Getting into a car crash in Miami Shores can turn your life upside down in an instant. Whether you were commuting down Biscayne Boulevard or running errands along NE 2nd Avenue, the aftermath of a collision often brings physical pain, emotional stress, and a maze of insurance paperwork. At Altman Law Firm, led by attorney Jeffrey S. Altman, we understand the overwhelming challenges you face after a sudden injury. We are dedicated to helping crash victims in Miami Shores make sense of Florida's complex auto insurance laws so they can focus on what truly matters: recovering and moving forward.
Florida operates under a no-fault auto insurance system, meaning that after an accident, you generally turn to your own Personal Injury Protection coverage first to pay for medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash. However, PIP has strict limits and often does not cover the full extent of a serious injury. If another driver's negligence caused your injuries, you may have the right to step outside the no-fault system to pursue a claim against them. Dealing with insurance adjusters who want to minimize your payout can be incredibly frustrating, but you do not have to do it alone. We help clients handle PIP disputes and pursue additional compensation when their injuries meet the state's severity threshold.
Miami Shores is a beautiful, tight-knit community, but its proximity to major Miami-Dade thoroughfares means local residents frequently deal with heavy traffic and distracted drivers. We frequently see rear-end collisions at busy intersections, side-impact crashes from drivers running red lights, and devastating hit-and-runs. Additionally, dealing with uninsured or underinsured motorists is a frequent reality on Florida roads. If you are hit by a driver who lacks adequate bodily injury coverage, we can help you explore options through your own uninsured motorist policy to bridge the gap in your recovery.
It is important to know that Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you are found partially responsible for the accident, your financial recovery could be reduced by your percentage of fault. Furthermore, state law imposes strict deadlines, known as the statute of limitations, on how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit or wrongful death claim. Waiting too long can permanently bar your ability to seek justice. Reaching out to a legal professional promptly allows for the preservation of vital evidence from the crash scene and ensures your filings remain on track.
First, prioritize your safety and health by seeking medical attention, even if you feel fine. Call local law enforcement, such as the Miami Shores Police Department, to ensure an official accident report is filed. Document the scene with photos if you are able, gather contact details from witnesses, and notify your insurance company without providing a recorded statement until you consult with legal counsel.
Personal Injury Protection covers a percentage of your medical expenses and lost wages up to a certain limit. If your damages exceed this amount, or if you suffered a severe injury, you may be eligible to pursue a third-party claim against the at-fault driver's insurance to recover the remaining costs, as well as pain and suffering.
Yes, recovering from a hit-and-run is often possible through your own Uninsured Motorist coverage, assuming you have this policy on your auto insurance. Uninsured Motorist coverage acts as a safety net when the at-fault driver flees the scene or simply does not carry liability insurance.
Florida law limits the time you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. Recently, the statute of limitations for general negligence claims, including car accidents, was adjusted to two years from the date of the crash. However, different circumstances, such as cases involving government entities, may have even shorter notice requirements. It is crucial to act quickly.
No. At Altman Law Firm, we offer complimentary initial case evaluations. This gives you the opportunity to share the details of your situation, understand your legal options, and decide how you would like to proceed without any upfront financial obligation.
If you have been injured in a Miami Shores car accident, let Altman Law Firm guide you through the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your options. Call (305) 373-3730.