In Fort Lauderdale, traffic collisions, workplace incidents, and falls in public spaces are among the common causes of personal injuries. Fort Lauderdale is home to around 165,000 residents and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida. So far this year, there have been 16,619 injuries in Broward County, and that’s just from crashes.
Accidents can happen in seconds, but their effects can last years, or even decades. The aftermath is difficult; medical bills pile up, insurance companies call, and you’re left wondering what’s next. Florida law gives injured individuals the right to seek compensation when someone else’s negligence causes them harm.
Table of Contents
Common Causes of Personal Injury
Personal injuries aren’t just car crashes. Motor vehicle accidents are the most common, especially so on busy routes like I-95 and Sunrise Boulevard. Other hazards cause serious harm as well. Slip and fall accidents in shops, restaurants, or apartment complexes are frequent. Wet floors, poor lighting, and uneven surfaces are often to blame.
Given its location, boating accidents are another risk in South Florida’s waterways. Workplace injuries affect employees in construction, hospitality, and healthcare. Dog bites and defective products also fall under personal injury law. Each scenario is different and involves varying legal responsibilities. Identifying fault requires careful investigation and evidence collection.
Florida’s Comparative Negligence Law
Florida follows a comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover some damages even if you share some responsibility for the accident. The compensation is reduced according to your percentage of fault.
For example, imagine you’re awarded $100,000 but found to be 20% at fault. Instead of the full amount, you would receive $80,000 in compensation. This system means a fair outcome, but it also gives insurers a reason to argue that victims contributed to their injuries. Without proper advice and representation, you might end up accepting less than you deserve. A Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer can help. They will gather evidence, challenge unfair fault claims, and make sure you get a settlement that reflects the full impact of your injuries.
Steps to Take If You Have an Accident
The moments after an accident are critical. Both for your safety and for your future claim:
Every decision you make at this stage can influence the success of a claim. Not getting medical care straight away may look like you weren’t that injured. Discussing your case publicly (especially online) can weaken your case. Early consultation with a lawyer means you know which actions will support your case, and which will harm it.
What Compensation Can Include
A personal injury claim aims to make you financially and emotionally ‘whole’ again.
Compensation generally covers:
In tragic cases, families may also pursue wrongful death damages. Every claim is unique. Settlements vary depending on the severity of harm and the evidence of it. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer is your best bet for determining the realistic value of your case.
Endnote: Get Experienced Help
Suffering an injury is difficult enough without the added confusion of insurance claims and legal rules. A skilled lawyer will be both an advocate and an advisor. They handle communication with insurers, which means you won’t fall for a lowball offer or end up in a technical loophole. They collect medical records, police reports, and witness statements to build a strong claim. If negotiations fail, they’re prepared to take the case to court.
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing up front. Legal fees are only due if you win. This structure allows anyone, regardless of income, to access experienced representation. Beyond the paperwork and strategy, a lawyer is on your side. They’ll give you peace of mind during a stressful time, and that means you can focus on recovery.
