Fatal Car Accident Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fatal Car Accident Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale, FL

All it takes is a split second and a motorist’s negligence can destroy your life or that of your loved one. In addition, since insurance companies are in the business of maximizing their profits, insurance adjusters will most likely resort to underhand tactics to trick you into settlement offers that are below what you are legally entitled in terms of coverage and compensation for injuries, medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and burial expenses.

Our team of fatal car accident experts in Fort Lauderdale, FL is committed to protecting victims from low-ball settlement offers from insurance companies. We achieve this by holding skillful negotiations with insurance companies and, whenever an insurer fails to offer an adequate compensation package, we do not hesitate to file a case in court. In fact, our team starts preparing for litigation as soon as a client reports a fatal accident case to us.

Pursue a Fair Settlement – Calculating a Fatal Accident Claim

Every victim of a negligence-based vehicle accident is entitled to fair and proportionate compensation.

Step 1: Summing Monetary Damages

Estimating the value of a car accident claim and all of the monetary losses that accrue from the accident is our first step in determining the worth of a claim. Here are some items included:

  • Hospital and emergency room bills
  • The cost of treatment, diagnostic tests, and physician’s bills
  • Medical devices purchased for an injury and prescribed medicines
  • Medical-related transport costs
  • Costs for visiting a mental health specialist due to an accident-related condition
  • Lost wages
  • Vehicle repair expenses
  • Any other accrued out-of-pocket expenses

Step 2: Summing Non-Physical Damages

Your car accident claim should also include demands for compensation for your pain and suffering. These are referred to as non-economic or non-tangible claims and are normally calculated using a multiplier. There is no constant multiplier to this, but the amount you get will depend on:

  • The extent of your injuries
  • Age – younger people qualify for more compensation for long-term injuries
  • Whether the accident caused disfigurement or a disability
  • The impact the disability has on your life and relationships

“Serious Injury” Threshold in Fort Lauderdale

Florida law entitles accident victims to collect compensation as long as certain criteria are met. This is referred to as the “serious injury threshold” and applies when the victim experiences at least one of the following from the accident:

  • Significant disfigurement
  • Bone fractures
  • Significant restriction of a body function
  • Permanent limitation of the function of a body part or organ
  • Total or partial disability for a minimum of 90 days

Should any of the above conditions apply to you, you can file a third-party claim against the negligent motorist. Unlike Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, these claims allow you to file for compensation for general damages such as pain, suffering, and emotional distress.

Are Settlements for Accidents Taxable in Fort Lauderdale?

Not all accident settlements are taxable in Fort Lauderdale. Some damages such as pain and suffering are taxable. However, federal laws offer protection to people seeking economic damages for injuries. Therefore, you will not be required to pay any taxes for medical bill compensations or for lost wages. For a better understanding of settlements, contact us.

Understanding the Fatal Accident Lawsuit Process

While the hours, days, and even weeks after a fatal accident might be a confusing and difficult time, your actions after the crash will have a significant effect on your claim. If you are considering a lawsuit against the responsible party, you should do so as soon as possible.

Florida personal injury claims are governed by the statute of limitations and they give the victim a maximum period of four years to file a claim. However, you should not wait until the last minute to file a claim. Starting litigation early will enhance your chances of winning. You will also likely win more in compensation. Also, keep in mind that to pursue a PIP claim with your own insurance company, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Fort Lauderdale

Inform the police and seek emergency medical help. If possible, do not leave the accident scene until police arrive since leaving could amount to a criminal offense. Contact us as soon as you can so that we can initiate the claim process for you. We will do so as soon as you provide us with details of your accident.

Our legal experts will handle all negotiations for you, so avoid accepting or even discussing settlement deals with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. We will help you collect details and file a claim backed by proof and evidence such as:

  • The at-fault driver’s insurance information
  • Names and addresses of involved parties
  • License plate numbers
  • Mobile phone numbers
  • Eyewitness reports
  • Photos of the accident scene
  • Police report
  • Accident reconstructionist testimonies
  • An injury or pain journal
  • Medical records or your doctor’s prognosis

Talk to Our Fort Lauderdale Fatal Car Accident Experts Today

Call us at 305-928-2909 today. We are here to help. Our attorneys will handle your claim in a personalized way so that you are able to get through the difficult time after a fatal car accident and win the compensation you deserve. Fill in your accident details. Schedule a free consultation and let us handle everything for you.