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25 Mar, 2024
Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accidents in Tallahassee
20 Feb, 2024
How Long Does Probate Take in Tallahassee?
31 Jan, 2024
What to Do After a Truck Accident: Sue the Truck Driver or Truck Company?
18 Dec, 2023
Bicycling is a popular means of transportation and recreation in Florida. However, bicycle accidents occur more often than they should, and they can have devastating consequences. If you have experienced a bicycle accident in Florida, it is essential to understand the steps you should take to ensure your well-being and protect your legal rights. This blog post will provide you with an overview of what to do when you are in a bicycle accident in Florida.  1. Seek Medical Attention The first and most critical step after a bicycle accident is to seek immediate medical attention. Even if you do not feel any pain or discomfort, it is essential to get evaluated by a healthcare professional to make sure that you have not sustained any serious injuries. Some injuries may not show up immediately, and delayed treatment can lead to complications. Moreover, seeking medical attention creates a record of your injuries, which can be important if you decide to file a personal injury claim. 2. Contact the Police After seeking medical attention, the next step is to contact the police. Florida law requires that all bicycle accidents involving injuries or property damage must be reported to the police. The police report will provide essential information about the accident, such as the date and time, location, weather conditions, and witness statements. Moreover, it can help determine who was at fault for the accident, which can be crucial in a personal injury claim. 3. Document the Accident Scene If you are physically able to do so, take pictures of the accident scene, your bicycle, and any other vehicles involved. Capture the damage to your bicycle and the other vehicle(s), skid marks, traffic signals, road conditions, and any other factors that you think contributed to the accident. Also, collect the contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident happen. These pieces of evidence can be valuable in proving fault and liability in a personal injury claim. 4. Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer If you have sustained injuries in a bicycle accident caused by someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses and damages. However, pursuing a personal injury claim can be a complex and challenging process, especially if you do not have the legal knowledge and experience to navigate it successfully. That is why it is essential to contact a reputable bicycle accident lawyer who can help protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. 5. File a Personal Injury Claim on Time In Florida, personal injury claims have a statute of limitations of four years from the date of the accident. That means you have four years from the date of your bicycle accident to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries and damages. However, it is advisable to contact a bicycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after the accident to ensure that your legal rights are preserved and the evidence is collected and preserved before it is lost or destroyed. A bicycle accident is a traumatic and life-changing event. If you have been involved in a bicycle accident in Florida, it is essential to take the necessary steps to ensure your well-being and protect your legal rights. Seek medical attention, contact the police, document the accident scene, contact a bicycle accident lawyer, and file a personal injury claim on time. With the right legal representation, you can secure the compensation you deserve and start putting your life back together.
03 Nov, 2023
Don't Believe These Common Misconceptions About Florida Probate
30 Oct, 2023
Car accidents are traumatic experiences that can leave individuals with lasting physical and emotional injuries. In addition to the pain and suffering, car accidents can also result in financial burdens like sky-rocketing medical bills and lost wages. It's important for Florida residents to understand their legal rights and responsibilities in case of a car accident. This blog will explore two crucial aspects of Florida car accident laws, namely the statute of limitations and how liability is determined. Statute of Limitations for Filing a Car Accident Claim When you're involved in a car accident, whether as a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, you have the right to seek compensation for any losses or injuries sustained. However, it's essential to note that there is a specific time frame in which you can file a claim or pursue legal action against the at-fault party. This time frame is known as the statute of limitations, and it varies by state and type of lawsuit. In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is four years from the date of the accident. It would be best to file a car accident claim as soon as possible, even if four years have not elapsed since the accident. This is because the longer you wait to file a claim, the harder it becomes to establish evidence and prove liability. It's crucial to contact your insurance company immediately after a car accident and take photos of the accident scene, vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. These details can help build a stronger case and ease the legal process. How Is Liability Determined in a Florida Car Accident? Determining who is at fault, or liable, for a car accident is critical in deciding compensation for the plaintiff. In Florida, liability is determined based on a system called "pure comparative negligence." This means that both parties involved in the accident can be held liable for the damages incurred. For example, if one driver was speeding and hit another driver who ran a red light, both parties can share the fault and receive compensation accordingly. Florida law requires that all drivers carry a minimum of $10,000 in property damage liability (PDL) insurance and $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. The PDL insurance covers damages to the other driver's car, while the PIP insurance covers medical expenses and lost wages for the driver and passengers involved. Understanding Florida car accident laws is essential for protecting your legal rights in case of an accident. The statute of limitations is a crucial factor in determining when to file a claim, and liability is determined based on a shared responsibility system. It's advised to consult a reputable car accident attorney to guide you through the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Remember always to prioritize your safety and seek medical attention immediately following a car accident.
By Larry White 29 Sep, 2023
The loss of a loved one is a painful experience, but when that loss is caused by the negligence of a hospital or medical professional, it is a tragedy that could have been avoided. As a resident of Florida, it is important to understand the laws regarding wrongful death and how you can hold medical facilities accountable when their actions lead to the loss of a loved one. In this blog post, we will explore the factors that determine when a hospital can be held liable for wrongful death and the role of an attorney in pursuing justice.  When is a hospital liable for wrongful death? A wrongful death claim arises when someone dies due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional act of another party. In the case of a hospital, liability can arise if the medical staff or the facility itself fails to provide reasonable care, resulting in the death of a patient. For instance, if a nurse administers the wrong medication or dosage, resulting in the patient's death, the hospital may be held liable for wrongful death. Medical malpractice cases are complex, and it's essential to understand the burden of proof required to hold a hospital liable. The plaintiff must show that the hospital had a duty of care to the patient, breached that duty, and the breach caused the patient's death. This is where the assistance of an experienced attorney is crucial in building a strong case. Can a hospital be held liable for a patient's wrongful death? Yes, hospitals can be held liable for wrongful death in Florida. Florida has specific laws governing wrongful death claims, which are filed by the decedent's survivors. This includes the spouse, children, parents, or other dependent relatives. Survivors can seek damages for loss of support, mental pain and suffering, and emotional distress caused by their loved one's wrongful death. Can I sue a doctor when found negligent? Yes, you can sue a doctor for medical malpractice. In Florida, medical professionals are held to a certain standard of care. If they fail to provide that level of care and it results in a patient's wrongful death, the victim's survivors can file a wrongful death claim against them. Proving medical malpractice can be challenging, and it's essential to have an experienced attorney on your side. Your attorney must show that the doctor breached their duty of care and that the breach caused the patient's death. Additionally, your attorney must be able to prove that the death resulted in damages to the surviving family members. How can an attorney help me? An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process and build a strong case. They can conduct an investigation, gather evidence, and consult with medical experts to build a solid case against the hospital and healthcare professionals. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. In conclusion, hospitals can be held liable for wrongful death in Florida. The burden of proof is high, but with the help of an experienced attorney, you can seek justice for your loved one's death. To make sure you receive just compensation for your loss, make sure you choose a law firm with experience in medical malpractice and wrongful death cases that will work hard to maximize your recovery. With the right legal representation, you can hold medical professionals accountable for their negligence and ensure that your family is protected.
By Larry White 31 Aug, 2023
Dealing with a disability can be overwhelming on so many levels. It can limit your capabilities, hinder your livelihood, and alter the course of your life. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a program that helps those with disabilities cope, called Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). But exactly who is eligible for SSDI can be confusing. In this blog, we will discuss how you can determine your eligibility for SSDI as a Florida resident. 1. Check if You Meet the SSA’s Definition of Disability The SSA provides a specific definition of “disability.” Disability, according to them, includes a physical or mental condition(s) that must prevent you from engaging in certain substantial gainful activity (SGA) and must last or is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death. Therefore, if you find yourself unable to maintain substantial earnings due to a physical or mental health condition, you could qualify for SSDI. 2. Check Your Earnings History To be eligible for SSDI, you need a work history with sufficient earnings and Social Security credits. The amount of Social Security credits you earn depends on how much taxable work you perform within the calendar year. Typically, if you worked for at least ten years and earned enough credits, you satisfy the requirement of sufficient earnings. If not, the SSDI process can be more complex and may require additional work. 3. Speak to a Social Security Attorney Navigating the SSDI application process can be complicated and grueling. As a result, you should reach out to a social security attorney if you believe you qualify for SSDI benefits. They will walk you through the application, provide necessary documentation, and ensure you meet all the requirements. 4. Submit Evidence of Your Disability When submitting your SSDI application, it’s crucial to provide substantial evidence of your disability. Many cases steer clear of an approval because there is a lack of documentation. You’ll need to provide ample medical proof of your illness or ailment, proof of your earnings history, and the necessary documents according to the SSA guidelines. 5. Work Closely with Your Social Security Attorney. It’s best to work with an attorney who’s well-versed on social security disability cases, particularly if you’re not sure if you qualify for SSDI benefits. They can evaluate your case and provide pre-filing assistance in preparing documentation and strengthening your case. Your legal advocate will also stand by you as you move through appeals, which is not uncommon, should your claim be initially denied. Being eligible for SSDI is contingent on whether you meet the SSA’s definition of disability, your earned Social Security credits, and providing adequate evidence of your disability. It’s recommended that you consult with a social security attorney to ensure that you meet all the criteria and receive the benefits you're entitled to. Don't let the complexity of the SSDI process dissuade you from acquiring the peace of mind that SSDI offers. With an experienced attorney, you'll be able to navigate the process quickly and efficiently, and make well-informed decisions for your future.
05 Jul, 2023
Understanding the Florida Probate Process - Your Comprehensive Guide
25 May, 2023
Understanding Liability in a Florida Truck Accident
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