Auto Accident

We Seek Recovery for Auto Accident Victims Throughout Florida

Being involved in an auto accident in Florida can introduce a host of challenges and concerns regarding your daily life, your financial situation, and the right steps for your injury case. You may require immediate and ongoing medical treatment, and the financial burden of these treatments can escalate quickly. If the injuries you’ve sustained prevent you from working, the situation can be further complicated by a substantial loss of income. Our experienced Florida auto accident attorneys at Cohen and Cohen Law can help you move forward in the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident in any county throughout Florida.

Building a successful claim requires the collection and preservation of critical evidence, including medical records, accident reports, photos of the accident scene, and witness testimonies. It’s paramount to identify all damages for which you should pursue compensation — these could encompass current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and vehicle repair or replacement costs, among other losses or expenses.

Beyond the physical pain, there’s also the emotional turmoil caused by the accident, commonly referred to as pain and suffering. Severe injuries may limit your ability to work in the future, impacting your earning capacity. Depending on the details of your case, you might also face additional losses such as vehicle repair or replacement costs, diminished quality of life, or a loss of enjoyment in activities you once loved. It is important to accurately account for the full scope of damages you have suffered and may continue to suffer due to the accident.

Our seasoned auto accident attorneys at Cohen and Cohen Law are adept at providing guidance through the legal process, negotiating fair settlements, and accounting for the full scope of damages. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, where we will assess the details of your auto accident case and devise a strategy to seek the compensation you need. While we tackle the legal complexities, you can focus on what’s important — healing and rebuilding after the auto accident.

Common Injuries Sustained in Florida Car Accidents

It is important to seek medical attention immediately after a car accident, even if you do not think you are injured. Some car accident injuries, including a range of head and neck injuries, may not show symptoms immediately after the accident.

• Head injuries: Head injuries make up the largest quantity of injuries sustained in car accidents. They can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Symptoms of head injuries include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating. Traumatic brain injuries can vary significantly in type and severity.
• Neck injuries: Neck injuries, including whiplash, are another common type of injury sustained in car accidents. They occur when the head is suddenly and violently jerked back and forth. Symptoms of whiplash include pain, stiffness, numbness, and tingling in the neck, shoulders, and arms. Severe cases may involve spinal cord injury.
• Back injuries: Back injuries are also common in car accidents. They can range from muscle strains to spinal cord injuries. Symptoms of back injuries include pain, stiffness, numbness, and tingling in the back, neck, and shoulders. Again, spinal cord injury is a significant risk in auto accidents.
• Chest injuries: Chest injuries can occur in car accidents when the chest is compressed or when the heart or lungs are injured by flying debris. Symptoms of chest injuries include pain, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing.
• Wrist and hand injuries: Wrist and hand injuries are common in car accidents when the body is thrown forward and the hands are used to brace the impact. Symptoms of wrist and hand injuries include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty using the hands.
• Leg and foot injuries: Leg and foot injuries are also common in car accidents. They can range from muscle strains to broken bones. Symptoms of leg and foot injuries include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking.
• Catastrophic Injuries: Serious injuries due to an auto accident can involve brain injury (TBI), spinal injury (SCI), severe burn injuries, or amputation.

If you have been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney at Cohen and Cohen Law today to discuss your auto accident case.

Auto Accident Injury and Fatality Statistics for Florida Reveal the Dangers of our Roads

According to the CDC, motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of death in the United States for people under the age of 55. The National Safety Council shows that across the country, 5.4 million people were injured and 46,980 were killed in car accidents during 2021.

Here in Florida, the picture is just as grim.

During 2023, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles released the following key car accident statistics:

• 393,856 crashes statewide
• 251,576 injuries
• 3,398 fatalities
• 10,265 crashes that involved pedestrians, which led to 778 deaths
• 104,717 hit-and-run accidents, which led to 22,579 injuries and 275 fatalities

Issues like reckless driving, drunk driving, and distracted driving can be important factors leading to car crashes. The police report will often include evidence involving the behavior of the other driver regarding violations of traffic laws, distractions that may have contributed to the accident, or other pertinent details to your personal injury claim. Such evidence can be crucial as you seek to recover compensation.

If you or a loved one were injured in a Florida car accident caused by a negligent driver, it is wise to work with a skilled personal injury attorney to help you seek the compensation you need. Following fatal accidents, families of the decedent may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. At Cohen and Cohen Law, we handle car crash cases for Florida residents in South Florida and statewide.

Contact our experienced Florida car accident lawyers today by calling (800) 332-6436(800) 332-6436 or by using the form below to schedule your free initial consultation.

Understanding Claims for Car, Motorcycle, and Trucking Accidents in South Florida

Motor vehicle accidents can be devastating, no matter the cause or the situation. If you were a victim of an accident involving cars, motorcycles, trucks, or other transportation, Cohen & Cohen can help you seek recovery.

Types of Damages for Which You May Be Able to Seek Compensation as an Auto Accident Victim in Florida

Three types of damages you may be able to pursue following a car accident in Florida are economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages. Coordinate with your Florida car accident lawyer to determine the range of injuries and losses for which you may be able to seek fair compensation.

Economic Damages

Economic damages can be easily calculated and are directly related to the accident. They may include:

• Medical expenses: These include the costs associated with your medical treatment, such as doctor’s visits, hospital stays, surgery, and prescription drugs.
• Lost wages: Lost income may include wages you were not able to earn due to the accident and your injuries from the incident.
• Property damage: This includes the cost of repairing or replacing property damaged in the accident, such as your belongings or vehicle damage.

It is important to account for long-term expenses that may be applicable to your situation following an auto accident when evaluating economic damages, particularly if you must pay for additional services like house cleaning or physical therapy, or if your injuries affect your ability to perform job functions or other tasks. Our experienced personal injury lawyers at Cohen and Cohen Law can coordinate with medical professionals to assess the scope of future expenses that should factor into the economic damages for your Florida car accident claim.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are more difficult to calculate and relate to the more subjective experiences and difficulties that occur due to the accident. These can include:

• Pain and suffering: This includes the physical and emotional pain you suffered from the accident.
• Emotional distress: This includes the anxiety, depression, and other emotional problems you suffered from the accident.
• Loss of consortium: This can include the loss of companionship, love, and affection from your spouse or other loved ones due to the accident.

An experienced Florida car accident lawyer at Cohen and Cohen Law can assess the monetary value of the non-economic damages that you may be able to pursue in an auto accident settlement.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are awarded to punish the at-fault driver and to deter others from engaging in similar behavior. They are rarely awarded in car accident cases. Still, they may be awarded in cases where the at-fault driver’s actions were particularly reckless or negligent.

The compensation you can seek for your damages will depend on the severity of your injuries, the amount of economic and non-economic damages you have suffered, and the circumstances of the accident. You should contact an experienced Florida car accident lawyer to discuss your case and to seek an estimate of the amount of compensation you may be entitled to pursue through your personal injury claim following a car accident in Florida.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind:

• You may need to recover damages from multiple parties, such as the driver who caused the accident, the driver’s insurance company, and any other negligent parties.
• You have limited time to file a lawsuit after a car accident. This is known as the statute of limitations. In Florida, the statute of limitations for car accidents is two years.
• It is important to gather evidence after a car accident, such as police reports, medical records, and accident scene photographs.

Consult with an experienced Florida car accident attorney as soon as possible after a car accident. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options and represent you in negotiations with the insurance adjusters or in court in pursuit of the maximum compensation appropriate for your damages.

Car Accident Claims in Florida

A car accident affects your life on multiple fronts, involving medical treatment and expenses, vehicle repair or replacement expenses, pain and suffering, and lost income in many cases. Car accident victims can seek to recover compensation through personal injury claims in coordination with a car accident attorney at our Florida law firm.

The types of injuries from car accidents range in severity, and also according to the nature of the accident, the passengers themselves, and the types of vehicles involved. It is important for your auto accident case to determine that another driver’s negligence caused the accident and your injuries. Your Florida car accident lawyer at Cohen and Cohen Law can assess the details of your case in order to prove negligence, causation, and damages as integral parts of your case strategy.

Steps to Take Following an Auto Accident in Florida

There are several important steps to take following a car accident in Florida:

• Ensure your safety and the safety of others involved in the accident
• Seek initial medical treatment
• Record the scene with photos and/or video
• Report the accident without admitting any level of fault
• Exchange information with the other drivers and witnesses
• Notify your insurer
• Stay off social media

Consult with our experienced Florida car accident lawyers in order to effectively protect and pursue your car accident case. There are several potential mistakes to avoid, and we will help you protect your case, collect and review evidence, and seek to recover compensation on your behalf for medical bills and expenses, property damage such as vehicle repair or replacement, and pain and suffering.

We work on a contingency fee basis, starting with a free initial consultation. Our car accident lawyers can help you navigate the challenges involving the insurance company, the at-fault party, and the processes to file a claim following a car crash incident.

PIP Insurance Coverage is an Important Factor in Your Recovery Following a Florida Car Accident

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is mandatory insurance coverage for drivers of cars and trucks in Florida, and should help you with initial expenses up to a limit when car accidents happen. It is important to identify the full scope of your damages and pursue appropriate compensation, which can have significant long-term consequences for your finances and quality of life. Our Florida car accident lawyers at Cohen and Cohen Law can guide you. Request a free initial consultation today to begin your next steps.

Motorcycle Accident Cases in Florida Can Involve Factors Particular to Motorcycling and Negligence of Inattentive Drivers

If you have been in a motorcycle crash, you are likely facing significant medical expenses. You need guidance regarding evaluation of the damages you can seek, and our experienced Florida accident attorneys can handle the communications and negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf. You may face a range of serious injuries, which may also affect your ability to work in the short or long term.

The fact that PIP does not apply to motorcyclists further complicates your situation following an injury. Our legal team can assess the scope of these injuries in order to help you protect your financial future in addition to seeking to cover your medical expenses and other losses.

There is a stigma against motorcyclists that can also affect your ability to pursue the appropriate level of compensation. Motorcyclists are often perceived as careless, but other drivers are often not attentive enough to their surroundings to spot motorcycles and anticipate interactions with these relatively uncommon vehicles on the road. An experienced auto accident lawyer at our firm can defend your interests and file a claim to pursue appropriate compensation for your injuries and losses under Florida law.

Trucking Accidents in Florida Often Involve Severe Injuries and Multiple Parties

Trucking accidents are often marked by extensive damage to smaller motor vehicles and serious injuries to the occupants of those vehicles due to the massive nature of tractor-trailers and other large commercial trucks. They also often involve multiple parties — particularly when they involve logistics and the different companies and individuals responsible for loading and securing cargo, maintaining the vehicles, driving the vehicles, and managing the schedules. Consequently, trucking accident injury claims can become very complicated, and the trucking companies and their insurance and legal representatives on the other side anticipate these issues and draw upon great experience and skill in working to minimize these claims and their payouts to injured trucking accident victims.

This underscores your need to work closely with your own team of experienced trucking accident lawyers who can effectively represent and defend your interests against their tactics while pursuing the full appropriate compensation commensurate with your injuries and losses that you are experiencing now and may continue to experience into the future. We will evaluate the scope of your damages in our discussion of the events surrounding your Florida trucking accident during a free consultation. Contact us today to begin your next steps towards seeking recovery.

Rideshare Accident Cases in Florida Depend on Many Specific Details Surrounding the Incident

Rideshare accidents involving drivers for companies such as Uber or Lyft are distinct from other auto accidents in that these companies and their insurance policies may or may not come into play, depending on the specific details surrounding the accident or injury. These details can include whether or not the rideshare driver was logged into their app to indicate they were on the clock, as well as whether or not they had accepted a ride request from a customer or whether that rider was already aboard the rideshare vehicle at the time when the car crash happened.

Additional regulatory considerations may also combine with the applicable insurance policies and the extent of your injuries and losses to determine the potential value of your case. Discuss the specific details of your case with your Florida car accident lawyer team at our firm during your free initial consultation to assess the levels of compensation that may be available to you and discuss the appropriate strategic next steps for your unique rideshare car accident claim.

Bus Accidents Can Involve Multiple Claimants or Multiple Parties

Bus accident injury cases in Florida present unique concerns, considerations, and distinctions as compared to other types of auto accidents. The following factors often come into play:

• Severity of Injuries: Bus accidents can lead to more severe injuries due to the large size and weight of buses.
• Multiple Claimants: As buses carry multiple passengers, a single accident can lead to multiple injury claims.
• Government Involvement: If the bus is owned by a city or local school district, specific rules apply to filing claims against government entities, including shorter deadlines.

A bus accident could be caused by another driver, which can further complicate the case. Our auto accident lawyers at Cohen and Cohen Law can help injured bus passengers, pedestrians, or drivers of other vehicles pursue personal injury claims if they were harmed due to the carelessness of another party in Florida.

Owners and Operators Are Important Parties in a Bus Accident Claim

The bus owner and operator’s role in an accident is critical. If they are found negligent, they may be held liable for the accident. This could include the city or local schools if they own and operate the bus.

After a bus accident, the injured parties should seek medical attention immediately. They should also gather evidence from the scene, if possible. They must then notify the bus company or the government entity regarding the accident within the prescribed time limit. Coordinate with your personal injury attorney to make sure you are properly covering all of the requirements in a timely manner.

You and your attorney will then need to negotiate with the bus company or government entity’s insurance provider for a settlement. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial.

Bike Accidents Often Involve Cyclists or Automobile Operators Who Did Not See or Anticipate the Other Party

Florida has a high rate of bicycle accidents, with a previous record of 6,678 crashes reported in 2019. In 2023 alone, the state reported 7,427 bicycle accidents.

Bicyclists are more exposed, and are therefore more likely to suffer severe injuries in an accident. Unlike auto accidents, bicycle accidents often involve complex issues like visibility, right-of-way, and helmet use. Also, due to the vulnerability of cyclists, the injuries tend to be more severe.

Common scenarios for bicycle accidents include collisions at intersections, being “doored,” and accidents caused by distracted driving. Injuries from bike accidents may include head trauma, fractures, and spinal cord injuries. It is important to seek immediate medical treatment in order to protect your health and to support your injury case.

The 2023 changes in Florida personal injury law established a modified comparative negligence rule, where the bicyclist’s compensation will be reduced in proportion to their degree of fault. Bicycle accident victims should consult with an experienced auto injury lawyer as soon as possible after an accident.

Pedestrian Accidents Often Occur Due to Drivers’ Carelessness

Pedestrian accidents are especially common at crosswalks, intersections, parking lots, and on sidewalks. Many times, these incidents occur because the driver of an automobile did not properly check the surroundings before proceeding. Sometimes they may have been distracted or intoxicated. Other times, a pedestrian may be struck due to a collision between two or more vehicles.

Pedestrian accidents in Florida present unique considerations and concerns as compared to other types of auto accidents:

• Visibility Issues: Pedestrians must prioritize being visible at all times, especially in low-light conditions.
• Traffic Rules and Indicators: Disregarding traffic rules and indicators can lead to pedestrian accidents.
• Road Design: Road designs that prioritize vehicles over pedestrians can contribute to accidents.
• Distractions: Both driver and pedestrian distractions can be a contributing factor.
• Severity of Injuries: Due to the unprotected nature of pedestrians, injuries from pedestrian accidents are often severe.
• Fault Determination: Determining fault in pedestrian accidents can be complex. While the majority of pedestrian injuries are caused by vehicles, not all drivers are necessarily to blame.
• Pedestrian Laws: Pedestrians and vehicles are required to exercise caution. Pedestrians should always be alert to the dangers of crossing roads.
• High Fatality Rate: Florida has the highest rate of pedestrian fatalities in the nation.

Given the complexities of pedestrian accident cases, victims should consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after an accident.

Types of Collisions in Florida Auto Accidents

Types of collisions in an auto accident case in Florida may include the following:

• Head-On Collisions: These occur when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions collide with each other. This type of collision often leads to severe injuries due to the combined speed of both vehicles.
• Rollover Accidents: These involve a vehicle flipping onto its side or roof. Rollover accidents can be caused by sharp turns at high speed, collisions with other vehicles, or hitting a roadside object.
• Rear-End Collisions: This type of collision occurs when a vehicle hits the one in front of it. Common causes include sudden braking and distracted driving.
• Hit-and-Run Accidents: These accidents involve a driver causing a collision and then leaving the scene without identifying themselves or assisting the injured party.
• Distracted Driving Accidents: These accidents are caused by drivers not paying full attention to the road, often due to activities like texting, eating, or using a GPS.
• Drunk Driving Accidents: These collisions are caused by drivers under the influence of alcohol, leading to impaired judgment and decreased motor control.

Passengers can also be injured in a car due to defective car parts, which may either cause an accident or fail to prevent injuries, as in the case of defective airbags. A defective car can cause a collision with another vehicle on the road, which may potentially make the vehicle manufacturer responsible for car accident injuries. Defective car parts may also involve the liability of installation or car maintenance professionals. Our Florida car accident lawyer team at Cohen and Cohen Law can assess to what extent a car crash case may overlap with a defective vehicle claim.

The details surrounding your accident will have a significant bearing on your options and the steps to seek appropriate compensation for your losses. We will assess your Florida car accident case during a free case evaluation.

Proving an Auto Accident Claim in Florida

In Florida, proving an auto accident injury case requires the establishment of several key elements:

1. Duty: The plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant had a legal obligation to act with reasonable care.
2. Breach of Duty: It must be shown that the defendant failed to meet this duty by acting or failing to act in a certain way.
3. Causation: The plaintiff needs to prove that the defendant’s actions were the direct cause of their injuries.
4. Damages: Finally, the plaintiff must provide evidence of the damages incurred due to the accident, which may include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

In 2023, Florida adopted the modified comparative negligence rule. This rule allows a damaged party to recover even if they are partly at fault for the accident. However, their recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a party is found to be 30% at fault, they can only recover 70% of the total damages from the other party.

Cohen and Cohen Law Will Fight for your Damages

An experienced Florida auto accident attorney at Cohen and Cohen Law can provide you crucial assistance in a variety of ways if you have suffered from an auto accident anywhere throughout the state:

• Case Evaluation: Our Florida car accident lawyers at Cohen and Cohen Law provide a free initial consultation to help injury victims understand the circumstances of the accident and guide the potential client on the right course of action.
• Investigation: Your Florida car accident lawyer at Cohen and Cohen Law will conduct a thorough investigation to gather and preserve evidence that supports the case. This will include the police report, which may include details indicating reckless driving or traffic laws broken by the other driver, or may otherwise help to highlight other facts that can be used to prove they were the at-fault party.
• Assessment of Your Damages: Our Florida car accident lawyers help in quantifying your damages incurred due to the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Legal Guidance: Our car accident lawyers offer legal advice and guidance throughout the process, helping clients understand their rights and the legal options available to them.
• Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Our Florida car accident attorneys negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of our clients to seek fair compensation. It is important to have your attorney handle communications with the insurance adjuster, as accident attorneys can anticipate the common tactics that adjusters use against claimants to deny or minimize an insurance claim. We can handle issues that may arise with PIP, your own auto or health insurance, or the at-fault driver’s insurance company following a car crash in Florida. If a fair settlement cannot be negotiated with the insurance company, we will pursue a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf.
• Representation in Court: If the case goes to court, your Florida auto accident lawyer team will represent you, presenting evidence to support your claim and pursue the compensation you need.

Auto accident victims in Florida should consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after an accident. We offer a free case evaluation with our Florida car accident attorneys at Cohen and Cohen Law so you can begin following your steps to recovery.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Cohen and Cohen Law to Evaluate Your Florida Auto Accident Case and Plan Your Strategy

Cohen and Cohen Law has represented thousands of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians over the last 50 years. Regardless of the location of your auto accident in Florida, our experienced attorneys will work to hold the negligent driver who caused your accident accountable while seeking appropriate compensation for your injuries and losses. We handle the negotiations with the auto insurance companies to pursue your interests, working according to a strategy tailored to your needs and the unique details of your case.

Contact our experienced Florida auto accident attorneys at Cohen and Cohen Law today by calling (800) 332-6436(800) 332-6436 or by filling out our online form to schedule your free initial consultation. You will retain access to your lawyer via their cell phone number. When you work with us, you will be treated like family.

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. We work on a contingency fee basis, so there is no fee unless we win.

Experience Matters — Serving Florida for Over 50 Years

Frequently-Asked Questions Regarding Auto Accidents in Florida

What should I do if I’m involved in an auto accident in Florida?

If you’re involved in an auto accident, it’s important to stay at the scene, ensure everyone is safe, report the accident to the police, gather information, document the scene, and seek medical attention. You will also need to report the accident to your insurance provider per your policy terms, but do not elaborate, and do not admit to any level of fault. Your attorney can handle insurance company communications past that point. Coordinate with an experienced Florida auto accident attorney to assess your options and determine your strategy.

What is Florida’s “No Fault” auto insurance law, and what is PIP (Personal Injury Protection) coverage?

Florida’s “No Fault” law requires that drivers carry PIP coverage, which pays toward one’s own medical treatments and lost wages as applicable to their needs following an accident. Regardless of who caused the accident, each driver’s own insurance will cover that driver’s own injuries up to a certain limit. Your auto accident attorney can guide you regarding PIP and additional insurance claims.

How does Florida auto insurance work in a car accident and related injury claims?

Under Florida’s “No Fault” law, your own insurance will cover your injuries up to a certain limit, regardless of who was at fault. If your injuries are severe, you may be able to sue the other driver for additional compensation. An experienced Florida auto accident attorney can assess your case and help you plan your next steps to seek appropriate recovery.