What should I do if I am in an accident?

Regardless of how minor you think the accident is, you should always report it to the police. Write down names, addresses and phone numbers of any witnesses in case you need them later, and make sure the police officer gives you a copy of the driver exchange information form.
Call your insurance agent and your insurance company immediately for further instructions. If you do not report the accident, the insurance company may deny payment of any claims you subsequently file. An insurance company must notify you within 30 (thirty) days of receiving proper notice of the claim whether they will pay or deny your claim or that they are investigating the claim.
If you are in doubt as to your rights or confused by any explanation of them, contact an attorney who will spend time with you until you understand both your rights and responsibilities.

What is a deposition?

A deposition is a statement given under oath, usually done in a lawyer's office, before a court reporter. Witnesses called to testify in a deposition answer questions given by the attorneys representing both parties in a case. The court reporter produces a written transcript of everything said at the deposition and the witnesses sign the transcript, swearing it to be an accurate rendition of the evidence given under oath.

How will I pay all my medical bills?

If you have been injured and sought treatment for your injuries, you will soon begin receiving medical bills from hospitals, physicians, physical therapists and other health care professionals. These bills will be in your name and will typically be sent to your address. In Florida, your automobile insurance should provide medical payment benefits per your policy. However, remember, you are responsible for paying your medical bills, regardless of the cause of your injuries. The liability insurance carrier of the person who was at fault is responsible for paying reasonable compensation for damages incurred, which includes medical bills.

When do I need to contact an attorney?

The best time to consult with an attorney is as soon as possible after any accident, while the details are still fresh in your mind. An early consultation will allow the attorney to conduct the most thorough investigation, which can only strengthen your case. By contacting our office soon after an accident, we can help verify that you - as the victim of someone's negligence - understand all of your rights under Florida law.

What should I bring to the initial consultation?

You should bring any and all records associated with your case including: police reports; medical records; incident reports; medical bills; photographs; and any other documentation related to your accident.

What is my case worth?

Every case is unique and the amount of any eventual settlement or jury award will vary greatly. Before an accurate determination of the value of your case can be made, your doctors must determine that you have reached maximum medical improvement, and your attorney must have a thorough understanding of your course of medical treatment, your current condition and your future prognosis. Additionally, your legal representative must have an opportunity to completely investigate the details of the accident and ample time to analyze the accident's impact on your wage-earning ability and on your lifestyle, both now and in the future.

Will my case go to trial if we do have to file suit?

While most personal injury lawsuits are settled before trial, our office prepares for every case as if it might ultimately be decided by a jury. We strongly believe in being prepared in the event that an agreement cannot be reached, and we leave no stone unturned to ensure a positive result for our clients. We will aggressively pursue resolution, so that the process does not become unduly difficult, burdensome or expensive.

Do I need a lawyer to pursue a medical malpractice case?

Yes. Medical malpractice cases are very complex and difficult to pursue, and can be quite expensive to litigate. Our firm will obtain all of the proper medical records, laboratory results, pathological reports, and all other reports resulting from testing that may be relevant to your case.

What sort of damages can be recovered from a medical malpractice lawsuit?

a. Medical expenses for treating the injuries caused by the malpractice;
b. Damages for pain and suffering;
c. Disfigurement and disability damages;
d. Lost wages;
e. Where appropriate, Florida law permits damages to be recovered by spouses, children and parents of negligently injured people for the loss of the love, care, affection, companionship and other pleasures of the family relationship that are lost due to malpractice.