Last December in Florida, a woman was traveling in the wrong direction and I-95 and hit a Chevrolet Cobalt head-on, killing herself and the four passengers in the Cobalt. Car accidents can happen to anyone, anywhere; even to the most reasonable drivers. As in this example, car accidents can be tragic and often fatal. If you are in an accident at the fault of another person, it is important that you know and understand your legal rights as you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
The Miami, Florida personal injury attorneys of Gerson & Schwartz PA have over 43 years of experience handling automobile accident claims. Our attorneys have successfully represented injured drivers and passengers in various automobile accident scenarios ranging from head-on collisions, rear-end collisions, motorcycle crashes, drunk driving accidents, hit and runs, pedestrian accidents, bicycle accidents, even uninsured and under-insured motor vehicle accident claims. Additionally, our law firm handles complex car accident cases that involve insurance coverage disputes and product liability claims such as defective design and automobile manufacturing defects.
What to Do if You are Involved in an Automobile Accident
In the event that you are involved in an automobile accident, you should first call for help and seek medical attention. Your wellbeing is always top priority. You should try and stay calm; take pictures or videos of the scene and the cars, if possible. It is a good idea to document any skid marks, road debris, and any property damage. Make sure to document the events that took place before the vehicles are moved from the scene and before victims are taken away.
From here, it is important that you get names and contact information of all potential witnesses. Get written statements if possible. Of course, you need to get the name of the at-fault driver. Also get said driver’s insurance provider’s name and contact information. You need to contact his or her insurance provider right away to file your claim. Once your claim is initiated, you will be in communication with the insurance claims adjuster. This person will want copies of all relevant medical bills, lost wages, repairs, etc. for purposes of settlement negotiations. When talking to the claims adjuster it is important that you do not give too much detail as to what happened as this may jeopardize your chances of obtaining a settlement.
Countless people attempt to handle accident claims themselves. Please note that insurance companies have their own lawyers. You should too! Personal injury attorneys will help ensure that you are adequately compensated for your injuries or loss. These injuries are referred to as “damages.” Damages may include financial compensation for past and future medical care, such as expenses from the initial hospitalization, emergency room care, diagnostic tests, and other reasonably related medical expenses such as physical therapy and surgery. Compensation also may cover your lost wages, loss of earning capacity, scarring, and disfigurement. In all, our firm is here to make sure that the full amount of your damages are recovered.
Take Action Before it is too Late
If you or a loved one has been injured in an automobile accident at the fault of another, our Miami, Florida personal injury lawyers of Gerson & Schwartz PA are here to help. Our message is powerful and effective. We fight hard to obtain maximum case results for all our clients and will pursue all legal remedies on their behalf. Contact us for a free consultation. Se Habla Espanol.