in order for an accident attorney to advise you accurate, he or she will need to know what happened and who or what was involved. Did another driver run a red light and hit you? Was the light out when you fell down the stairs?

 

In any personal case, you must be able to prove that your injury was a direct result of someone else’s carelessness, neglect, or failure to inform you of a particular risk. This applies in car or boat accidents, slips and falls, injuries in someone’s business or home, dog bites, you name it. If you were not made aware of the risks to your safety or someone acted in a way that placed you in danger, you most likely have a case.

 

Your knowledge of the danger and your actions.

Keep in mind, however, that Florida courts will often take into account your involvement in the negligence, and will deduct a certain amount from the damages awarded to you if you are deemed to be partially responsible. Let’s say, for example, you are ruled to be 30% at fault for slipping on someone’s floor because you knew it was wet. That means the property owner is 70% responsible for paying any damage awarded to you. If you win $10,000 in compensation, you would receive that amount minus 30% — or, in simpler terms, you’d get $7,000.

 

Personal Injury Law Suit Boca Raton

What You Did after Your Injury.


If you are in an accident, the first thing that you should do is seek medical help. Even if it doesn’t seem like your injuries are very serious. You should do this for a couple of reasons.

 

The first is for your own health – injuries sustained in accidents aren’t always obvious at first, and by waiting you can make the problem worse. The second reason to get medical help quickly is because waiting can be used against you. In certain situations, you are legally obligated to seek help within a certain time period or you forfeit your ability to file a claim. For example, if you are involved in an automotive accident, you have to get checked out by a doctor no more than 2 weeks after the incident or you lose your chance to get compensation. Beyond this, not having yourself checked out quickly allows the defense to call your claim into question. Maybe your current problems aren’t really due to the incident. Maybe (as mentioned above) waiting made the issue worse – and more costly! There are a number of different arguments the defense can use against you if you don’t seek out prompt medical treatment.

 

How Long It Has Been.

Our state says that you have four years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For claims against the government – state, city, or county – the statute of limitations is three years. And, of course, there’s the specific law mentioned above that prevents you from being compensated in a car accident if you don’t see a doctor within two weeks.

 

If you have missed out on any of these deadlines that pertain to your particular situation, you may not be able to file a claim.

 

How Much You Are Expecting.

For the most part, Florida law doesn’t place limits on the amount of damages you can receive when you are injured due to someone else’s negligence. However, if you are bringing forth a malpractice suit against a medical practitioner, or if you are seeking punitive damages against someone, those do come with strict caps.

 

This information doesn’t necessarily tell you whether or not you have a valid lawsuit, but it is good to know going in that there are limits in specific cases and for particular types of damages.

 

If you believe you pass muster on all of these things, the next step is to sit down with a personal injury attorney and talk about the next steps.

 

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.

 

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

Crane Accidents and Construction Injuries

Crane Accidents and Construction Injuries 4 Personal Injury South Florida Injury Law Firm

 

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.

“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


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

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.