Experiencing a car accident in West Palm Beach can be a life-altering event. The aftermath is often filled with confusion, pain, and uncertainty about the future. If you’ve been injured in a car crash, seeking the guidance of a car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach is a crucial step to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
At Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa, our experienced West Palm Beach car accident attorneys are committed to providing comprehensive legal support to accident victims. We understand the challenges you face and are here to guide you through every step of the legal process. We offer a free consultation to review your case, explain your legal options, and answer all your questions.
During your free case review with our car accident lawyers in West Palm Beach, we will:
- Thoroughly discuss the details of your car accident to understand the circumstances.
- Assess the extent of your injuries and the losses you have incurred due to the crash.
- Inquire about any evidence you may have collected from the accident scene, such as photos, police reports, and witness information.
- Clearly explain your legal rights under Florida law, including relevant statutes and how they apply to your specific situation.
- Outline our approach to building a strong case on your behalf, focusing on maximizing your recovery.
This consultation is also your opportunity to learn more about our firm and our dedicated team of West Palm Beach car accident attorneys. We encourage you to ask any questions you have about our experience, our approach, and how we can help you navigate this difficult time. If you decide to entrust your case to us, a dedicated attorney will be assigned to work with you directly. Your West Palm Beach car accident lawyer will then:
- Provide you with a clear understanding of the personal injury claim process in Florida and keep you informed with regular updates on the progress of your case.
- Conduct a comprehensive investigation to gather all necessary evidence to support your claim and demonstrate your right to compensation. This includes police reports, witness statements, medical records, and accident reconstruction if needed.
- Identify all potentially liable parties based on a thorough investigation of the accident, ensuring all avenues for recovery are explored.
- Meticulously document and calculate the full extent of your losses, including medical expenses (past and future), lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other applicable damages.
- Act as your advocate and communicate directly with all involved parties on your behalf, including the at-fault party, their insurance company, defense attorneys, and any other relevant entities.
- Aggressively negotiate with insurance companies to reach a fair settlement that fully compensates you for your damages. We are prepared to take your case to trial if necessary to fight for the best possible outcome.
With Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the complexities of your legal claim. We are dedicated to protecting you from unfair insurance practices and ensuring your voice is heard.
Our legal team at Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa, Attorneys at Law, is deeply committed to advocating for car accident victims in West Palm Beach. We recognize the immense physical, emotional, and financial toll a car crash can take, and we are here to simplify the legal process and fight for your rightful compensation. Contact our Florida Bar Board Certified Civil Trial Attorney, Jonathan Levy, today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Let us help you understand your rights and options.
★★★★★
From the first conversation I had with Attorney Levy, I knew I was in good hands. The firm made a stressful and scary time very calm. I always felt as though I matter. Every step was always explained to me and communication was consistent and immediate. I was so happy not to worry about how to handle everything in relation to my case and am thrilled with the outcome!
We have a proven track record of success, including significant settlements for our clients:
- $3.5 Million Settlement: For a client who suffered a catastrophic brain injury in an on-the-job motor vehicle accident.
- $2.75 Million Settlement: Recovered for a client with serious chest and back injuries resulting from a major car accident.
- $1.25 Million Recovery: For a man rear-ended on I-95 in St. Lucie County following a car crash.
Navigating Dangerous Roads and Intersections in West Palm Beach
Even the most cautious drivers can become victims of car accidents due to the negligence of others. Driver error remains a leading cause of collisions. Being aware of high-risk areas in West Palm Beach can help you stay vigilant and potentially avoid accidents. Some particularly dangerous roads and intersections in West Palm Beach include:
- North Congress Ave and 45th St
- North Jog Rd and Okeechobee Blvd
- North Robbins Dr and Palm Beach Lakes Blvd
- Palm Beach Lakes Blvd and Village Blvd
- Okeechobee Blvd and Wabasso Dr
- Palm Beach Lakes Blvd and Executive Center Dr
- Okeechobee Blvd and the southbound exit for I-95
- Southern Blvd and Lyons Rd
- Okeechobee Blvd and Haverhill Rd
These locations often experience heavy traffic due to the concentration of businesses, tourist attractions, and residential areas. Congestion can lead to driver impatience and errors, increasing the risk of accidents.
Our West Palm Beach car accident lawyers have extensive knowledge of these high-risk areas and the factors contributing to accidents in our community. If you’ve been injured in a collision, we are prepared to leverage our local expertise to build a strong case on your behalf.
Protecting Your Legal Rights After a Car Accident: Act Quickly
In Florida, it’s crucial to act promptly after a car accident to protect your legal rights. The state has a statute of limitations that sets a deadline for filing a claim to hold the responsible party accountable for your damages. In most car accident cases in Florida, you have four years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for negligence-based claims. Florida Statute 95.11 outlines this time limit.
Failing to file your claim within this four-year period can result in the court dismissing your case, and you will lose your legal right to pursue compensation, regardless of the severity of your injuries or the strength of your evidence. While rare exceptions may allow for an extension, it’s always best to act well within the deadline.
Besides the statute of limitations, evidence related to your accident can become harder to obtain over time. Witness memories fade, and accident scene evidence can disappear. Therefore, early action is critical to ensure your right to fair compensation is preserved and protected. Contact the West Palm Beach car accident attorneys at Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa as soon as possible to discuss your situation and understand the necessary steps to take.
★★★★★
I really appreciate the consistency & help from this firm. The staff was very helpful. They put the clients first & have your back to get you the best results. Thank you again guys.
Meet Our Experienced West Palm Beach Car Accident Attorney Team
Our firm is proud to have a team of highly skilled and experienced car accident lawyers in West Palm Beach dedicated to serving our community.
STEVEN C. SIMON
Managing Shareholder
“My goal is to always provide uncompromising and aggressive representation so that our clients receive full compensation for their injuries. I understand that large or small, each claim deserves the highest quality representation. It’s their life that I am entrusted with, and I take that responsibility very seriously,” Mr. Simon emphasizes.
Learn More About Steven C. Simon »
JONATHAN T. LEVY
Managing Shareholder
Jonathan Levy is a passionate advocate with a distinguished career focused on complex cases involving catastrophic medical malpractice, product liability, and vehicle collisions. His unwavering dedication to justice has earned him an exceptional reputation as a trial litigator.
Learn More About Jonathan T. Levy »
LUIS A. SOSA
Shareholder
Luis Sosa, fluent in Spanish and deeply rooted in the West Palm Beach community, is a committed attorney who fights tirelessly for injured individuals. He protects their rights against insurance companies seeking to minimize or deny fair compensation.
Learn More About Luis A. Sosa »
Understanding Different Types of Car Accidents
Car accidents can take many forms, and the nature of the collision often influences the severity and type of injuries sustained. Our car accident lawyers in West Palm Beach handle a wide range of accident types, including:
- Rear-End Collisions: The most frequent type, occurring when one vehicle strikes the back of another. While sometimes minor, rear-end accidents can cause significant whiplash and other injuries.
- T-Bone Accidents (Side-Impact Collisions): Common at intersections, these happen when the front of one car impacts the side of another, often leading to serious injuries.
- Rollover Accidents: Though sometimes single-vehicle incidents, rollovers can be caused by another driver’s negligence and result in severe trauma.
- Head-On Collisions: Among the most dangerous types, head-on collisions involve the fronts of two vehicles colliding, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
Common Injuries Resulting from Car Accidents in West Palm Beach
The impact of a car accident can cause a wide spectrum of injuries. From minor to life-threatening, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention after any collision. Common injuries our West Palm Beach car accident lawyers see include:
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, bruises, and ligament damage are prevalent and can cause chronic pain and limited mobility.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Caused by blows to the head, car accidents are a leading cause of TBIs, which can have long-term cognitive and physical effects.
- Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis: Severe impacts can damage the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis, such as quadriplegia and paraplegia, with devastating and permanent consequences.
- Burns: Fires from car accidents can cause severe burns from flames, hot surfaces, steam, or chemicals, often requiring extensive and painful treatments.
- Internal Injuries: Impacts during a crash can damage internal organs, causing bleeding and requiring immediate medical intervention.
- Broken Bones and Fractures: From simple fractures to complex compound fractures, broken bones are common, requiring casts, surgeries, and extensive rehabilitation.
- Scars and Disfigurement: Facial injuries from shattered glass or impacts with vehicle interiors can lead to permanent scarring and disfigurement, impacting self-esteem and requiring reconstructive surgery.
- Amputations: Limbs can be severed during a crash or require surgical amputation due to severe damage, leading to permanent disability and life-long adjustments.
Understanding the Common Causes of Car Accidents
Identifying the cause of your car accident is essential to determining liability and pursuing a claim. Many accidents are preventable and stem from driver negligence. Common causes that our car accident lawyers in West Palm Beach investigate include:
- Distracted Driving: Using phones, texting, eating, or other distractions behind the wheel significantly increases accident risk. Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles – Distracted Driving
- Drunk or Drugged Driving: Impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs is a major cause of accidents and is illegal and completely preventable.
- Aggressive Driving and Road Rage: Speeding, tailgating, and other aggressive behaviors create dangerous road conditions and often lead to collisions.
- Drowsy Driving: Driving while fatigued impairs reaction time and judgment, similar to drunk driving, and can cause serious accidents.
- Speeding: Exceeding posted speed limits or driving too fast for conditions is a leading factor in accidents. Florida Statute 316.183 – Unlawful Speed
- Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Disregarding traffic signals is a dangerous and common cause of intersection accidents.
- Dangerous Road Hazards: Potholes, construction zones, debris, and poorly maintained roads can contribute to accidents.
- Faulty Vehicle Parts: Defective tires, brakes, or other vehicle components can cause accidents, and manufacturers may be liable in such cases.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) in Florida: A No-Fault System
Florida operates under a no-fault car insurance system, primarily using Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. Every driver in Florida is required to carry PIP coverage. Florida Statute 627.736 – Personal Injury Protection Insurance. PIP is designed to cover your medical expenses and lost wages after an accident, regardless of who was at fault.
However, PIP coverage has limitations. It may not fully cover all your losses, especially in cases of serious injuries. If your injuries are severe, Florida law allows you to step outside the no-fault system and file a fault-based claim against the negligent driver to seek full compensation for all your damages, including pain and suffering.
While dealing with your own PIP insurance might seem straightforward, insurance companies often prioritize their profits and may try to minimize your payout. Consulting with a car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach is advisable even for PIP claims to ensure you receive the maximum benefits you are entitled to.
The Process of Filing a Car Accident Claim in Florida
To access PIP benefits in Florida, you must seek initial medical treatment within 14 days of your car accident. Prompt medical attention is crucial for both your health and your claim. Following medical care, contacting a car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach should be your next step.
Your attorney will guide you through the claims process, which includes gathering necessary documentation, notifying insurance companies, and building your case. For a PIP claim, you primarily need to demonstrate that your injuries resulted from the car accident. For a fault-based claim, you must prove both your injuries and the other driver’s negligence caused the accident. Your West Palm Beach car accident lawyer will handle all aspects of this process on your behalf.
Florida Car Accident Statistics: Understanding the Risks
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides detailed statistics on car accidents in Florida. Understanding these trends can highlight the importance of safe driving practices and the potential need for legal assistance after a crash.
Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Car Accidents and Claims
What is the average settlement for a car accident in West Palm Beach, Florida?
There is no “average” settlement as every car accident case is unique. Compensation amounts depend on numerous factors, including the severity of injuries, lost income, degree of fault (if any), and long-term prognosis. More severe accidents and injuries generally result in higher settlements. Cases involving permanent disabilities or long-term medical needs typically have a significantly higher value. A car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach can assess your specific case to provide a more realistic estimate of potential compensation.
How do you file a claim against an insurance company after a car accident in Florida?
The initial step is usually filing a PIP claim with your own insurance company. If your injuries are serious and exceed PIP coverage limits, you can then pursue a fault-based claim against the negligent driver’s insurance. A West Palm Beach car accident lawyer will manage the entire claims process for you, from initial filing to negotiation and potential litigation.
What immediate steps should I take after a car accident in West Palm Beach?
Taking the right steps immediately after a car accident is crucial to protect your health and legal rights. Key actions include:
- Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health and get immediate medical evaluation and treatment for any injuries. Follow your doctor’s recommendations.
- Avoid Recorded Statements: Do not provide recorded statements to any insurance company without consulting your attorney first.
- Don’t Accept Early Settlement Offers: Never accept a settlement offer from an insurance company without first discussing it with a lawyer. Initial offers are often too low.
- Be Cautious on Social Media: Limit or avoid posting about your accident or injuries on social media, as anything you post can be used against you.
- Contact a Car Accident Lawyer: Reach out to a car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach as soon as possible after the accident to protect your rights. Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa – Steps to File a Car Accident Claim
Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts. Consulting with a car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach before communicating with insurers is vital to ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.
Why should I choose Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa to represent me?
Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa has a long-standing commitment to West Palm Beach, serving injured victims and the community for over 40 years. Our deep understanding of local courts and legal processes, combined with our dedication to maximizing compensation for our clients, makes us a trusted choice. If you seek experienced and dedicated representation for your car accident claim, look no further than our firm.
I want to thank this firm for everything they have done to help me through this process, I could not have done it without them. Every step of the way they were by my side making sure I got the utmost care and therapy for my injuries. I will recommend you all to whomever crosses my path in need of a solid firm to stand behind them. Thank you all again for all the hard work from day 1 Making this process seamless and straightforward.
What happens after a car accident that is not my fault in Florida?
In Florida, if you are injured due to someone else’s negligence in a car accident, you generally have the right to recover compensation for your losses. The process typically begins with filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. The insurer may accept liability and offer a settlement, or they may deny the claim. If denied, or if a fair settlement cannot be reached, you may need to file a lawsuit to pursue compensation. Litigation may also be necessary if the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement. A car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach will guide you through these steps and advocate for your best interests.
How long do I have to contact a lawyer after a car accident in Florida?
While Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is four years Florida Statute 95.11 – Statute of Limitations, it is strongly recommended to contact a West Palm Beach car accident attorney as soon as possible after an accident. Early legal representation is crucial for evidence preservation, claim preparation, and protecting your rights. Delaying can hinder your ability to build a strong case and potentially weaken your claim. Furthermore, once you hire an attorney, insurance companies are required to communicate directly with your lawyer, protecting you from potentially damaging interactions.
Should I accept a settlement offer from an insurance company?
It is generally not advisable to accept the first settlement offer from an insurance company without consulting a car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach. Initial offers are often intentionally low and may not adequately cover your present and future losses. Insurance companies are businesses seeking to minimize payouts. Once you accept a settlement, you typically waive your right to pursue further compensation. Always have an attorney review any settlement offer and assess its fairness in light of your total damages.
Do I always need a lawyer for a car accident claim in West Palm Beach?
While legal representation is not legally required for a car accident claim, hiring a car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach is almost always in your best interest. An attorney acts as your advocate, handling all communication and negotiation with insurance companies, protecting you from mistakes that could harm your claim, and ensuring you receive fair compensation. Insurance companies are less likely to employ unfair tactics when dealing with experienced legal counsel. A lawyer can alleviate stress and uncertainty during a challenging time, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Can I afford to hire a car accident attorney?
Cost concerns are a common reason people hesitate to hire a lawyer. However, most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. American Bar Association – Contingency Fees. This means:
- Free Consultation: You receive a free case evaluation to discuss your situation at no cost.
- No Upfront Fees: You don’t pay any retainer fees or hourly charges upfront.
- No Out-of-Pocket Expenses: The law firm typically covers case-related expenses initially.
- No Fee Unless You Win: You only pay legal fees if your attorney successfully recovers compensation for you.
- Fees from Settlement: Legal fees are paid as a percentage of your settlement or court award, not from your personal funds.
This contingency fee arrangement makes quality legal representation accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.
Will my car accident case go to court?
While many people associate lawyers with courtrooms, the vast majority of car accident claims are settled out of court. Many cases are resolved through negotiations with insurance companies without needing to file a lawsuit. If insurance companies act unfairly, your attorney may file a lawsuit, but even then, most cases reach a settlement agreement before going to trial. Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller – Circuit Civil Court. Your West Palm Beach car accident lawyer can assess your case and advise you on the likelihood of settling out of court based on the specific circumstances.
Contact Our West Palm Beach Car Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in West Palm Beach, don’t hesitate to seek legal guidance. The experienced car accident lawyers at Rosenthal, Levy, Simon & Sosa, Attorneys at Law, are here to help you navigate the complexities of the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Let us protect your rights and help you move forward after your accident.
