Car accidents can be overwhelming and confusing, especially in the aftermath when you’re dealing with injuries, property damage, and insurance claims. Car accidents can also be complex in Florida because of the state’s no-fault insurance system and comparative negligence laws.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Florida, it’s essential to understand your rights and options and to seek legal advice if necessary. In this FAQ, we’ll answer common questions about Florida car accidents and provide helpful tips and resources.
Please schedule a free consultation with Keller, Melchiorre & Walsh. We’ll provide aggressive representation to help you obtain the compensation you have coming. You can call (561) 295-5825 or contact us online.
HOW IS FAULT DETERMINED IN A CAR ACCIDENT?
Determining fault in a car accident in Florida can be complicated because of the state’s comparative negligence law. This law means that more than one driver can be responsible for an accident, and each driver’s degree of fault will determine their liability for damages.
To determine fault, investigators will look at the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, and other evidence. Factors investigators will examine include speed, traffic violations, road conditions, weather, and driver behavior. Ultimately, the goal is to determine who was negligent and caused the accident.
If you get into a car accident in Florida, it’s essential to contact an attorney who can help you navigate the complex process of determining fault and pursuing compensation.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO HIRE A CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY?
The cost of hiring a car accident attorney in Florida will depend on several factors, including the attorney’s experience, reputation, and the complexity of your case. Some attorneys charge hourly rates, while others work on a contingency fee basis.
A contingency fee means that the attorney will only receive their fee if they win your case. Their fee will be a percentage of your settlement or verdict. This can be a useful option if you can’t afford to pay upfront for legal services.
The typical contingency fee for a car accident case is around 33% of the settlement or verdict in Florida. Discussing fees and payment options with your attorney before hiring them is essential. That way, you’ll understand the costs involved and can make an informed decision.
WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT?
If you get into a car accident in Florida, there are several important steps you should take to protect yourself and your rights:
Call 911 if anyone is injured or if there is significant property damage.
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident.
Take photos at the accident scene, damage to your vehicle, and any injuries you have sustained.
Contact your insurance company and report the accident.
Seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured.
Keep track of all medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to the accident.
Don’t speak to the other driver’s insurance company or sign any documents without consulting an attorney.
Contact a car accident attorney who can advise you on your legal options.
HOW MUCH IS MY CAR ACCIDENT CASE WORTH?
The value of a car accident case in Florida will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your property damage, and the degree of fault of the other driver(s). To determine the value of your case, your attorney will consider factors such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical expenses.
WHAT DAMAGES CAN I RECOVER?
In a car accident case, you may be able to recover damages for a variety of losses and expenses. These can include:
Medical expenses: This includes the cost of any medical treatment you received due to the accident, such as hospital bills, doctor’s appointments, and medication.
Property damage: If the accident causes damage to your car or other piece of property, you may be able to recover the cost of repairs or replacement.
Lost wages: If you can’t return to work because you’re too severely injured, you could obtain compensation for the income you lost.
Pain and suffering: This is compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering you experienced due to the accident.
Loss of quality of life: If you can no longer participate in activities you love, you may be able to recover compensation for this loss.
HOW CAN A CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY HELP ME?
A car accident attorney can help you in many ways, including:
Gathering evidence: An attorney can collect the evidence necessary to support your case.
Negotiating with insurance companies: An attorney can also negotiate with the insurance companies involved to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Filing a lawsuit: If necessary, an attorney can file a lawsuit on your behalf and take the case to trial if the case doesn’t settle. They can bring in an expert witness to strengthen your case even further.
Providing legal advice: Your lawyer can provide you with legal advice throughout the process, including advising you on settlement offers and helping you understand your legal options.
Protecting your rights: Your legal representative can protect your legal rights and ensure that insurance companies or other parties involved in the case don’t take advantage of you.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO SETTLE MY CASE?
There are a lot of factors that will determine how long it takes your case to settle, including the following:
The complexity of the case.
The amount of damages involved.
The willingness of the insurance companies to negotiate.
Sometimes, we can reach a settlement within a few months of the accident. In other cases, it may take several years to resolve. Your attorney can give you a better idea of the timeline for your specific case and any factors that may affect the time it takes to settle.
HOW DO I SCHEDULE A CASE EVALUATION WITH KELLER, MELCHIORRE & WALSH?
To schedule a case evaluation with KMW, contact us online or call (561) 295-5825. We’ll review the details of your case and provide you with an assessment of your legal options. We can also determine everyone who contributed to the accident and pursue them for compensation.