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Car Accident Attorneys in Melbourne, FL

Melbourne Car Accidents

A car crash can leave you with out of work, with injuries, and struggling to get by. The expenses can pile up while you seek relief through insurance claims and the financial reprocesses can affect you for years after your crash. Following a crash, victims often find themselves at odds with the insurance companies they thought would protect them and struggle to meet their financial obligations due to injury or loss of employment. The automobile accident attorneys at Morgan & Morgan’s [Melbourne](/office-locations/florida/melbourne/) offices have decades of experience dealing with all types of motor vehicle wrecks. Our attorneys will assess your claim and help you understand your options and avenues for recovery. This can act as the guide to putting yours needs first when it comes to navigating settlement negotiations and complicated trial processes. If you are ready, you can submit your [free consultation](/free-case-evaluation/) today. ## The Process – What You Need to Do as the Victim in a Car Accident Immediately following the accident, it is important to receive medical attention from a licensed physician. Your physician will be able to: * Help determine if you have an “emergency medical condition.” This can increase the benefits you can collect under PIP coverage and will be important for your attorney to know when evaluating your options. * Record and document any visible scratches, lacerations, or bruising. * Evaluate you for any internal damage that may not be readily apparent to non-medical professionals. * Provide information on and evidence of injuries that may manifest at some point in the future. The information documented in this evaluation can be crucial to the success of your case and the amount of compensation could recover. Following this initial evaluation, it is important that you do not discuss the crash or your injury with anyone other than your physician and attorney. Anything you say can be used against you during future negotiations and litigation. Our attorneys have handled cases on behalf of clients who have sustained injuries ranging from minor lacerations and fractures, to debilitating disfigurement, internal organ damage, and even death. They know how to delicately handle cases involving fatal wrecks, pursuing compensation on behalf of the victim’s surviving family members. Our attorneys may be able to help you recover compensation for your losses, including: * Current and future related medical expenses * Lost wages * Loss of earning capacity * Pain and suffering * Mental anguish * Loss of consortium * Loss of enjoyment of life * Funeral expenses and other related costs ## How Can Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance Affect My Car Accident Case? Some states provide no-fault compensation up to a certain amount for parties in motor-vehicle wrecks. No matter who caused the crash, some of your initial expenses will be covered. However, many victims find themselves having to shoulder expenses well in excess of that prefixed amount. One size does not fit all and you may need to fight for your recovery. To pursue claims for additional compensation, victims must meet an “injury threshold” just to be eligible to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Injuries that meet this threshold include paralysis, brain damage, significant head injuries, permanent scarring, disfigurement, or fractured bones. If you cannot prove that your injury meets this threshold, you may not be able to file a lawsuit for additional compensation. An immediate evaluation by a physician, in addition to further testing and monitoring at the hospital, can be vital in proving that your injury is severe enough to warrant legal action under insurance laws. ## Motorcycle Accident Attorneyss Properly handling motorcycle crash cases involving life-threatening injuries requires a knowledge and experience. In some states, motorcyclists are not required to purchase PIP insurance and are therefore eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit, regardless of the severity of their injury. In seeking compensation for your injuries, your attorneys will collect evidence showing how the other party was negligent in the operation of their vehicle. Drivers may be considered negligent if they fail to: * Pay attention to their surroundings and others on the roadway * Turn left into the path of a motorcyclist, * Change lanes without checking their mirrors, * Give the biker the right of way, or * Operate their vehicle while distracted. ## Truck Accident Attorneys Trucks put other drivers on overcrowded roads at a higher risk of serious bodily injury. They are significantly less maneuverable, heavier, larger, and require a much greater stopping distance to come to a complete stop. Due to the additional dangers associated with truck operations, truck drivers and trucking companies are required to adhere to local and state regulations, as well as a set of laws passed by the Federal Motor Safety Administration regulating the operation and maintenance of trucks. A failure to adhere to these additional regulations may impute liability on the owner, manufacturer, or maintenance crew for any resulting damages.
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FAQ

Get answers to commonly asked questions about our legal services and learn how we may assist you with your case.

  • What Does a Car Accident Lawyer Do?

    As the name suggests, car accident lawyers specialize in handling claims involving car accidents. These attorneys usually work with insurance companies and navigate complex legal processes to get you the compensation you deserve after the accident. 

  • What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer?

    No doubt that hiring a car accident lawyer can benefit your case. Here's how.

    A competent car accident lawyer attorney can:

    • Evaluate your case to determine whether you have legal grounds to pursue compensation.
    • Build a strong case to support your claim.
    • Determine the value of your car accident claim.
    • Protect you from jeopardizing your chances of recovering damages after the accident.
    • Help fight for your right to compensation for your injuries.
    • Give you peace of mind knowing that someone knowledgeable about car accident laws in Melbourne and throughout Florida has your best interests at heart.
    • Help you navigate complex and confusing legal processes regarding your specific case.
    • Help you understand your rights and options, allowing you to make the best decisions for yourself and your loved ones.
    • Create a legal strategy to pursue your claim because each car accident case is different.
    • File a claim or lawsuit on your behalf.
    • Prepare you for complex court processes, if need be.
  • When Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in Melbourne?

    To begin with, not every car accident requires an attorney. For instance, you may not need a lawyer for minor accidents that do not involve serious injuries or significant property damage.

    On the other hand, you may need an attorney if you suffer serious injuries and property damage. The same applies if you could not work due to your injuries after the accident or if the insurance company disputes your claim or offers a lowball settlement.

    That said, it is always advisable to contact a lawyer to help determine whether you need one.  

  • What Damages Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help Me Recover?

    A skilled car accident lawyer in Melbourne, Florida, can help you recover economic and non-economic damages for your injuries. Economic damages may include medical expenses, lost wages and earning potential, transportation costs, etc.

    On the other hand, non-economic damages include pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, emotional distress, etc.

    In addition, you may also recover punitive damages if the accident occurred due to extreme negligence and recklessness of the other party.

  • What Are the Characteristics of a Good Car Accident Lawyer?

    A good Melbourne car accident lawyer should thoroughly understand car accident laws.

    The attorney should also be able to provide you with expert advice tailored to the unique circumstances of your case.

    In addition, you need a lawyer who can offer a wide range of services, including legal representation, if your case goes to court. This is a crucial requirement even though most accident claims settle out of court.

    If the attorney lacks experience handling such cases in court, they may settle for a lowball offer to avoid facing the judge or jury in court.  

    They should also have a proven track record of success in handling similar cases. The last thing you want is an attorney who will use your case as an experiment because they lack experience handling such cases.

    Finally, and most importantly, you should always choose a lawyer with powerful legal resources to fight for you. A lack of powerful resources makes it difficult for attorneys to build strong cases for their clients, eventually affecting the case's outcome.

  • What Questions Should I Ask My Car Accident Lawyer?

    The initial consultation with a car accident attorney allows you to gauge whether you should work with that particular lawyer. Here are some important questions to ask:

    • What is your experience handling car accident cases?
    • What is your success rate in winning car accident cases?
    • What information do you need from me?
    • Do I have a valid case?
    • If so, how much will it cost me to hire you as my car accident lawyer?
    • What are my chances of winning the case?
    • How often will you update me about the case?
    • What damages can I recover?
    • What happens if my case goes to court? Will you represent me?
    • How big is your law firm or solo practice?
    • Do you have the resources to represent me?

    Keep in mind that this is not a conclusive list of questions to ask your attorney. You may need to ask more questions depending on the unique circumstances of your case.

  • Can I Handle My Car Accident Case Without a Lawyer?

    In some cases, yes, you can.

    Depending on the specifics of your case, you can file a police report, compile evidence, and negotiate with the insurance company without a lawyer. However, as discussed earlier, an experienced car accident attorney can significantly increase your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome.

    That said, here are some things to keep in mind if you are considering handling your car accident case without a lawyer:

    The insurance company aims to pay out as little as possible on claims. That's how they make money. Nevertheless, an experienced car accident lawyer knows how to negotiate with the insurer to get you the best possible settlement.

    After a car accident, it's important to gather evidence as soon as possible. This may include photos of the scene, video footage, witness statements, and more. A competent car accident lawyer can help collect and preserve this evidence and use it at the most appropriate time.

    Car accident cases are complex. Some may involve state and federal laws. An experienced car accident lawyer deeply understands these laws and how they apply to your case.

  • How Soon After an Accident Should I Contact an Attorney?

    If you are involved in a car accident and have suffered serious injuries or incurred significant property damage, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible.

    This is because you must meet different deadlines and legal requirements throughout the claims process. The sooner you contact a Melbourne car accident attorney, the better your chances of obtaining favorable results.

  • What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit in Melbourne, Florida?

    In Melbourne, Florida, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is four years from the date of the accident. This means you have four years from the accident date to file a lawsuit or lose your right to do so if the deadline expires.

  • Are There Any Exceptions to Florida's Four-Year Statute of Limitations on Car Accident Lawsuits?

    Yes, there are some exceptions to this rule, as discussed below.

    • The statute of limitations is reduced to three years when suing a government agency.
    • Family members can bring a wrongful death lawsuit against the other party within two years if they lose a loved one in the accident.
    • Mentally incompetent individuals may be eligible for extensions.
    • Minors are also eligible for extensions.
    • The statute of limitations may be extended if the individual did not become aware of the injuries or damages until a later date. This is usually known as the discovery rule.
    • Victims of catastrophic injuries may have up to seven years to file a lawsuit.
  • What Happens if the Car Accident Attorney Fails to Win My Case?

    Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident, including medical bills and car repairs, can be overwhelming. The last thing you want to worry about is whether or not your car accident attorney will be able to win your case.

    Because of the expensive legal costs involved and the fact that there are no guarantees in any legal case, most car accident attorneys only charge their clients if they win.

    For example, at Morgan & Morgan, if for some reason we are unable to win your case, you will not owe us anything. This is because we work on a contingency basis. Here are additional benefits of the contingency-based system you should know.

  • Do I Still Need a Car Accident Lawyer if the Accident Wasn't My Fault?

    Many potential legal issues can arise, even if the accident wasn't your fault. For example, the other driver may try to sue you for damages. Having a lawyer on your side will help ensure your rights are protected, and you get the compensation you deserve.

    Keep in mind that Melbourne and the entire State of Florida use the no-fault system when it comes to car accidents. This means you may be eligible for compensation regardless of who is at fault.

    That said, having an attorney significantly increases your chances of recovering the actual value of your claim directly from your insurance company. And if the settlement is insufficient, the attorney can help you file a claim against the other party's insurer. 

  • Can I Hire a General Personal Injury Lawyer to Handle My Car Accident Case?

    While a general personal injury lawyer may be able to help, it's always a great idea to hire someone specifically trained to handle car accident cases. Keep in mind that personal injury law is broad, and it's unlikely that a general attorney will know how to handle complex issues that often arise throughout the car accident claims process.

  • How Can a Morgan & Morgan Car Accident Attorney Help?

    Morgan & Morgan is the largest personal injury law firm in the country. Our reputation alone sends a strong warning to the other party that you are serious about your claim.

    Our law firm also has powerful legal resources to fight for you. This includes but is not limited to a team of experienced car accident lawyers, paralegals, and experts in various fields such as medical, insurance, accident reconstruction, and more.

    With Morgan & Morgan by your side, you don't have to worry about settling for lowball offers. But you shouldn't take our word just for it; we have the results to prove our competence.

    Since 1988, we have helped our clients recover $20 billion as compensation for their injuries. Therefore, you can rest easy knowing that our attorneys will not settle for less than what you truly deserve.

  • The Car Accident Lawyer in Melbourne You Need to Win

    If you have been in a car accident and require legal assistance, we know how difficult it is to find the right attorney to represent you. Melbourne is home to many law firms and attorneys, making it even more challenging and confusing to choose the right one for you.

    But that shouldn't be the case; Morgan & Morgan car accident attorneys are always ready to help you navigate complex legal processes as you recover physically, mentally, and emotionally after the accident.

    Our skilled attorneys are knowledgeable in all aspects of car accident law and are committed to providing comprehensive legal services that will help protect your rights as an injured party.

    In addition, we understand how traumatic events like these can be, which is why we strive to ensure our clients get the best possible outcome for their cases.

    Contact us today to discuss your situation and learn more about what we can do for you.

    The fee is free unless we win.

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