Best Car Accident Lawyers in Sunrise

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Sunrise, Florida?

  (954) 764-4357 is the non-emergency contact number for the City of Sunrise Police Department.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Sunrise, Florida?

  Copies of police reports can be requested from the Sunrise Police Department’s Records Unit at the City of Sunrise Public Safety Building. The Records Unit can be reached at 954-746-3500.

• How long do victims have to file a lawsuit after a car accident in Sunrise?

  Sunrise follows the statute of limitations under Florida Statute of Limitations § 95.11, giving car accident victims four years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. However, those involved in car accidents caused by a state or local government vehicle must file a claim or a lawsuit within three years of the accident. For wrongful death cases, family members have to file a claim within two years from the date the victim died.

• What are the common causes of car accidents in Sunrise?

  Most car accidents in Sunrise are caused by driver-related errors and negligence like speeding, reckless driving, tailgating, illegal turns, failing to yield the right of way, and unsafe lane changes. Other driver-related causes include distracted driving, intoxicated driving, and inadequate vehicle maintenance. Additionally, potential Sunrise car accident causes include poor road conditions, adverse weather conditions, and car/auto part design or manufacturing defects.

• Are car accidents common in Sunrise?

  Sunrise is located in Broward County, where approximately 41,377 crashes occurred in 2021. The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reported 263 deaths and 15,705 injuries. The most dangerous intersections in the county are (1) West Oakland Park Blvd and West University, (2) Sunrise Blvd and Flamingo Road, and (3) Oakland Park and Nob Hill Road.

• Will you still receive compensation if the at-fault driver in a Sunrise car crash is uninsured or underinsured?

  Yes, Sunrise car accident victims can still recover compensation even if the negligent driver is uninsured or underinsured. This is due to Florida being a no-fault state, where victims can recover payments from insurance companies to cover medical expenses and lost wages under personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. If the PIP is not enough for the compensation, then the victim can file a suit against the at-fault driver directly or against their insurer.

• How can you prove negligence in a car accident in Sunrise?

  The police and insurance companies will determine who is at fault in car accidents in Sunrise. It is important to have proof that shows the other party is liable, to hold them accountable for the victim’s injuries under Florida Statute § 768. Car accident attorneys in Sunrise can help prove the negligence of the at-fault party by looking into the evidence surrounding the accident. Examples of negligence include speeding, texting or answering the phone while driving, ignoring safety signals and traffic signs, and reckless behavior.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.