How Many Days do I Have to Start an Injury Claim?

Happy New Year Everyone! Today I wanted to remind you all about the 14 day Rule in Florida.

Florida's Personal Injury Protection (PIP) 14-day rule is a provision of Florida's no-fault insurance system that requires drivers to seek medical treatment within 14 days of a car accident in order to be eligible for PIP benefits.

Under Florida's no-fault insurance system, drivers are required to carry PIP coverage as part of their auto insurance policy. PIP coverage is designed to pay for medical expenses and other related costs that result from a car accident, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.

The PIP 14-day rule is intended to encourage drivers to seek medical treatment as soon as possible after a car accident, and to discourage fraudulent insurance claims. If you are involved in a car accident and do not seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident, you may not be eligible for PIP benefits, even if you are otherwise covered by PIP insurance.

It is important to note that the PIP 14-day rule applies only to medical treatment, and does not affect your ability to seek compensation for other damages, such as property damage or lost wages, that may result from a car accident. If you have been injured in a car accident in Florida, it is generally a good idea to seek the advice of a qualified personal injury attorney to ensure that your rights are protected.

What is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

I'd like to take a moment to talk about uninsured motorist coverage and why it's an important type of insurance to consider.

First, let's define what uninsured motorist coverage is. This type of coverage protects you in the event that you are involved in a car accident with a driver who does not have insurance. It can also protect you if you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident.

Now, let's talk about why this type of coverage is important. Even though it is required by law in most states for drivers to have insurance, the reality is that not everyone follows the law. According to the Insurance Research Council, an estimated 13% of drivers on the road in the United States are uninsured.

If you are involved in an accident with one of these uninsured drivers and you do not have uninsured motorist coverage, you could be stuck paying for any damages or injuries out of pocket. This can be a financial burden, especially if the accident was serious and resulted in significant damages or medical bills.

Uninsured motorist coverage can help protect you from this financial risk. It can cover the cost of repairs to your vehicle, as well as any medical bills that result from the accident. This can be a lifesaver if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver and don't have the means to pay for the damages on your own.

In summary, uninsured motorist coverage is an important type of insurance to consider because it can protect you from the financial burden of being involved in an accident with an uninsured driver. It's always a good idea to review your insurance coverage and make sure you have the protection you need in the event of an unexpected event like a car accident.

The Most Dangerous Season to Drive?

As the holiday season is in full swing, it's important to keep safety in mind, especially when it comes to driving. Unfortunately, car accidents tend to increase during the holidays, and it's important to be prepared in case you or a loved one is involved in an accident.

There are several reasons why car accidents tend to increase during the holiday season. One reason is that there is generally more traffic on the roads due to people traveling to visit family and friends. This can lead to more congestion and a higher likelihood of accidents. In addition, the winter weather can also contribute to accidents, as snow and ice can make roads slippery and difficult to navigate.

Here are some statistics from Zutobi, a top national driver education platform

According to Zutobi( 2020 data):

• In 2020, the number of driver and passenger fatalities increased by 21 percent compared to the previous year with 515 people killed in crashes during the Thanksgiving holiday.

• Alcohol is the main cause of car crashes during Thanksgiving, with 185 drivers killed in DUI crashes in 2020. Thirty-six percent of the fatalities involved an alcohol-impaired driver.

• The number of traffic deaths increased by 20 percent compared to equivalent non-holiday periods in 2020.

"The problem is that since so many people have a similar mindset and driving-related plans, the number of traffic accidents and resulting injuries and fatalities are also higher during these periods," said Leo Waldenback, co-founder of Zutobi. "In fact, the number of traffic deaths is 30 percent higher during holidays when compared with equivalent non-holiday periods. From 2016 to 2020, it’s estimated that 10,732 people were killed in car crashes during these popular days off."

If you or a loved one is involved in a car accident during the holiday season, it's important to seek legal help as soon as possible. The Lopez Law Firm is a top-rated personal injury law firm that has a team of experienced attorneys who can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Whether you've been injured in an accident or you've lost a loved one due to someone else's negligence, the Lopez Law Firm can help you get the justice you deserve.

It's important to remember that car accidents can happen to anyone, and it's important to be prepared in case you or a loved one is involved in an accident. By taking steps to stay safe on the roads and seeking legal help if you need it, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones during the holiday season and beyond.

When is an Accident Reportable?

Most car accidents are minor fender benders that cause little more than a few dents and bruises. However, some accidents are much more serious, leading to extensive property damage and/or injuries. So, when is an accident reportable? Here's what you need to know.

Generally speaking, you must report an accident to the police if it meets one or more of the following criteria:

-There are injuries involved.

-There is significant property damage.

-A hit and run occurred.

-You suspect that drugs or alcohol were involved.

-You feel unsafe or uncomfortable exchanging information with the other driver.

-The other driver refuses to provide their insurance information.

Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. For instance, in some states, you may not have to report an accident if it occurs on private property. Additionally, if the damage is minimal and everyone involved seems cooperative, you may be able to forgo involving the police and instead exchange information directly with the other driver (although we still recommend getting a police report for your own records).

If you're ever unsure about whether or not you should involve the police, be on the side of caution and make the call. It's better to be safe than sorry!

Police involvement isn't always necessary after a car accident, but there are certain situations where it's mandatory (or at least strongly advisable). These include accidents that result in injuries, substantial property damage, hit and runs, suspected drunk driving, or confrontational drivers who refuse to exchange information. If you're unsure about whether or not you should involve the police, it's always better to be on the side of caution.

The Most Common Types of Car Accidents—And How to Avoid Them

Car accidents are, unfortunately, all too common. In 2016 alone, there were nearly 6 million car accidents in the United States. While some of these accidents are due to factors beyond our control, such as poor weather conditions, many are the result of human error. Knowing the most common types of car accidents can help you be more aware of potential hazards on the road and avoid them.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are, by far, the most common type of car accident. They occur when one vehicle rear-ends another that is either stopped or moving slowly. Rear-end collisions often happen because drivers are not paying attention or following too closely. You can avoid rear-ending someone by paying attention to the road and leaving enough space between you and the car in front of you.

Rollover Crashes

Rollover crashes tend to be some of the most dangerous types of car accidents. They often occur when a driver loses control of their vehicle, causing it to tip over onto its side or roof. These types of accidents are most common in vehicles with a high center of gravity, such as SUVs and trucks. The best way to avoid rollover crashes is to drive carefully and avoid sudden movements.

Side-Impact Collisions

Side-impact collisions—also known as T-bone accidents—happen when the front end of one vehicle hits the side of another. These types of accidents commonly occur at intersections when one driver fails to yield the right of way or runs a red light. You can protect yourself from side-impact collisions by being cautious at intersections and always yielding the right of way when appropriate.

No one wants to be in a car accident, but unfortunately, they happen all too often. By being aware of the most common types of car accidents and taking steps to avoid them, you can help keep yourself and your loved ones safe on the road. If you are involved in a car accident and sustained injuries, find yourself an experience personal injury attorney that can help you seek compensation for your injuries.

Car Accidents and Trauma: What You Should Know

If you've been in a car accident, you may be feeling a lot of physical and emotional pain. You may be wondering if your injuries will heal and if you'll ever feel "normal" again. It's important to understand that it's perfectly normal to feel this way after an accident. In fact, many people who have been in accidents experience what's known as trauma.

What is Trauma?

Trauma is a type of psychological injury that can occur after experiencing or witnessing a distressing or life-threatening event. Trauma can be caused by car accidents, natural disasters, violence, or any other type of stressful event. Symptoms of trauma can include nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, depression, and difficulty sleeping. It's important to seek help from a mental health professional if you are experiencing these symptoms.

How Does Trauma Affect the Body?

Trauma can have a profound effect on the body. It can cause physical pain, as well as emotional pain. In some cases, people who have been in car accidents experience chronic pain long after their injuries have healed. This is because trauma can change the way the brain processes pain signals. Treatment for chronic pain caused by trauma typically includes both medication and psychological counseling.

What Can I Do to Help Myself Heal?

If you've been in a car accident and are struggling with trauma, there are things you can do to help yourself heal. First, it's important to give yourself time to grieve and process what happened. Secondly, seeking professional help from a mental health professional can be incredibly helpful. Finally, support groups for survivors of car accidents can also be beneficial.

Car accidents are one of the most common causes of trauma. If you've been in an accident, it's important to understand that you may be feeling a range of emotions and that it may take some time to heal both emotionally and physically. Seek professional help if you are having difficulty managing your symptoms and know that there are things you can do to help yourself heal.

Steps to Take After a Slip & Fall

Getting Medical Attention

The first thing you should do after a slip and fall is to seek medical attention, even if you don't think you're seriously injured. It's always better to be safe than sorry, and many injuries from slips and falls can become worse over time if they're not treated properly. In addition, seeking medical attention will create a record of your injuries, which can be helpful if you decide to file a personal injury claim later on.

If you've been injured in a slip and fall on someone else's property, it's important to report the accident as soon as possible. Most businesses have insurance that covers these types of accidents, but they will need to be notified in order for the insurance company to process your claim. Be sure to get the contact information for the manager or owner of the property so that you can get in touch with them later on.

If you're able, take pictures of the scene of the accident before anything is moved. This will document any hazards that may have contributed to your fall. In addition, be sure to get the contact information for any witnesses who may have seen what happened. Their testimony could be crucial if you decide to file a personal injury claim.

A slip and fall can be a very frightening experience, but it's important to stay calm and take the proper steps afterwards. Seek medical attention immediately, even if you don't think your injuries are serious. Then, report the accident to the manager or owner of the property where it occurred. Finally, document the scene by taking pictures and getting witness statements. By taking these steps, you'll be giving yourself the best chance for a successful personal injury claim.

This blog post was brought to you by the personal injury lawyers at Lopez Law Firm. We help slip & fall victims get the compensation they deserve. If you've been injured in a slip and fall, call us today for a free consultation. We have over 50 years of combined legal experience. More than $80 Million recovered for car accident victims.

What to do After a Truck Accident

If you’ve been in a truck accident, the moments and days that follow can be confusing, scary, and frustrating. You may be dealing with injuries, damaged property, and insurance claims. It’s important to know what to do in the aftermath of a truck accident so that you can protect yourself and your interests.

The first thing you should do is seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you’ve been injured. In many cases, injuries from car accidents don’t present themselves immediately. A doctor will be able to check for internal injuries and give you guidance on how to best care for yourself going forward.

Once you’ve taken care of your health, you should start gathering evidence from the accident scene. If possible, take pictures of the damage to both vehicles as well as any visible injuries you or your passengers have incurred. These pictures can be helpful when filing an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. You should also get the contact information for any witnesses to the accident. These people may be able to provide valuable testimony if your case goes to court.

Finally, you should reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney will be able to advise you of your legal rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. Many truck accident cases are complex, so it’s important to have knowledgeable representation on your side.

Dealing with the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, but it’s important to know what to do in order to protect yourself and your interests. Seek medical attention right away, even if you don’t think you’ve been injured. Then, start gathering evidence from the accident scene. This may include pictures of the damage and injuries as well as witness contact information. Once you have this evidence, reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you get the compensation you deserve under the law.

3 Steps to Take After an Accident

Being involved in a car accident is never a fun experience. Aside from the emotional toll it can take, accidents can also be a huge financial burden. If you've been in an accident, you may be wondering what steps you should take next. Here are three key things to do after an accident:

1. Get medical attention. Even if you don't think you're seriously injured, it's always better to be on the side of caution and get checked out by a medical professional. In some cases, injuries may not present themselves until days or even weeks after the accident. Getting prompt medical attention will not only ensure that you're properly taken care of, but it will also create a record of your injuries in case you need to make a claim for them later.

2. Take pictures of the scene. If you have a camera or smartphone with you, take pictures of the damage to both vehicles as well as any visible injuries you or your passengers have sustained. These pictures can be used as evidence if you need to make an insurance claim or file a personal injury lawsuit.

3. Call the Police and Get Drivers Information. Be sure to get the other driver's name, contact information, insurance information, and license plate number. You should also try to get the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident. This information will be crucial if you need to file an insurance claim.

If you've been involved in a car accident, it's important to take quick and decisive action in order to protect your health, your finances, and your legal rights. Following these three steps will put you on the right track towards getting the compensation and closure you deserve.

This blog post was brought to you by the personal injury lawyers at Lopez Law Firm. We help accident victims get the compensation they deserve. If you've been injured in an accident, call us today for a free consultation. We have over 50 years of combined legal experience. More than $80 Million recovered for car accident victims.

Hialeah Car Accident Statistics

So how bad are accidents in Hialeah? In a 2019 report that ranks the best (and worst) cities for drivers, Hialeah ranks the absolute worst in all of Florida. Of the 12 Florida cities ranked in Allstate's 2019 America's Best Driver's Report, Hialeah was dead last in the Sunshine State and 125th overall in the U.S.

According to the report, Hialeah drivers average just over 8 years between traffic collisions, and drivers in the city stand a better than 25 percent chance over the national average that they'll get into an accident. The most common causes of car accidents in Hialeah, FL include speeding, distracted driving, and drunk driving. Another major cause of car accidents is driving during bad weather or in poor road conditions. Drivers in these conditions are more likely to lose control of their vehicles and make mistakes about speed. As a result, these accidents increase the risks of a collision.

What could be the cause? Hialeah’s population has been on a steady increase since the 1950s, as Florida’s overall population had massive growth during this period. With a population of 223,109 as of the 2020 census, Hialeah is the sixth-largest city in Florida. It is the second largest city by population in the Miami metropolitan area, which was home to an estimated 6,198,782 people at the 2018 census.

Involved in a car accident in Hialeah? Call Lopez Law - attorneys that understand the city and can help you find medical treatment near you.

HOW DANGEROUS ARE MIAMI-DADE ROADWAYS?

Florida has about 400,000 accidents every year. This number includes about 6,300 bicycle accidents, 8,600 motorcycle accidents, and 9,500 pedestrian accidents.

These accidents injure over 160,000 people and kill over 3,600 people every year. About 180 cyclists, 570 motorcyclists, and 820 pedestrians die on Florida’s roads annually.

There are more car accidents reported in Miami-Dade County than anywhere else in the state of Florida — with Broward and Orange Counties normally reporting the next highest numbers.

Miami drivers spend a great deal of time stuck in traffic, and often become frustrated and impatient as the traffic piles up. Because of this, many of them resort to aggressive driving to make up for lost time. This can include speeding, making unsafe turns, and racing through intersections to beat traffic signals. This type of driving contributes to a large percentage of crashes every year.

Most Dangerous Miami roadways?

Accidents in Miami tend to center around I-95/US-441. The most dangerous segments of the freeway run between NW 79th St. to NW 62nd St. and between the interchanges with I-195 and I-395.

New Apple Watch Crash Detection

Apple has announced a new feature for the Apple Watch called Crash Detection. It can identify accidents using microphones and sensors. The feature was introduced at the Far Out event, a celebration of the iPhone 14 and Apple Watch lineup. Apple also announced the Apple Watch Ultra, a fitness smartwatch designed for extreme sports enthusiasts. The feature will come with the watchOS 9 software update, and will ship with the Series 8 Apple Watch.

Apple Watch car crash detection will be available for users with iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches. The service will automatically turn on your Emergency SOS when you crash. The Apple Watch will also work in low-power mode. These new features are part of Apple's ongoing efforts to improve user safety.

The Apple Watch car crash detection feature uses sensors to determine which vehicle has caused an accident. The technology is powered by two new motion sensors and an advanced sensor fusion algorithm. The company has conducted numerous crash tests with cars to improve its car crash detection capabilities. It also uses GPS and the microphone of the iPhone to identify a crash.

As a Miami accident attorney, I can communicate that one of the first steps you should take after being involved in an auto accident is to call the police. A police report could provide the evidence which can be deemed important for your case. It can also corroborate your version of events and connect your injuries to the crash. The main point to understand is that there is a good chance you have a legal responsibility to call 911 after being involved in an accident in Miami

Why Should You Call 911 After an Accident?

IIf you are in a car accident, it is important to contact the police right away. Calling 911 will allow you to obtain the police report, which will contain important information. The police report must be completed by a police officer. Do not write down any information about the other party or your own, since this information may be used against you later.

The police will also be able to provide you with tips for handling the situation. First, make sure that the other driver and pedestrians are okay. If you are the one blocking traffic, move your car so that you can get help. If there are any injuries, call 911 and get medical attention immediately.

Another reason to call 911 after an accident in Miami is to file a police report. In Florida, it is not your fault if you are involved in an accident, so you should always report it to the police. You will need to gather important documents such as license plates, the names of all the drivers and passengers, and a brief description of what happened. If possible, you can ask any witnesses to provide a statement.

While calling 911 after an accident in Miami isn't a legal requirement, it is best practice to do so if you're involved in a serious car accident. As a Miami accident attorney, i can share that calling 911 after an accident is of upmost important. This will ensure that you and the other driver involved in the accident receive medical care if needed.