Coral Springs Car Accident Lawyer

Car Accident Attorneys Serving Clients in Coral Springs, FL

The car accident attorneys at Zimmerman & Frachtman know all too well that accidents can happen at any time. If you are involved in a car accident, you may be left to deal with serious injuries and property damage that can result in significant financial losses. In the aftermath of a car accident, it is important to know that you have options. In Florida, if you are injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to seek compensation from the at-fault driver.

At Zimmerman & Frachtman, our experienced car accident attorneys can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim for compensation. We have a long track record of success in handling car accident cases and are committed to fighting for the full and fair compensation that you deserve. Our comprehensive approach not only aims to recover financial losses but also focuses on your overall well-being, ensuring that you receive the appropriate medical care and rehabilitation support.

Additionally, we advocate on your behalf to deal with insurance companies, protecting your interests at every step. Insurance companies often employ tactics to minimize payouts; however, our attorneys leverage their deep understanding of insurance laws and negotiation skills to counter these strategies effectively. We work tirelessly to ensure that your settlement reflects all aspects of your loss, from medical expenses to emotional and physical suffering.

Call (954) 504-6577 or contact us online today to speak with our Coral Springs car accident attorney for a free consultation.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Coral Springs

Car accidents can be caused by many different factors. Some of the most common causes of car accidents in Coral Springs and throughout the state of Florida include:

• Distracted Driving: This is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Florida and across the United States. Distracted driving involves any activity that takes a driver’s attention away from the road. This can include texting, talking on the phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, fiddling with the stereo, entertainment or navigation system, or anything else that diverts your attention from the task of driving. Texting is the most alarming distraction. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed. You cannot drive safely unless the task of driving has your full attention.
• Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is extremely dangerous and is a leading cause of car accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly one-third of all car accidents in the United States involve a drunk driver.
• Drowsy Driving: Falling asleep at the wheel is obviously dangerous, but being sleepy affects your ability to drive safely even if you don’t fall asleep. Drowsiness—defined as the state of being near sleep—can impair driving performance as much or more so than alcohol. According to a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, people who sleep six to seven hours a night are twice as likely to be involved in such a crash as those sleeping 8 hours or more, while people sleeping less than 5 hours increased their risk four to five times.
• Speeding: This is another common cause of car accidents in Florida. Speeding is a factor in nearly one-third of all fatal car accidents in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
• Reckless Driving: Reckless driving is another common cause of car accidents in Florida. Reckless driving is defined as driving with a willful disregard for the safety of others. This can include a variety of dangerous behaviors on the road, such as tailgating, changing lanes without signaling, running red lights, and more.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and other poor weather conditions can make it more difficult to drive safely and can result in car accidents.
• Defective Auto Parts: When a car accident is caused by a defective auto part, the injured victim may be able to seek compensation from the auto manufacturer or another party.

Understanding these common causes aids in promoting safer driving practices and emphasizes the importance of vigilance behind the wheel. Drivers are encouraged to regularly maintain their vehicles to prevent malfunctions that could lead to accidents. Education on traffic laws and periodic refreshers on safe driving practices also play crucial roles in preventing accidents.

Common Injuries in a Car Accident

Car accident injuries can range from minor to severe. Some of the most common car accident injuries in Florida include:

• Whiplash: This is one of the most common car accident injuries. Whiplash occurs when the neck is suddenly forced backward and then forward. This can cause severe neck pain and other related symptoms.
• Broken Bones: Broken bones are also common in car accidents. These injuries can be very painful and can require extensive medical treatment.
• Head Injuries: Head injuries can occur when the head strikes an object, such as a steering wheel or windshield, or when the head is violently shaken. Head injuries can range from minor to severe and can have long-term complications.
• Back Injuries: Back injuries are another common car accident injury in Florida. These injuries can be very painful and can cause long-term complications.
• Burns: Burns can occur when a car catches fire after a collision. Burns can cause severe pain and can result in permanent scarring.
• Internal Injuries: Internal injuries can occur when the body is violently shaken in a car accident. These injuries can be life-threatening and may not be immediately apparent after an accident.

Beyond these common injuries, victims can also experience a range of secondary injuries or complications, such as infections resulting from open wounds or emotional trauma such as anxiety, PTSD, or depression following the accident. Rehabilitation services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and psychological counseling, are often necessary to support a comprehensive recovery process.

Immediate medical attention after an accident is crucial, not only for health reasons but also to document injuries for potential claims. Detailed medical records can serve as essential evidence when negotiating with insurance companies or when legal action is necessary. Being proactive about one’s health by following up on all diagnostic tests and treatment plans is vital for a full recovery.

Florida Car Accident Laws & Your Rights

Florida follows a no-fault insurance system. This means that after an accident, each driver's insurance company typically pays for their own medical expenses and other financial losses, regardless of who caused the accident. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage is mandatory in Florida, which covers medical expenses and lost wages up to the policy limits, regardless of fault.

In addition to the no-fault insurance system, Florida has a serious injury threshold that can allow individuals to step outside of the no-fault system and pursue a liability claim against the at-fault driver. The serious injury threshold is a legal standard that must be met before an injured party can seek compensation for pain and suffering, as well as other non-economic damages, from the at-fault driver's insurance company.

To qualify under Florida's serious injury threshold, an injured person must have suffered one or more of the following:

• Significant and Permanent Loss of an Important Bodily Function: This refers to a permanent impairment that affects a bodily function critical to daily life or livelihood, such as mobility, hearing, vision, or cognitive function.
• Permanent Injury Within a Reasonable Degree of Medical Probability: The injury must be deemed permanent by medical professionals and must be established to a reasonable degree of medical certainty.
• Significant and Permanent Scarring or Disfigurement: This refers to visible and permanent disfigurement or scarring that affects an individual's appearance and causes mental or emotional distress.
• Death: In cases where a car accident results in the death of an individual, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver.

Florida also follows a pure comparative fault rule, meaning that even if you are partially at fault for an accident, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for an accident and the total damages are $10,000, you would receive $8,000 ($10,000 - 20%).

In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file a lawsuit within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation. It is crucial for accident victims to understand these legal nuances to ensure they take timely action and preserve their rights to pursue compensation. Consulting with legal professionals can provide clarity on these complex legal issues and ensure that all necessary steps are taken promptly.

Navigating Insurance Claims After a Coral Springs Auto Accident

Handling insurance claims can be a daunting task after experiencing a car accident. Insurance companies may appear helpful, but it's important to remember that their primary goal is to minimize payouts. To protect your interests, it is vital to understand your insurance policy thoroughly, including coverage limits and exclusions. After an accident, document everything meticulously, from taking photographs of the scene to gathering contact information of witnesses. This documentation can prove invaluable when discussing claims with insurance adjusters.

At Zimmerman & Frachtman, P.A., our team is dedicated to guiding you through these intricate processes, ensuring that your rights are upheld. We offer strategic advice on dealing with insurance companies and managing paperwork. Our team understands the nuances of Florida's insurance laws and can assist in challenging any unfair settlement offers. Trust us to stand by your side as you navigate these challenges, helping to secure a fair resolution to your claim.

What To Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Coral Springs

Immediately following a car accident, it is crucial to prioritize safety and legal formalities. Firstly, check yourself and others for injuries and call emergency services if necessary. Even if injuries appear minor, it's wise to seek medical evaluation to rule out internal injuries that aren't immediately apparent. Move to a safe location to avoid further danger but do not leave the accident scene until it’s appropriate to do so.

Once you are safe, document the accident comprehensively. Take photographs of the scene, damage to vehicles, and any relevant road conditions or signage. Exchange details with other parties involved, including their names, contact information, and insurance details. It’s also important to obtain witness information, as their accounts can support your case. Notify law enforcement to file a police report, which serves as a critical legal document for future reference. This thorough approach not only aids your recovery but also strengthens your position for any subsequent legal or insurance proceedings.

Contact Our Coral Springs Car Accident Attorneys Today

If you have been injured in a car accident in Coral Springs, you may be entitled to seek compensation from the at-fault driver. At Zimmerman & Frachtman, we handle all types of car accident cases on a contingency fee basis, which means that you will not owe any attorney’s fees until we successfully recover compensation for your injuries.

Our commitment goes beyond legal representation; we strive to be your dedicated advocates through each phase of your recovery. We understand the emotional and physical toll that a car accident can take, and we are here to support you with resources and guidance tailored to your needs. Whether it involves coordinating with healthcare providers, managing paperwork, or negotiating with insurers, we take on the responsibility to alleviate your burdens, allowing you to focus on healing.

Contact us today at (954) 504-6577 to discuss your case with our Coral Springs car accident lawyer.