Death is a natural part of life that is expected in due time and ultimately unavoidable. The immediate thoughts and feelings we have in the wake of a death, however, may be different depending on our relationship to the person we have lost and the circumstances under which they died. While people who have very elderly or sickly loved ones may have time to prepare for an impending loss, death that occurs suddenly and unexpectedly can be a significant shock. Suffering the unexpected loss of a loved one can present unique challenges to a person’s healing process and cause an overwhelming amount of grief. The unexpected death of a loved one can occur in many different ways—leaving friends, family members, spouses, children, and others left to process the emotional aftermath. If you’ve suffered the unexpected loss of a loved one due to an act of violence, an accident or other type of unexpected incident, here are some ways to begin emotional healing after your loss. Learn what grief looks like after the unexpected loss of a loved one, healthy ways for processing grief, and constructive ways you may handle the aftermath of the accident that caused your loved one’s untimely passing. How To Process The Grief Of An Unexpected Death Grieving the death of a loved one is painful regardless of whether it was expected. But losing the opportunity to prepare for this type of loss or say goodbye to a loved one can pose additional challenges. If you’ve lost a friend, child, parent, partner, or other significant person in your life as a result of an unexpected injury, you may be grappling with a wide range of emotions. When it comes to the grieving process, there is no singular or correct way to cope with loss. The most important steps you can take to help yourself heal involve: treating yourself with compassion seeking support gradually discovering what your healing process needs to look like for you Ways To Heal From The Loss Of A Loved One Grieving the loss of a loved one, and healing from that loss, is a process that looks different for everyone. There is no timeline for how long it takes to process this type of loss. If you’ve lost a loved one unexpectedly due to disease, an accident, or act of violence—here are some steps you can take to begin your process of emotional healing: 1. Reach Out For Support No one should be left to feel as though they should or need to grieve the loss of life alone. Feelings of depression, anger, low mood, and shame can be common emotions felt during the grieving process. These emotions can make many people feel vulnerable and maybe even embarrassed to be in such a state around others, causing people to avoid others and retreat within themselves. Others may feel urged to isolate from others whom they feel won’t be able to understand their loss, or wish to avoid the exhaustion of simply being around or interacting with other people. Needing some time to collect and process your thoughts in your own space and time is valid. However, it is important to be able to surround yourself with others who can support you, physically or emotionally, during this time. Reach out to people who feel safe to you. Whether that’s others who have also been touched by this loss, or seeking the comfort of family members or friends who can hold you, talk to you, or simply be in a space with you as you navigate this loss. 2. Take Care Of Your Needs Tending to your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs during a time of grief is essential. Grief can take its toll on both the mind and body, causing fatigue, sleeplessness, and changes in appetite, among other physical signs of loss. Although we tend to think of the mind and body as separate, when it comes to grief, the reality is that the two are inextricably connected, requiring that both are attended to with similar weight and compassion for holistic—or ‘whole-self’—healing. Attend to your most basic needs, such as drinking enough water, eating a balanced diet, and simple tasks such as taking a shower. This can be incredibly important to keeping yourself well and preventing harm to yourself as you process your loss. You might also find it helpful to try restorative activities such as meditation, yoga, taking a walk, or looking internally to your faith. Many people may find themselves experiencing a disconnect with their faith or spirituality in the aftermath of an unexpected loss, which can create even stronger feelings of loneliness or uncertainty. Even if it doesn’t feel particularly good or helpful to ensure you’re staying hydrated or getting enough rest, caring for your most vital needs are some of the best ways in which you can show yourself compassion during this time. 3. Give Yourself Time And Permission To Process Your Grief One of the most important parts of the grieving and healing processes is acceptance. Accept that the wide range of emotions you may feel throughout this process—from shock, to sadness, anger, and hopelessness—are valid. Accept that you may not be in a mental space to return to your usual routine as normal, and it’s okay to adapt your activities according to what you’re needing emotionally and socially at this time. Give yourself permission to grieve, to be at a loss for words, to cry, to scream, and to feel happiness when it arises. Grief is commonly discussed as happening in five stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. However, the grieving process is not always linear, and your grief might not look like someone else’s grief. If you skip over one of these stages, or return to a stage of anger after a period of depression, this does not mean you’re moving backwards. Reactions to loss can vary and may be influenced by a variety of personal and environmental factors. 4. Consider Seeking Professional Help Surrounding yourself with friends, family, and others who bring you comfort is important in the wake of loss. However, there are some aspects of grief and healing that may be best explored with a professional grief counselor. A professional grief counselor may be able to offer new perspectives and insight for individuals who feel lost, confused, or are suffering psychological troubles such as depression or trauma flashbacks after loss. A counselor may also be able to offer guidance on finding healthy ways to cope with certain thoughts, feelings, or other hardships that are troubling you as a result of your loss. 5. Find Outlets For Meaning And Expression Dealing with grief and embarking on your process towards healing can be the most challenging experience of your life—and it can also be a time for self-reflection. In recognition of this, some models depicting the basic stages of grief have begun including a sixth stage—finding meaning. Finding meaning can be defined according to whatever feels most true to your needs and your experience. This can mean finding meaning from your loss, or finding outlets for expression or activities that give you a sense of purpose as you consider your future without your loved one. For many, the healing process can be a time for exploration, experimentation, and an opportunity to truly reconnect with your own personal values. These are concepts that can be explored with a counselor, with loved ones, or on your own through activities such as: journaling art music volunteering travel 6. Determine What Your Healing Process Needs To Look Like For You Everyone has their own needs when it comes to what they need to heal from a major loss. The healing process of a parent who has lost their child may not look the same as that of a sibling who has lost her sister. Even couples may not grieve the loss of their child in the same way. People can need more or less time to grieve, benefit from different coping strategies, and may have different ideas about what steps they feel they need to take to fully grieve their loss. For instance, under circumstances where a loved one’s death has occurred suddenly and violently due to an accident or act of violence, seeking justice for this loss may be identified as an important part of a person’s healing. List of Common Reasons People Pass Away Suddenly Unexpected death is, unfortunately, a common occurrence. This is why it’s helpful to understand both ways you may be able to deal with grief after an unexpected loss and what options you may have for recourse if your loved one died in an accident or incident which could have been prevented. In the United States, the three leading causes of death in humans are heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injuries. Although most individuals who have conditions such as heart disease and cancer are generally aware of their risk for a reduced lifespan, those who die due to unintentional—or unexpected—injuries are not. And neither are the people they leave behind in the aftermath of a fatal injury or accident. Some of the most common ways people die unexpectedly include: Suicide Thousands of people in the United States die by suicide each year, leaving suicide survivors—those who care deeply about the deceased—to grapple with the emotional aftermath of their loss. While the assumption is that most people who die by suicide are outwardly depressed or suicidal, this is not the case for everyone. Many people who are suicidal will try to hide the extent to which they feel depressed, lost, or trapped within themselves from their loved ones by deflecting or pretending they’re fine on the surface. Suicide can also be circumstantial, with some people feeling driven to suicide as a result of significant trauma, symptoms of mental illness, or a loss of their own.The risk factors for suicide vary across different cultural contexts, age groups, and other identifying characteristics. Medical Malpractice Medical malpractice is a term that refers to the negligent action or inaction of a medical professional that violates medical standards of care and results in patient injury. According to a 2016 study out of Johns Hopkins University, medical errors are the cause of an estimated 251,000 U.S. deaths each year. This exceeds the number of deaths caused by conditions such as stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes. Common causes of medical malpractice-related deaths include: missing, delayed, or wrong diagnosis surgical errors defective medical devices pharmaceutical errors anesthesia errors failure to properly address pregnancy complications neglecting vital signs neglecting patient history The fatal effects of a medical error, or instance of medical malpractice, may be sudden, or occur days, weeks, or even months after the instance of mistreatment occurred. Loss Of A Newborn Infant mortality is a significant tragedy that impacts a startling number of parents in the United States each year, largely as a result of pregnancy and birthing complications. Losing a newborn due to birth injury or other disease that develops in the early stages of life can be a traumatic loss for parents, especially when the death is sudden and unexpected. The most common causes of death in infants include deaths due to birth defects, injuries (e.g. suffocation), maternal pregnancy complications, sudden infant death syndrome, and preterm birth. Drug And Alcohol Overdose Substance abuse and addiction are a significant health problem in the United States, contributing to tens of thousands of overdose deaths each year. In recent years, the majority of drug overdose deaths in the U.S. have involved opioids such as fentanyl, OxyContin, and hydrocodone. The opioid epidemic has taken a tragic toll on the lives of millions of Americans, particularly in rural America where access to opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment and affordable medical care is scarce and lacking. In addition, many overdose deaths involve the use of multiple drugs or substances, such as alcohol, prescription drugs, methamphetamine (meth), and the illicit opiate heroin. Motor Vehicle Accidents Car, motorcycle, and large truck accidents claim the lives of over 38,000 people per year in the United States, leaving millions more injured. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that many motor vehicle accidents involve the influence of drugs or alcohol, driving at excessive speeds, and failure to follow traffic laws, which can have costly and life-threatening consequences for all motorists involved. Behaviors such as texting and driving have also been associated with a large number of motor vehicle deaths. Workplace Accidents The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a total of 5,250 fatal work injuries suffered in 2018—a slight increase from the year prior. Workers in industries such as construction, agriculture, machinery, and agriculture experience some of the highest rates of workplace accidents and deaths, leaving partners, children, and other loved ones to grieve this loss in the wake. The majority of fatal workplace injuries in the United States occur due to falls, vehicle accidents, violence by other injuries or persons, and exposure to harmful substances such as harsh chemicals, and the non-medical use of drugs and alcohol. Natural Disasters Natural disasters such as hurricanes, fires, typhoons, and other storms can have devastating consequences to individuals and affected communities, often leaving the loss of more than life in their wake. In the immediate aftermath of a natural disaster, the loss of a loved one may often be even further compounded by property loss, injury, and broader effects within the local community and economy. Unexpected Death Due To COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Over the course of January to April 2020, the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic has claimed the lives of over 56,000 individuals in the United States alone—more than any other country worldwide. One of the most troubling aspects of COVID-19 related deaths is just how suddenly and monumentally the pandemic has radically hit the nation, leaving the country on unstable grounds economically, and causing an immeasurable level of grief for individuals who have lost their loved ones due to complications of the life-threatening disease. As the globe continues to experience devastation from the coronavirus, surviving loved ones may be grappling to identify their emotional needs and access the support they need to cope with their sudden and unexpected loss. The Difference Between Unexpected Death, Accidental Death, And Wrongful Death There are different terms when it comes to unexpected deaths, and knowing the difference can help grieving loved ones compartmentalize what happened. This in turn will help them process grief and, perhaps, guide them in how to move forward. Accidental deaths are a form of an unexpected death that occurs due to accidental causes, such as a car accident, motorcycle accident, fire, or other event that was not considered death by natural causes. While accidental deaths are always devastating, they may have been either preventable or truly accidental. Preventable accidental deaths can also be called wrongful deaths, meaning the death was caused due to another person’s or party’s carelessness, negligence, or failure to act. Wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to an incident that could have been avoided, such as a drunk driver crossing the center line and killing the person in the opposing car. As frustrating as it may be, accidental deaths may be no one’s fault. In this case, processing grief will be focused (at least in part) on accepting this fact. Wrongful deaths include a responsible party, and healing from grief in the case of a wrongful death could mean bringing that party to justice. How To Begin Emotionally Healing After A Loved One Dies Unexpectedly If you’ve just lost your loved one, you’re likely overwhelmed, both with emotions and grief and with not knowing how to cope with what you’re feeling. The best thing you can do first is give yourself grace. Be gentle with yourself and others affected by this loss as you each come to terms with the loss and begin to handle your grief. Since emotional healing is not a one-size-fits-all process, it’s best to understand that you will have both good and bad days as you adjust to life without your loved one, and that this is both acceptable and expected. When you are ready, reach out for support. But before you do, know that doing things as simple as maintaining conversations with others, especially those not affected, can be emotionally draining after such a loss. Give yourself time to adjust, and focus solely on your most bare, basic needs until you are ready to handle more. Most importantly, confront your grief, find ways to express it, and find healthy outlets for managing it. When the time is right and as you regain your emotional strength, you may be ready to pursue justice, deal with life decisions, and take on your own life goals again. Until that time, find ways to honor your loved one by taking care of yourself, those closest to you, and allowing yourself the space and resources necessary to heal.
Unexpected incidents such as house fires and raging wildfires can pose significant dangers to individuals, families, homes, and personal belongings. Wildfires across the country, spanning from California to Florida, have forced many people to evacuate their homes and face the financial repercussions of the smoke and fire damage wreaked upon their properties. Fires can also begin within the home, causing minor to major damage by way of flames, smoke, soot, as well as materials used to put out the flames, such as water and other chemicals. Personal property can be destroyed in a matter of minutes, and the emotional toll of losing personal property to a fire can last a lifetime. Submitting an insurance claim for fire and smoke damage coverage is the primary way in which insured homeowners can seek compensation for repair, replacement, and relocation costs in the wake of a serious fire. Securing coverage, however, is not always easy. If you’re having issues receiving payment from your fire insurance carrier for insured losses, our insurance recovery lawyers can help you by investigating your claim and determining your eligibility for legal recourse. Understanding Fire And Smoke Damage Coverage Fire and smoke damage coverage is a type of insurance that can insure property owners for personal and financial losses sustained in the wake of a fire. This may include coverage for damage to personal belongings as well as structural property damage. Standard homeowners insurance policies generally offer varying amounts of coverage for covered perils, which may include incidents such as home or wildfires. Some insurance policies may include terms and conditions that disqualify certain losses from insurance coverage, depending on the cause of the fire and other factors. After sustaining fire and smoke damage, homeowners insurance may cover losses such as: outdoor foliage landscaping outdoor structures such as garages, sheds, and gazebos furniture electronics appliances clothing structural damage temporary relocation expenses (e.g. hotel expenses, restaurant bills) Business property insurance may offer similar forms of coverage for establishments that sustain property damage as a result of a fire. Business owners who are forced to temporarily close their doors or reduce their business hours due to fire-related damage may be eligible to seek additional business interruption coverage to compensate for lost income. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business property owner seeking coverage for fire damage, the types of coverage and coverage limits may vary depending on the type of policy you have and the terms and conditions listed within your policy. What To Do If Your Insurance Company Denies Your Fire And Smoke Damage Claim According to the U.S. Fire Administration, residential fires—the most common types of fires prompting property damage claims—result in billions of dollars of total losses in the U.S. each year, leaving property damage, injury, and death in their wake. The primary causes of residential and non-residential fires include: cooking open flames electrical malfunctions appliances other unintentional causes Filing an insurance claim for fire and smoke damage coverage is the primary way in which individuals who have suffered serious losses can secure compensation to help them recover from the financial burden of fire-related losses. After submitting a fire insurance claim, policyholders are legally owed payment for covered losses within a state-mandated window of time—typically between 14 to 90 days. However, there are some insurance companies that may deny claims for coverage, or underpay policyholders for damage, creating an unnecessary and unjust financial burden for those who have filed legitimate claims. If you’re having issues receiving payment for a fire and smoke damage coverage and wish to dispute your claim, here’s what you can do: Review Your Insurance Policy Before contacting your insurance company to dispute your claim, review your insurance policy to confirm your fire and smoke damage coverage. Insurance companies may deny fire and smoke damage claims for policyholders who have filed for losses not covered under their insurance policies. In addition, consider checking whether you have exceeded your limits for coverage or whether there are certain deductibles you must meet before being able to file claims for fire and smoke damage coverage. Consider Common Reasons For Denied Claims There are several common reasons insurance companies may reject claims for fire and smoke damage-related coverage. Although receiving a denied claim can be frustrating, your insurance company may only reverse their decision if their denial of coverage was made due to an error on their behalf or due to a false allegation of fraud. Reasons why insurance companies may deny fire and smoke damage claims include: missing or late premium payments coverage limits have been met or exceeded lack of evidence or documentation for losses filing for losses that aren’t included in your coverage filing a claim past the deadline stated in your policy Not all insurance claims decisions are made in good faith. If you suspect your insurance company has wrongfully denied or underpaid your claim, you may request an additional review of your claim to investigate for an adjuster error. Disputing an insurance claim is a legal right you are owed as a policyholder. If your insurer is refusing to review your claim or is delaying payment, a lawyer can help you take legal action to hold your insurer accountable for compensating you for insured losses. Our Featured Case Results Personal Injury Property Loss and Damage Claims Construction Negligence Labor Law Product Liability Medical Malpractice Car Accident 1 $47.4M Personal Injury Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 2 $42M Motor Vehicle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $9.55M Firearm Injury Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $5.25M Hospital Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $4M Personal Injury Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $4.2M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $2.5M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $1.5M Industrial Explosion Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.1M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $3.9M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $2.4M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $2.3M Contractor Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.5M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $1.2M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $6.8M Race Discrimination Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $4.2M Whistleblower Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $4.0M Sexual Harassment Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $3.2M Nationality Discrimination Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $2,0M Sexual Harassment Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $5.3M Pharmaceutical Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $3.2M Product Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $1.3M Drug Company Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.2M Product Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $6.0M Medical Malpractice Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $5M Orthopedic Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $3M Gastroenterology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $2.25M Urology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 5 $1.7M Anesthesiology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 1 $42M Motor Vehicle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 2 $15M Motorcycle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $6.1M Motorcycle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $2.3M Car Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 5 $1.8M Truck Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. Find out if you have a case we could help you win Speak To a Specialist Why Do Some Insurance Companies Unfairly Deny Claims? Denying claims on baseless grounds or without a proper explanation are common examples of bad faith tactics used by some insurance companies to avoid paying individuals for covered losses. Insurance companies are regulated primarily under state laws, which serve to hold insurance companies accountable for properly investigating and paying out claims in a timely manner. As a bill that has been adopted in most states, the Unfair Claim Settlement Practices Act (USCPA) is a prime example of a law that serves to regulate insurance companies and protect policyholders from having their claims unjustly denied, underpaid, or otherwise mishandled. If you suspect your claim has been unjustly denied and has not been granted an additional review by your insurer, you may be eligible to take legal action against your insurer for unlawful mishandling. Additional ways some insurance companies may mishandle claims: undervaluing property damage delaying payment or investigation failing to provide an explanation for denied coverage refusing to review or investigate a claim allowing inadequately trained adjusters to handle claims ignoring evidence of property damage providing false or misleading information about your coverage false allegations of fraud or arson Many individuals who suffer property damage or property loss in a fire are already experiencing a great deal of stress and grief. Disputing a claim can be a taxing ordeal, adding to this burden. Hiring a lawyer to help you dispute a claim, or to help you file a bad faith insurance claim against your insurer, can offer significant benefit in helping you secure the compensation you’re owed under the terms and conditions of your insurance policy. Hiring A Lawyer To Help You Dispute A Claim Property insurance policies often contain complex legal language that can be difficult to parse through and understand without an extensive legal background. An experienced insurance recovery lawyer can serve as an effective ally in helping homeowners dispute unsatisfactory claims and investigate claims for evidence of bad faith tactics. At Florin|Roebig, our insurance recovery lawyers are committed to ensuring property owners who have suffered fire and smoke damage are able to secure the payment they are entitled to under their insurance policies. We have extensive experience helping clients who are in various stages of the dispute process, including individuals who have yet to file a dispute as well as those who are experiencing significant delays or unfair treatment from insurance company representatives. At Florin|Roebig, our insurance recovery lawyers can help you by: providing a free case evaluation to assess the details of your case explaining your legal rights as a policyholder investigating a claim for evidence of bad faith insurance tactics hiring experts to perform an unbiased assessment of your total property damage determining an estimated value for your insured losses handling communications with your insurance company fighting for a fair settlement on your behalf We Are Nationally Awarded Lawyers Contact Us Today For A Free Case Evaluation If you’ve suffered fire and smoke damage on your property and are having trouble receiving payment from your insurance carrier, our lawyers can assess your case and investigate your claim for evidence of unlawful mishandling by your insurer. Don’t wait to learn what our fire and smoke damage claims lawyers may be able to do for you. Contact Florin|Roebig today to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our top-rated lawyers to discuss the details of your case.
Several complications can occur during childbirth due to a natural course of events. However, there are also scenarios in which maternal and newborn harm can occur due to preventable errors made by physicians, nurses, or other members of the delivery team. This is known as medical malpractice, or medical negligence. Both mothers and newborns can be at risk for suffering harm during the childbirth process if the medical professionals attending to mother and child are not reasonably performing their duties per the medical standards of care. Birth injuries caused by medical negligence can have far-reaching consequences, causing serious or permanent damage to infant health, and resulting in significant financial, mental, and emotional strain for families. If you’re a parent of a young child or newborn whom you believe was injured during or shortly after birth at the fault of a negligent delivery team, you may be eligible for financial compensation. The lawyers of Florin|Roebig can help you file a claim to secure a fair settlement for medical malpractice for your child’s birth injury. Causes Of Birth Injuries In the United States, studies show that anywhere between 0.2 to 36 birth injuries occur for every 1,000 births. The extent of birth injuries—also called birth trauma—in hospitals can vary greatly depending on the quality of hospital care provided and several demographic factors. Although there are several ways in which a newborn can be injured—before, during, and shortly after birth—perhaps the most perverse cause is serious injuries that occur as a result of medical negligence. Birth injuries that occur as a result of medical negligence are preventable injuries that can have a long-lasting impact on the health and well-being of newborns and their parents. Common forms of medical negligence seen in birth injury cases include: failing to perform duties that any reasonable medical professional would carry out under the circumstances that led to the injury failing to properly monitor newborns during and shortly after birth neglecting to perform specialized testing for the mother during pregnancy failing to communicate any pregnancy or delivery issues to other doctors involved in the delivery room care failing to notice and address changes in the fetus’ condition failing to refer high-risk mothers to specialized providers for adequate care failing to properly diagnose and treat issues during pregnancy and birth, such as: umbilical cord entrapment maternal infections placental abruption premature rupture of the membranes other risks/health conditions for which a Cesarean-section (‘C-section’) procedure is recommended misuse of delivery instruments (e.g. forceps, vacuum) Delivery team health professionals such as nurses, doctors, and obstetricians who demonstrate some form of medical negligence through one or more of these circumstances during the labor or delivery process may be sued for negligence on account of failing to meet the medical standards of care. Medical professionals are required to adhere to a standard of care that protect the health and safety of patients. What can seem like a minor error by a nurse or physician in the moment can lead to a lifetime of grief, distress, and financial hardship for families. Types Of Birth Injuries There are various ways an infant can be injured during or shortly after birth. Birth injuries can vary widely in their severity and the extent of their impact on a baby’s short- and long-term health. The most common sites of birth-related injuries in newborns are the head, neck, and shoulders. However, a baby’s lower limbs, face, and abdomen may also be at risk for suffering harm, depending on how the injury occurs. Common types of birth injuries include: cerebral palsy brachial plexus palsy also known as Erb’s palsy (nerve damage) hypoxia (lack of oxygen to the brain) shoulder dystocia head trauma brain damage clavicle fracture internal hemorrhaging spinal cord injuries facial paralysis perinatal asphyxia In severe cases, negligent medical treatment during and shortly after the birthing process can also result in wrongful death. Any type of harm brought upon an innocent newborn can be a traumatic experience for a parent. If you have a child who you believe suffered injury at the fault of a healthcare provider or hospital, you may be able to seek compensation for economic and non-economic losses. Birth Injury Medical Malpractice Laws Birth injury claims and lawsuits fall under the category of medical malpractice—an area of law that is concerned with seeking damages for injuries or death sustained as a result of a breach in adhering to medical standards of care. Medical malpractice laws and the deadline for which parents have to file birth injury claims in the U.S. can vary depending on the state in which you live. Generally, parents who wish to file a birth injury claim or lawsuit are tasked with gathering enough evidence to support their claim of medical malpractice. This responsibility can be coordinated and undertaken by your attorney as well, who can use their knowledge and connections with medical experts to build a strong case to support your claim. The basic requirements for filing a birth injury claim include proof that: a doctor, nurse, or other member of the delivery team involved in the infant’s care breached medical standards of care during the pregnancy, labor, or delivery process (i.e. demonstrated medical negligence) this instance(s) of medical negligence resulted in birth injuries or wrongful death The best way to get a better understanding of your state’s medical malpractice laws and to learn more about the process of filing a birth injury claim is to speak to an experienced birth injury attorney. At the law firm of Florin/Roebig, we offer a free consultation with clients to discuss the details of an individual’s case to help them determine their legal options. Statute Of Limitations For Birth Injury Claims Unfortunately, individuals who wish to file a birth injury claim against a doctor, nurse, or hospital for medical malpractice do not have an unlimited amount of time to do so. In the United States, there are deadlines for taking legal action against a defendant—these are known as statutes of limitations. Statutes of limitations can vary depending on the type of claim being filed (e.g. medical malpractice, motor vehicle accident, sexual assault) and your state’s laws. Statute of limitations for birth injury cases vary by state. However, it’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible after an instance of medical malpractice and birth injury to begin legal proceedings against the individual or entity responsible. Generally, the statute of limitations for birth injury cases begins on the date of birth, when the birth injury occurs, or from the date on which the birth injury is discovered. Several states, such as Florida, have a two-year statute of limitations for birth injury cases. Other states, like Minnesota, provide plaintiffs with four years from the time of the injury. Types Of Damages Awarded In Birth Injury Lawsuits In personal injury claims and lawsuits, the term “damages” is defined as compensation that can be awarded to the plaintiff to recover economic and non-economic losses. Economic losses refers to measurable expenses that have or are projected to result from preventable birth injuries, such as: medical treatment costs: doctor visits, hospital visits, specialized medical care related to the birth injury future medical expenses occupational therapy counseling in-home care special medical or home equipment for injury-related accommodation lost wages medication costs Non-economic losses are costs that are more difficult to measure that can affect individuals’ mental and emotional health, as well as their quality of life and and well-being. Non-economic damages that may be recoverable in birth injury cases include: pain and suffering mental anguish loss of companionship loss of enjoyment for life In some birth injury cases, additional types of damages—such as punitive damages—may also be sought. Punitive damages are different from compensatory damages in that they don’t seek to compensate for losses. Rather, they are awarded to impose some form of punishment on the defendant to deter them from engaging in similarly reckless or intentionally unlawful behavior in the future. Our Featured Case Results Personal Injury Property Loss and Damage Claims Construction Negligence Labor Law Product Liability Medical Malpractice Car Accident 1 $47.4M Personal Injury Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 2 $42M Motor Vehicle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $9.55M Firearm Injury Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $5.25M Hospital Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $4M Personal Injury Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $4.2M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $2.5M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $1.5M Industrial Explosion Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.1M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $3.9M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $2.4M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $2.3M Contractor Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.5M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $1.2M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $6.8M Race Discrimination Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $4.2M Whistleblower Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $4.0M Sexual Harassment Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $3.2M Nationality Discrimination Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $2,0M Sexual Harassment Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $5.3M Pharmaceutical Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $3.2M Product Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $1.3M Drug Company Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.2M Product Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $6.0M Medical Malpractice Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $5M Orthopedic Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $3M Gastroenterology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $2.25M Urology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 5 $1.7M Anesthesiology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 1 $42M Motor Vehicle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 2 $15M Motorcycle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $6.1M Motorcycle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $2.3M Car Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 5 $1.8M Truck Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. Find out if you have a case we could help you win Speak To a Specialist Are There Caps On Damages For Birth Injury Claims? Some compensatory and punitive damages in birth injury cases can be subject to “caps”— i.e. maximum amounts that can be awarded based on the nature of the case and according to state laws. The types of damages that are typically subject to caps in birth injury cases are non-economic losses and punitive damages. Whether these caps will apply to your own birth injury case, however, will depend on where you live in the United States and the discretion of the judge involved in your case. Reasons To Hire A Birth Injury Lawyer Although it’s not required for individuals to hire an attorney to file birth injury claims, having legal representation in a medical malpractice lawsuit is highly recommended. Without extensive knowledge and experience handling birth injury claims, it can be very challenging for the average person to find the time and resources necessary to gather the evidence needed to support their claim, build a strong case, and fight for a fair settlement. Hiring an attorney who has experience handling birth injury claims can therefore offer several benefits, borne out of their skills and knowledge in the medical and legal fields. The responsibilities of a birth injury lawyer can include: consulting with other legal and medical experts finding medical experts to provide testimony to support the plaintiff’s claim getting ahold of medical records providing a comprehensive overview of the plaintiff’s legal rights, state laws, and statutes of limitations for birth injury cases communicating with the hospital and hospital insurance carrier on the plaintiff’s behalf gathering enough evidence to reasonably prove a) that medical negligence occurred and b) medical negligence resulted in birth injury negotiating a fair settlement based on the extent of your losses Birth Injury Attorneys Serving The U.S. For decades, the birth injury attorneys of Florin|Roebig have fought to protect and advocate for the rights of individuals who have experienced pain and hardship as a result of medical malpractice. Our attorneys have extensive experience in handling claims involving a variety of birth injuries and securing fair settlement amounts for clients based on the type and severity of the injury. We are able to serve clients out of our law office locations in Florida, Texas, Minnesota, and Colorado and have secured over $1 billion in results nationwide. Demonstrating exceptional skill and expertise in birth injury cases, our team of seasoned birth injury attorneys includes: Wil H. Florin, B.C.S. Tommy D. Roebig, B.C.S. Chase P. Florin, B.C.S. Neil P. O’Brien, M.B.A. Shaun M. Cummings Luca G. Esposito Chad K. Florin, M.B.A., LL.M. Nicholas S. Costantino Parker Y. Florin, LL.M. Taylor D. Roebig Michael A. Ossi, O.C. Lawrence J. Najem, O.C. Andrew M. Leone, O.C. Nollys R. Solarte, O.C. We Are Nationally Awarded Lawyers Find A Birth Injury Attorney Near You If you have a newborn or young child who has suffered consequences as a result of an injury sustained during or shortly after birth, time is of the essence if you wish to seek justice against the party responsible. The law offices of Florin|Roebig can offer you or your loved one a free case evaluation to discuss your case and provide an overview of your legal options. Don’t wait to find out what your case may be worth. Call us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our birth injury lawyers and begin the process of filing a birth injury claim.
Hialeah residents, unfortunately, have to deal with car accidents and their consequences often. The second largest city in the Miami area contributed heavily to Miami-Dade County’s 63,829 crashes, 29,758 injuries, and 362 deaths in 2023. If you find yourself in a car accident in Hialeah, filing a claim can be an essential part of getting back on your feet. Continue reading to learn more about car accident claims and how an attorney can help you get fair compensation for your injuries. What To Know About Hialeah Car Accident Claims While car accident victims in Hialeah may be entitled to compensation, several laws and regulations in the city can complicate the process of filing a claim. Insurance Requirements Hialeah, Florida follows no-fault laws, which means that most minor accidents will end in both parties seeking compensation from their own insurance company, regardless of who’s at fault. To file a car accident claim against another party, your injuries must be serious. Statute of Limitations The Statute of Limitations limits the time you have to file a lawsuit in court. Throughout Florida, car accident victims usually have two years. Comparative Negligence Standards Hialeah follows Florida’s modified comparative negligence standard. This law allows courts to hold both parties in an accident partly responsible and reduce compensation accordingly. Insurance companies follow this standard for compensation outside of court, as well. Under the law, if you were judged 15% responsible for an accident, your total compensation would be reduced by 15%. If you were found more than 50% liable, you couldn’t receive compensation at all. What Causes Car Accidents in Hialeah? Northwest of Miami, Hialeah’s vibrant Cuban culture and stunning beaches bring the sixth-largest city in Florida much of its charm. However, Hialeah also has many characteristics that contribute to its high accident rate. Common Hialeah-specific car accident risks include: Traffic to Miami: While Hialeah does have robust public transportation, many residents still drive to Miami for work, recreation, and to reach Miami International Airport, leading to heavy traffic and more accidents. Beach traffic: Hialeah is known for its stunning beaches, drawing Florida residents in large numbers and increasing the risk of traffic accidents. Hurricane season: So close to the ocean, Hialeah is vulnerable to hurricanes, which can cause heavy wind and rain, spill debris on the roads, and evacuation traffic congestion, leading to more accidents. Dangerous Intersections: Hialeah has several high-risk intersections. Some of the worst are Hialeah Gardens Drive and Okeechobee Road, West 49th Street and 20th Avenue, and West 57th Street and West 24th Avenue. The Car Accident Claim-Filing Process Filing a car accident claim in Hialeah generally includes the following steps. Document injuries and damages by photographing your injuries, vehicle damage, and the scene of the accident. File a police report by calling the cops right after the accident and cooperating with their investigation. Notify your insurance company immediately to inform them that you were in a crash. Gather evidence in one place, including witness contact information, medical bills, and your accident report. Seek legal advice by signing up for a free case review. You can get a better idea of what to do next and how a car accident attorney may be able to help. The process of figuring out how to effectively negotiate adequate compensation, who to file a claim against, and the countless other details that may be involved in a claim can be intimidating to navigate alone, but the lawyers at Florin|Roebig are here to help, with over 30 years of experience acquiring record-breaking compensation amounts for their clients. Reach out today for a free case review. You might also be interested in... Florida No-Fault Car Accidents Learn about Florida no-fault laws Read More Rear-End Car Crashes Learn about rear-end car accidents Read More Hialeah, Florida Laws For Car Accident Cases Hialeah follows the laws of the state of Florida and Miami-Dade County, which can both have a big impact on your car accident case. Fault Determination Rules When one driver fails to take proper care on the road, they’re considered negligent. Proving negligence is usually of utmost importance for proving fault in a car accident case. Common forms of accident-related negligence include being distracted, impaired, or ignoring local laws like the speed limit. Insurance Coverage Requirements Vehicles registered in Florida must have the following car insurance coverage: Personal Injury Protection (PIP): PIP covers 80% (up to $10,000) of all “necessary and reasonable” medical expenses for an injury covered under the plan. Personal Damage Liability (PDL): PDL covers $10,000 of another driver’s vehicle or property damage in an accident if you’re at fault. The No-fault System As a city under no-fault state laws, Hialeah usually requires drivers in minor car accidents to seek coverage from their own insurance policies—a first-party insurance claim—regardless of who’s at fault. However, accidents where someone was badly harmed due to the negligence of someone else usually lead to third-party insurance claims, where the injured person seeks compensation from the other party’s insurance company. Third-party car accident claims require injuries that cause at least one of the following: Severe and permanent loss of an important bodily function Permanent injury Severe and permanent scarring or disfigurement Death Legal Remedies Available To Accident Victims Hialeah car accident victims may be able to seek compensation from more than one source. First-party personal injury claims: Comparatively fast and uncomplicated, this claim is available for injury-related expenses and lost wages from your own insurance policy, but it’s limited in amount and scope. Third-party personal injury claims: If you were severely harmed in an accident that was someone else’s fault, you may seek further compensation for losses like auto damage and pain and suffering by filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Personal injury lawsuits: Filing a personal injury lawsuit with the Miami-Dade County court may be necessary if you and the insurance company cannot agree on a reasonable amount of compensation. Eventually, a lawsuit will lead to a trial if no agreement is reached. Car accident attorneys become crucial when insurance companies refuse to pay you the compensation they should. Many people usually aren’t even aware of just how much compensation they’re entitled to. It’s an attorney’s job to let them know how much to expect and to fight on their behalf to get it. Fault In Car Accidents In Hialeah, the driver responsible for causing the accident is considered “at fault.” To determine fault, insurers or courts usually look for signs of negligence, such as traffic violations and reckless driving. Our Featured Case Results Personal Injury Property Loss and Damage Claims Construction Negligence Labor Law Product Liability Medical Malpractice Car Accident 1 $47.4M Personal Injury Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 2 $42M Motor Vehicle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $9.55M Firearm Injury Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $5.25M Hospital Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $4M Personal Injury Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $4.2M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $2.5M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $1.5M Industrial Explosion Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.1M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $3.9M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $2.4M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $2.3M Contractor Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.5M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $1.2M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $6.8M Race Discrimination Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $4.2M Whistleblower Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $4.0M Sexual Harassment Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $3.2M Nationality Discrimination Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $2,0M Sexual Harassment Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $5.3M Pharmaceutical Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $3.2M Product Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $1.3M Drug Company Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.2M Product Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $6.0M Medical Malpractice Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $5M Orthopedic Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $3M Gastroenterology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $2.25M Urology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 5 $1.7M Anesthesiology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 1 $42M Motor Vehicle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 2 $15M Motorcycle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $6.1M Motorcycle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $2.3M Car Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 5 $1.8M Truck Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. Find out if you have a case we could help you win Speak To a Specialist Liability In Car Accident Cases The party legally responsible for compensating someone harmed in a car accident is known as the liable party. Car accident cases in Hialeah may use the following to help determine liability: Negligence: Someone who was negligent and primarily responsible for an accident is usually liable as well. Strict liability: In the case of a car accident caused or made worse by the malfunction of a car part, seatbelt, etc., strict liability may come into play—where an entity like a manufacturer is considered responsible for harm regardless of their intent or negligence. Vicarious liability: When one party is liable for the actions of someone else, they are vicariously liable. For example, an employer may be vicariously liable for an employee who causes a car accident while on the job. Ways The Accident Can Impact Your Life Car accidents can be painful in so many ways beyond your physical injuries. They can cause financial hardship, trauma, and grief for lost abilities and the loss of the way life used to be. Some common struggles after a car accident include: Medical expenses Lost wages Pain and suffering Property damage Loss of intimacy with a spouse or partner Permanent disability or disfigurement Death of a loved one While recovery from a serious car accident can be hard, the city of Hialeah offers many public and private and private resources and support options for accident victims. Car accident resources in Hialeah may include: Emergency services Medical care providers Insurance companies Therapy and support groups for accident survivors Victim advocacy services Government agencies Nonprofit community safety organizations Car accident personal injury attorneys Car accident personal injury compensation exists to help victims get back on their feet and attorneys are available to help you get the full amount you deserve. What To Do After A Car Accident in Hialeah Dealing with the direct aftermath of a car accident isn’t easy and you may be overwhelmed, in pain, and scared. However, there are some best practices to follow after a car accident in Hialeah that can help you file a successful claim and recover as fully as possible. After a car accident in Hialeah: Check for injuries and seek medical attention immediately for your health and to preserve evidence. Contact law enforcement to report the accident and get the cops to file a police report. Gather information at the scene of the crash, like witness contact information. Document the accident scene by taking pictures. How Florin|Roebig Can Help With Your Car Accident Claim Over the past 30 years, the attorneys at Florin|Roebig have won their clients over $1 Billion in compensation in Hialeah and across Florida. Florin|Roebig car accident lawyers offer many services, including: Case evaluation Legal representation Negotiation with insurance companies Litigation support Hiring an experienced car accident attorney can make all the difference when it comes to getting a fair settlement. Florin|Roebig is proud to have a team of record-setting and award-winning attorneys driven by a mission to get car accident victims the compensation they deserve. The experts at Florin|Roebig are more than happy to answer your case-related questions with a free case evaluation. Frequently Asked Questions How Much Does an Attorney Charge for a Car Accident in Hialeah? Most car accident attorneys charge around 33% of your compensation. They don’t charge if you don’t receive compensation. What Is The Average Settlement for a Car Accident in Hialeah? The average car accident settlement in Florida often ranges in the tens of thousands but varies widely depending on several factors. It’s best to consult an attorney to get a realistic range for your specific case. Should I Get a Lawyer After a Car Accident in Hialeah? If you were harmed in a major car accident, it’s in your best interest to hire an experienced car accident attorney. List Of Top-Rated Car Accident Lawyers Serving Hialeah When you file a claim in the state of Florida, the stakes are often so high that having representation from an experienced attorney who has a history of success is highly recommended. For every year since the inception of the honor in 2010, Florin|Roebig has been selected as one of the “Best Law Firms in America” by “US News and World Report” and “Best Lawyers in America.” Some of the lawyers at Florin|Roebig who serve clients in Hialeah include: Wil H. Florin, B.C.S. Tommy D. Roebig, B.C.S. John J. Hart Chad K. Florin Michael A. Ossi, O.C. With over 30 years of experience, our law firm has successfully won over $1 billion in settlements from personal injury cases by providing our clients with high-quality legal representation. We Are Nationally Awarded Lawyers How to Get Help from Florin|Roebig Attorneys If you are interested in seeking legal advice from our legal team, you can contact our offices to schedule an appointment. Our website, florinroebig.com, has an option for requesting more information. You can call our phone number 24/7 For more information regarding our services and free consultations, you can email us at info@florinroebig.com Or you can reach us at an office near you below. Palm Beach Office 777 S. Flagler Drive Suite 800 West Palm Beach, FL 33401 Filing a car accident claim can be an overwhelming experience, but it’s the best way to collect compensation following an accident that leaves you injured. If you’re thinking about filing a car accident claim, consult an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Schedule a case evaluation today and explore your legal options with the experienced Hialeah car accident attorneys at Florin|Roebig.
Despite its quiet small-town ambiance, Oldsmar, Florida contributed its share to Pinellas County’s 14,820 crashes in 2023, which led to 9,194 injuries and 111 deaths. Car accidents can have far-reaching effects on victims for months or years after the event. Even a small collision can cause serious injuries or mental distress, especially if the victim has a pre-existing condition. Filing a car accident claim is a great way to get compensation for your losses. However, you may have many questions about how and where to file, and whether you should leave the matter up to an insurance company. Before you make any major decisions, read the following Florin|Roebig guide for more information on filing a claim in Oldsmar and the benefits of seeking legal counsel. The Car Accident Claim-Filing Process Filing most auto accident claims in Oldsmar involves the following steps. Document injuries and damages by taking pictures of your wounds, any vehicle damage, and the accident scene. File a police report by calling the cops. They will create an incident report, which you’ll need for your claim. Inform your insurance company that you were involved in a crash as soon as possible. Gather evidence such as crash photos, your accident report, and medical documents. Make digital copies and keep physical evidence in a safe place. Seek legal advice from a car accident attorney. You can usually get a free case review, which can help you determine your next steps and whether to hire a lawyer. The Importance of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer Hiring an Oldsmar car accident lawyer comes with a large range of potential benefits, from a less stressful claims process to winning much more in compensation. Hiring an experienced car accident lawyer can help you: Navigate complex legal issues Maximize compensation Help negotiate medical bills Protect your legal rights In its 30+ year history, Florin|Roebig has won an average of over $1 million in compensation for its clients. Talk to our legal experts today and see how we can help you by signing up for a free case evaluation. State Laws For Car Accident Cases Oldsmar follows Florida, Pinellas County, and city-specific laws and ordinances that can factor into your car accident case in several ways. Traffic Laws When determining who’s responsible for an accident, insurers and courts will usually look for evidence of broken traffic laws before anything else. Witness testimonies and/or traffic cameras are common forms of evidence for proving a driver was speeding, ran a red light, was driving erratically, or was otherwise breaking traffic laws. Insurance Coverage Requirements All Florida-registered vehicles must have the following car insurance coverage: Personal Injury Protection (PIP): PIP covers 80% (up to $10,000) of all “necessary and reasonable” medical expenses for an injury covered under the plan. Personal Damage Liability (PDL): PDL covers $10,000 of another driver’s vehicle or property damage in an accident if you’re at fault. The No-fault System Accidents that happen in Oldsmar fall under Florida’s no-fault system, which has many components. For one, cars registered in the state must have PIP and PDL insurance. For another, if an accident happens, all parties involved automatically seek coverage for their injuries from their own insurers (a first-party insurance claim). However, in some cases, car accident victims can seek compensation from another party’s insurer (a third-party insurance claim) if that person was at fault for the accident. This most commonly happens when the accident victim suffered car damage or severe injuries. Third-party car accident claims require injuries that cause at least one of the following: Severe and permanent loss of an important bodily function Permanent injury Severe and permanent scarring or disfigurement Death Legal Remedies Available To Accident Victims Oldsmar car accident victims can seek compensation in a few ways. First-party personal injury claims: For straightforward, quick coverage of medical injuries, accident victims can file a claim with their own PIP insurance or other optional coverage they had. PIP only covers a limited amount, including treatment for injuries within 14 days of the accident. Third-party personal injury claims: Claims can be filed against an at-fault party’s insurer for a wider range of losses and more compensation, but it can take much longer and be more difficult to win compensation. Personal injury lawsuits: If you can’t reach a compensation agreement with a third-party insurer after filing a claim, you may need to file a lawsuit with the Pinellas County court. Usually, this will get the insurer to reach a fairer settlement, but if not, the lawsuit will go to trial, where a judge or jury will decide if and how much compensation you get. Fault In Car Accidents In Florida, someone found at fault is responsible for causing the accident. This is usually determined by whether or not someone’s negligence—their carelessness—led to the accident. Several parties may be partially at fault. Our Featured Case Results Personal Injury Property Loss and Damage Claims Construction Negligence Labor Law Product Liability Medical Malpractice Car Accident 1 $47.4M Personal Injury Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 2 $42M Motor Vehicle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $9.55M Firearm Injury Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $5.25M Hospital Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $4M Personal Injury Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $4.2M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $2.5M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $1.5M Industrial Explosion Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.1M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $3.9M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $2.4M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $2.3M Contractor Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.5M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $1.2M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $6.8M Race Discrimination Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $4.2M Whistleblower Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $4.0M Sexual Harassment Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $3.2M Nationality Discrimination Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $2,0M Sexual Harassment Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $5.3M Pharmaceutical Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $3.2M Product Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $1.3M Drug Company Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.2M Product Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $6.0M Medical Malpractice Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $5M Orthopedic Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $3M Gastroenterology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $2.25M Urology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 5 $1.7M Anesthesiology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 1 $42M Motor Vehicle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 2 $15M Motorcycle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $6.1M Motorcycle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $2.3M Car Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 5 $1.8M Truck Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. Find out if you have a case we could help you win Speak To a Specialist Liability In Car Accident Cases Someone is liable when they’re legally responsible for compensating a crash victim for the harm they suffered. Car accident cases in Oldsmar may use the following to help determine liability: Negligence: In most car accidents, a driver’s degree of negligence will determine if and how much they’re liable. Strict liability: At times, an entity like a manufacturer may be liable even if they weren’t negligent. In car accidents, this usually happens when a defective part like a tire or seatbelt contributes to an accident or makes the resulting injuries worse. Vicarious liability: Another common incident is when a business is vicariously liable—responsible for the actions of someone else. This usually happens when an employee causes an accident while on the job. Consideration Of Negligence, Degree Of Fault Since March 24, 2023, Florida has followed a modified comparative negligence standard for determining fault. This means that more than one person can be at fault for a car accident, that your degree of fault can lower their total compensation, and that anyone more than 50% at fault can’t collect compensation. For example, if you were found to be 20% negligent in a crash because you didn’t signal before a turn, you would only collect $80,000 of a $100,000 compensation amount. A good attorney will make sure they collect all the evidence available and make a strong case for why you weren’t negligent during the accident so you can walk away with as much compensation as possible. Ways The Accident Can Impact Your Life A car accident in quiet, peaceful Oldsmar can throw your world into chaos in an instant, causing long-term or permanent changes to your way of life and relationships, emotional distress, and serious financial challenges. Some common struggles after a car accident include: Medical expenses Lost wages Pain and suffering Property damage Loss of intimacy with a spouse or partner Permanent disability or disfigurement Death of a loved one Car accident resources in Oldsmar may include: Emergency services Medical care providers Insurance companies Therapy and support groups for accident survivors Victim advocacy services Government agencies Nonprofit community safety organizations Car accident attorneys Florin|Roebig’s attorneys are dedicated to being a premier resource for car accident victims in Oldsmar and across Florida. If you’re suffering after a car accident someone else caused, don’t hesitate to reach out for a free case evaluation today. What To Do After A Car Accident Right after a car accident in Oldsmar, you’ll want to prioritize your health and the health of your loved ones by seeking care if you need it. However, following a few steps in the aftermath of a crash can make the claims process easier down the road. After a car accident in Oldsmar: Check for injuries: If you’re hurt, seek medical attention as soon as possible to ensure you recover as well as possible and to create a record of your injuries. Contact law enforcement: You must legally report major accidents in Pinellas County to the police, who’ll also file a police report for you to use in your claim. Gather information: Make sure to get witness contact information while at the scene. Document the accident scene: Take pictures of the accident, your injuries, and car damage. How Florin|Roebig Can Help With Your Car Accident Claim Florin|Roebig has had the honor of being selected as one of the “Best Law Firms in America” by U.S. News & World Report and Best Lawyers in America since the beginning of the distinction in 2010. Florin Roebig car accident lawyers offer many services, including: Case evaluation Legal representation Negotiation with insurance companies Litigation support The lawyers at Florin|Roebig are proud to have won their clients over $1 billion in compensation by employing decades of experience in and out of court and refusing to settle for less than their clients deserve for their hardship. Frequently Asked Questions What is the average settlement for a car accident in Florida? Car accident settlements can vary tremendously depending on the severity of the accident, whether the victim hired an attorney and several other factors. Settlements can range from a few thousand dollars to millions. Talk to an attorney to get a better idea of how much to expect in your case. How long does a car accident lawsuit take in Oldsmar? The range varies greatly, but most car accident claims and lawsuits take several months to over a year to resolve. How much does an attorney charge for a car accident in Florida? Most attorneys charge between 25% and 40% of your compensation, but they won’t charge anything if you don’t win compensation. List Of Car Accident Attorneys Serving Oldsmar Following a car accident, filing a claim may be the single most important thing you can do to help get your life back on track. With such an important task at hand, you’ll want a trusted legal professional by your side, guiding you every step of the way. You can count on the award-winning team at Florin|Roebig. Our car accident lawyers serving clients in Oldsmar include: Wil H. Florin, B.C.S. Tommy D. Roebig, B.C.S. Nicholas S. Costantino Michael A. Ossi, O.C. We Are Nationally Awarded Lawyers How to Get Help from Florin|Roebig Attorneys If you are interested in seeking legal advice from our legal team, you can contact our offices to schedule an appointment. Our website, florinroebig.com, has an option for requesting more information. You can call our phone number 24/7 For more information regarding our services and free consultations, you can email us at info@florinroebig.com Or you can reach us at an office near you below. Palm Harbor Office Primary & Administrative Office 777 Alderman Road Palm Harbor, Florida 34683 You have the right to file a claim in Oldsmar without the aid of an attorney. However, it does help to be aware of the risks before you do. The court system in Florida is not always simple to navigate, especially if you’re dealing with physical injuries or the grief of having lost someone you love. Scheduling a consultation with Florin|Roebig may give you more control and confidence to face the situation head-on. When you contact us for help in filing your claim, we give the honest advice you need to make the best decisions for you and your loved ones. Learn more by calling us today to schedule a free consultation for your claim.
