Car Accident

Have You Been Involved in a Florida Car Accident?

If you’re dealing with medical expenses, lost work time, or property damage following a car accident in Florida, we’re here for you. Our team of experienced Florida car accident lawyers can provide the assistance you need. At Cohen and Cohen Law Firm, we offer a free consultation with our car accident attorneys to assess your case and develop a tailored strategy. Contact us today to speak directly with an experienced car accident lawyer following a motor vehicle accident in any county throughout Florida.

Florida car accidents frequently lead to resolutions outside of court. Our knowledgeable car accident lawyer team works on a contingency-fee basis and is here to provide comprehensive assistance and support to car accident victims throughout the entire process following a car accident anywhere in Florida. If your life has been turned upside down due to medical bills, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering following a car accident, our experienced personal injury lawyers are prepared to guide your strategy and shoulder the burden so you can focus on your physical recovery. The first step to begin exploring your path forward is a free initial consultation.

How Can a Florida Car Accident Lawyer Help Me Following a Car Crash Injury?

Our Florida car accident attorneys are here to assist you in pursuing recovery after a car crash. You might have the right to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more following car accident injuries. Our team is dedicated to seeking the maximum compensation appropriate for your personal injuries in a Florida car accident claim.

There are many ways in which you might be injured in a car accident. You may be experiencing any of these injuries:

• Neck or Back Pain
• Spinal injury
• Concussion
• Brain Injury (TBI)
• Burn injury
• Broken Bones (Fractures)
• Amputation
• Shoulder Pain
• Knee Pain
• Soft Tissue Injuries
• Headaches

Serious injuries due to car crashes, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, burn injuries, amputations, various head or neck injuries, or fractures, can significantly impact the life of an injured person in both the short and long term. If you were injured in a car accident and you suffered a serious injury, our Florida car accident lawyers at Cohen and Cohen Law can protect your legal rights and help you seek to recover compensation through a personal injury claim.

Severe injuries caused by a Florida auto accident can lead to numerous expenses for victims, including lost wages and initial medical treatments. The Florida car accident attorneys at our firm are prepared to support and assist Florida car accident victims in pursuing a car accident settlement that encompasses the full scope of applicable accident-related expenses, such as medical bills, vehicle repairs, lost income, and other damages due to a Florida car crash caused by a negligent driver. We will take into account the full extent of your situation, striving to provide the guidance you need during this challenging time.

We Handle Many Types of Car Accidents in Florida

Our car accident lawyers at Cohen and Cohen Law handle the following types of auto accident cases in Florida:

• Rear-End Collision
• Head-On Collision
• Rollover Accidents
• Hit and Run Accidents
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists
• Distracted Driving Accidents
• Drunk Driving Accidents
• Reckless Driving Accidents
• Rideshare Accident (Lyft or Uber)
• Trucking Accidents
• Motorcycle Accidents
• Bus Accidents
• Defective Car Accidents
• Bicycle Accidents
• Pedestrian Accidents
• Fatal Accidents (Wrongful Death)

Motor vehicle accidents vary by type in the number of parties, applicable insurance rules, and various other considerations that may apply as you seek fair compensation for your losses. A motorcycle accident or a truck accident will likely involve serious injuries, including broken bones, significant abrasions, and/or other catastrophic head or spinal injury.

Car accident law pertains to seeking appropriate compensation for losses due to the accident, while penalties for violation of regulations in relation to the accident are addressed separately. If the other driver who caused the car crash was engaged in drunk driving, the criminal case would be separate from your civil case, for which you would still need to file a claim. Though also against the law, the other party’s distracted driving or violation of other traffic laws would have different implications than driving inebriated, and you would likewise need to pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver to seek a fair settlement.

Criminal court and traffic court will not protect your legal rights in this regard following Florida car accidents; this is done through personal injury claims. Your Florida car accident lawyer can help you properly file a claim and seek an appropriate settlement. In cases where appropriate settlements for personal injury claims cannot be agreed upon by the parties, an auto accident attorney may pursue a lawsuit on the injured client’s behalf.

Your auto accident lawyer can advise you regarding how distracted driving, failure to obey traffic laws, serious injuries, projected medical bills, or the involvement of other types of motor vehicles or transportation services can impact your ability to seek a fair settlement through insurance coverage. Depending on the type of car accident, its causes, and the severity of the car accident injuries, some combination of your own insurance coverage, the insurance of a negligent driver, and/or another at-fault party may be responsible for compensation when car accidents happen. A Florida car accident attorney at Cohen and Cohen Law can guide you regarding the appropriate strategy and steps for your unique case.

Causes of Car Accidents in Florida

Florida car accidents can arise due to various factors. The following are some common causes of motor vehicle crashes in South Florida:

• Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Neglecting traffic signals and signs is a prevalent cause of accidents, often leading to severe side-impact collisions.
• Reckless Driving: This encompasses various traffic offenses, including tailgating, improper lane changes, and dangerous overtaking. Such behavior needlessly endangers the lives of drivers and passengers in other vehicles involved.
• Aggressive Driving and Road Rage: This can involve speeding, tailgating, failure to yield right-of-way, cutting off other drivers, and other aggressive behaviors on the road.
• Speeding: Driving over the speed limit is a frequent cause of accidents, diminishing a driver’s ability to maneuver around curves or obstacles, elongating braking distance, and increasing the distance traveled while reacting to hazardous situations.
• Mechanical Failures: Car accidents can also be due to mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, steering issues, and other vehicle defects. Discuss with your attorney if you believe your accident may have involved a defective car.
• Poor Road Conditions: Improperly maintained roads, inadequate signage, and adverse weather conditions can also contribute to car accidents in Florida.
• Fatigued Driving: Drivers who are drowsy or fall asleep while driving pose a significant risk of auto accidents, as their reaction times and focus on the road are significantly impaired.
• Distracted Driving: This encompasses activities that divert attention from driving, such as using mobile phones, eating, conversing with passengers, or adjusting entertainment systems. Each driver should prioritize road safety.
• Drunk Driving or Impaired Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication impairs a driver’s capabilities, raising the risk of accidents. Regrettably, impaired driving continues to be a recurring cause of auto accidents in Florida, and many of these are fatal accidents.

Our Florida car accident lawyers at Cohen and Cohen Law investigate the causes of car accidents in order to prove the negligence, causation, and liability of the at-fault party in personal injury cases involving drivers in Florida.

Steps to Take Following a Florida Car Accident

If you find yourself in a Florida car accident, there are important steps you should follow to ensure your well-being, preserve evidence, and secure your ability to pursue a car accident claim. It’s crucial to act promptly to protect yourself and your rights.

1. Ensure Safety: First and foremost, prioritize the safety of everyone involved and ensure they are out of harm’s way, if possible. Then promptly call 911 to summon assistance and create an official record of the incident.
2. Seek Medical Attention: It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries appear minor. Some injuries may not be immediately noticeable, but can manifest later on.
3. Record the Scene: If it is safe to do so, capture photos or videos of the accident scene. Document vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Such evidence can be highly valuable for your case.
4. Report the Accident: In Florida, it is mandatory to report car accidents involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500 to the police or Florida Highway Patrol.
5. Exchange Information: Gather the necessary information from the other driver, including their name, contact details, driver’s license number, insurance information, and license plate number.
6. Notify Your Insurer: Report the accident to your insurance company promptly. Provide factual details while avoiding any admissions of fault or speculation about the incident.
7. Social Media Caution: Refrain from discussing the accident or your injuries on social media platforms. Sharing such information could potentially be detrimental to your case if used against you in legal proceedings.
8. Consult with a Lawyer: Reach out to a personal injury lawyer with experience in Florida auto accidents. They can guide you through the legal process and work to ensure you are seeking the maximum compensation appropriate for your claim.
9. Keep Detailed Records: Maintain a comprehensive file with all accident-related documents and receipts. This includes medical expenses, repair estimates, and any missed work days.
10. Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to your doctor’s advice and attend follow-up appointments. Failing to do so can be used against you to suggest that your injuries are not as severe as claimed.

Our experienced Florida personal injury lawyers at Cohen and Cohen can guide you in these important steps following Florida car crashes, strengthening and protecting your case as you seek to recover compensation for your injuries and losses.

Common Mistakes and Steps To Avoid Following a Florida Car Accident

After a car accident in Florida, avoid the following to safeguard your legal case and avoid potential negative consequences for your future:

• Leaving the Scene: It is against the law to leave the scene of an accident in Florida. Always stay until you have exchanged information with the other driver involved and reported the incident to the police. Keep in mind that you and your car accident attorney will later secure a copy of the police report to serve as evidence in your case.
• Admitting Fault: Refrain from admitting fault at the accident scene, even if you believe you may be responsible. Determining liability typically requires a thorough investigation, and prematurely accepting blame could jeopardize your case.
• Failing to Report the Accident: Florida law mandates that you report car accidents that lead to injury, death, or significant property damage. Failure to report can lead to penalties and complications with your insurance claim. However, it is crucial to not discuss further details with the insurance adjuster. Leave those discussions to a knowledgeable Florida car accident lawyer.
• Neglecting Medical Treatment: Even if you do not immediately feel injured following the auto accident, seeking medical attention is crucial. Delaying or neglecting medical treatment may insinuate that your injuries are not serious or not caused by the accident.
• Discussing the Accident Publicly: Avoid discussing the accident details or your injuries on social media or with anyone other than your attorney, doctor, or insurance company.
• Signing Documents Without Legal Advice: Exercise caution when signing any documents related to the accident, and avoid doing so without consulting a lawyer first. Signing documents without legal guidance can inadvertently cause you to waive your rights or accept a lowball settlement offer. Have your attorney handle these interactions and negotiations.
• Negotiating With Insurance Companies Yourself: The other party’s insurance company may try to minimize their payout to you. Likewise, your own insurance company may use your statements to limit compensation. It is wise to have an attorney handle these negotiations to protect your ability to seek fair compensation.
• Ignoring Your Doctor’s Orders: Failing to follow your doctor’s prescribed treatment plan can be used against you, suggesting that your injuries are not as severe as claimed, and potentially jeopardizing your case.

If you have made any of these common mistakes, be sure to inform your Florida car accident attorney during your free consultation with Cohen and Cohen Law in Florida.

Personal Injury Protection Coverage (PIP) is Mandatory for Florida Drivers

Not all insurance claims in your accident case necessarily involve the insurance company of the at-fault party. Florida has an insurance system that mandates individuals must have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage along with their car insurance. This coverage caters to medical expenses and lost income, regardless of fault, up to a particular limit.

Nevertheless, if the injuries incurred are severe, Florida residents have the option to step outside this system and file a claim against the negligent party’s insurance company when another driver was at fault for the car accident. Your Florida auto accident lawyer can guide you regarding the car accident claims to pursue in regards to your car accident injuries.

Determining the Value of Your Florida Car Accident Claim

The value of a car accident case’s damages in Florida can be influenced by various factors:

• Fault: Florida operates under a comparative fault system. This means that if you share partial responsibility for the accident, your compensation will be reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned to you. If you are found to be at fault by 50% or more in Florida, you may not be eligible for any compensation.
• Severity of Injuries: The extent of your injuries directly affects the potential value of your claim. This is because more severe injuries often lead to higher medical expenses, longer recovery periods, and the possibility of permanent disability.
• Long-Term Impact of Injuries: If your injuries lead to long-term or permanent disability, this should be considered when determining the value of your case. This may include ongoing medical expenses, future loss of earnings, and the cost of necessary modifications to your home or vehicle.
• Documentation: Thorough documentation plays a significant role in shaping your case. This includes medical records, police reports, photographs of the accident scene and car damage, witness statements, and any other evidence that supports your claim.
• Total Loss and Diminished Value: In the event that your car is declared a total loss (“totaled”), you would be entitled to the actual cash value of the vehicle prior to the accident. If your car is repaired but its market value diminishes compared to its pre-accident value (diminished value), you may be able to seek compensation for this loss.
• Statute of Limitations: In Florida, you have a two-year window from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline could lead to you losing your right to pursue compensation.

The presence of an experienced Florida car accident lawyer can also impact the value of your Florida car accident case, as your attorney will evaluate your claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and serve as an advocate for your interests. At Cohen and Cohen Law, our car accident lawyers have over 50 years of experience evaluating the full scope of damages for Florida car accident cases and effectively seeking appropriate compensation based on an accurate assessment of your losses.

Economic Damages in Florida Car Accident Cases

These are tangible losses that can be calculated based on known and projected expenses. They often include medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and future costs like ongoing medical treatment and loss of future earning capacity. Our experienced accident lawyers at Cohen and Cohen Law can assess the scope of economic damages you have suffered and may continue to suffer due to a car crash in Florida.

Non-Economic Damages in a Florida Car Accident Claim

Intangible losses are harder to quantify. They can encompass pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of companionship. A skilled Florida car accident lawyer can help you assess and quantify these non-economic damages, which are often significant and life-changing. We can begin evaluating the scope of your losses during your free initial consultation.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Cohen and Cohen Law to Discuss Your Florida Car Accident Case

A car accident in Florida can leave you with significant pain and injuries, mounting expenses for medical treatment and car repairs, and perhaps lack of transportation or inability to work. An experienced Florida car accident attorney at our personal injury law firm can guide you regarding your next steps to take control of your situation and seek fair and appropriate compensation for these losses if the accident occurred due to another party’s carelessness. Our knowledgeable legal team works on a contingency-fee basis and is prepared to help you in all Florida counties.

Contact us today to schedule your free initial consultation with one of our Florida car accident lawyers at Cohen and Cohen Law by calling (800) 332-6436(800) 332-6436 or by filling out our online form. We will gather the important details of your case and guide you regarding the right way to proceed. This first meeting is always free, with no obligation or pressure.

Experience Matters — Serving Florida for Over 50 Years