Orlando Auto Accident Lawyer
Being involved in a car accident can be a scary and confusing experience, and it is difficult to know what to do or who to talk to. While the most important focus should be on your health and wellbeing, before you speak with an insurer or accept a settlement for your injuries you should speak with an experienced personal injury attorney about your claims. The Orlando auto accident lawyers at The Pendas Law Firm are here to help.
Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents can cause a number of different injuries, some of which can be debilitating and permanent for the victims. Some of the most common injuries seen in car accidents include the following:
- Head and brain injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Neck injuries
- Whiplash
- Bulging or herniated discs
- Spinal cord damage
- Broken bones
- Lacerations and burns
- Amputated limbs
- Internal organ damage
- Paralysis
- Death
Compensation for Car Accidents
Car accident victims may be entitled to economic and noneconomic damages for their injuries. Economic damages refer to out of pocket expenses such as property damage, present and future medical costs, lost wages, and lost future earnings and benefits. Noneconomic damages are for the less physical, but still significant injuries such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, disability, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life.
In the most serious car accidents that result in the death of a victim, the family may also seek additional compensation for wrongful death. Damages for wrongful death may include costs for the final medical bills, funeral, and compensation for the loss of love, security, companionship, and consortium.
Florida operates as a pure comparative negligence state, which means that in personal injury cases the court determines the degree of fault for all parties involved in the accident and reduces the overall award of compensation by that percentage. For example, if someone is awarded $100,000 in compensation and found ten percent at fault, the total award distributed would be $90,000. Because of the pure comparative negligence standard, it is important to hire an experienced attorney to represent your claims and defend you against arguments that you are at fault for the accident.
What to Do After an Accident
The most important thing for you to do after an accident is to seek medical treatment for your injuries. In addition to creating documentation of your injuries immediately after the accident, you may also be suffering from internal injuries that are not immediately recognizable. If possible, get the contact information of witnesses, take photos and videos, and get a copy of the accident report written up by the police. However, do not speak with an insurer, even your own, before you hire a personal injury attorney to take your case. A lawyer will protect you from making any statements against your best interest and handle all aspects of your case while you focus on your recovery.
Reach Out to an Orlando Auto Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been involved in a car accident in the Orlando area, our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to help. Call the office or contact us today at The Pendas Law Firm to speak with an Orlando auto accident lawyer about your personal injury case.