Miami Car Accident Lawyer

Car accidents are, unfortunately, anything but rare here in Miami. That said, if you were injured in an accident caused by another party’s negligence, there’s a strong chance that you are entitled to financial compensation. Importantly, however, the claims process isn’t always straightforward, which is why it’s always best to have a knowledgeable and skilled Miami car accident lawyer in your corner. If you’ve been hurt due to no fault of your own, the Law Offices of Gonzalo Funes, PA stands ready to help. Contact a dedicated Miami injury lawyer from our firm for a free initial consultation today.

Common Types of Car Accidents

Not all car accidents are the same. The circumstances can vary widely, but certain types of collisions happen more frequently than others, especially in a busy city like Miami. Below are some of the most common types of car accidents we see in our practice:

• Rear-End Collisions: Often caused by distracted or tailgating drivers, rear-end crashes can lead to whiplash, head injuries, or worse, even at low speeds.
• T-Bone or Side-Impact Accidents: These crashes often occur at intersections when one driver runs a red light or fails to yield, striking the side of another vehicle.
• Head-On Collisions: Among the most dangerous types of accidents, head-on collisions typically happen due to wrong-way driving, fatigue, or impaired driving.
• Sideswipe Accidents: Common on multi-lane roads and highways, sideswipe accidents often occur during unsafe lane changes or merging without checking blind spots.
• Rollover Accidents: SUVs and trucks are especially prone to rollovers, which can be triggered by speeding, sudden turns, or impact from another vehicle.
• Multi-Vehicle Pileups: These chain-reaction crashes usually happen on highways and are often caused by poor visibility, high speeds, or congested traffic.
• Hit-and-Run Accidents: Sadly, some drivers flee the scene after causing harm. If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run, you may still have options for recovery.
• Accidents Involving Pedestrians or Cyclists: Car accidents don’t just involve other cars. Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable to severe injuries.
• Accidents Caused by Drunk or Impaired Drivers: Driving under the influence is a leading cause of serious and fatal car accidents in Florida.

Understanding the type of accident you were involved in can help us build a stronger claim on your behalf. No matter how your crash occurred, we’re here to help you pursue justice.

What to Do After a Car Accident

A car accident can leave you shaken, confused, and overwhelmed. That’s perfectly natural. Still, the steps you take in the moments and days following a crash can have a big impact on your health–and your claim. Here’s what you should try to do, if you’re able:

1. Check for Injuries and Call 911: Your safety and well-being come first. Call emergency services immediately, even if injuries seem minor at first.
2. Move to Safety, If You Can: If your vehicle is creating a hazard and it’s safe to do so, move it to the side of the road to prevent further accidents.
3. Stay Calm and Stay Put: Don’t leave the scene. Stay at the location until law enforcement arrives and gives you the go-ahead.
4. Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, contact details, license plate number, insurance info, and vehicle description.
5. Speak to Witnesses: If anyone saw the accident happen, try to get their names and phone numbers. Their testimony can be crucial later on.
6. Take Photos and Videos: Document the scene thoroughly: vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, skid marks, injuries–everything.
7. Don’t Admit Fault: Even a polite “I’m sorry” can be misinterpreted. Stick to the facts when speaking with police or other drivers.
8. Seek Medical Attention: See a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away.
9. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident promptly, but avoid giving recorded statements without legal advice.
10. Contact a Car Accident Lawyer: Before dealing with insurance adjusters or signing anything, talk to a lawyer who can protect your rights.

PIP in Florida

Florida is a “no-fault” insurance state, which means that after most car accidents, your own insurance, specifically your Personal Injury Protection (PIP), will cover your medical expenses, regardless of who caused the crash. Here are some of the most important things for you to know about PIP in Florida:

• PIP is Mandatory in Florida: Every registered vehicle in Florida must carry a minimum of $10,000 in PIP coverage.
• What PIP Covers: PIP typically covers up to 80% of your medical expenses and 60% of lost wages, up to your policy limit. It may also cover some out-of-pocket costs, like mileage to medical appointments.
• Limitations of PIP: Medical bills from even a minor injury can exceed $10,000 quickly. Plus, PIP doesn’t compensate you for pain and suffering or emotional distress.
• If the Accident Wasn’t Your Fault: If you suffered a “serious injury” (as defined under Florida law), you can step outside the no-fault system and file a claim against the at-fault driver for damages not covered by PIP.
• Filing a Lawsuit After PIP: If another driver caused your injuries and PIP doesn’t come close to covering your expenses, you may be able to pursue additional compensation through a personal injury claim.

Compensation for a Car Accident Injury

A serious injury doesn’t just cause physical pain; it can upend your life entirely. If your accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you shouldn’t have to shoulder the financial burden. Depending on the specifics of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Including emergency care, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, medications, and future medical needs.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries forced you to miss work, or if you’re unable to return to your job at all, you may be compensated for your lost income and loss of earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Florida law allows victims to recover damages for the physical pain and emotional trauma resulting from their injuries.
• Property Damage: You may be reimbursed for repairs to your vehicle or the fair market value if it was totaled.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Injuries that impact your ability to live, work, and engage in hobbies may qualify for additional compensation.
• Loss of Consortium: In some cases, your spouse may also be entitled to damages for the loss of companionship or support.

Every case is different, and the value of your claim depends on the extent of your injuries and how they’ve affected your life. Our car accident lawyer can help you understand what you’re truly entitled to–and fight to get it.

File Your Claim On Time

Florida has a strict statute of limitations when it comes to filing a car accident injury claim. As of recent changes in state law, you now have just two years from the date of the accident to take legal action.

That might sound like plenty of time, but the truth is, evidence can disappear quickly, and delays can hurt your chances of recovering full compensation.

Some important things to keep in mind:

• If You Miss the Deadline: You could permanently lose your right to pursue compensation, no matter how strong your case may be.
• Certain Exceptions May Apply: In limited cases, the statute of limitations can be paused (or “tolled”), such as when the injured party is a minor or mentally incapacitated.
• Property Damage Claims Are Different: If you’re only seeking reimbursement for vehicle damage, you have four years to file that claim in Florida.

Bottom line: don’t wait. The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of building a strong, successful claim. Let us handle the legal side while you focus on healing.

Contact a Skilled Miami-Dade County Car Accident Lawyer

Here at the Law Offices of Gonzalo Funes, PA, we are dedicated to fighting for car accident victims throughout the state of Florida. We know how devastating these accidents can be, which is why you have our pledge to effectively fight for the full and fair compensation to which you are entitled. Contact a dedicated Miami car accident lawyer from the Law Offices of Gonzalo Funes, PA for a free case evaluation today.