Car Accident FAQs: What You Need to Know After a Crash in Fort Lauderdale
If you've been involved in a car accident in Fort Lauderdale or the surrounding areas, you likely have questions about your rights, the insurance process, and how to recover full compensation. Below, our experienced Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers at Englander Peebles answer the most frequently asked questions from crash victims across South Florida.
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Fort Lauderdale?
Immediately after a crash, your priority should be safety and documentation. Call 911 and request police and emergency medical services. A police report is a critical piece of evidence when filing a car accident injury claim. Take pictures of the accident scene, your vehicle, the other driver's vehicle, skid marks, license plates, traffic signs, and your injuries. Exchange contact and insurance information, but do not admit fault or discuss your injuries with the other driver’s insurer. Even if you feel okay, get evaluated by a medical professional. Then, contact a Fort Lauderdale car accident attorney who can protect your rights, gather evidence, and help you navigate Florida’s no-fault and liability insurance systems.
Who is liable for my injuries in a multi-car accident?
In multi-vehicle collisions, liability can be complex. Florida law allows multiple parties to share fault. The initial driver who caused the chain reaction, other drivers who followed too closely, or even road construction crews may be partially responsible. Determining fault often requires a thorough investigation, traffic camera footage, vehicle black box data, and expert testimony. Insurance companies will work hard to limit payouts by shifting blame. That’s why it’s vital to work with an experienced Fort Lauderdale auto accident attorney who can build a strong case, identify all liable parties, and fight for maximum compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault in a Florida car accident?
Yes. Under Florida’s modified comparative negligence rule, you can still recover damages as long as you were not more than 50% at fault. If you're 30% responsible, for instance, your total compensation will be reduced by that percentage. This means even if you were speeding slightly or made a minor mistake, you may still recover for serious injuries, medical bills, and lost earnings. Insurance companies often try to exaggerate your share of fault to reduce their payout, so having a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer who can push back and present the full story is critical.
How long do I have to file a car accident injury claim in Florida?
In Florida, you typically have two years from the date of your car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to seek any compensation, regardless of how serious your injuries are. It’s important to act quickly to preserve evidence, obtain surveillance footage, secure witness statements, and begin working with your car accident attorney. If the crash involved a government entity or public vehicle, special notice requirements may apply and shorten your window to file. Don’t delay—speak to a Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer right away.
What compensation can I receive after a car crash in South Florida?
In a Florida car accident case, you may be entitled to recover economic and non-economic damages. These include payment for medical bills, future treatment, lost income, reduced earning capacity, property damage, and pain and suffering. In catastrophic injury cases—such as traumatic brain injury or spinal cord damage—you may also be eligible for permanent disability or long-term care costs. If the at-fault driver was reckless or impaired, punitive damages may be available. A skilled car accident attorney in Fort Lauderdale will evaluate all available avenues of compensation and negotiate with insurers to fight for every dollar you’re owed.
Still Have Questions About Your Car Accident Claim?
Our Fort Lauderdale car accident attorneys are here to help. Contact Englander Peebles today for a free consultation and personalized guidance on your case.