Best Car Accident Lawyers in Lauderhill, FL

FAQs

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

  954-497-4700 is the non-emergency contact number of the Lauderhill Police Department.

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

  You can make a request for records through various channels, including in-person, over the phone, or via email. The Records Management Unit is open to the public from Monday to Thursday, between 8 AM and 6 PM, and can be contacted at 954-497-4700.

• What are the types of damages you can recover from a car accident in Lauderhill?

  Some recoverable damages include:

  • hospital and medication costs
  • pain and suffering
  • lost wages and benefits
  • vehicle repair or replacement
  • lost enjoyment of life
  • emergency room treatment and transport costs
  • direct or out-of-pocket expenses

  To prove the damages and determine the value of your injury accident claim, a Lauderhill car accident attorney can assist in compiling the necessary documentation.

• What are the common causes of car crashes in Lauderhill?

  Distracted driving, driving while tired, aggressive and reckless driving, and failure to see or heed road signs and signals are some causes of accidents in the Lauderhill area. Motorists also fall victim to mechanical failure, including tire blowouts; inexperienced drivers; driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol; and bad weather. While certain factors leading to car crashes are preventable, others are due to natural occurrences or inevitable situations such as road hazards.

• Can you still claim for car accident expenses that exceed the PIP coverage in Lauderhill?

  Yes, you can still claim for car accident expenses that exceed the PIP coverage. If you’re forced out of work for a longer period and miss out on a lot of money, a Lauderhill car accident lawyer can help you claim your PIP coverage and hold other road users accountable for additional expenses. They can also help you get compensation for lost wages and medical bills, even when the guilty party does not have insurance.

• How do you establish the liability of the other driver in a Lauderhill car crash?

  To establish liability for injuries in a Lauderhill car crash, an investigation will be conducted to gather evidence, including accident scene photos, witness statements, accident reports, toxicology test results, and expert opinions. This evidence will be used to document the claim, and it will be submitted to the at-fault party's insurance company.

• How much compensation can you recover from a car crash in Lauderhill?

  The amount of compensation you can recover from a car crash in Lauderhill will depend on several factors, including the severity of property damage, injuries sustained, and the impact the accident has had on your life. Factors such as long-term disabilities, medical care, lost work time, and fault of drivers involved are also considered. Victims with severe injuries and long-term inability to work or support their families have the potential for substantial financial compensation in the claims process.

• 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.