Florida Car Accident Lawyers

A car crash can disrupt your life in seconds. Pain may be immediate or delayed. Medical bills can begin arriving before you fully understand your injuries. Missed work, vehicle repairs, and insurance calls often follow quickly, adding stress during an already difficult time.

Many people feel overwhelmed after a crash. They are unsure what steps matter most, how Florida insurance laws apply, or whether their injuries will have lasting consequences. Unfortunately, early missteps can significantly reduce compensation, even when injuries are serious.

Dennis Hernandez Injury Attorneys helps people injured in car crashes protect their rights and pursue fair compensation under Florida law. Our firm has recovered millions and millions for injured clients by building claims supported by medical evidence, detailed investigation, and a clear understanding of Florida’s insurance and liability rules.

What To Do Immediately After A Florida Car Crash?

• Put safety first and call 911. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 immediately. Try not to move unless you are in danger, and help others get emergency assistance. If you can do so safely, move vehicles out of traffic, turn on hazard lights, and stay clear of the roadway while waiting for responders.
• Render reasonable aid if someone is injured. If another person is hurt, take reasonable steps to help and make sure emergency services are contacted. This can include calling for medical help and staying nearby until assistance arrives.
• Cooperate with law enforcement and keep your statements factual. If police respond, provide accurate information and stick to what you know. A crash report often documents key details, including involved parties, road conditions, witness information, and initial observations. If police do not respond, reporting the crash afterward may still be required.
• Get medical care right away, even if symptoms seem minor. Adrenaline can hide pain, and some injuries worsen hours or days later. Early evaluation protects your health and creates medical records insurers rely on. Florida insurance rules also place time limits on when treatment must begin to preserve certain benefits.
• Document the scene if you are physically able. Take photos or video of vehicle positions, damage, visible injuries, debris, skid marks, traffic signals, and weather conditions. Note nearby businesses that may have surveillance footage and record license plate numbers when possible.
• Exchange and collect the right information. Get the other driver’s name, phone number, insurance carrier, and policy details. If witnesses are present, ask for their names and contact information. Independent witnesses can be important if fault is disputed later.
• Be careful what you say and what you sign. Avoid apologizing, guessing about fault, or debating what happened. Do not sign insurance paperwork or provide recorded statements until you understand your rights. If the other driver’s insurer contacts you, it is often safer to refer them to your legal representative.
• Avoid social media and casual discussions about the crash. Comments to friends, family, or online posts can be misunderstood and later used against you. Keep details private while the claim is being evaluated.
• Follow through with treatment and medical advice. Attend appointments, follow recommendations, and report new symptoms. Gaps in care can be used to argue your injuries were not serious or were unrelated to the crash.

What Injuries Often Appear After A Car Accident?

Not all injuries manifest immediate pain, which can make it challenging to assess your condition right after a car accident. Some injuries may take time to develop symptoms, leading to complications if not addressed promptly. Here are some common injuries that may appear hours or days after a crash:

1. Whiplash and Soft-Tissue Injuries:
   • These injuries can worsen over several days.
   • Symptoms may include stiffness, headaches, and limited range of motion.

2. Back Injuries:
   • Injuries involving discs or nerves can lead to radiating pain or weakness.
   • It’s important to monitor any changes in mobility or sensation.

3. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI):
   • Not all TBIs result in loss of consciousness.
   • Symptoms can include confusion, memory issues, mood swings, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating.

4. Internal Injuries:
   • These can cause delayed abdominal pain, nausea, or weakness.
   • Internal injuries may become life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Given that delayed symptoms are common, seeking a medical evaluation after any car accident is crucial. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve recovery outcomes.

Why Is It So Important To Treat After A Car Crash?

Getting medical care right after a car crash is very important. It helps protect both your health and your legal rights.

When you get prompt treatment, it helps doctors accurately diagnose any injuries. It also shows a clear link between those injuries and the accident. This is important. Insurance companies often argue that delays in treatment mean the injuries were either minor or not connected to the crash. This can greatly affect your claim.

In addition to the legal implications, early medical care is essential for preventing potential complications that could arise from untreated injuries. By following medical advice and attending all necessary follow-up appointments, you demonstrate that you are taking your injuries seriously, which can further strengthen your case.

Moreover, the medical records generated during this process often become some of the most influential pieces of evidence in a car accident claim, providing critical support for your case as you seek compensation for your injuries and losses.

How To Protect My Car Accident Claim?

When it comes to car accident claims, the strength of your case heavily relies on well-organized and consistent evidence. These evidence serves as the backbone of your claim, ensuring that you have a solid foundation to support your case:

• Medical Records: Detail your diagnoses, treatment plans, progress notes, and future care needs from the accident.
• Police Reports: Offer an official account of the crash.
• Photographs: Taken at the scene, these capture details that may fade from memory.
• Witness Statements: Confirm how the crash occurred from an outside perspective, bolstering your claim.
• Employment and Income Records: Essential for substantiating claims for lost wages due to the accident.

In summary, well-documented evidence helps your negotiations. It also ensures you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Why is The Police Report Important In A Florida Car Accident Claim?

In Florida, traffic crash reporting is mainly governed by Florida Statutes §316.066. This law explains how to report traffic accidents and create official crash reports.

These reports play an important role after a car accident. They document important details. This includes who was involved, the road conditions during the crash, witness information, and what the responding officer saw.

Police officers do not decide civil liability in these reports. However, insurance companies rely heavily on the information in them when evaluating claims. This reliance shows how important it is to have accurate documents. Any errors or missing information can make the claims process harder and may cause disputes.

Therefore, it is vital to gather additional evidence to support your claim. If a police report is missing or not complete, insurers may question who is at fault. This makes it very important to have complete documentation.

Do I Have To Contact The Police After A Car Accident In Florida?

According to Florida Statutes §316.062 and §316.066, it is mandatory for drivers to report any car accidents that result in injury, death, or significant property damage. This legal obligation is crucial for ensuring that all parties involved are held accountable and that proper documentation is created for insurance purposes.

Not following these reporting rules can lead to penalties, like fines. It can also make filing insurance claims harder. Even if you don’t see injuries right away, reporting the incident can protect your legal rights. This is important if symptoms or problems show up later. So, it is always a good idea to call the police after an accident. This helps ensure you are protected and that all steps are taken.

How Soon To Report My Car Accident?

It is crucial to report any car accident as soon as reasonably possible after the incident occurs. Delaying the report can lead to complications, as it may raise questions regarding fault and the causation of injuries.

Insurance companies often approach late reports with skepticism, which can complicate your claim process.

By reporting the accident quickly, you help keep important evidence for your case. You also meet legal and insurance requirements. This protects your rights and interests after the crash.

What is Florida’s PIP Insurance System? How Does It Affect My Case?

Florida follows a no-fault insurance system governed primarily by Florida Statutes §627.736, which requires most drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection coverage.

Under this law, PIP usually covers some medical costs and lost wages. However, these benefits have specific limits. Additionally, the statute imposes restrictions on reimbursement rates and grants insurance companies the authority to review the medical necessity of treatments provided.

Due to the capped nature of PIP benefits, individuals who suffer serious injuries may find that their coverage is quickly exhausted, leaving them with significant out-of-pocket expenses.

Furthermore, it is crucial to understand that PIP does not provide compensation for pain and suffering, which can be a significant aspect of recovery for many accident victims. This is why meeting the legal injury threshold becomes essential in more severe cases, as it may allow individuals to pursue additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.

What If I Was Driving A Leased Vehicle When The Crash Happened?

Driving a leased vehicle does not block a car accident claim, but it can add extra insurance layers.

In most cases, your own policy is primary, including PIP under Florida Statutes §627.736, which typically provides up to $10,000 in no-fault benefits. Liability coverage may apply if you caused the crash, and many policies carry limits in the $10,000 to $100,000 per person range, depending on what was purchased.

Lease agreements often require Property Damage Liability (commonly $10,000 or more) plus Collision and Comprehensive coverage to protect the leased vehicle, usually with deductibles around $500 to $1,000.

If the car is totaled, GAP insurance may pay the difference between the car’s value and the lease payoff. This difference can be several thousand dollars.

Because insurers may dispute which policy pays first, an early review of the lease and insurance declarations can prevent delays.

Why to Treat Within 14 Days Affect A Car Accident?

Florida Statutes §627.736 requires injured drivers to seek initial medical services within a limited period following a crash to be eligible for full Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. This requirement is important to make sure that victims get the financial help they need for medical bills and other costs.

Insurance companies often use this statute as a basis to deny or reduce claims when there is a delay in seeking medical treatment.  Even if the injuries are legitimate and serious, not getting medical help quickly can negatively affect the coverage available for the injured person. This can lead to significant financial burdens for those who are already dealing with the aftermath of an accident.

Getting medical care quickly is important. It helps keep your eligibility under the law. It also strengthens the proof that links your injuries to the accident. This documentation is essential for substantiating claims and ensuring that victims receive the compensation they deserve. Therefore, understanding and adhering to this 14-day rule is critical for anyone involved in a car accident in Florida.

What Florida Laws Support My Car Accident Claims?

Several Florida statutes directly affect car accident claims.

Florida Statutes §627.736 establishes the no-fault insurance system and PIP requirements. Florida Statutes §627.737 defines the serious injury threshold required to pursue non-economic damages.

Florida Statutes §768.81 governs comparative fault, which reduces compensation based on each party’s percentage of responsibility. Florida Statutes §95.11 sets the statute of limitations for filing personal injury lawsuits.

Together, these laws shape eligibility, claim value, and filing deadlines.

What Is The Serious Injury Threshold, And When Can You Sue?

In Florida, personal injury claims are governed by Florida Statutes §627.737. This law sets limits on seeking damages for pain and suffering. This law states that people can only make these claims if their injuries meet certain serious criteria.

To qualify for this serious injury threshold, injuries can include many conditions. These may involve permanent loss of body function, lasting impairment, or significant scarring and disfigurement. Additionally, certain types of traumatic brain injuries may also fall under this category.

It is important to know that insurance companies often question if certain injuries meet this legal standard. This shows the need for robust medical evidence to support your claim. This evidence is crucial in establishing the severity of your injuries and your right to seek compensation.

How Does Fault Work In Florida After Recent Law Changes?

In Florida, the legal framework surrounding fault is primarily governed by Florida Statutes §768.81, which outlines the principles of comparative fault.

This law states that any compensation awarded to an injured person can be reduced. The reduction depends on how much fault is assigned to them in the incident. Insurance companies often review statements and evidence carefully. They do this to decide how much blame injured drivers have. This decision can greatly affect the compensation these drivers receive.

Therefore, it is crucial for individuals involved in accidents to gather accurate evidence and engage in careful communication throughout the claims process. These elements are important for protecting their right to fair compensation under Florida’s current laws.

Can I Sue A Friend Or Family Member If They Were Found At Fault For The Accident?

Yes, in many situations, a car accident claim may still proceed even when the at-fault driver is a friend or family member. In most cases, the claim is not truly against the individual, but against their auto insurance policy.

Florida liability insurance is designed to cover injuries caused by negligent driving, regardless of the personal relationship between the drivers involved. When a claim is filed, the insurer typically provides a legal defense and pays covered damages up to the policy limits. This structure often allows injured parties to pursue compensation without placing personal financial responsibility on a loved one.

However, complications can arise if coverage limits are low, exclusions apply, or the insurer disputes liability. Emotional hesitation is also common, which can delay claims and reduce recovery. Understanding how Florida insurance policies respond in family-related crashes helps injured people make informed decisions without unnecessary guilt or confusion.

What Damages Can You Recover After A Car Crash?

Florida law allows injured people to seek compensation for both measurable financial losses and harder-to-quantify personal harm caused by a car accident. The specific damages available depend on the severity of injuries, how the crash affected daily life, and whether statutory thresholds are met.

Economic damages, sometimes called financial damages, are intended to reimburse direct monetary losses, including:

• Medical expenses related to emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and future treatment needs, as recognized under Florida’s personal injury and insurance statutes.
• Lost wages for time missed from work due to injuries, along with diminished earning capacity if injuries reduce the ability to work in the future.
• Property damage, including vehicle repair or replacement and other personal property damaged in the crash.
• Out-of-pocket and replacement service costs for tasks the injured person can no longer perform independently, such as household services, childcare, transportation assistance, or personal care.

Non-economic damages address the human impact of an accident that cannot be measured by receipts or invoices. When Florida’s serious injury threshold is met, recoverable non-economic damages may include:

• Physical pain and ongoing discomfort caused by the injuries.
• Emotional suffering, mental anguish, and reduced quality of life.
• Loss of enjoyment of life when injuries limit normal activities, hobbies, or independence.
• Permanent scarring, disfigurement, or visible injuries.
• Disability or loss of bodily function.
• Loss of companionship, society, or support experienced by close family members.

In cases involving particularly dangerous behavior, punitive damages may also be available under Florida law. These damages are not intended to compensate for losses, but to punish and deter misconduct. Florida statutes allow punitive damages when there is clear and convincing evidence of intentional wrongdoing or gross negligence, such as crashes involving impaired driving, extreme recklessness, or aggressive conduct.

Severe or catastrophic injuries may also justify compensation for long-term or lifelong care, assistive devices, and permanent disability. Accurately identifying and documenting all available damages is essential to protecting the full value of a car accident claim under Florida law.

Our Clients Feel Our Commitment

We achieve outcomes by demonstrating compassion, empathy, and dedication. Our commitment to our clients is evident as we answer their calls at any time, visit them in the hospital, and advocate fiercely for the compensation they rightfully deserve, among other efforts. Here are several examples of unsolicited testimonials we’ve received from clients in the Tampa region:

How Much May Be Recovered From A Car Accident Claim?

There is no fixed dollar amount for a Florida car accident claim. The value depends on the specific damages involved, the severity of injuries, available insurance coverage, and how Florida law applies to the facts of the case.

Florida does not impose a general cap on compensatory damages in standard car accident cases. This means you can usually recover economic damages, like medical bills and lost income, if you have proof.

You can also get compensation for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. This is possible if your injuries meet the serious injury requirements in Florida Statutes §627.737.

Punitive damages in Florida are usually limited. They can be up to three times the compensatory damages (economic + non-economic) or $500,000, according to Florida Statutes §768.73, although higher caps or no cap may apply in limited scenarios described in the statute.

Practical recovery limits often come from insurance policy limits rather than statutory caps. If the at-fault driver carries minimal coverage, recovery may be limited unless additional coverage applies, such as uninsured or underinsured motorist benefits. In cases of serious misconduct, Florida law may allow for punitive damages. However, there are rules and higher proof standards that apply.

Claim value is influenced more by evidence strength, injury impact, and available coverage than by artificial limits.

How Are Future Medical Costs Calculated In Car Accident Cases?

Future medical needs frequently account for a substantial portion of the compensation awarded in car accident cases. Estimating these costs accurately is important. It helps ensure that victims get the support they need for recovery and care.

Doctors may recommend various forms of treatment and support, including:

• Ongoing therapy: This can encompass physical therapy, occupational therapy, or psychological counseling, depending on the nature of the injuries sustained. Continuous therapy is often necessary to help individuals regain their strength, mobility, and mental well-being.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to address injuries that do not heal properly or to correct underlying issues. The costs associated with surgery can be significant, including hospital stays, anesthesia, and post-operative care.
• Medication: Many accident victims may need prescription medications to manage pain, reduce inflammation, or treat other medical conditions resulting from the accident. The long-term costs of these medications can add up, especially if they are required for an extended period.
• Assistive devices: Depending on the severity of the injuries, individuals may need assistive devices such as wheelchairs, crutches, or prosthetics. These devices can help improve mobility and quality of life. However, they also have ongoing costs for maintenance and replacement.

Medical opinions and detailed life-care planning are important for estimating long-term costs of future medical needs. These assessments consider the person’s specific situation. This includes their age, health, and the type of injuries they have.

Insurers often undervalue future care without strong documentation. Victims need to collect complete medical records, expert opinions, and detailed life-care plans. This helps make sure their future medical costs are accurately shown and paid for.

How Do Pre-Existing Conditions Affect A Car Crash Claim?

A pre-existing condition does not bar compensation if a crash worsens symptoms or causes new injury.

Medical records help distinguish prior conditions from crash-related aggravation. Consistent treatment documentation is critical.

Insurers often raise pre-existing conditions to dispute claims.

How Do Insurance Companies Calculate The Value Of A Car Accident Claim?

Insurers use internal formulas and risk assessments.

They take into account:

• Medical records
• Treatment timelines
• Prior health history

Non-economic damages are often estimated using internal guidelines.

Initial offers frequently undervalue claims.

Why Do Insurance Companies Challenge Injury Severity After Car Accidents?

The severity of challenging injuries plays a crucial role in helping insurers manage and limit their payouts effectively.

Commonly disputed injuries include soft-tissue injuries, brain injuries, and chronic pain, which often lead to contentious claims. Insurers frequently cite treatment gaps and pre-existing conditions as reasons to dispute claims.

To counter these tactics and strengthen their cases, it is essential for individuals to maintain consistent medical care and thorough documentation of their injuries and treatments throughout the recovery process.

What Mistakes Commonly Reduce Car Accident Compensation?

Common mistakes that individuals often make in the process of handling their claims can significantly impact the outcome. It is crucial to be aware of these pitfalls to protect your rights and ensure a fair resolution. Here are some common missteps to avoid:

• Delaying Treatment: failing to seek prompt medical care can harm your claim. Timely treatment aids recovery and documents your injuries.
• Giving Recorded Statements Without Guidance: making statements to insurers without legal advice can lead to misunderstandings. Always consult a professional first.
• Accepting Early Settlement Offers: quick settlement offers from insurance companies may seem attractive but often undervalue your damages. Evaluate your situation carefully.
• Posting About Injuries Online: sharing injury details on social media can be harmful. Insurers may use this against you, weakening your claim.

These missteps can have lasting effects, often weakening claims permanently. Being informed and cautious can help you navigate the process more effectively.

Should You Accept The First Settlement Offer After A Car Accident?

No, you should not.  Early settlement offers rarely reflect full claim value.

They often fail to account for future treatment or long-term effects. Once accepted, claims are usually closed permanently.

Careful review before accepting any offer is essential.

What Happens If The Insurance Company Denies A Car Accident Claim?

What Happens If The Insurance Company Denies A Car Accident Claim?

Receiving a denial from your insurance company does not necessarily mean that your case is over and done with.

There are various reasons why claims may be denied, including disputes over liability, issues related to coverage, or even incomplete documentation submitted during the claims process. However, it is important to know that additional evidence or even legal action can often help to overcome a denial.

By understanding the reasons for the denial, you can plan your next steps. This will help you decide the best way to continue with your claim.

How Does Litigation Change A Car Accident Claim?

Litigation involves a series of formal legal procedures that are designed to resolve disputes through the court system.

When a lawsuit is initiated, it sets in motion a series of important legal processes. This not only allows for the exchange of evidence but also facilitates the collection of sworn testimony and the oversight of a judge.

Key aspects of this process include:

• Exchange of Evidence: Both parties are required to share relevant documents and information, which can significantly impact the case’s outcome.
• Collection of Sworn Testimony: Witnesses may be called to provide their accounts under oath, adding credibility and depth to the arguments presented.
• Judicial Oversight: A judge oversees the proceedings, ensuring that the legal process is followed correctly and fairly.

While many cases ultimately settle outside of court, the act of engaging in litigation often enhances the leverage of the parties involved. This leverage can lead to more favorable settlements or outcomes, making litigation a critical aspect of the legal process.

In summary, starting a lawsuit is not just about finding a solution. It is a detailed process that can greatly affect negotiations and the final outcomes.

How Long Do You Have To File A Florida Car Accident Claim?

Florida law imposes strict deadlines for filing car accident lawsuits, typically requiring claims to be filed within two years of the crash per Florida Statutes §95.11.

This applies to claims for bodily injuries, including medical costs and lost income. Failing to file within this timeframe usually results in case dismissal, barring recovery regardless of evidence strength.

Ongoing negotiations or medical delays do not extend this deadline. Certain cases, like those involving government entities or fatal accidents, may have different deadlines. Early legal guidance is crucial to ensure compliance with statutory requirements.

How Long Does A Florida Car Accident Case Usually Take To Resolve?

The timeline for resolving a car accident case in Florida can vary significantly based on several factors.

For instance, cases involving minor injuries may typically reach a resolution within a few months. However, when serious injuries are involved, the process often extends over a longer period due to the necessary medical treatments and evaluations that must be completed.

It’s important to note that rushing to resolve a case can frequently result in underpayment, leaving victims without adequate compensation for their injuries and losses.

What Are Your Options If You Were Hit By An Uninsured Driver?

Being hit by an uninsured driver can complicate a claim, but Florida law may still provide paths to compensation.

• Uninsured motorist coverage under your own policy may apply. Many Florida drivers carry uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which can be used to pay damages when the at-fault driver lacks insurance.
• Personal Injury Protection benefits may still be available. Florida’s no-fault system allows injured drivers to claim PIP benefits regardless of fault, even if the other driver is uninsured. These benefits are limited and can be quickly exhausted in serious cases.
• Direct legal action against the uninsured driver may be possible. Injured individuals might pursue a claim against the at-fault driver, depending on their assets or income to satisfy a judgment.
• Other potential sources of recovery may exist. Additional parties, like employers or other negligent drivers, may share liability for the crash. Identifying all responsible parties is crucial when insurance coverage is limited or absent.

Can You Still File A Claim If You Are Uninsured?

Yes, in many cases, being uninsured does not eliminate your right to pursue compensation.

• Florida law allows recovery regardless of insurance. So, even if you are not insured, and another driver caused the crash, you may still file an injury claim against that driver or access applicable coverage under Florida’s insurance framework.
• Being uninsured might influence the handling of your claim. Although you can pursue compensation, insurance companies may highlight your lack of coverage during discussions, and some benefits could be restricted or not available based on the specifics of your policy.
• Evidence related to medical issues and liability is essential. No matter your insurance situation, establishing fault, documenting injuries, and fulfilling legal requirements are crucial in assessing the value and recoverability of your claim

Understanding how uninsured status interacts with Florida’s insurance laws can help avoid unnecessary setbacks.

What Are The Penalties For Driving Without Insurance In Florida?

Florida law requires drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage, and failure to do so can result in significant penalties.

• Mandatory insurance requirements are set by statute. Florida Statutes §324.022 and §627.733 require drivers to maintain specific insurance coverage as a condition of operating a motor vehicle.
• Penalties may include license and registration suspension. Driving without required insurance can result in license and registration suspension until proof of coverage and reinstatement fees are paid.
• Repeat violations often result in increased consequences. Additional fines, longer suspension periods, and higher reinstatement costs may apply for subsequent offenses.
• Insurance penalties are separate from injury claims. These consequences do not erase an injured person’s right to seek compensation after a crash.

Understanding both the penalties and the available legal options helps clarify how uninsured driving affects a car accident claim under Florida law.

How Can A Car Accident Lawyer Help Level The Field?

Insurance companies are engaged in processing claims on a daily basis, while individuals who have been injured often find themselves overwhelmed and unsure of how to navigate the process.

A skilled lawyer steps in to investigate the details of the crash, meticulously gathering evidence to support the case. They also manage all communications with the insurance company and prepare claims for either negotiation or litigation.

Being trial-ready can significantly enhance the likelihood of achieving favorable settlement outcomes.

Why Does Experience With Florida Insurance Laws Matter In Car Accident Cases?

Florida’s insurance system is widely recognized for its complexity and multifaceted nature, making it a challenging landscape for both consumers and professionals alike.

Having substantial experience in this area is absolutely crucial, as it empowers professionals to effectively navigate the intricate web of coverage options available. This expertise allows them to accurately apply the relevant statutory rules and successfully counter the common defenses that insurers often put forth.

A solid understanding of Florida law is not just beneficial; it is essential for protecting clients’ rights and interests. This knowledge ensures that clients receive the comprehensive care and support they need, ultimately leading to better outcomes in their insurance claims and related matters.

How Much Does An Attorney Charge For A Car Accident In Florida?

The majority of car accident attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, which means that clients are not required to pay any upfront fees.

In fact, clients owe nothing unless their attorney successfully recovers compensation on their behalf. This arrangement allows individuals to seek legal representation without the burden of immediate financial costs.

Additionally, Dennis Hernandez Injury Attorneys provides free case evaluations to help potential clients understand their options and the merits of their cases.

What Does The Car Accident Claim Process Usually Look Like?

• Medical treatment and claim eligibility. In Florida, most claims begin with medical records. This is because of the no-fault system. This system often provides early benefits through PIP, as stated in Florida Statutes §627.736.
• Evidence and crash reporting. Claims usually include photos, witness information, and a crash report made according to Florida Statutes §316.066. These elements help clarify the circumstances of the accident and minimize disputes over fault.
• Demand and damages presentation. As injuries become clearer, a demand package is prepared to detail liability and losses. If injuries meet the serious injury threshold in Florida Statutes §627.737, the claim may also include non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
• Negotiation and valuation disputes. Insurers often seek more records, question causation, and dispute the value of treatment, lost wages, or future care needs. Settlement talks can last weeks or even months, depending on the complexity of the injuries.
• Litigation and statutory deadlines. If an insurer denies responsibility or gives a low settlement, you can file a lawsuit. However, you must do this within the time limit set by Florida Statutes §95.11. Even after filing, many cases are resolved through settlement before reaching trial.

Florida Car Crashes FAQs

Why Choose Dennis Hernandez Injury Attorneys After A Car Crash?

When it comes to legal representation, experience, meticulous preparation, and proven results truly make a difference.

At Dennis Hernandez Injury Attorneys, we have won millions of dollars for our injured clients. This shows our commitment to their cases. We work on a no-win, no-fee basis. This means our clients pay nothing upfront. They only owe us if we win compensation for them.

We fight to get you paid!

Recommended Reading

• Florida Statutes §627.736 – Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
• Florida Statutes §627.737 – Serious injury threshold
• Florida Statutes §768.81 – Comparative fault
• Florida Statutes §95.11 – Statute of limitations
• Florida Statutes §316.066 – Traffic crash reports
• Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Crash Statistics
• What Are the Biggest Claim-Killers After an Injury in Fort Myers?
• Which Insurance Applies If You Have an Out-of-State Policy and Are Involved in a Crash in Florida?

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