The best way to recover your expenses from a car accident is by filing an accident claim. However, this process can be challenging when you are already dealing with the aftermath of an accident. If you plan to file a car accident claim, consider talking to a car accident attorney as soon as possible to get the direction you need.
The lawyers of Florin|Roebig have comprehensive knowledge regarding working with clients involved in car accident lawsuits. With the help of Florin|Roebig, accident victims will have all the resources they need to maximize their chances of winning a fair settlement.
Accident Statistics for Broward County, Florida
The following are car accident statistics for Broward County, Florida, where Oakland Park is located.
- A total of 40,236 accidents were reported in Broward County, Florida, in 2023.
- 24,517 injuries resulted from being involved in one of these reported accidents.
- Sadly, 210 deaths occurred as a result of being in an accident in Broward County.
Most Dangerous Intersections in Oakland Park, FL.
Driving on any road can be risky and dangerous. The following intersections were reported as being extremely dangerous in Oakland Park, Florida:
- Oakland Park Boulevard and North Dixie Highway: This intersection may be dangerous due to the high traffic volume from both roads, which are major thoroughfares in the area. The combination of local and commuter traffic, along with complex intersection design, poor visibility, and insufficient traffic signals or signage, can increase the risk of accidents.
- Prospect Road and North Andrews Avenue: The intersection of Prospect Road and North Andrews Avenue could be dangerous because of the high traffic volume it experiences, especially during peak hours. Multiple lanes and turning lanes, as well as inadequate traffic signals or signage, can contribute to driver confusion and increase the likelihood of accidents.
- Powerline Road and West Cypress Creek Road: This intersection is notorious for its high traffic volume, as both Powerline Road and West Cypress Creek Road are busy thoroughfares in the region. The mix of local and commuter traffic, along with complex intersection design, poor visibility, and insufficient traffic signals or signage, can make it difficult for drivers to navigate the intersection, increasing the risk of accidents.
The Car Accident Claim-Filing Process
In Oakland Park, Florida, you can seek compensation if you have been injured or had your property or vehicle damaged. In legal terms, this is referred to as a car accident claim, which can be filed to receive financial or non-financial damages.
Misunderstandings surrounding car accident claims can include the following:
- If you have insurance, you do not need a car accident attorney
- Car accident claims can only be filed by accident victims with serious injuries
- The insurance of the at-fault driver will cover everything
- You have as much time as you need to build and file your claim
- It is too expensive for most people to hire a car accident attorney
- If you are offered a settlement, you must accept it
- The only way for accident victims to receive compensation is by filing a lawsuit
“There are many misconceptions about hiring a car accident attorney. Our offices are always available to answer questions about how we can help you with your claim,” says Chad K. Florin, an esteemed attorney of Florin|Roebig.
If you are ready to file an accident claim, the following are helpful steps to take:
- Compile evidence for your claim: Take pictures of and record everything you can at the car accident scene.
- Review your insurance policy: Take time to read over your policy and ensure you understand what it covers.
- Contact a Florin|Roebig accident attorney: When preparing to file your claim, you should call a Florin|Roebig accident lawyer and request a free consultation.
- Get a copy of the police report: Be sure to collect your copy of the police report before you call your insurance provider to file your claim.
- Call your insurance representative: Once you have what you need, contact your insurance representative to begin the claim process so you can receive your payment quickly.
Oakland Park, Florida Laws For Car Accident Cases
The laws surrounding fault and the statute of limitations are the most important laws car accident victims are likely to learn about following a car accident in Oakland Park, Florida.
To begin with, Florida is a no-fault state. Every registered Florida driver must have personal injury protection insurance (PIP), which covers medical costs and damaged property, regardless of who is found to be at fault for the accident.
Secondly, the statute of limitations for car accident claims in Florida is four years. The statute of limitations is how long you are able to bring your accident claim against the at-fault motorist. Please file your claim by this deadline to ensure your right to file.
Fault and Liability in Car Accident Cases
Negligence happens when a motorist does anything that directly induces an accident. Negligence is another one of the important legal terms car accident victims will likely hear often after their accident.
Elements that can decide fault in car accidents include:
- If a driver was shown to be negligent
- A motorist driving drunk or under the influence of a substance
- Road conditions at the time of the accident
- The weather conditions when the accident happened
- If a vehicle malfunction occurred
When it comes to car accidents, a person can be at fault for the accident without being held liable for it. For example, if a car fails to work correctly because the brakes were defective due to an error in manufacturing, causing the vehicle to brake improperly, the driver would be at fault but may not be liable for the accident.
In this case, the driver may be at fault for the accident, but the brake manufacturing company will be held strictly liable.
“Car accident victims often have a lot of confusion following an accident. There can be pain from injuries, taking care of a damaged vehicle, and learning many unfamiliar terms and phrases. A car accident attorney can be beneficial in navigating the aftermath of an auto accident,” explains Chad K. Florin.
Consideration Of Negligence, Degree Of Fault
Negligence in car accidents is any conduct or activity that directly leads to injury, property damage, or other consequences.
Forms of negligence in auto accident claims that are filed by car accident victims include:
- Gross negligence: This occurs when a motorist has a serious indifference for the safety of other drivers and does not respect the laws of traffic.
- Comparative negligence: Each motorist involved is given a portion of the fault and granted damages accordingly.
- Contributory negligence: This states that a claim is unable to be filed to pursue damages if a person is found to be even 1% at fault for the accident.
Car accidents rarely happen because of only one driver’s negligence, which means in most cases, courts will assign each driver involved at least some percentage of fault for the crash.
Essential information to know about fault in auto accidents:
- There is still an option for motorists to seek damages in no-fault states.
- Your settlement may be reduced by your share of fault.
- In some states, fault can stop you from collecting damages.
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What To Do After A Car Accident in Oakland Park
If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident in Oakland Park, Florida, the following are the most important steps you should take following the accident.
1. Seek Medical Care
Call emergency services or 911 to ensure medical technicians are sent to the accident scene. There are very serious injuries that can be masked by adrenaline, and these emergency medical professionals will know what to look for.
2. Collect Contact Information
Information you need to collect includes:
- The names of all drivers and passengers involved in the auto accident
- Phone numbers for the drivers and passengers who were in the accident
- The driver’s license numbers for the drivers involved
- Insurance information for all drivers involved
- The license plate numbers for the vehicles involved
3. Call The Police
It is law in Florida that anyone involved in an accident that results in any type of injury or any amount of property damage must report the accident to the police. By reporting the accident, you also ensure that a police report is generated, which will be needed for your claim.
4. Get Photos Or Videos
When you can, you need to start taking pictures and videos of the scene of the accident. Important things to take photos of include:
- Traffic flow
- Injuries
- Vehicle damage
- Weather conditions
- Record witness statements
5. Report The Accident To Your Insurance Company
You need to contact your insurance provider to report the accident as soon as possible. Beginning the claims process quickly means your claim can be processed, and your settlement check can be sent.
6. Contact A Florin|Roebig Car Accident Lawyer
Unfortunately, it is not unusual for accident victims to face problems when trying to get a settlement from their insurance company. Insurance providers are notorious for acting in bad faith to save money, including denying claims. Hiring a Florin|Roebig accident attorney can help ensure your claim is treated fairly.
Ways The Accident Can Impact Your Life
Auto accidents can have far-reaching impacts and touch many aspects of accident victims’ lives.
Various ways an accident can affect your life include:
- Loss of your job
- Loss of your future income
- The cost of your pain and suffering
- Losing your independence
- The loss of your spouse or partner
- Modifying your home to accommodate your injuries/disability
- Losing your vehicle
- The development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
How Florin|Roebig Can Help With Your Car Accident Claim
One significant decision that must be made after a car accident is whether or not to hire an attorney for your claim. The attorneys of Florin|Roebig have been representing their clients with compassion for forty years.
The advantages of hiring a Florin|Roebig car accident attorney include:
Car Accident Case Experience
Florin|Roebig car accident attorneys have represented car accident victims in and out of court for forty years. Our attorneys have seen everything insurance companies can throw their way during this time, so they are ready to champion your claim.
A Strong Personal Injury Claim
Due to our long history of successfully representing our clients, the Florin|Roebig attorneys know what a car accident claim needs to be solid. The evidence you collect and the correctness of your paperwork can make or break your insurance claim.
Negotiating A Fair Settlement
Generally, auto accident claims can be settled quickly and efficiently outside the court system. However, your Florin|Roebig attorney is prepared to explain your claim to a judge when your insurance does not cooperate or you cannot get the at-fault driver to pay your settlement.
Practical Advice for After a Car Accident
If you or a loved one have been hurt in a car accident in Oakland Park, Florida, you may have no idea what to do next. The following steps can be helpful to take in the aftermath of an auto accident:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Contact 911 to have police and a medical team sent to the accident scene.
- Collect evidence immediately: Gather as many photos and recordings from the scene of the accident as you can.
- Contact your insurance company: Call your insurance agent to begin your claim.
- Protect your legal rights: Hiring a Florin|Roebig lawyer to help ensure you receive the compensation you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an attorney charge for a car accident in Florida?
Car accident attorneys typically charge 25% to 40% of the settlement you win. Florin|Roebig attorneys also work on a contingency fee basis, so you will not have to pay anything upfront.
Should I hire an attorney after a car accident in Florida?
Although it is not required to hire an attorney for your accident in Florida, it is in the best interest of you and your claim to consider hiring a Florin|Roebig attorney.
Who pays for car damage in Florida no-fault?
Each driver will submit a claim to their own insurance companies, but if there is a substantial amount of damage or significant injuries, drivers may be able to seek compensation from the at-fault driver.
Top-Rated Car Accident Attorneys Serving Oakland Park
When you are preparing to file a car accident claim, you need the right legal representative on your side to ensure you have the highest chance of a positive outcome. At Florin|Roebig, our attorneys have represented countless clients in car accident cases throughout the state of Florida.
Some of our team members serving clients in Oakland Park are listed below:
- Wil H. Florin, B.C.S.
- Tommy D. Roebig, B.C.S.
- Shaun M. Cummings
- Taylor D. Roebig
- Michael A. Ossi, O.C.
We Are Nationally Awarded Lawyers
How to Get Help from Florin|Roebig Attorneys
If you or a loved one have been injured in an auto accident in Oakland Park, Florida, and you want to have a consultation with the best car accident lawyers in Florida, the following are the best ways to contact our offices.
- Call our phone number 24/7
- Our website, florinroebig.com.
- Questions can be emailed to [email protected]
There is nothing more frustrating than dealing with the effects of an auto accident you did not cause. Even though no amount of money will erase this damaging experience from your life, collecting compensation for your or your loved one’s injuries can make it easier to move forward. Please reach out to the lawyers at Florin|Roebig for a free consultation today.