Our Experienced Car Accident Attorney Fights for the Rights of Injured Victims in Kendall and Miami, FL
At Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP, our Kendall auto accident attorneys are knowledgeable, experienced, and solutions-focused advocates for injured victims. Our experienced car accident lawyer has recovered more than $1 billion in financial compensation for victims across our practice areas. If you or your family member was seriously hurt in a crash, we are here as a resource that you can trust for your personal injury lawsuit. Contact our Kendall car accident lawyers and Miami car accident lawyers today for a free case review with a top-rated Kendall car accident attorney.
What to Do After a Car Crash in Kendall, Florida
Hurt in a car accident in Kendall, Miami-Dade County, or elsewhere in South Florida? The immediate aftermath can be chaotic. It is crucial that you know what to do to protect yourself and your rights. Here are five important steps to take after a motor vehicle crash in Kendall:
- Stop Your Car: Under Florida law, all motorists involved in a collision have a responsibility to stop their vehicle and remain at the scene unless there is a medical emergency. You should exchange information with everyone else involved in the crash.
- Report the Crash: Motor vehicle collisions should be reported to law enforcement. Florida law requires the reporting of injury crashes. You should contact the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office or another state or local law enforcement agency.
- Get to a Doctor: Car accident injuries should be evaluated by a doctor right away. Your health is a top priority after a car crash in Florida. Do not delay: See a doctor as soon as possible. You will need medical records to bring a claim.
- Notify Your Insurer: Florida is a no-fault insurance state. You should be sure to notify your own insurance provider that you were involved in a car crash in Kendall. You do not need to give a full statement at this time: Simply provide notice of the crash.
- Consult With a Lawyer: Insurance companies are looking out for their own bottom line—not your best interests. Before you provide a recorded statement, be sure to consult with an experienced Kendall, FL auto accident attorney.
Common Car Accident Injuries and Causes of Car Accidents in Kendall, FL
There are few motor vehicle accidents that can truly be classified as “unavoidable.” The vast majority of crashes happened because of negligence—often by a driver. Every crash in Kendall should be carefully investigated to determine exactly what went wrong. Here are some of the leading causes of motor vehicle collisions in South Florida:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers need to pay attention to the road. Engaging in distracting activities—such as texting—dramatically increases the risk of a collision. .
- Speeding: Exceeding posted speed limits reduces a driver’s reaction time and ability to respond to sudden changes. Speed-related crashes are more likely to cause bad injuries.
- Failure to Yield the Right-of-Way: Misjudging or ignoring right-of-way rules—especially at intersections—is a common cause of crashes in Kendall.
- Tailgating: Drivers should always need adequate space when following another vehicle. Rear-end collisions are the most common type of multi-vehicle crash in Kendall.
- Driving Under the Influence: Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and coordination. A DUI is a serious crime in Florida and can cause drunk driving accidents.
- Poor Road Conditions: Factors like potholes, unclear signage, and inadequate lighting can all contribute to accidents in Kendall, FL.
An Overview of Car Accident Liability in Florida With a Miami Car Accident Attorney
Our state has some unique auto accident regulations. Florida follows a “no-fault” car insurance system for most minor collisions. Under the standard, each driver turns to their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance for medical expenses and lost income—regardless of who caused the crash. Even if another driver was clearly at fault, your first source of compensation is your own insurer. For example, PIP benefits are limited—they do not cover pain and suffering.
With that being said, there are some big exceptions to the no-fault insurance laws in Florida. Specifically, drivers and passengers can step outside the no-fault system and pursue a liability claim against an at-fault driver if the crash resulted in a “serious injury.” Florida law defines serious injuries as those involving significant and permanent loss of bodily function, permanent injury, significant scarring, disfigurement, or death. In these personal injury cases, you can file a fault-based car accident injury lawsuit directly against the at-fault party with our personal injury law firm.
Notably, a modified comparative negligence standard applies to fault-based auto accident claims. Under Florida Statutes § 768.81, each party is financially responsible for their percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 30 percent at fault for a crash in Kendall and you suffered $100,000 in total damages, you can still recover $70,000. However, you would be liable for 30 percent of your own losses ($30,000). Florida’s modified comparative negligence standard puts a 51 percent bar on recovery. You cannot bring a fault-based claim if you are responsible for the majority of a crash.
Know the Deadline: Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Injury Claims in Florida
In 2023, our state reformed its law for negligence-based personal injury claims, including in regards to the statute of limitations for car accident injury cases. Under Florida law (Florida Statutes § 95.11), there is now a two-year statute of limitations for a car accident injury lawsuit. Previously, people had four years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, that is no longer the case for crashes that happened after July of 2023. Be proactive after a collision: If you do not bring a car accident injury claim in a timely manner, you could miss out on your right to recover compensation at all. Speak to a Kendall car accident lawyer right away after a bad collision:
Note (14 Day Rule): The 14-day PIP rule in Florida refers to a requirement under the state’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance law. After a car accident, injured victims must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the crash to qualify for PIP benefits. If you do not see medical care in a timely manner, your PIP claim can be denied.
We Fight for the Maximum Compensation of Car Accident Victims
In Florida, car accident victims have the right to seek compensation for the full value of their damages, including any non-economic losses. However, unfortunately, it can be hard to get the big insurance companies to cooperate. They fight hard to pay out less than full and fair value. Our Kendall, FL auto accident lawyers and Miami personal injury lawyers are here to help. Along with other types of damages, you may be entitled to recover financial compensation for:
- Property damage, including vehicle repairs;
- Ambulance costs and emergency room care;
- Hospital bills and other medical expenses;
- Physical therapy and other rehabilitative care;
- Loss of wages and diminished future earnings;
- Pain and suffering & mental distress;
- Disability or disfigurement; and
- Wrongful death of a family member.
Why Trust Our Kendall Car Accident Lawyer and Personal Injury Lawyer After a Serious Crash
Car accident claims are complicated. You do not have to take on the legal process alone after a serious crash. At Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP, we are known for taking on bad accidents and serious injury claims. A terrible car accident in Miami and Kendall can change your life: You do not have to go up against a big insurance company alone. You can hear it directly from the testimonials from former clients. We are proactive. When you reach out to our legal team for your motor vehicle accident claims, you will have an opportunity to consult with a Kendall car accident attorney who will:
- Listen to your story and answer questions about your case;
- Investigate your crash in Kendall—gathering the evidence you need;
- Advocate for you in settlement negotiations with insurance adjusters; and
- Take aggressive action to help you secure the absolute maximum recovery.
Car Accident Case Results Matter: We Deliver Results in Car Accident Claims
The most important thing to look for in a Kendall car accident lawyer is one who can deliver results. With over $1 billion in settlements and verdicts, our case results tell the story of what we can do for injured car accident victims in Kendall. It is our mission to help you secure the maximum compensation. Some of our notable results in car accident injury cases in Florida include:
- $9.8 million for a mother who was left a quadriplegic after another vehicle ran a stop sign;
- $6.5 million for a car crash victim whose leg was amputated; and
- $5 million for the mother of a young woman killed by an intoxicated driver.
Car Accidents in Kendall: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Do I Find the Best Car Accident Lawyer in Kendall?
You need a Kendall, FL personal injury attorney who has experience handling car accident claims that are similar to your own. You may want to check client reviews, ratings on trusted legal directories—like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell)—and ask about their experience with cases similar to yours. With Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, you can get a free consultation with our top-rated Kendall, FL auto accident attorney. It is your opportunity to learn more.
What is Personal Injury Protection Coverage in Florida?
Florida is a no-fault automobile insurance state. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is mandatory auto insurance in Florida that covers medical expenses and some lost wages—no matter who was at fault. Notably, it generally provides up to $10,000 in benefits for necessary treatment related to the crash. Though, some drivers purchase additional PIP coverage beyond the state-mandated minimum benefit. Notably, to qualify to recover through your PIP insurance, you must seek medical care within 14 days of the accident in Kendall.
What is a Car Accident Police Report?
A car accident police report is an official document created by law enforcement that summarizes the crash. It is a key form of evidence that typically includes the names and contact information of drivers and witnesses, and a description of the accident. While not always true, a police report also sometimes includes an officer’s opinion about who was at fault for the crash. You should get a copy of the police report after an accident in Kendall.
How Do I Negotiate With the Insurance Company?
When negotiating, be prepared—gather all your evidence including medical records, repair bills, and proof of lost income. You should never accept the first offer without a very careful review. Further, you should not sign anything that you do not understand. A Kendall, FL car accident lawyer can represent you in negotiations.
In many cases, a legal document called a demand letter helps with negotiations by setting the tone and foundation for your car accident claim. It lays out the facts of the accident, explains how the other party was at fault, and details your injuries and damages (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering. A demand letter should be drafted and sent by your attorney.
Will I Be Required to Testify in Court After a Car Crash in Florida?
Most car accident claims in Florida settle out of court, so testifying is usually not required. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached and your case goes to trial, you may need to testify. Do not let it be a source of stress. Not only is testifying somewhat uncommon, your lawyer will make sure that you are fully prepared if it is required in your case.
You Can Afford the Best Car Accident Lawyer in Kendall
We want to make sure that all car accident victims in Kendall can afford to hire the best personal injury lawyer. At Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP, our Kendall and Miami auto accident lawyer represent victims and families on a contingency fee basis. You do not have to worry about upfront costs or hourly expenses. Instead, we only get paid when you get paid. Your initial case evaluation with our top-rated Kendall, FL auto accident attorney is free, confidential, and carries zero additional obligations.
Contact Our Kendall, FL Auto Accident Attorney Today
At Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP, our Kendall, FL car accident lawyer is standing by, ready to protect your rights. Were you or your loved one hurt in a crash? Our team is here to help. Contact us right away for a free, no obligation initial case review. We fight for the rights of car accident victims in Kendall, Miami-Dade County, and throughout South Florida.