Car Accident Lawyers West Palm Beach, FL

Worldwide, the average person’s most dangerous activity is driving an automobile.  Approximately 45,000 lives are lost to auto accidents annually in the USA. 

In Florida, just under 3,000 auto accident victims die annually. Many crash victims experience a severe injury or suffer significant and permanent loss. This is where the work of auto accident lawyers begin.

Personal injury protection has never been more relevant. By Florida law, West Palm Beach car accident lawyers stand by to provide their services. It could be that you’ve suffered serious injuries because of a drunk driver or you want to recover compensation for a minor traffic accident. Any car crash is worth a free case evaluation.
The personal injury lawyers in West Palm Beach, FL are ready to assist any injured person with their car accident lawsuit. At 1-800-Injured, it’s common knowledge that West Palm Beach car accident victims want car accident attorneys who can get results. 1-800-Injured is an attorney and medical referral service.

Why Involve an Attorney in Filing a Car Accident Claim?

With any car wreck in West Palm Beach, consulting with an auto accident lawyer is always a smart move. You never can tell when some complications from the collision will derail your quality of life in some way. 

Insurance companies have repeatedly proven that they’re willing to undercut honest accident victims while sending huge salaries and bonuses to executives. This is standard for how they operate. You can count on insurance adjusters prioritizing company interests before yours. With battle-tested attorneys on your team, you won’t be cheated out of compensation. 

Your car accident attorney will be willing to take the matter to court if needed. This is one of the last things that insurance companies want. A court decision could mean paying out a much larger award than they would’ve otherwise settled for. The presence of solid legal guidance during negotiations serves as a reminder that they should treat their claimants fairly.

In West Palm Beach, car accident attorneys know the system inside and out. Their experience fighting for and winning compensation for victims in all sorts of crash scenarios speaks for itself. Free consultation means there’s nothing to lose. Additionally, clients don’t pay anything until their attorney’s efforts result in a victory because most personal injury lawyers use contingency fees.

At 1-800-Injured, we are proud to offer our clients the best possible legal representation. Our team of experienced and knowledgeable lawyers has successfully represented many car accident victims in court and has recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts on their behalf. If you have been injured in a car accident, call us today for a free consultation so that we can connect you with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Expert Legal Guidance In All Car Accident Scenarios

There are many different types of traffic accidents, so there is no cookie-cutter approach to dealing with crashes. Different incidents require different approaches. The personal injury lawyers in West Palm Beach FL are prepared to assist you with the following types of automobile collisions:

• Bicycle accidents
• Bus accidents
• Car & SUV accidents
• Distracted driving accidents
• Drowsy driving accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Pedestrian accidents
• Reckless driving accidents
• Uber & Lyft accidents
• Train accidents
• Uninsured driver accidents

The Process of a West Palm Beach Car Accident Lawyer

Firstly, the car accident lawyers in the 1-800-Injured network are valued sources of support, wisdom, and assistance for victims in Palm Beach County. They take note of every detail provided, knowing that every piece of information is important for their clients’ claims. 

The car accident attorney working with you will consider all possible scenarios of the motor vehicle collision. Then they’ll gather evidence to find the at-fault party. Once this is done, your personal injury lawyer will: 

• Prepare a strong case designed to obtain compensation from all liable parties
• Examine the details of all insurance coverages associated with your claim. 
• Calculate the case value 
• Manage administrative tasks around paperwork and court filings
• Contact the insurance adjuster working on your claim and begin negotiating a fair settlement 
• Remain prepared to reject all lowball offers and remind the insurance company that they’ll be taken to court unless a fair offer is presented

If you have been involved in a car accident, contact 1-800-Injured today for a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in West Palm Beach who can help you make sense of your situation and get on the path toward financial recovery.

Losses Commonly Associated with Car Accidents

Car accidents can leave victims suffering many losses. Those burdens include physical setbacks, lost wages, medical care, and more. An attorney specializing in car accidents can guide victims into a better understanding of how they can be compensated for their troubles.

Here are some examples of compensation that accident victims may be eligible for:

• The cost of repairing or placing property
• Covering the cost of present and future medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of consortium in a wrongful death 
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning potential

Common Causes Of West Palm Beach Auto Accidents

Absentminded drivers at busy intersections are the at-fault party in many Palm Beach County motor vehicle collisions. Local accident reports have pinpointed the intersections at Okeechobee Boulevard and Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard, Okeechobee Road and the Turnpike, Military Trail and 45th Street, and along Jog Road to be the most dangerous.

When these high-volume streets experience peak traffic is when most car crashes occur. Car accidents result in lost wages, gruesome injuries, medical bills, and numerous personal injury cases.

Here’s a closer look at the main causes of auto collisions in Palm Beach County and West Palm Beach:

Intersections

Intersections can present many potentially hazardous scenarios. These are locations where mistakes become costly and sometimes even deadly. Unfortunately, collisions with pedestrians,  bicyclists, and multi-vehicle crashes often happen at intersections.

Distracted Driving

Like the rest of the country, distracted driving is a major problem in West Palm Beach. Cellular phones, electronics,  and general aloofness continue to contribute to automobile collisions.

Drunk Driving 

One of the great tragedies of our time is the amount of life lost and damaged by drunk drivers in the United States. Because it is a popular vacation destination, West Palm Beach is a hotbed for this brand of tragedy.

Speeding

Speeding violations contribute heavily to wrecks. Drivers who violate speed limits place themselves and other drivers in danger. Higher speeds leave less opportunity to stop in time or successfully perform evasive maneuvers. 

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

Every vehicle on the road is not a safe vehicle. Sadly, some of the unsafe vehicles contribute to the deaths of innocent people. You should ensure that your vehicle is in good working order to keep our Palm Beach roads safer for all.

Defective Roads

Not every municipality does a great job at keeping their roads up to par. When roads and bridges are dangerous, many hazards like potholes, downed wires, and malfunctioning lights can cause wrecks. 

What to Do After a Car Accident

If you’ve been involved in an automobile collision there’s a proper protocol to follow. Here is what you should do:

• Stay put and call 911- If there are injured victims in need of medical care at the crash site, tell the dispatcher an ambulance is needed. Aside from that, inform them that you’ve been in an automobile accident, and stay on the scene until police arrive. 
• Hit-and-Run scenario- Make no attempts to follow or pursue the other driver. Alert the police as quickly as you can about whatever details you observed about the other car. In West Palm Beach, fleeing drivers are subject to punitive damages.
• Exchange information- Talk with all people involved in the collision. Collect the names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and addresses of all persons involved. Don’t speak about the accident or get involved in any drama. 
• Never Admit Fault- To preserve your chances of collecting as much compensation as possible, avoid admitting fault or apologizing for the accident.  
• Take pictures and video of the accident scene. Take as many photos and videos as you can. Damage to all vehicles should be documented. Photos or videos of physical injuries should be taken. Never share pictures or videos of the crash site or injuries with anyone other than your attorney. 
• Talk with Witnesses- Request the names and contact information of all persons who may have seen the crash occur. The testimony of witnesses is a key consideration when determining fault. 
• Write down your experience- Make a record of the crash as you remember it. Do it as soon as possible so that your memory will be strongest. Include the location, time, road conditions, weather, and all other relevant phenomena. 
• Get examined by a doctor within 24 hours of the crash. Even if you’re asymptomatic, see a doctor anyway. You may be injured and not even know it. Waiting too long to see a doctor to find out if you’re injured will work against you in court and with car accident claims. Go to a doctor, and follow their orders.
• Make an accident report- Contact your insurer and tell them that you were in an auto accident. Only give them the basic facts. Don’t say too much. 
• Hire a lawyer- You’ll want to get a lawyer as soon as possible. Make sure they’re reputable and passionate about their craft. Once you’ve found them, they’ll provide a free consultation and then explain the options that are available to you.
• Dealing with insurance companies- Do not talk with the insurance provider of the other driver. Understand that anything you give them will be used to weaken your claim. Decline all requests to make a statement or share medical records. Refer them to your attorney, and let your insurance company know that they approached you.

How Much is My West Palm Beach Car Accident Claim Worth?

No two car wrecks are the same, so there isn’t any way to say exactly how much a successful car accident claim will be worth. The personal injury lawyers in West Palm Beach, FL will take your case with the intention of getting you maximally compensated for your troubles. That amount is usually in the thousands or tens of thousands. 

In all cases, the goal is to ensure that an automobile collision victim will have the resources needed to recover their quality of life. Factors that influence the compensation amount include the following:

• The extent of the victim’s injuries
• The age of the victim
• Employment status at the time of the crash
• Pre-existing support network (community and family)
• Who was at fault and the details leading up to the incident
• The details of insurance coverage and policy limits

Nothing will undo the pain a victim suffers, or replace any losses that a victim may endure. The most favorable scenario is to make sure that victims can have multiple paths to victory on their road to recovery. Money isn’t everything, but it helps a lot when it comes to personal injuries.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident, don’t try to deal with the insurance company on your own. Call 1-800-Injured today to request a free consultation with an experienced car accident attorney who will fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Common Car Accident Injuries

Injuries sustained in car accidents can vary from mere scratches to life-threatening wounds. Knowing what sort of injuries are most common for crash victims is an important step in getting the right treatment. The most common car accident injuries are:

Burns

There are many ways to be burned during or after a car crash. High-temperature fluids, surfaces, chemicals, and objects are often present during these incidents. Second and third-degree burns can require skin grafts, and inpatient care, and even threaten the lives of victims.

Injuries to the Face

 During collisions, the face is particularly vulnerable to things like glass and smashing against surfaces like steering wheels, dashboards, and the ground. Plastic or cosmetic surgery may be needed to fix the damage.

Fractures and Broken Bones

Automobile-related high velocity-impact trauma can break and fracture bones. Arms, legs, hands, feet, and ribs can get damaged easily in automobile collisions and can require surgery, inpatient care, and extensive rehab.

Neck or Spinal Cord Injuries

High-velocity impact trauma is a proven hazard to neck and spine health. The most common neck injury is whiplash, which causes the head to fly violently back and forth. Spinal damage can range from herniations to fractures and can result in temporary or a permanent state of paralysis.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Also called PTSD, this sort of injury affects the psyche and emotional health of victims. Occurrences such as nightmares, depression,  persistent bouts of unexplainable anxiety, and flashbacks are common symptoms. Post-traumatic stress disorder must be diagnosed by psychiatric specialists. 

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries are some of the most dangerous injuries that victims can endure. These include lacerated spleens, ruptured intestines, and bruised livers. Because they can be undetected, they can be very dangerous. Bleeding out from the inside is a very real risk with traumas like these. 

Traumatic Brain Injuries

In the USA car accidents cause more traumatic brain injuries, or TBI, than anything else. The brain can be injured from an object piercing it, or from the head colliding with objects. A traumatic brain injury causes headaches and lack of focus, and is associated with headaches, mood swings, and suicidal and homicidal tendencies

How a West Palm Beach Car Accident Lawyer Will Help You

If you have been involved in a car accident in West Palm Beach, engaging a skilled car accident lawyer is essential for safeguarding your rights and maximizing your compensation. 

Listen with Care and Compassion

• Understanding Your Story
  • A dedicated lawyer will take the time to listen to your detailed account of the accident. They will create a safe space where you can express your feelings, fears, and concerns. This initial conversation not only helps the lawyer gather necessary facts but also reassures you that you are not alone in this process.
• Providing Support and Guidance
  • Your attorney will offer emotional support and encouragement during a challenging time. They will explain the legal process in simple terms, helping you understand what to expect. This guidance can significantly reduce your anxiety and empower you to make informed decisions.

Ensure Proper Medical Treatment

• Focus on Your Well-Being
  • Your health is paramount. A dedicated lawyer will ensure that you are receiving appropriate medical care tailored to your injuries. They may recommend specialists or facilities that provide high-quality treatment to promote your recovery.
• Assistance with Medical Providers
  • Your attorney can help facilitate communication with medical providers, ensuring they understand your legal situation and how it may impact your treatment. They may also coordinate care to prevent any gaps that could affect your recovery.

Organize Documents and Collect Evidence

• Timely Documentation
  • A successful case hinges on thorough documentation. Your lawyer will efficiently organize your medical records, treatment histories, and invoices, creating a comprehensive file that demonstrates the extent of your injuries and related expenses.
• Demand and Spoliation Letters
  • Your attorney will issue a demand letter to the at-fault party’s insurance company, formally outlining your claim and requesting compensation. This letter typically includes details of the accident, the damages you have suffered, and the compensation amount you seek. Additionally, a spoliation letter may be sent to ensure that key evidence (like vehicle condition or surveillance footage) is preserved.
• Types of Evidence Collected
  • Your lawyer will gather various types of evidence to strengthen your case, including accident reports, witness statements, photos and videos, surveillance camera footage, vehicle damage assessments, medical records and bills, and the testimony of accident reconstruction specialists.

File a Claim for Damages

• Legal Formalities
  • Your lawyer will handle all legal aspects of filing your civil claim, ensuring that it is done correctly and within the required time frame. This includes drafting the complaint, gathering supporting documents, and filing them with the appropriate court.
• Adhering to Deadlines
  • They will also ensure compliance with the statute of limitations, preventing any delays that could jeopardize your car or motorcycle accident case.

Shield You from Insurer Tactics

• Protection Against Manipulation
  • Insurance companies often deploy tactics aimed at minimizing payouts. Your lawyer will act as your shield, managing communications with insurers and ensuring they do not pressure you into making hasty decisions or accepting low settlement offers.
• Negotiating Fairly
  • Your attorney will advocate for your interests, ensuring that you are treated fairly throughout the claims process.

Engage in Aggressive Negotiations

• Position of Strength
  • Armed with comprehensive evidence, your lawyer will engage in negotiations with the insurance company from a position of strength. They will present a well-supported case to ensure that your demands are taken seriously.
• Negotiation Tactics
  • Your attorney will employ various strategies, including leveraging evidence to counter lowball offers and making a compelling case for the compensation you deserve.

Begin Trial Preparations

• Proactive Measures
  • Even while negotiations are ongoing, your attorney will begin preparing for trial. This includes gathering additional evidence and expert testimonies that may be needed to strengthen your case.
• Hiring Experts
  • If necessary, your lawyer may hire accident reconstructionists or other specialists who can provide insights into the accident dynamics, further supporting your claim.

Go to Trial, if Necessary

• Presenting Your Case
  • If negotiations do not result in a satisfactory settlement, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to trial. They will present a compelling case before a jury, showcasing all gathered evidence and advocating passionately for your rights.
• Compelling Argument
  • Your attorney will craft a powerful narrative that highlights the impact of the accident on your life, aiming to secure maximum damages beyond what you may be entitled to under Florida’s no-fault law.

How Your West Palm Beach Car Accident Lawyer Will Prove Liability

In a car accident case or a wrongful death claim, it is important to gather the right evidence in order to establish liability and recover the maximum compensation possible for car crash victims. A skilled car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach, FL, will know how to collect, preserve, and present various types of evidence effectively.

Accident Reports

• Police Reports: Your lawyer will obtain the official police report from the responding officers, which contains essential details about the accident, including:
  • Date, time, and location of the accident.
  • Names and contact information of involved parties and witnesses.
  • A description of how the accident occurred.
  • Any citations or violations noted by the police.
• Incident Reports: If applicable, reports from other agencies (like fire departments or highway patrol) may also be useful.

Witness Statements

• Eyewitness Accounts: Statements from individuals who witnessed the accident can provide valuable insights into the circumstances leading to the crash. Your lawyer will collect written or recorded testimonies to:
  • Support your version of events.
  • Provide an independent perspective on who was at fault.

Photographs and Videos

• Scene Photographs: Your lawyer will gather photographs of the accident scene, which may include:
  • Damage to vehicles.
  • Road conditions and traffic signals.
  • Any relevant environmental factors (e.g., weather conditions).
• Surveillance Footage: If the accident occurred near businesses or intersections with security cameras, your lawyer will seek to obtain video footage that may capture the incident.

Medical Records

• Injury Documentation: To establish the extent of your injuries and link them to the accident, your lawyer will collect medical records, including:
  • Hospital records and treatment plans.
  • Bills and receipts for medical expenses related to the accident.
  • Documentation from specialists (e.g., orthopedic surgeons, neurologists).
• Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Records: Evidence of ongoing treatment will demonstrate the impact of the injuries on your daily life.

Expert Testimony

• Accident Reconstruction Experts: Your lawyer may consult accident reconstruction specialists who can analyze the evidence and provide expert testimony regarding how the accident occurred and who was at fault.
• Medical Experts: Testimony from medical professionals can help clarify the severity of your injuries and the expected recovery time, impacting your compensation.

Vehicle Damage Analysis

• Repair Estimates: Collecting estimates for the repair of motor vehicles or replacement costs helps quantify damages.
• Vehicle Inspection Reports: Analyzing the damage to the vehicles involved can help reconstruct the accident and provide insight into the forces at play.

Insurance Information

• Policy Details: Your lawyer will review the insurance policies of all involved parties to determine coverage limits and the potential for recovery.
• Claims History: Information about prior claims made by the negligent party may reveal patterns of irresponsible behavior.

Traffic and Weather Conditions

• Traffic Reports: Your lawyer may look into traffic patterns and conditions at the time of the accident to understand contributing factors.
• Weather Data: Gathering weather reports can help establish if external conditions played a role in the accident (e.g., rain, fog, or poor visibility).

Driving History and Behavior

• Driving Records: Your lawyer may investigate the driving history of the negligent party to uncover any prior incidents or patterns of reckless behavior.
• Social Media Activity: Posts or comments made by the other driver around the time of the accident can also provide insight into their state of mind or behavior.

Why Avoid Direct Negotiations with the Insurer After Your Car Accident

After a car accident, it can be tempting to negotiate directly with the insurance company, especially if they reach out to you quickly. However, this approach can lead to significant pitfalls that may impact your ability to secure fair compensation. Here are a few important reasons to avoid direct negotiations and seek legal representation from a West Palm Beach car accident lawyer instead.

Unequal Power Dynamic

• Insurance Companies Have the Upper Hand
  • Insurance companies have extensive resources, experienced negotiators, and a team of legal professionals aiming to minimize payouts. This creates a significant power imbalance between you and the insurer.
• Absence of Legal Strength
  • Without legal representation, you may find yourself at a disadvantage. Insurers often exploit this weakness, using unfair tactics designed to undermine your claim and pressure you into accepting low offers.

Limited Knowledge of Your Rights

• Complexity of Insurance Policies
  • Insurance policies are often complex and laden with legal jargon. Without a thorough understanding of your policy and the law, you may miss critical details that could affect your compensation.
• Lack of Awareness of Legal Rights
  • A car accident lawyer is knowledgeable about your rights and can help you understand the full extent of your entitlements. You may not be aware of all the damages you can claim, including non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.

Risk of Settling for Inadequate Compensation

• Initial Offers are Usually Low
  • Insurance companies typically present initial settlement offers that are much lower than what you may be entitled to. These offers are often designed to close your claim quickly and save the insurer money.
• Difficulty in Assessing Damages
  • Without the knowledge to accurately assess your damages, you might accept an offer that fails to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and future costs. A lawyer can calculate your damages comprehensively to ensure you seek appropriate compensation.

Complex Legal Rules and Procedures 

• Navigating the Legal System
  • The legal process can be intricate, with numerous procedures and deadlines that must be adhered to. Direct negotiations without legal guidance can lead to mistakes that jeopardize your claim.
• Insurers’ Manipulative Tactics
  • Insurance companies may use tactics designed to confuse or intimidate you into accepting unfavorable terms. Skilled West Palm Beach car accident lawyers are equipped to recognize these strategies and counter them effectively.

Emotional Stress and Time-Consuming Process

• Added Emotional Burden
  • Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be emotionally draining. Direct negotiations with insurers can add to this stress, making recovery more challenging.
• Time-Intensive Negotiations
  • The negotiation process can be time-consuming and may require significant effort and follow-ups. Your focus should be on healing and recovery rather than navigating complex negotiations.

Professional Guidance and Advocacy

• Strong Legal Representation
  • A West Palm Beach car accident lawyer provides strong representation, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process. They understand the nuances of negotiation and can leverage their experience to advocate on your behalf.
• Comprehensive Case Management
  • Your lawyer will manage all aspects of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with the insurer, allowing you to focus on your recovery. They will ensure that all relevant information is presented in a way that maximizes your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Types of Experts Your West Palm Beach Car Accident Attorney May Hire to Bolster Your Claim

When pursuing a car accident claim in West Palm Beach, your attorney may enlist the help of various experts to strengthen your case and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation. Each expert plays a vital role in providing specialized knowledge and evidence that can support your claims. 

Medical Experts 

Medical professionals can assess your injuries and determine the necessary medical treatment. They review your medical records, perform evaluations, and provide detailed reports regarding the extent of your injuries. They may also testify about the long-term implications of your injuries, any permanent disability, and the ongoing care you will require. Their insights help establish the severity of your condition, the treatments needed, and the associated medical costs, which are essential for accurately calculating your compensation.

Automotive Engineers 

Automobile engineers can play a vital role in investigating vehicle mechanics and safety features. These experts analyze the design and functionality of the vehicle involved in the accident, looking for potential defects or malfunctions that may have contributed to the crash. By providing insights into the vehicle’s performance and safety standards, automotive engineers can help support claims of product liability or negligence against manufacturers, demonstrating that the vehicle was unsafe due to design flaws or mechanical failures.

Accident Reconstructionists 

Accident reconstruction experts utilize their knowledge of physics, engineering principles, and investigative techniques to recreate the accident scene. They analyze factors such as vehicle speeds, angles of impact, and road conditions to provide a comprehensive understanding of how the accident occurred. Their detailed reconstructions are crucial for clarifying liability issues and establishing how the actions of the involved parties contributed to the crash. The expert testimony of an accident reconstructionist can be instrumental in demonstrating the sequence of events leading to the accident and who was at fault.

Forensic Evidence Specialists 

Forensic experts are essential for examining the physical evidence left at the accident scene. They analyze various elements such as tire marks, debris, and vehicle damage to provide critical insights into the dynamics of the crash. By applying scientific methods to their investigations, forensic evidence specialists can corroborate your claims with factual evidence, enhancing the credibility of your case. Their ability to interpret the physical evidence can also provide a clearer picture of how the accident occurred, which can be pivotal in determining liability.

Economists 

Economists may be consulted to assess the financial impact of your injuries. They analyze lost wages, future earning potential, and other economic damages resulting from the accident. By calculating both current and future financial hardships, economists provide vital support for your claims regarding economic losses. Their evaluations help substantiate the argument for fair compensation, ensuring that you are compensated not only for the immediate costs associated with your injuries but also for long-term financial consequences.

Vocational Rehabilitation Experts 

A vocational rehab specialist can evaluate your ability to work following the accident. They assess the extent to which your injuries affect your employability and may recommend rehabilitation or job retraining if necessary. Their assessments help determine how your injuries have impacted your capacity to earn a living, which is essential for claiming future lost wages and vocational support. By providing a thorough evaluation of your work capabilities, these experts can strengthen your case for compensation related to lost income.

Life Care Planners 

Life care planners specialize in creating detailed plans that outline the long-term care needs of individuals with severe injuries. They consider various factors, including ongoing medical care, therapy, and personal assistance, to project the associated costs over time. By developing a comprehensive life care plan, these experts help quantify future expenses related to your injuries. This information is critical in negotiations and court proceedings, as it illustrates the full scope of your needs and the financial implications of your injuries.

Mental Health Specialists 

A psychiatrist or psychologist will evaluate the psychological impact of the accident, focusing on issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. They conduct assessments to understand how the accident has affected your mental health and overall well-being. Their insights provide valuable support for claims related to non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and emotional distress. By documenting the psychological challenges you face, mental health specialists help ensure that your compensation reflects the full extent of your suffering.

What Should I Tell the Police?

When dealing with the police, you should only tell them the bare minimum. Volunteering additional information about the crash could jeopardize or weaken the integrity of your personal injury claim. You never know if you might say something that could compromise your case. Make sure that you are not rude, but be straight and to the point and do not give any more information than what is asked. 

You will want to keep in mind that in West Palm Beach and the rest of Florida, you must report  certain car crashes within 24 hours of the incident. This applies to crashes with more than $500 worth of property damage, fatalities, and serious injuries. Along with leaving the scene of the crash, failure to report will result in heavy fines.

Note that collisions involving the negligence of a drunk driver are exceptions. The State of Florida, Palm Beach County, and West Palm Beach all favor a heavy-handed approach when handling alcohol-related auto infractions. Punitive damages are normally sought against drunk drivers. 

How Much Time Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit?

When an auto accident occurs in Palm Beach County, the statute of limitations is two years from the day the accident happened. This is also true for any associated wrongful death suits. All lawsuits filed after two years will not be entertained per Florida law. Remember, financial compensation is less likely to be awarded as time passes. It’s best to act promptly.

Filing car accident lawsuits is as simple as contacting one of the many fine attorneys in the 1-800 injured network. Car accident attorneys are standing by to help you with your claim. 1-800-Injured can connect you to truck accident lawyers as well.

What Fees Do Car Accident Lawyers Charge?

Florida law limits the amount that a car accident lawyer can charge. This is especially true for lawyers who charge on a contingency basis. They can collect no more than 33⅓ % of any compensation up to 1 million dollars before a lawsuit is filed. Once a lawsuit has been filed, an attorney can’t charge 40% of the gross recovered amount from a settlement. 

There are no charges for calling and asking questions. 1-800 injured is an attorney and medical referral service.