Whether you are dealing with a minor fender-bender or a serious crash, the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. A Weston personal injury lawyer can help you file a claim and recover damages.
Viles & Beckman has won more than $100 million for our clients. If you were injured in a car crash that wasn’t your fault, a car accident lawyer in Weston can help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
The Role of a Weston Car Accident Lawyer
Legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
A Weston car accident lawyer can:
- Collect evidence: A lawyer can gather police reports, surveillance footage, and other documentation that supports your claim.
- Calculate your damages: A lawyer can calculate both your economic and non-economic damages and make sure they are all included in your claim.
- Negotiate with insurers: Insurance companies do not have your best interests in mind after a crash. A lawyer can handle all conversations with adjusters and push for a fair settlement.
- Provide representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, a lawyer can take your case to court and advocate for you in front of a judge or jury.
Expect More, Receive More: Legal Support That Feels Like Family
Types of Compensation You May Pursue
If you were injured in a car accident, you may be eligible to recover various types of compensation, such as:
- Medical expenses: You can recover the cost of hospital visits, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment related to the accident.
- Lost wages: You can seek compensation for income you have lost due to the crash, as well as reduced earning capacity if your injuries have long-term effects.
- Pain and suffering: You can pursue damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall impact of the accident on your quality of life.
- Property damage: You can recover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Punitive damages: In rare cases, you can recover additional damages meant to punish the at-fault party for especially reckless or malicious behavior.
What is the Time Limit for Filing a Car Accident Claim in Florida?
According to Florida Statute § 95.11, you typically have two years from the date of a car accident to file a lawsuit in Florida. If you miss this deadline, you will likely lose your right to pursue compensation altogether.
A car accident attorney in Weston can help you file your claim on time.
How is Fault Determined in Florida?
Florida uses a modified comparative negligence system to determine fault in car accident cases. Under this rule, if you are found to be more than 50% at fault for a crash, you will be barred from recovering damages.
If you are found to be 50% or less at fault, you will be able to recover compensation. However, your total award will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if your damages add up to $100,000, and you are found to be 25% at fault for the accident, your compensation would be reduced to $75,000.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Weston
Most car accidents are caused by preventable behavior.
Common causes of crashes in Weston include:
- Distracted driving: Texting, eating, or using in-car technology takes a driver’s attention away from the road and increases the likelihood of a crash.
- Speeding: Driving above the speed limit reduces a driver’s reaction time and makes accidents more severe when they occur.
- Reckless driving: Aggressive behaviors like tailgating, weaving through traffic, or ignoring traffic signals put everyone at risk.
- Driving under the influence: Alcohol or drugs impair a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making collisions far more likely.
- Weather conditions: Heavy rain, which is common in Florida, can reduce visibility and create hazardous road conditions.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Weston
What you do after a car accident can affect your ability to recover compensation.
Be sure to:
- Call law enforcement: A police report provides an official account of the accident, which will be valuable to your claim.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries (if possible).
- Exchange information: Collect contact and insurance information from all parties involved in the accident.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, you should get checked by a medical professional to identify hidden injuries and create a record of your condition.
- Avoid admitting fault: Statements made at the scene can be used against you later, so keep your comments factual and brief.
- Consult a lawyer: An attorney can review your case and break down your legal options.
Speak to a Car Accident Attorney in Weston
A car accident can affect your health, your finances, and your career. If you were injured in an accident caused by a negligent driver, a Weston car accident attorney from Viles & Beckman can guide you through the claims process and help you obtain the compensation you need to move forward.
Book a free consultation to start putting together your claim.