Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lake Worth, FL

FAQs

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

  You can reach (561) 688-3400 to report non-emergency situations in Lake Worth.

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

  You can obtain a copy of police accident reports in Lake Worth by filing a request at West Palm Beach Police Department Records Division. You need to provide the following information:

  • Case number
  • Date and location of the accident
  • Names of people involved

• Do you need to report a minor car accident in Lake Worth?

  Yes. According to Florida's law, individuals who have been hurt in a minor car accident in Lake Worth must report their injuries and vehicle damage to the nearest law enforcement authority if no police officer is present. Under the 2018 Florida Statute 316.061, it is an offense if the involved parties do not report the incident. They will commit a second-degree minor crime and pay a fine of up to $500 if the law finds them guilty.

• How can you determine if your Lake Worth car accident case is valid?

  If you have been hurt in a car accident in Lake Worth, you have the right to recover compensation for economic and non-economic damages. It is recommended to work with personal injury lawyers to evaluate various factors that can help you pursue a car accident claim. You and your legal team must know the liability of the other driver who caused the accident and prove that you have sustained injuries or that other existing conditions were aggravated due to the crash.

• Can a passenger be held accountable for a car accident in Lake Worth?

  Passengers can be held liable for a Lake Worth car accident if their actions influenced the driver, who is in charge of operating the vehicle. They can be at fault if they interfere with the driver's ability to operate the vehicle. Some instances include the passenger placing a hand over the driver's eyes, distracting them verbally, or allowing them to drive while intoxicated.

• Are there any exceptions to the deadline for filing a car accident lawsuit in Lake Worth?

  Yes. Although Lake Worth follows Florida's four-year window for filing a car accident lawsuit, the deadline for minors and mentally incompetent individuals are extended. For individuals who are not aware of or are not diagnosed with an injury until a later date, the statute of limitations can also be extended.

• What are the penalties for hit-and-run car accident violations in Lake Worth?

  If a driver leaves the accident scene, they will be facing third-degree felony violations that involve five years of probation and a fine of $5,000. In hit-and-run car accidents that lead to death, drivers will be facing up to 30 years of imprisonment and a fine of $10,000. Lastly, for hit-and-run accidents that involve property damage, a penalty of $50 and up to 60 days of imprisonment will be given to negligent drivers.

• 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.