FAQ

DO I HAVE A CASE?

Determining whether you have a viable personal injury case requires a legal analysis of several key factors. These include whether another party owed you a duty of care, whether that duty was breached through negligence or misconduct, and whether that breach directly caused your injuries and resulting damages. Damages may include medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and future medical needs.

Many potential clients are uncertain about their claims because liability may not be immediately clear, injuries may not appear severe at first, or insurance companies may suggest the claim lacks merit. A consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney allows for a thorough review of accident reports, medical records, insurance policies, and other relevant evidence to determine whether legal action is appropriate and how best to proceed.

SHOULD I SPEAK TO A LAWYER AFTER AN ACCIDENT?

Yes. Consulting with a personal injury attorney shortly after an accident is strongly advisable. Early involvement allows counsel to preserve evidence, identify responsible parties, and ensure that your rights are protected from the outset. Evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, vehicle damage, and electronic data may be lost or altered if not promptly secured.

Additionally, insurance companies often initiate contact soon after an accident and may request recorded statements or offer early settlements. Without legal guidance, injured individuals may unknowingly make statements or accept offers that undervalue their claims. An attorney can manage communications with insurers and provide informed guidance at every stage of the process.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO HIRE A PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY?

Our firm represents clients on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront attorney’s fees or hourly charges. Legal fees are only collected if compensation is recovered through settlement or verdict.

This arrangement aligns the firm’s interests with those of the client and allows individuals to pursue claims without financial hardship. The contingency fee structure ensures access to legal representation regardless of financial circumstances and eliminates the risk of paying attorney’s fees without a successful outcome.

WHO PAYS FOR CASE COSTS, AND ARE THOSE COSTS INCLUDED IN THE CONTINGENCY FEE?

Personal injury litigation often involves costs such as court filing fees, medical record retrieval, deposition expenses, expert witness fees, and other case-related expenditures. Our firm typically advances these costs during the course of representation so clients are not required to pay out of pocket while the case is pending.

These costs are separate from the attorney’s contingency fee and are generally reimbursed from the recovery at the conclusion of the case. All costs and fee arrangements are disclosed in writing and explained thoroughly prior to representation.

HOW MUCH IS MY CASE WORTH?

The value of a personal injury claim is determined by evaluating both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages may include medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and future loss of earning capacity. Non-economic damages may include pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Additional considerations include the severity and permanence of the injury, liability issues, comparative fault, and available insurance coverage. Because each case is unique, an experienced attorney must conduct a detailed evaluation to provide an informed assessment of potential value.

HOW LONG WILL MY CASE TAKE?

The timeline for resolving a personal injury case varies widely depending on factors such as the nature of the accident, the extent of injuries, the length of medical treatment, and whether liability is disputed. Some cases resolve through settlement within several months, while others require litigation and may take longer to conclude.

It is often necessary to wait until medical treatment is complete or the long-term prognosis is known before pursuing resolution. This approach ensures that all damages are accurately documented and fairly compensated.

WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT?

After a traffic accident, immediate medical attention is critical, even if injuries are not immediately apparent. Prompt treatment not only protects your health but also creates important medical documentation. The accident should be reported to law enforcement, and all relevant information should be gathered if it can be done safely.

It is important to avoid discussing the accident in detail with insurance companies or on social media. Consulting with an attorney early can help ensure that evidence is preserved and that your claim is handled properly from the outset.

WHAT IF I WAS PARTIALLY AT FAULT FOR THE ACCIDENT?

Florida applies a comparative negligence standard, which allows injured parties to recover compensation even if they are partially responsible for the accident. However, any recovery may be reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned.

Fault determinations can be complex and are often disputed by insurance companies. An attorney can analyze accident evidence, challenge unfair fault allocations, and advocate for a fair assessment of responsibility.

HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO FILE A PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM IN FLORIDA?

Florida law imposes strict statutes of limitations for filing personal injury claims. These deadlines vary depending on the type of claim and the parties involved. Failure to file within the applicable timeframe may result in the permanent loss of the right to pursue compensation.

Consulting with an attorney promptly ensures that deadlines are identified and met, and that the claim is preserved.

SHOULD I SPEAK TO THE INSURANCE COMPANY?

Insurance adjusters are trained to investigate claims in a manner that protects their company’s financial interests. Statements provided without legal guidance may be used to challenge liability, minimize damages, or deny coverage.

Once represented by counsel, all communications with insurance companies can be handled by your attorney. This allows for accurate and strategic presentation of your claim while protecting you from unnecessary risk.

WILL MY CASE GO TO COURT?

While many personal injury cases are resolved through negotiated settlements, litigation may be necessary when a fair resolution cannot be achieved. Preparing every case as though it will proceed to trial strengthens the client’s position during negotiations.

Our firm is prepared to represent clients through all stages of litigation if necessary and will provide guidance and communication throughout the process.

DISCLAIMER

This FAQ section is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance specific to your circumstances, consultation with a qualified attorney is recommended.