Melbourne FL Car Accident Attorneys
Am auto accident can be a tremendous disruption to your life. You may have to juggle doctor appointments, car repairs, lost work and a variety of new expenses. The legal and financial implications of an accident can be serious, but you don’t have to face them alone.
At Platt Cole Russell & Simpson PLLC in Melbourne, Florida, we help people who have been hurt. We serve individuals and their families who have been affected by all types of car accidents, including:
- Crashes Caused by Distracted or Impaired Drivers — Even the most careful drivers cannot control the behavior of other motorists. If you were hit by a drunk, drugged or distracted driver, it is critical that you exercise your rights and seek help from an attorney experienced in vehicle accident claims.
- Head-On Collisions — Many head-on crashes involve a direct impact at a high speed. This can lead to devastating injuries and, in some cases, death. Our lawyers can help you pursue the compensation necessary to put your life back together.
- Sideswipe Accidents — Side-impact crashes can come out of nowhere and change your life in the blink of an eye. These cases are often complex, involving substantial losses, so it is essential that your personal injury lawyer be prepared to advocate strongly on your behalf.
- Hit-and-Run Accidents — If you were hit by a car and the driver fled the scene, you still have options to cover your medical bills and other expenses. We will explore them all to ensure you make the fullest recovery possible.
- Rear-End Crashes — There is a common misconception that rear-end crashes are minor and straightforward. Even if it seems obvious who was at fault, you may face a challenge when trying to get your expenses paid.
You CAN Afford a Lawyer. Can You Afford Not to Have One?
You may have already received a settlement proposal from the insurance company, and their offer may seem like a lot of money at first glance. However, your case may actually be worth several times more than that amount.
If you don’t have your own personal injury attorney, the insurer knows that you are more likely to take a low offer. The mere act of retaining a lawyer may significantly increase your settlement. Often, the difference can cover the costs of bringing your case AND put more money in your pocket.
It may be tempting to try to resolve your insurance claim on your own, but that can lead to critical mistakes that compromise your recovery. It is always wise to speak with a lawyer about your case and make sure you are protecting your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents
It is important to be as prepared as possible about your car accident claim – and it helps to come to your consultation with any questions you may have. Here are some answers to some common concerns:
What is the difference between comparative negligence and contributory negligence?
Comparative and contributory negligence are two different approaches to accident claims. According to contributory negligence laws, which are only used by a few states, a plaintiff cannot collect damages after a car accident if they were even 1% at fault for their own injuries. Contributory negligence is considered an affirmative defense to a car accident claim.
Many states, including Florida, follow the doctrine of comparative negligence, instead, which allows plaintiffs to collect damages even when they were partially at fault for an accident. Florida’s modified comparative negligence laws state that you can only collect damages if you are 50% or less at fault for your losses. However, any compensation you may be due will be reduced by your percentage of fault – so if your claim is worth $100,000 and you are 40% responsible, you would only receive $60,000 in damages.
How much could my car accident injury case potentially be worth?
The amount of damages that could be collected from a successful auto accident case ultimately depends on the complexity of the case. Major vehicle damage and traumatic injuries could lead to a much higher settlement than “fender-benders” with minor injuries. During your free consultation, your attorney can help you understand the likely value of your claim.
Can a car accident victim get compensation if they have a pre-existing injury?
A car accident could aggravate or worsen a pre-existing injury and make symptoms worse for the victim, so a pre-existing condition is not necessarily a barrier to compensation.
How long after a car accident can I file a lawsuit in Florida?
It is possible to file a lawsuit within four years after an accident. However, it is important to explore your legal options early to understand how soon you should begin your case.
When should I get a lawyer for a car accident?
You should get a lawyer immediately after an auto accident. Our attorneys can inform you of your legal rights, protect you from being unfairly blamed by the other party’s insurer, determine the true value of your claim and negotiate on your behalf for full and fair compensation.
Don’t Wait to Take Control of Your Case
To learn more, we encourage you to contact us for a free consultation. Please call 321-725-5638 or 844-585-0202 toll-free to speak with a member of our firm and meet with an attorney at no cost.