Can I be compensated even if the accident was my fault?
Possibly not. However, whether you got a “ticket” does not necessarily mean you were 100% at fault. Thus, even if you may have been partially at fault, email us so we can evaluate the case thoroughly.

Who can I sue to recover some compensation?
Besides the driver who caused the accident, it depends on the particulars of the accident. If there was a mechanical defect in the other driver’s car, the manufacturer, retailer, or repair mechanic could be held liable. If the other driver was drunk, the establishment which served him too many drinks could be sued. Any problems with the road or highway itself could make a government body responsible. If a big truck was involved and the driver violated any of his company’s rules, the truck company could be sued. If the truck’s load was involved, the company which loaded it might be held liable.

How do I know what my case might be worth?
That can only be determined after many factors have been examined, such as your medical costs, loss of income both present and future, and the nature of your injuries. Each case is different. You would need to consult a motor vehicle accident lawyer and allow time for him or her to gather and analyze information.

Would I have to go to court?
No, not necessarily. Your case might be settled out of court. This is a better alternative, as it avoids the cost, frustration, and delay of a trial. You may also receive a larger compensation amount. Only if the parties cannot come to an agreement with us would your case have to go to court.

Where would my compensation money come from?
Your own insurance company would pay it, if you have UM (Uninsured or Under-insured Motorist coverage). Or the at-fault’s insurance carrier would pay it if that person carried Bodily Injury insurance.

How long might it be before I received the compensation?
That would largely depend on how long it takes for your medical care to be completed. If your injuries are severe and medical care continues for some time, we would need to wait until either:
It finally was finished and you were healed, or
It was close enough to being finished that we could accurately estimate the full extent of your medical costs.

If your case went to trial, your compensation would be delayed by however long it took to conclude the trial, and possibly through the Appeal process.

How would I pay all the attorney’s fees?
Our firm works on contingency. That means that until we win an award or settlement for you, we are not paid. Our fees come out of the amount we win for you. If you end up not winning any compensation, you would usually be responsible only for actual attorney expenses, such as witness fees or filing fees.

Do I have to get medical care?
Whether you file a claim for compensation or not, you should see a doctor. Remember that not all injuries cause immediate symptoms. For your own peace of mind, and to strengthen your case in the event that you do file a lawsuit, you should seek medical care immediately after the accident.

How long would I have to file my suit?
In most types of negligence cases, you have four years from the date of the accident. However, in some cases a one-year or two-year limitation might apply.

Can I accept a check from my insurance company?
Be very careful about that. Get legal advice first. You would not want to accept a low amount prematurely, as it would then be interpreted as a final settlement and you would be unable to get compensation for any further medical costs or lost wages.

With Florida’s new law going into effect January 1, 2008, you would be wise to do nothing without legal assistance. Unless you have read the new law and understand exactly how it affects your case, you should have an experienced vehicle accident attorney at your side. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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West Palm Beach, Florida, motor vehicle accident lawyer Craig Goldenfarb represents clients throughout South Florida, including the cities of Palm Springs, Stuart, and Fort Pierce, and residents of Palm Beach County, Martin County, and St. Lucie County. Our office in West Palm Beach, Florida, is located a quarter mile west of I-95 on Palm Beach Lakes Blvd., behind Chick-Fil-A in the IKON Building.