Valuing Injury Claims

Hit by a Drunk Driver Settlement in Florida: How Much Can I Expect?

Apr 16, 2023 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

If you or a loved one sustained severe injuries after being hit by a drunk driver, you are likely considering legal action. You might also wonder what your settlement value could be. Like most personal injury cases, you may have the right to recover compensation for your physical, emotional, and financial damages after being hit by a drunk driver. The value of your claim will depend on the injuries you suffered and other details specific to your case. As with any accident and injury case, it’s always best to consult with an experienced drunk driving accident lawyer to ensure you receive fair compensation. The best way to determine what your potential settlement value might be is to consult a Florida DUI accident attorney. An attorney can review the facts of your case and advise you about recovering the compensation you deserve for your losses.   AVERAGE DRUNK DRIVER SETTLMENT FAQ Is There an Average Settlement for Drunk Driving Accidents in Florida? Drunk driving accidents have the potential to cause significant injuries and, often, death. These incidents can destroy lives and tear families apart. The damages that result from these accidents tend to be substantial. Just as no “average” accident victim or injuries exist, we can’t identify any type of average settlement for drunk driving accidents. However, many drunk driving claims do carry a high potential value for settlement or verdict due to the severe nature of the resulting damages. Because DUI accidents are always preventable—and typically involve negligence or recklessness by the at-fault party—your settlement might also include punitive damages. Punitive damages, which victims can collect under Florida law, are designed to punish the at-fault party for their actions. AVERAGE SETTLMENT FOR DRUNK DRIVING ACCIDENT FAQ Does the Fact That I Was Hit by a Drunk Driver Make My Case for Compensation Stronger? For anyone hit by a drunk driver, settlement amounts should compensate the victim for all of their losses and damages. Even though there is no average drunk driver settlement you can use for reference, you deserve to recover fair compensation for what you’ve been through. Being injured by a drunk driver can make it easier to recover compensation, especially when your lawyer can cite criminal evidence in your case. DUI accident injuries may also entitle you to additional damages that you might not otherwise receive. These damages, known as punitive damages, are intended to punish the drunk driver. Although Florida statutes bar the recovery of punitive damages without a reasonable foundation for doing so, many DUI accident victims sustain injuries that meet the statutory standards. To recover punitive damages, your case must go to court. If you win your case in court, the jury will determine whether to award punitive damages and, if so, the amount of the damages. A car accident attorney can explain more about the damages you may be entitled to and help you determine the best way to recover the compensation you deserve. DRUNK DRIVING LAWSUIT SETTLEMENTS FAQ What Factors Are Considered When Calculating the Potential Amount of a Florida DUI Settlement? When calculating the value of a DUI accident claim, attorneys identify and include all potential damages the victim suffered. Typically, drunk driving accident victims have the right to pursue compensation for all economic and non-economic damages they incurred. In your case, this might include: If you sustained disabling or permanent injuries, you may have the right to recover additional compensation for damages such as diminished earning capacity and diminished quality of life. You might also be entitled to compensation for any future medical treatment or care you require as well as estimated future lost income and benefits. Finally, as discussed above, you may be entitled to recover punitive damages in a Florida DUI injury accident claim if your case goes to court. DRUNK DRIVER SETTLEMENT AMOUNTS FAQ What Evidence Is Most Critical in a Drunk Driving Injury Case? Attorneys leverage a variety of evidence to prove their client’s claim. For your case, this might include: When you work with a drunk driving injury attorney, your legal team will investigate the circumstances of your accident. Your lawyer will obtain the necessary evidence to build a persuasive case based on the facts and details of your claim. DRUNK DRIVER ACCIDENT SETTLEMENTS FAQ Can I Sue a Drunk Driver If I Was Hit as a Pedestrian? In most cases, you can sue a drunk driver if you sustained injuries as: Typically, you can sue a drunk driver any time their actions cause you to sustain injuries, no matter what the circumstances might have been. Talking to an experienced personal injury lawyer will help you determine whether you have a viable DUI accident injury claim. DUI ACCIDENT SETTLEMENTS FAQ Will the Crime Victim Compensation Fund Pay Me If I’m Hit by a Drunk Driver? Florida’s Victim Compensation program, overseen by the state’s Attorney General, provides compensation for victims of various types of crimes, including drunk driving. To qualify for compensation, you must complete the necessary paperwork and meet the program’s requirements. Unfortunately, the Victim Compensation program has limited resources. The program’s benefits will pay up to two-thirds of your medical bills up to a maximum of $10,000. You can recover up to two-thirds of your lost income up to a maximum of $15,000. This program is invaluable if you have no other way to recover damages. However, many victims prefer to pursue a drunk driving accident claim or lawsuit if their damages exceed these benefit amounts.   HIT BY A DRUNK DRIVER SETTLEMENT FAQ What’s the Difference Between Criminal and Civil Drunk Driving Cases? In a Florida DUI case, the drunk driver faces criminal charges. Upon conviction, drunk drivers face the potential for jail or prison sentences, substantial monetary fines, and other penalties. A criminal DUI case holds the defendant accountable for breaking the law. However, it does not typically benefit the accident victims. Whether the defendant is ultimately convicted or not, DUI accident victims retain the right to pursue legal action against the defendant. Victims can...

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Average Hip Injury Settlement

Mar 13, 2023 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

This article attempts to explain the factors that influence the amount that broken hip injury victims can recover in a broken hip injury settlement. A broken hip can be a painful injury that can take significant time to heal. The unfortunate reality is that broken hip injuries are more common than you might think. So, what do you do if you have broken a hip due to a personal injury incident?  The silver lining is that there are things you can do to help streamline your recovery. After your broken hip injury, contact an attorney as soon as practicable. Doing so is one of the first steps toward receiving valuable compensation that will allow you to recover from your injuries.   If you have suffered a broken hip injury due to the negligence of wrongful actions of another, contact the injury attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk today. Feel free to browse our website and read more about broken hip injury settlements and what you could recover.  Wondering What The Average Compensation For a Hip Injury Is? The average compensation for a hip injury is different so an average settlement amount is difficult to determine. According to the hip injury settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Florida hip injury settlement is anywhere from $455,000 to $1,269,936. Settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case, so the amount for hip injury settlements in Florida varies greatly. Recent Examples Of Average Hip Injury Settlements $455,000 Dog Bite / Fractures / 2021Our client was walking her dog. Another dog was on a leash and its owner allowed the dog to lunge at and approach the client who became entangled with the leash. The client fell and suffered a fractured hip and femur resulting in surgery. A demand was made, and the defendant’s insurance company merely offered $55,000 to settle the case. A suit was filed and the defendant’s insurance company increased their offer to $105,000 to settle the case. That offer was rejected. The case progressed through litigation and settled for a total of $455,000. $1,000,000 / Motorcycle Accident / Fractures / Sarasota County, Florida This tragic accident occurred at the intersection of 10th Street and Cocoanut Ave. in Sarasota, Florida. Our client, a 56-year-old caretaker, and the carpenter was proceeding north on Cocoanut Ave. on his motorcycle when the defendant, who was southbound on Cocoanut Ave., violated our client’s right of way by turning left directly into his path. In the violent collision that followed, our client was ejected from his motorcycle and landed on the pavement in the intersection.It was immediately obvious that our client had suffered serious injuries, and he was rushed to the emergency room at Sarasota Memorial Hospital where he was admitted. It was determined that he had sustained a compound fracture to both bones in his forearm as well as fractures to the hip, knee, and foot. Multiple surgeries were performed to repair the fractures. In addition to the fractures, our client also suffered a nerve injury in his arm and shoulder injuries which also required surgery.The insurance company for the defendant driver initially attempted to claim that our client was partially responsible for the accident. Their first offer was only $115,000.00, an amount that didn’t even pay our client’s medical bills, let alone compensate him for his lost wages and pain and suffering damages. Therefore, in order to get our client properly compensated, we filed a lawsuit on his behalf and aggressively prosecuted the case. We attended multiple traffic court hearings and after the court was made aware of the facts we had discovered in our case, the judge found that the defendant was guilty of failure to yield right of way. Thereafter, we took the defendant’s deposition and were able to firmly establish that the accident was entirely his fault.After the defendant’s insurance company hired new lawyers, the case proceeded to mediation. At that settlement conference, we were able to convince the insurance company to pay the defendant’s $1,000,000.00 policy limit to our client. This was a terrific result for our client, and he was very pleased with the outcome. We have represented victims of motorcycle accidents for over 30 years, and we hold drivers responsible when their carelessness causes injury to riders. $1,269,936 / (Jury Verdict) Motorcycle Accident / Fractures / Citrus County, FloridaOur client was on his motorcycle approaching a large car carrier truck which had negligently parked in the road without any warnings. As a result, he ended up going up the ramp of the car carrier and was ejected from the motorcycle. Our client sustained injuries, including a broken hip, leg, and other fractures. The jury’s verdict, in this case, was reduced by the amount of fault our client was found to have contributed to causing the accident. Slip and Fall Broken Hip Settlement Here’s how much we were able to recover for one of our clients in this example of a slip and fall broken hip settlement below. Florida slip and fall accident circumstances aren’t always the same and settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case. $850,000 / Premises Liability / Pasco Co., FloridaOur 49-year-old client was injured when she sat on a fitting room bench at a department store. The bench collapsed, and Plaintiff fell to the ground. As a result of this incident, Plaintiff suffered multiple injuries to her hip and back. We settled her premise liability case for $850,000. Read more of our case settlement results. Slip and Falls — A Common Cause of Broken Hip Injuries We’ve all heard about “slip and fall” injuries. In fact, you’ve probably seen personal injury law firm advertisements advising of the dangers of slip and fall accidents.  The truth of the matter is that Florida slip and fall accidents remain a leading cause of broken hip injuries each year. In fact, approximately 1.6 million hip fractures occur worldwide each year, and roughly 90% of hip fractures are a result of falls.  Examples of situations in...

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Average Herniated Disc Injury Settlements with Steroid Injections in Florida

Feb 25, 2023 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

This article attempts to explain the factors that influence the amount that herniated disc injury with steroid injections victims can get in Florida settlement. How Much Does Steroid Injection Increase Settlements in Florida? Many of our clients wonder whether the treatment they receive for a herniated disk, such as steroid injections, impacts their settlement. The answer is yes. After suffering a herniated disk because of another person’s negligent behavior, you can demand compensation. The insurance settlement or court award may cover your medical bills, out-of-pocket expenses, pain and suffering, and more. We calculate your past and future medical care costs to determine a fair value for your claim. According to the herniated disc injury with steroid injection settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Florida bulging disc injury settlement and payout is anywhere from $300,000 to $530,000. Settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case which is why there is no accurate average settlement amount for herniated disc injuries in Florida. Here’s how to learn how much your steroid injection settlement is worth, reach out to Abrahamson & Uiterwyk. We know how to negotiate herniated disc injury settlements with steroid injections in Florida. Recent Herniated Disc Case Examples Near You At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we take injury cases very seriously. We know the pain you have suffered, and we know that financial burdens make everything seem overwhelming when you are trying to heal from serious injuries. We pride ourselves on leaving no stone unturned when advocating for our client’s right to financial recovery. After we assess the value of your claim, we don’t stop until we recover what you deserve. While we cannot guarantee the outcome of your claim, here are two recent case examples our lawyers handled that we hope will demonstrate our persistence and commitment to our clients. Let us help you with your 2 epidural injection settlement. Herniated Disc Injury with Epidural Steroid Injection—$300,000 Recovered In this recent case, our client, was driving in Citrus County. As they proceeded northbound on Suncoast Parkway near the intersection of Veteran’s Drive, they slowed their vehicle in preparation for making a right-hand turn. The defendant was following behind them as they slowed their vehicle. But as our client slowed to make the turn, the defendant did not stop or even slow down. Consequently, he struck their car from behind. Our client was immediately transported to the emergency room where doctors tended to multiple injuries. Because their pain persisted, our client decided to see a chiropractor. The chiropractor ordered MRI scans of her neck, lower back, and left shoulder. These scans revealed: Our client experienced severe pain as a result of these injuries. To address the neck pain, our client’s doctor treated them with a cervical epidural steroid injection. To repair the torn tendons in their shoulder, our client underwent two separate surgeries. In this case, we took a two-pronged approach to get our client maximum compensation for the pain and injuries. First, we presented a demand to the defendant’s insurance company. In this demand, we documented their serious injuries as well as the treatments they had undergone in an effort to heal. After receiving this documentation and engaging in negotiations, the defendant’s insurance company became convinced that the defendant was, in fact, liable for our client’s injuries. They eventually agreed to pay out the defendant’s policy limit of $250,000.  But we believed that their case warranted additional compensation, so we did not stop there. Our client had uninsured motorist coverage under their own policy with GEICO, which carried a $50,000 policy limit. However, after presenting the claim to GEICO, they decided that the case was not worth any additional compensation and made a lowball offer of $1,000 to make the case go away. We rejected that offer and threatened to file a lawsuit accusing GEICO of bad faith negotiations. The lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk stood firm. We gave GEICO a deadline by which they could pay their policy limit amount or face a lawsuit, possible trial, and potentially high jury verdict. The insurer waited out the deadline, but in the end, they recognized their predicament and paid out the policy limit of $50,000.  This provided our client with a total settlement amount of $300,000 for their injuries. Herniated Disc Injury with Epidural Steroid Injection—$530,000 Recovered In another recent case, our client, was simply doing his job. He was working in his truck at a construction site on Interstate 75 when a crash occurred. A passing truck was towing a utility trailer while driving down the highway. The police later found that the defendant driver had negligently failed to properly secure his load before heading out. As he drove past the construction site, the trailer dislodged from the truck and went careening into our client’s construction vehicle.  Our client was transported to the emergency room and diagnosed with a lower back fracture as well as herniated disc injuries. Doctors initially attempted to treat him without surgical intervention, but these attempts failed. Our client had to endure multiple epidural steroid injections and nerve ablation surgery in an effort to recover from his severe injuries. Unfortunately, even this treatment was not enough, and he had to have a lumbar spine fusion several months after the crash. Before filing a lawsuit on behalf of our client, we agreed to submit to voluntary mediation where we negotiated with the defense in the presence of a trained mediator. However, the defense refused to settle on any amount above $400,000. Our lawyers knew that this amount was inadequate and would not make our client whole, so we rejected that offer, and mediation reached an impasse. We continued to persist and pushed the case forward until we convinced the defense to settle the case for an additional $130,000. This provided our client with a grand total of $530,000 in compensation for his injuries.  What Is a Herniated Disk? A herniated disk, also called a slipped, ruptured, or bulging disk, often causes pain, numbness, and in some...

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What is the Average Wrongful Death Settlement in Florida?

Feb 12, 2023 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Average Wrongful Death Settlement in Florida Wrongful death settlements depend on the facts of the specific case. The circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death may be incredibly different from someone else’s and settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case. According to the wrongful death settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Florida wrongful death settlement is anywhere from $1,000,000 to $35,000,000. It’s therefore incredibly important to discuss your potential wrongful death claim with an experienced attorney as soon as you can. Overview of Wrongful Death Settlements in Florida Here’s how this article attempts to explain the factors that influence the amount that families of deceased accident victims can recover in a Florida wrongful death settlement. If a loved one has been killed due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to prevail in a wrongful death lawsuit. If you aren’t sure whether you have a wrongful death claim, you may be questioning whether to see an attorney. The truth is, an experienced wrongful death attorney can always help assess your situation to see what recovery may be possible. If you do have a wrongful death claim, you may wish to better understand wrongful death lawsuit settlements. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about wrongful death settlements in Florida. How Long Does It Take To Settle A Wrongful Death Case? To lose a loved one is one of the most painful experiences one can endure, for it to be a preventable accident is inexcusable. Trying to move forward can be difficult and having a wrongful death lawsuit dragging on makes this process that much harder. That is why we are often asked how long a wrongful death suit will take by loved ones who are searching not only for justice but for peace. Wrongful death suits can typically take anywhere from a matter of months to a number of years to settle. Wrongful death cases can be complex and difficult. There are many factors that have to be looked at no matter what type of wrongful death case you are dealing with whether it be medical malpractice, vehicular homicide, or some other type of accident. Some types of wrongful death cases can be fairly straightforward such as a drunk driving case where they have hit an innocent driver or pedestrian, while others can involve many different parties and the details involving the accident have to be slowly sorted out such as a medical malpractice case where the doctor, nurses, and even hospital could all be liable. Because each wrongful death case is unique it can be difficult to determine an average amount of time it will take to settle the case, however anywhere from 12 months to 3 years would be considered a normal amount of time to settle a wrongful death case. These timeframes can be significantly lessened if the parties involved agree to settle before going to trial. Return to top ↑ Examples of Wrongful Death Settlements We’ve Achieved in Florida At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk we are honored to have achieved substantial wrongful death settlements and verdicts for our clients over our 30 years in practice. In one case, a jury awarded our clients, the surviving spouse, and children of a wrongful death victim, $34,697,465. Some other wrongful death settlement examples we’ve achieved are recoveries of $15,310,000 (jury verdict), $11,500,000 (jury verdict), and $11,000,000 (jury verdict) for our clients in wrongful death cases based on product liability claims. $100,000 Policy Limit Each/Wrongful Death/2021/Car Accident This case involved a tragic motor vehicle crash in which our clients, a retired married couple, were killed due to the carelessness of the defendant.  Our clients were northbound on McMullen Booth Road in the middle lane when the defendant, who was headed south, crossed over the center median, and crashed head on into our clients’ vehicle. Our clients were both rushed to the hospital with extensive injuries.  Our male client passed way at the hospital the same day as the crash.  His wife unfortunately succumbed to her injuries and died about two months after the crash. Our firm immediately initiated wrongful death claims against the defendant on behalf of our clients.  Although it was a small consolation for the horrific losses that the family sustained, we were able to obtain the maximum available coverage limits from the defendant’s insurance company.  Return to top ↑ Case Study: Florida Wrongful Death Settlement $1M Policy Limit / Wrongful Death / Motor Vehicle Accident / Brooksville, Florida On July 20, 2018, our client was northbound on Commercial Way in Brooksville, Florida near the intersection of Kelso Road. The defendant was headed westbound on Kelso Road, but failed to stop for the stop sign at the intersection. As a result, our client’s vehicle T-boned the defendant’s vehicle causing substantial damage to both vehicles. Among other injuries, our client suffered a cardiac contusion which his treating physicians believed led to a massive stroke after the accident. He remained hospitalized for approximately two weeks after the accident before being transferred to inpatient rehabilitation. Unfortunately, due to the serious nature of his injuries, our client passed away shortly thereafter. He was survived by his wife. We did an in depth investigation which helped convince the insurance company that the fault lay with their insured. We presented a comprehensive demand package which also convinced the insurer that our client’s spouse’s death was a direct result of the defendant’s negligence. We also invested considerable time and effort elaborating on the extent and depth of our client’s extreme losses as a result of the death of her spouse. We were able to resolve the case for an amount in excess of 1 million dollars. Unfortunately, our recovery was limited by the amount of insurance available. Based on our efforts, however, we were able to convince them to pay every dollar of available insurance in settlement of the case. Our deepest condolences to our client and their entire family. It was our honor to represent them for...

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What’s the Average Post-Concussion Syndrome Car Accident Settlement in Florida? 2022 Case Settlement Results

Jan 22, 2023 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

What’s the average settlement for post concussion syndrome after a car in Florida? According to the post concussion syndrome car accident settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Florida post concussion syndrome car accident settlement is anywhere from $300,000 to $1,000,000. Settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case which is why there is no accurate average settlement amount for car accidents in Florida. Every case is unique, and the accident victim probably suffered other injuries that affect the value of their claim. Other factors, like comparative fault and insurance policy limits, impact final settlements and court verdicts, too. Car crashes can cause all sorts of harm, including traumatic brain injury (TBI). At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we often work with individuals suffering from collision-related head and brain injuries. We know your recovery doesn’t always progress as expected. Instead of seeing improvement over time, your symptoms may persist or even get worse. If you do suffer a concussion after your car accident or more severe TBI, we typically won’t rush into a settlement agreement. It takes time to diagnose post-concussion syndrome after a car accident, and this condition may impact the value of your settlement. Instead of relying on settlement announcements online, talk with a nearby car accident attorney about the potential value of your post-concussion syndrome settlement. Our team looks at the details of your specific claim. We fight for an amount of compensation that makes sense based on your and your family’s needs. We’re here to guide you through the auto insurance claim process, and when it’s time, request that you receive a fair post-concussion syndrome settlement value. Give us a call at 866-504-2029, or contact us online to set up a free consultation at one of our offices in  Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, New Port Richey, Spring Hill, or Lakeland. Examples of Recent Post-Concussion Syndrome Settlement Value and Case Settlement Results in Florida: Case Settlement Payout For 15 Yr Old With Post-Concussion Syndrome Our client, a delightful 15 year old boy, was traveling with his stepfather when they stopped for traffic on Little Road in Pasco County, FL.  The defendant, who was travelling behind them, failed to stop in time and caused a rear end collision injuring both our client and his stepfather. Prior to the accident, our client was diagnosed with a brain abnormality and a form of autism.  He also experienced headaches and other related symptoms before the accident.  After the wreck, he began to suffer with increased headaches.   He and his family also started to notice symptoms such as short-term memory loss, difficulty concentrating and dizziness.  These symptoms are the hallmarks of a post-concussion syndrome.  He was diagnosed by three physicians with a concussion. We presented a comprehensive demand to the insurance company, however, they dismissed the claim of post-concussion syndrome instead blaming the problems on our client’s pre-existing conditions.  This defense presented challenges since our client undoubtedly had a number of the symptoms before the accident.  Additionally, post-concussion injuries are very difficult to prove. They are not always obvious and there is not always clear diagnostic testing to identify the injury.   We argued forcefully that the accident had permanently aggravated our client’s condition.  We had our client examined by a board-certified neurosurgeon who confirmed the diagnosis.  Eventually, after a long period of negotiation and a mediation settlement conference with the other side, we were able to convince the insurance company to pay a substantial sum that would provide our client with much needed compensation.  Our client and his family were very happy with the result in this case. $300,000 Post Concussion Syndrome Car Accident Settlement Amount, Sarasota In this post concussion settlement case, our client, a delightful 39 year old lady, was traveling on US 41 near the intersection of McIntosh Road in Sarasota, Florida, when the defendant failed to stop and caused a rear end collision.  The defendant later tried to blame rainy weather for the accident. Our client began medical treatment shortly after the accident with a chiropractor.  She also began to experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, anxiety and traumatic stress, all indications of a post-concussion syndrome.  She has lately evaluated by a neurologist and a psychiatrist who found that she indeed suffered a closed head brain injury.  Our firm also had her evaluated by a Ph.D neuropsychologist who found that she had sustained post-concussion syndrome. Eventually we were successful in convincing the insurance company to pay their entire insurance policy limits of $300,000.00. We did so by demonstrating to them that their insured was at fault and by providing medical substantiation of the post-concussion syndrome injury. Our client was extremely pleased with the result. Our firm has considerable experience and a long history of representing victims with post-concussion syndrome and closed head injuries. Give us a call at 866-504-2029, or contact us online to set up a free consultation at one of our offices in  Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, New Port Richey, Spring Hill, or Lakeland. Post Concussion Syndrome After a Car Accident In Florida A concussion is a mild TBI, which typically happens when you suffer a blow to the head. For instance, a falling object may strike you in the head, or you may hit your head on the dashboard or window during a car crash. Despite being a serious injury, most people recover fully from a concussion within three months. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case for everyone. Post-concussion syndrome, also called persistent post-concussive symptoms, is when you suffer a concussion, and the symptoms last beyond the typical recovery period. These symptoms may include: These symptoms are not mild. They can make it impossible to think clearly or concentrate on your work. They can make it impossible to spend time with friends or participate in sports. After sustaining such an injury, many people feel confined and depressed at the loss of their happy, active lifestyle. Doctors aren’t entirely sure why some people suffer from post-concussion syndrome and others do not. It may be because of...

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What Is the Average Settlement for Spinal Fusion Personal Injury Cases?

Dec 20, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Spinal injuries can devastate your life. They often require extensive medical care and may leave you unable to work. If you sustained injuries that require you to have spinal fusion surgery, such as C4567 fusion surgery, you might want to consider pursuing legal action against the at-fault party. A spinal fusion lawsuit settlement can ensure you get the treatment you need and cover your expenses when your injuries prevent you from working. To determine the average settlement for spinal fusion surgery, you must consider a variety of factors. According to the settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Florida C4567 fusion settlement is worth anywhere from $45,000 to $150,000. Settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case. Talking to an experienced personal injury lawyer near you is the best way to understand how much your case could be worth, and what you need to do to maximize your settlement. The lawyers here at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk have over 30 years of experience helping over 20,000 residents of Florida who have suffered spinal fusion injuries recover compensation to help with medical bills, loss of wages, and other costs that can occur due to an injury of this nature. We have recovered 100s of millions of dollars for our clients and we work on a No Win No Fees/Costs basis. Contact our office for your free case evaluation. Is There an Average Settlement Amount for Spinal Fusion Injury Claims? No two spinal injury cases are alike. For that reason, an average claim value for a spinal fusion injury case is difficult to determine. Even personal injury settlement calculators cannot evaluate all the details of your case. These are clickbait; they do not accurately assess your case. You could get a better idea of what your case is worth by looking at the outcome of similar cases. According to the spinal fusion injury settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Florida spinal fusion injury settlement is anywhere from $525,000 to $1,500,000. Settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each spinal fusion injury case. The only way to know the actual value of your case, however, is to have your case evaluated by an experienced spine injury attorney in your area. Return to top ↑ Examples of Spinal Fusion Injury Lawsuit Settlements Achieved by Abrahamson & Uiterwyk $875,000/ Motor Vehicle Accident/ Pinellas County, Florida Our client was traveling south on East Lake Road in Palm Harbor, FL when she stopped at a traffic light.  The defendant negligently failed to come to a stop and caused a rear end collision with our client’s vehicle. After treating for her injuries for about three months, she realized that she needed legal help to fight the insurance company. After seeing our firm’s advertising and looking at our website, she hired Abrahamson & Uiterwyk. Our client had immediate complaints in her neck and back after the accident, and she sought treatment shortly thereafter. Even though it was fairly clear who was at fault for the accident, the case presented many, many challenges. Challenging cases are something we are accustomed to. One problem is that our client did not visit the emergency room on the day of the accident. The case was further complicated by the fact that our client had seen an orthopedic surgeon for neck problems not long before the accident and had an MRI scan done. That scan showed similar findings to the MRI that was taken after the accident. This made proving that the accident caused our client’s neck problems difficult. After her initial treatment, our client underwent a number of injections in an effort to alleviate her pain, which had been worsening. She later required a neck fusion operation when the injections failed to provide significant relief. We eventually provided the insurance company with a detailed case summary and suggested a settlement amount taking into account our client’s medical bills, lost wages, injuries and pain and suffering. The insurance company was very hesitant to fairly compensate our client for her injuries. In fact, the initial offer from the company was a paltry $9,500. Nevertheless, we continued to aggressively challenge the insurance company and continued to advocate on behalf of our injured client. The insurance company continued to argue that our client’s neck problems were all pre-existing and not caused by the accident. We negotiated over an extensive period of time. During that time, we hired a forensic radiologist to compare and contrast the MRIs taken before and after the accident. The extra efforts and strategic tactics of hiring a forensic radiologist was helpful. We caused the insurance company to be increasingly concerned about the seriousness of this case. While the insurer was increasing their offers, we were still not convinced that they were fairly compensating our client. Ultimately, after approximately 20 offers and demands were exchanged, we were able to obtain a $875,000.00 settlement for our client. For a better idea of how much money you could get from a spinal fusion surgery lawsuit settlement, consider some of the outcomes Abrahamson & Uiterwyk has achieved for past clients: Recent C4567 Fusion Settlement Examples In this recent, 2021, C4567 fusion settlement example, we were able to recover $100,000 for our client. This tragic crash occurred when our client was riding his bicycle in the parking lot area of a public boat ramp in Clearwater, Florida. As he was riding, a large truck being driven by the defendant pulled out directly in front of our client. He veered to the right in an attempt to avoid colliding with the truck, however, his bicycle fell to the right as a result, and he hit the ground hard.Our client was rushed to the hospital where x-rays revealed serious, unstable fractures in the neck. Three days after the crash, our client underwent surgery to fuse the bones of his cervical and upper thoracic spine.Unfortunately, in this case, the negligent driver was uninsured. Our client did, however, purchase what is known as uninsured motorist coverage (“UM”)....

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What Are Average Motorcycle Accident Settlements in Florida?

Dec 10, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Did you or a loved one sustain injuries in a motorcycle crash? If so, you might be wondering, how much is a good settlement for a motorcycle accidents, or are curious about the potential value of your Florida motorcycle accident claim. If someone else’s negligence or recklessness caused your accident and injuries, you have the right to pursue compensation for your damages. You may be eligible to recover the cost of your medical treatment, lost income, pain and suffering, and more as part of your motorcycle accident settlement. Because the value of your claim will depend on the details of your case, a Florida motorcycle injury attorney can help you determine what your average motorcycle accidents settlement in Florida might be. How Is a Potential Florida Motorcycle Accident Settlement Calculated? The value of your potential motorcycle accident settlement amount depends on the types of injuries you sustained and how they will affect your life in the future. If you suffered significant injuries that potentially affect your ability to work, these factors would typically increase your claim’s likely value. If you sustained a disabling injury or if you need long-term treatment and care, you might also expect a more substantial award. On the other hand, if you suffered minor injuries and can go back to work quickly, your claim’s value might be smaller. Personal injury attorneys calculate the value of motorcycle crash claims based on actual damages sustained by the victim. Your damages might include: In addition to the amount of your actual damages, the at-fault party’s level of negligence could affect the value of your motorcycle accident claim. For example, in the case of gross negligence, juries often award punitive damages to send a stronger message. Finally, your settlement amount could vary depending on whether you settle out of court or go to trial. Return to top ↑ Most injury crash victims have the right to pursue financial, physical, and emotional damages from the at-fault party. A Florida motorcycle accident lawyer can calculate the payout value of your claim based on the facts of your case and help you recover compensation. What factors affect the value of a motorcycle accident settlement and how much is a good settlement for a motorcycle accident?  Several factors will affect the value of a motorcycle accident settlement. As a result, while many people have questions about “average motorcycle injury settlements,” the reality is that every case is unique. Even if two accidents happen in a similar fashion and result in similar injuries, the outcomes could still be very different based on the riders’ personal circumstances (and other relevant factors).  So, if you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, what do you need to know in order to determine the value of your claim? Some of the key factors for determining motorcycle injury settlement amounts in Florida include:  Comparative Fault Recovering financial compensation for a motorcycle accident requires proof of fault. If someone else (i.e., a negligent driver) was 100% at fault in your accident, then you are entitled to recover all of your accident-related losses. But, if you were partially at fault, then you may be entitled to less than a 100% recovery.  Florida is a modified comparative negligence state. This means that if you are found to be no more than 50% at fault for the accident, your recovery is reduced by the same proportion as your percentage of fault. As an example, if you are found to be 20% at fault in an accident, you may still recover 80% of your damages in a lawsuit. If, however, your percentage of fault is found to be more than 50%, you are barred from any recovery under the law. Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Auto and motorcycle insurance companies frequently try to deny coverage by claiming that riders’ injuries are attributable to pre-existing conditions. However, while a rider with a pre-existing injury may not be entitled to coverage for the pre-existing condition itself, the costs of any additional injuries or complications should generally be covered. The average settlement for pre-existing injuries greatly depends on the unique circumstances of each case. Age At The Time Of The Accident When a motorcycle accident has permanent consequences, the longer the rider lives, the more financial and financial costs he or she will incur. As a result, all else being equal, younger riders will have the opportunity to recover more compensation in some cases. However, as this list shows, age is far from the only factor, and we have helped many senior older riders secure seven-figure significant settlements and verdicts.  Employment Status & Occupation Florida law entitles injured riders to just compensation for their lost wages and their lost future earning capacity. As a result, the more you earn (and the more you have the capacity to earn), the more you will generally be entitled to recover. When motorcycle accidents leave riders with permanent disabilities, these riders must rely on their attorneys to calculate how much they would have earned through the age of retirement taking into account raises, bonuses, commissions, benefits, and other forms of compensation.  Diagnosis & Prognosis The severity and extent of a rider’s injuries are key factors for determining an appropriate settlement value. As a result, a thorough diagnosis is critical, and riders must ensure that they have a clear and comprehensive understanding of their long-term medical needs. If a rider’s injuries will result in permanent disabilities or shorten the rider’s life expectancy, these factors will also increase the amount the rider is entitled to recover.  Pain, Suffering & Emotional Trauma Florida law entitles injured motorcycle riders to just compensation for various forms of “non-financial” harm. These include riders’ pain, suffering, and emotional trauma. To place a dollar amount on these losses, the insurance companies and courts consider both the severity of these physical and psychological effects and the duration for which they will be endured. Rather than trusting the insurance companies (which is a mistake), injured riders must work closely with their attorneys to identify and quantify their non-financial losses.  Family Circumstances Family circumstances can...

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What Are The Average Payouts For Sciatica Car Accident Settlements In Florida?

Dec 9, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Sciatic nerve pain can develop over time as you age, or it can result from acute trauma, such as a car accident. For some sufferers, the pain is more like a dull ache and is relatively minor. However, others report an excruciating burning and stinging pain that affects their every move. If you were injured in a Florida car accident that resulted in sciatic nerve pain, you might be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Florida sciatica car accident settlements vary, which is why it’s essential to speak with an experienced Florida car accident lawyer who can help. Symptoms of Sciatica After a Florida Car Accident Sciatica refers to the pain that radiates down your sciatic nerve, which starts in your lower back and travels through your hips and buttocks and down your legs. Most people report pain on one side of their body only, but it can affect both sides in rare cases. The problem often comes from a herniated disc that puts pressure on the sciatic nerve, but other injuries can result in sciatica pain.   Sciatica after a car accident can develop right away, or it could take a few days. Symptoms will vary depending on your injury location and severity. Some potential symptoms include: Symptoms can come and go for some, while others report constant pain unless they are lying down or in another position that alleviates the pressure on the nerve. Average Payout For Sciatica Car Accident Settlements in Florida Understandably, many prospective clients want to know, can a car accident cause sciatica? Despite what the other driver’s insurance company will try to make you believe, car accidents can result in disc injuries that cause sciatic nerve pain. That means if you develop sciatica after a car accident, compensation could be included in a sciatica car accident settlement amount. Every person’s injuries are different, and therefore they are evaluated on an individual basis. According to the recent sciatica car accident settlement examples listed on this page, the average payout for sciatica in Florida is anywhere from $500,000 to $1,330,000.    Recent Back Injury and Sciatica Car Accident Settlements in Florida Sciatica nerve pain can be a result from disc injuries caused by car accidents. The personal injury lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk are here to help clients who were injured in a Florida car accident that resulted in sciatic nerve pain. Sciatica nerve pain falls under the umbrella of back injury claims. Here are some recent back injury and average sciatica car accident settlement payouts that Abrahamson & Uiterwyk secured for their clients throughout Florida. $1,330,000 Settlement Amount for a Motorcycle Accident /Back and Fractured Pelvis Case in Pinellas County, FLA 63-year old male sustained a fractured pelvis, a right knee injury and a back injury when the defendant turned directly in front of the client while the client was on a motorcycle. The client’s fractured pelvis required two surgeries. We obtained the limits of all available insurance in the case. Example of a Motor Vehicle Accident / Neck and Back Injury Case In Pinellas County Resulting in a settlement amount of $500,000 Our client was a passenger in a vehicle when the defendant slammed into the rear of her stopped vehicle causing her to be pushed into the vehicle in front of her. Our client, 21 years old at the time, was taken to the ER, and then began treatment. An MRI scan revealed herniations in the neck and back, and she later underwent steroid injections and surgery. $775,000 Settlement Amount For A Motor Vehicle Accident Case / Lumbar & Cervical Herniations, Lumbar & Cervical Injections Our client was stopped getting ready to make a right-hand turn when a semi-truck stopped in the dedicated right-hand turn lane next to our client’s vehicle.   Our client and the truck driver began to make a right-hand turn onto South 50th Street.   The semi-truck cut the turn to close, and the trailer ran over the rear of our client’s SUV causing significant property damage.   The defendant semi-truck driver alleged our client veered into the truck driver’s lane.   Our client emphatically stated that the semi-truck driver cut the turn to close causing the accident. Our client began to treat by orthopedic surgeons, shortly after the accident, for neck and lower back pain. An MRI of his lower back and neck was taken which revealed several herniated discs. Our client had numerous injections into his lower back and other conservative procedures which failed. His surgeon opined he needed lower back surgery. Our client agreed to undergo that procedure to alleviate his severe lower back pain that radiated down his legs. The lower back surgery was a success. Our client had multiple neck injections and conservative procedures which ultimately helped alleviate some of his neck pain. He continued to suffer intermittent and occasional neck pain. A demand was made to the defendant’s driver’s insurance company. The insurance company alleged our client was at fault for veering into the semi-tractor trailer driver’s lane. The insurance company merely offered 50,000 to settle the case. A suit was filed. Our office took the deposition of an eyewitness to the accident which proved the semi -tractor-trailer driver was at fault and caused the accident. A lengthy deposition of the semi-tractor trailer driver was also taken which revealed significant credibility problems considering the eyewitnesses’ testimony. The defendant’s insurance company offered $400,000 to settle the case at the mediation conference. That offer was rejected. After the case progressed through litigation the case finally settled for $775,000 several months after the mediation conference. Example of A Rear End Motor Vehicle Accident / Sciatica Diagnosis Case Resulting In A Payout Amount Of $275,000 Our client was riding as a passenger in a vehicle that was rear-ended. The defendant was driving a commercial vehicle in the course, and scope of his employment. Our client was 46 years old with no prior neck injury. An MRI of her neck revealed multi-level cervical disc herniations. After failing conservative treatment, she underwent a recommended multi-level cervical fusion....

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Average Pain and Suffering Settlement Examples in Florida

Oct 17, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

If you sustained serious injuries in a car accident, you might be considering legal action to recover your damages. Personal injury attorneys generally include pain and suffering in the list of damages that victims might be entitled to recover in an insurance claim or lawsuit. Florida law, although complex, does allow accident victims to recover compensation for pain, suffering, emotional distress and mental anguish. To recover this compensation, however, the victim’s injuries must meet the statutory standards for severity. If you do qualify for pain and suffering damages in Florida, you may be curious what the average pain and suffering settlements are in cases like yours. According to the personal injury settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Florida pain and suffering settlement amount is anywhere from $650,000 to $1,000,000. Settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case which is why there is no accurate average for an emotional distress settlement amount in Florida. Talking to a Florida car accident lawyer near you is the best way to determine what the approximate value of your emotional distress settlement amount might be. Understanding Pain and Suffering in Florida  If you’ve ever been seriously injured in an accident, you know that the damage is not always just physical. Emotional pain and suffering are part of the process. You may be entitled to legal compensation for pain and suffering in Florida from injuries caused by a liable party.  What Is Pain and Suffering? The legal term “pain and suffering” refers to the physical and emotional injuries following an accident. These damages can be difficult to quantify. It is reasonable to assume that the party that caused the accident would be responsible for related damages such as medical bills and other costs that you would not have otherwise incurred. Pain and suffering damages are much more subjective, but arguably just as important.  Determining Pain and Suffering In determining the amount of pain and suffering an individual has sustained, a jury or a court may look at factors such as: These factors play an important role in getting you what you deserve. Ultimately, however, it is up to a jury to determine what is reasonable in light of all the evidence in the case. Some examples of things that may be recoverable as pain and suffering damages include: If you fractured your arm in a car accident, and it causes you pain for six months, you could recover pain and suffering damages for the period of time that you are in pain and unable to engage in activities.If you were burned in a car accident, you could receive and award for pain and suffering based on the permanent physical and psychological effects of the scarring and disfigurement. Limitations of Damages Florida, like many states, imposes a cap on the amount of non-economic damages that can be recovered in some types of lawsuits. In medical malpractice claims and some claims against governmental entities, there may be caps on the amount of recovery you can receive for pain and suffering. Can I Sue for Pain and Suffering Under Florida Law? Under the Florida statutes for pain and suffering, accident victims can recover compensation “…for pain, suffering, mental anguish, and inconvenience because of bodily injury, sickness, or disease.” However, the victim’s injuries must meet at least one of the following standards: The statutes also allow recovery for pain and suffering if the victim died as a result of their injuries. In these cases, the victim’s family members can call on a wrongful death lawyer to help them pursue a claim. AVERAGE PAIN AND SUFFERING SETTLEMENTS FAQ Economic Damages vs Non-Economic Damages There are two main types of compensation in Florida personal injury cases: economic damages and non-economic damages.  Economic Damages Compensation to cover actual costs of the property damage or injuries caused are called “economic damages.” This type of compensation is crucial to making sure that you are not financially burdened by the negligent actions of someone else. The downside of purely economic damages is that they do not make up for the emotional burden or life changes that may occur because of the injury. Their purpose is just to pay the bills and cover expenses that would not have existed without the accident.  Non-Economic Damages Once actual expenses are covered, the injured party must still deal with the mental and emotional consequences of the accident. Pain and suffering is a claim to cover these “non-economic” damages. Non-economic damages may include: These types of damages are difficult to put a price on, but they can be debilitating and life-changing. You deserve to be compensated for your pain and suffering.  Is There an Average Pain and Suffering Settlement Amount in Florida? A pain and suffering claim is worth anywhere from $650,000 to $1,000,000 based on the examples that are listed on this page. Various factors impact the settlement value and every single personal injury case is different, and this is true even for each pain and suffering claim. If you have been searching for information about average pain and suffering settlement amounts in Florida, you might be getting frustrated by the lack of answers. Here’s how to quickly and accurately identify the potential value of your claim, take advantage of the free consultation and case evaluation offered by Abrahamson & Uiterwyk. Our attorneys review the facts of your case and provide you with relevant information that applies specifically to your claim and potential settlement value. Recent Pain and Suffering Settlement Examples in Florida $650,000 / Premises Liability / Hillsborough County, FL This accident occurred when our client, a 36-year-old medical assistant and teacher, was shopping at a Wal Mart in Brandon, Florida. Unfortunately, Wal Mart had allowed water to accumulate on the floor in the jewelry department of the store. The store also failed to take steps to clean up this dangerous condition or to warn customers of its presence. As our client was walking by the jewelry department, she unknowingly stepped into the water and slipped...

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Walmart Slip and Fall Settlements: How Much Can I Get?

Oct 11, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

If you sustained injuries due to a slip and fall at Walmart, you might be considering legal action. You might also be wondering how much of a settlement you could recover. Walmart has almost 5,000 stores across the United States, almost 30 of which are located in central Florida. With an average size of over 100,000 square feet, these stores can present slipping, tripping, and falling hazards of all types. For that reason, Walmart faces a constant stream of personal injury claims and lawsuits for which they have to provide payouts, specifically for slip and fall cases at their stores. If the store’s negligence or carelessness caused your injuries, you deserve compensation. Talking to an experienced premises liability lawyer is the best way to determine the value of your potential Walmart slip and fall settlement. Having a knowledgeable slip and fall attorney on your side will also protect your legal rights. An accident attorney can also help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your Walmart slip and fall settlement. How Much Is the Average Walmart Slip and Fall Settlement Amount? Slip and fall accidents in Walmart and other large retail outlets can cause serious injuries, disability, and even death. In Florida, slip and fall accidents are the number one reason that residents go to the emergency room or are admitted to the hospital—and the second leading injury cause of death. Because the resulting injuries can be so extensive, Walmart slip and fall settlement payout amounts are often higher than for other types of personal injury cases. For example: According to the Walmart slip and fall settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Florida Walmart lawsuit settlement payout is anywhere from $970,000 to $7,500,000. Settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case.   Although these awards might not be typical or representative of your Walmart slip and fall case, you deserve compensation for your injuries and other damages. However, because Walmart slip and fall settlement amounts can vary so greatly, it is important to seek help from a Florida slip and fall accident lawyer for assistance. Return to top ↑ What Are Some Examples of Walmart Settlements That Abrahamson & Uiterwyk Has Achieved? Here at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we understand the complex nature of slip and fall claims, and we put our in-depth knowledge to work for you. $689,000.00 / Premises Liability / Walmart / Back Injury / Pinellas County, Florida We recently obtained a $689,000 premises liability settlement for a client in Pinellas County. This client sustained a back injury when he slipped and fell at Walmart. Although we cannot legally disclose the details of most premises liability settlements, you can review some of our other recent slip and fall case injury settlements or back injury payouts on our website. The experienced personal injury lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk have assisted more than 20,000 injury victims over the past 30 years. To date, we have recovered more than $800 million for our clients. We aggressively pursue a fair settlement, and we aren’t afraid to fight your case in court, if necessary. We handle every aspect of your case, so you can focus on healing and recovery. If you recently lost a loved one due to a Walmart slip and fall injury accident, we can also assist you with a Walmart wrongful death claim. Time is of the essence due to Florida’s two-year statute of limitations. Contact us today to preserve your legal rights. Slip and Fall / Walmart / Neck Injuries / Hillsborough County, Florida Our client was shopping at Walmart in Tampa when she slipped and fell on a clear liquid substance that Walmart had allowed to accumulate on the floor of their store.  She suffered injuries and began to incur medical expenses, so she hired our firm to help her with her case against Walmart. Our investigation revealed that due to the fact that the flooring was extremely smooth and did not apparently possess any non-slip characteristics, the presence of the liquid created a significant and latent slipping hazard for customers.  As a result of the fall, our client sustained disc herniations in her neck and her back. She sought treatment with a chiropractor and an orthopedic surgeon.  She underwent injections and a procedure known as radiofrequency ablation, which involves heating the nerves in the neck in order to deaden the pain. We eventually presented a detailed demand package summarizing the case to Walmart which set forth their negligence and our client’s injuries, medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. Not surprisingly, Walmart disagreed with our settlement suggestion.  Instead, Walmart consistently argued that the accident was not their fault since they claimed to have no notice of the condition before our client fell. Even though Walmart consistently took the position that they were not responsible for our client’s injuries, we persisted with our efforts.  We continued to press the case forward. Because of our efforts, ultimately, we were able to prevail upon Walmart to recognize that they had liability for the accident, and the case was settled for an amount that paid all of our client’s medical bills and netted her a significant recovery. Return to top ↑ What Should You Do If You’re Injured at a Walmart? If you sustain slip and fall injuries at Walmart or any other retail location, your next steps could affect your ability to recover damages. Personal injury lawyers recommend the following steps: If you require emergency treatment and cannot document the scene of your accident, you won’t be able to take photos or talk to witnesses. Ask someone who was with you or who witnessed the accident to assist you and contact an attorney immediately for legal advice. Return to top ↑ How Will the Value of My Walmart Slip and Fall Claim Be Determined? Just like any type of personal injury claim, Walmart slip and fall settlements amounts depend on the nature and extent of your injuries. You might have the right to start a...

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What Is The Average Florida Auto Accident Settlement? Recent 2023 Car Accident Settlement Amount Examples

Oct 6, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Overview of Florida Auto Accident Settlements Car accident in Florida? This article will help you understand the factors that most impact the potential auto accident settlement amount for your injuries and damages. If you were injured in a car accident in Florida, you are probably wondering how much money you can recover from a car accident settlement. You’re in the right place, not only can we help with your claim, we can give you some Florida car accident settlement examples and multiple injury settlement examples, from our own case files – read on for more information. What is the Average Auto Accident Settlement Payout in Florida? According to the car accident settlement examples listed on this page, the average Florida car accident settlement is anywhere from $300,000 to $6,100,000. Settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case which is why there is no accurate average settlement amount for car accidents in Florida. Many factors affect your car accident settlement payout amount. Every case is different, so your settlement entirely depends on the specifics of your accident, injuries, and damages. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk our Florida car accident lawyers research the specifics of your case extensively and represent you during negotiations. Along with the factors that we will explain below, legal representation significantly affects your settlement amount. Due to our experience and expertise, our attorneys help clients achieve a higher average car accident settlement amount. The car accident attorneys of Abrahamson & Uiterwyk are ready to discuss your accident and possible settlement payout amount during a free case evaluation. If you’ve been injured in a Florida car accident we invite you to contact us by phone at 800-538-4878 or online anytime to get answers from our qualified legal professionals. Several factors affect your car accident lawsuit settlement, including: Since settlement amounts are highly contextual, it’s best to discuss the specifics of your case with one of our personal injury attorneys. Return to top ↑ FLORIDA CAR ACCIDENT SETTLEMENT EXAMPLES 2022-2021 Car Accident Settlement Examples from Abrahamson & Uiterwyk If you are wondering what is the average settlement for a car accident in Florida, take a look at some of our 2022-2021 car accident settlement examples as well as some from previous years. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in compensation for our clients involved in auto accident lawsuits. Here are several recent auto accident settlement payouts we have achieved for our Florida clients. $940,000 Rear End 2022 Car Accident Settlement Amount – Back and Neck Injury in Florida Our client was traveling eastbound and came to a stop for traffic stopped ahead. The defendant failed to stop, and the front of the defendant’s truck slammed into the rear of the van our client was driving. The defendant driver alleged that our client made a quick and sudden lane change and a quick and sudden unexpected stop causing the collision. The defendant driver did not receive a citation for causing the accident. Our client was transported by ambulance and treated at an emergency room for neck pain, back pain and hip pain. Our client was involved in a prior motor vehicle accident where he suffered lower back pain a few months before the most recent accident. He had recovered well but still had some intermittent neck and lower back pain. After the most recent accident, his doctors opined he suffered an aggravation of previous lower back pain. An MRI of the lower back was compared to the MRI of the lower back taken in the previous accident revealing our client suffered from an aggravation of prior lower back injuries. The surgeon opined the client needed a lower back surgery to alleviate the pain after all conservative treatment failed. Our client had lower back surgery. Unfortunately, one of the screws placed in the lower spine moved post-surgery and required yet another surgery to revise/correct the instrumentation & screw that moved post-surgery. Thereafter, our client required two other surgeries to both of his hips to alleviate his hip pain. A demand was presented to the defendant’s driver’s insurance company. The defendant driver was insured with a 1 million dollar combined single limit policy. $16,922.95 was paid for property damage to repair our client’s work van. Only 983,077.05 of the combined single limit policy remained. A demand was made for the remaining limits. The defendant’s insurance company merely offered 80,000 to settle the claim. That offer was rejected. The defendant’s insurance company claimed that our client was at fault for making a quick sudden lane change and also that all our client’s lower back problems were caused by his previous accident. A civil suit was filed. A very lengthy deposition of the driver was taken promptly thereafter, which revealed the defendant driver was totally at fault for causing the accident. The defendant’s insurance company offered 350,000 to settle the case at a mediation conference. That offer was rejected. Several weeks after the mediation conference the defendant’s insurance offered 550,000 to settle the claim. That offer was rejected. A remaining policy limits demand was made yet again. After the case progressed through the litigation process further, the bodily injury case settled several months after mediation for 983,077.05. $400,000 Rear End Auto Accident Lawsuit – 2021 Car Accident Settlement Amount Our client was stopped. The defendant’s vehicle failed to stop causing the front of the defendant’s vehicle to ram into the rear of our client’s vehicle. Our client visited with numerous physicians due to neck pain radiating into the arms. The physicians ordered an MRI of the neck. The neck MRI revealed a large, herniated disc. The client submitted to numerous injections in hopes of alleviating the neck pain and radiating symptoms. Unfortunately, all conservative treatment failed. Her surgeon recommended neck surgery. Our client was in so much pain she agreed to have neck surgery. We presented a demand to the defendant’s insurance company. The defendant’s insurance company merely offered 150,000 to settle the claim. The defendant’s insurance company claimed...

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Average Settlement for a Fractured Sternum After a Car Accident

Sep 22, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

The sternum is an incredibly important part of the human body. Also known as the breastbone, it sits at the front of the ribcage and helps protect the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels from injury. If you suffer damage to your sternum, it can cause great pain. Sternum fractures might make you unable to work for months and leave you and your family with significant medical costs. So, if you file a claim for an injury like this, what can you expect to recover? What is the average settlement for a fractured sternum?  According to the broken sternum car accident settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Florida average payout for a broken sternum is anywhere from $85,000 to $1,269,936. Settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case, so the average payout for a broken sternum in Florida varies greatly. These claims can be very complex to pursue, which is why you should speak with an experienced Florida car accident attorney as soon as possible. Here’s how you can best determine an idea of the settlement you could receive, speak with an experienced attorney from Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we will go over all the specifics of your case. We can tell you the potential strengths and weaknesses of your broken sternum claim and let you know what you might receive through settlement negotiations or in a jury trial. If you attempt to handle your claim independently, you will likely receive a much lower settlement or even find your claim denied. Causes of Fractured Sternums and Secondary Injuries Most fractured sternums are the result of impact trauma. This can happen in a slip and fall accident or other negligence situation, but it is most likely to occur during an auto accident. The person’s chest may hit the steering wheel, glove compartment, or dashboard. In addition, a taut seatbelt or fully inflated airbag can cause the sternum to fracture. These safety measures can keep a passenger from being thrown from the vehicle during an accident, but the violent nature of a crash can still cause injury.  Unfortunately, sternum injuries can sometimes result in very serious secondary injuries. This includes injuries to the heart, lungs, and all the vessels that provide blood to the chest and its organs. In addition, the impact may cause damage to the abdominal area and its organs like the spleen and stomach. Other bones and major nerves may experience injury as well. This may mean a person cracks a rib or damages the spinal cord. One of the scariest possible car accident injuries, a traumatic brain injury, can also be tied to sternum fractures.  What Compensation Can I Collect? Florida personal injury damages consist of three general categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages. Economic Damages Economic damages cover the concrete losses a victim suffers due to an accident. This is usually the easiest category to prove. This includes: As long as you provide the right documentation to prove the costs, there is no limit to this category in Florida. Non-Economic Damages This category compensates for injuries that are a little harder to put a number to but are still significant losses. This includes: Physical Pain and Suffering Damages for physical pain and suffering. Pain and suffering includes any physical, emotional, or mental distress that you’ve experienced as the result of an accident. Broken sternum injuries can have a lot of pain and suffering due to often causing ongoing pain with an average recovery time of 10 weeks. This may leave you unable to work for months and leave you and your family with significant medical costs. Emotional and psychological trauma Loss of quality of life Indefinite other losses As with economic damages, there is no limit (cap) to this category in Florida. However, it is important to consult with an attorney before accepting a fractured sternum injury settlement to make sure you are being properly compensated. Punitive Damages The first two types of damages are compensatory damages, intended to compensate you for your losses. On the other hand, punitive damages, as the name suggests, punish a defendant and send a message. Courts typically award these damages only in the most serious personal injury cases when the at-fault party commits extreme and reckless conduct that results in injury. They are generally capped at three times the amount the plaintiff receives in compensatory damages. What is a Fractured Sternum Worth in Florida? A fractured sternum is worth anywhere from $85,000 to $1,269,936 based on the examples that are listed on this page. Various factors impact settlement value, including the total amount of your damages and liability. Every single personal injury case is different, and this is true even for each fractured sternum claim. In this case a male motorist received $85,000 after a car accident that caused serious physical pain and suffering from a broken sternum. The incident caused the client to seek additional medical treatments through a chiropractor impacting the client’s daily life and leisurely activities. The fractured sternum car accident compensation achieved by Abrahamson and Uterwyk allowed our client to receive the maximum insurance proceeds for his injuries. Insurance companies often try to get victims to accept lowball offers that don’t cover all the losses they suffered or will suffer as a result of the accident. This is why it is important to seek the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney through a free consultation. They can help you calculate a fair amount to seek in a broken sternum car accident settlement but will also prepare to take your case to trial if necessary.  Examples of Fractured Sternum Car Accident Compensation in Florida $85,000/2021 Auto Accident/Abrasions/Fractured Sternum/Left Shoulder Tears of Labram and Supraspinatus $1,269,936 / (Jury Verdict) Motorcycle Accident / Fractures / Citrus County, FL Fractured Sternum in Florida? Call Abrahamson & Uiterwyk for a Free Consultation Today! If you suffered a broken sternum or any related secondary injury due to someone else’s negligence, we know that you might be struggling....

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What Is the Average Labral Tear Shoulder Settlement in Florida?

Sep 11, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

This article attempts to explain the factors that influence the amount that labral tear shoulder victims can get in Florida settlement. Many Florida accident victims want to know what their labrum tear car accident settlement is worth right away. But it takes time and research to figure that out. Various factors impact settlement value, including the total amount of your damages and liability. Labral Tear Shoulder Settlement Expectations According to the settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Florida labral tear shoulder settlement is anywhere from $525,000 to $1,008,258 with an average of $189,147. Specifically, the typical SLAP (Superior labrum, anterior to posterior) injury settlement according to examples on this page ranges from $60,000 to $1,000,000 with an average settlement of $448,750. Settlements will depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case, so the amount for labral tear shoulder settlement in Florida varies greatly. These claims can be very complex to pursue, which is why you should speak with an experienced Florida car accident attorney as soon as possible. Every injury claim is different, and a fair value depends on a victim’s medical bills, pain and suffering, future expenses, and more. Here’s how to calculate the value of your claim as accurately as possible, work with a nearby Florida personal injury attorney at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk. We have years of experience pursuing compensation for our clients.  Contact us online or call 866-985-0967 to schedule a free consultation. What Is a Shoulder Labrum Tear? The labrum is a piece of cartilage attached to the shoulder socket that helps keep the ball joint in place. The cartilage surrounds the glenoid, the cavity in the shoulder blade, to offer protection and stability. You can tear this cartilage, injuring your shoulder. Common causes of labral tears in the shoulder are traumatic events, like car crashes, falls, sports, repetitive motion, shoulder dislocation, and aging. What Are the Types of Shoulder Labrum Tears? Not all shoulder labral tears are the same—they vary by location and severity. What Are the Symptoms of Shoulder Labral Tears? If you tear the labrum in your shoulder, you may experience: Everyone’s symptoms and pain levels are unique. They’ll also vary if you experienced other shoulder injuries at the same time. It’s essential that you see a doctor after an accident and describe all of your symptoms. If the pain or other symptoms in your shoulder get worse, return to your doctor. How Do Doctors Diagnose & Treat Shoulder Labral Tears? Your doctor will assess your pain level and your shoulder’s range of motion and stability. They may order an X-ray, CT Scan, and/or MRI. In some cases, a doctor will perform an arthroscopy, where a small camera is inserted into your shoulder. This method is the most reliable way to diagnose a shoulder labral tear. Keep in mind, even with a negative x-ray, some injuries may not show. Some labrum tears require rest and pain management. However, complete tears require surgery to reattach the labrum to the shoulder socket and physical rehabilitation. Can I Receive a Settlement for a Labral Tear in the Shoulder? You may be interested in obtaining a settlement after suffering a torn labrum in an accident. If you can prove someone else was at fault, then you may receive compensation. That may sound simple, but the insurance and legal processes can be challenging. With the help of an experienced lawyer near you, your financial recovery should cover the value of your physical, emotional, and financial damages.  How Much Is My Labrum Tear Injury Worth? Several factors impact the potential value of your settlement, including: SLAP/Labrum Tear Settlement Examples Our personal injury lawyers carefully document your injuries and calculate the maximum possible value for your claim.  Examples of Settlements of Shoulder Injuries Near You Here are recent examples of shoulder injury settlements. Traumatic events, like car accidents and falls can be a common cause of a labral tear. These claims can be very complex, which is why you should contact an experienced SLAP tear car accident settlement lawyer. $525,000 / Motor Vehicle Accident / Pinellas Co. 62-year-old male was rear-ended by Defendant and underwent shoulder surgery and surgical procedures to repair the client’s cervical spine. $736,512 (Jury Verdict) / Premises Liability / Pasco Co. 62-year old female tripped and fell in a parking lot due to an unmarked concrete bumper resulting in shoulder and rotator cuff tears as well as disc herniations. $1,008,258 / Motor Vehicle Accident / Manatee County, FL Our clients, husband and wife, were involved in a serious accident where the defendant ran a red light. He suffered back and shoulder injuries, and she had an injury to her neck. This settlement represented the maximum amount of insurance coverage available. We Want to Help You Recover Compensation Talk with us about pursuing a labral tear shoulder settlement if someone else’s negligence caused you harm. By working with a personal injury lawyer from Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, you have someone fighting for you every step of the way. Contact us online or call 866-985-0967 to schedule a free consultation. We have offices near you in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, New Port Richey, Spring Hill, and Lakeland. What Our Clients Are Saying About Us “The team was extremely helpful and made the whole process smooth from beginning to end. Justin is a great attorney and I really appreciate all their help with my case can’t recommend them enough!” Kevin W.Rating 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Read more of our 320 reviews on Google

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How Much Is A Herniated Disc Worth In A Car Accident In Florida?

Sep 8, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Average Herniated Disc Settlement Value in Florida Wondering how much a case for a herniated disc injury from a car accident is worth in Florida? According to the herniated disc car accident settlement Florida examples listed on this page, the typical herniated disc settlement values in Florida vary greatly from $300,000 to $1,575,000. Settlements depend on the unique circumstances of each case, so the herniated disc worth in a car accident in Florida varies greatly. These claims can be very complex to pursue, which is why you should speak with an experienced Florida car accident attorney as soon as possible. If you’ve suffered a serious herniated disc injury from a car accident in Florida, near Tampa, or some other area of Florida, it’s your right to pursue the largest monetary settlement possible. At-fault parties must be held accountable for their actions. No two accidents or victims are alike. For many victims who experienced a herniated disc from a car accident, settlement values can be substantial. Severe spine injuries typically require extensive treatment and rehabilitation, potentially affecting every aspect of the victim’s life. Recovering fair financial compensation for your damages will help ensure you get the treatment you need and provide peace of mind for the future.  When choosing a nearby car accident lawyer to represent you, ask potential attorneys about their experience with herniated disc injury settlements. Herniated Disc Injury Settlements With Steroid Injections Florida When initial conservative treatment such as physical therapy and chiropractic care is unsuccessful, steroid injections or nerve root blocks could be the next option. Herniated disc injury settlements with steroid injections in Florida are not uncommon. Interlaminar injections are the most common procedure for this type of treatment. This procedure involves epidural steroids that are injected into the spine to reduce swelling and pressure on nerves. In more severe cases, nerve blocks or caudal injections may be required. All of these options are expensive and should be calculated into the vault of your herniated disc settlement.  If you require steroid injections as a part of your treatment, you may be able to recover more compensation for your injury. Having injections directly into the spine can be painful and traumatic for the injury victim. Your attorney may advise you to have someone film the injections to demonstrate the stress and discomfort you experience during your treatment. Here’s how to explore your options for filing an insurance claim or lawsuit, talk to a Florida car accident attorney.     Understanding Herniated Disc Injuries Resulting from Florida Car Accidents Near Tampa Spinal disc herniation refers to a condition that affects the rubbery cushions that separate the vertebrae. Discs (or disks) have a jelly-like center called the nucleus. When the rubbery covering (called the annulus) of the disc ruptures, some of the nucleus can ooze out, creating a herniation. In some cases, herniation causes no harm or notable symptoms. More often, however, the herniation pushes on one of the delicate and highly sensitive nerves of the spinal cord. The results can range from mild pain to lifelong debilitating symptoms. Car accidents are one of the most common causes of disc herniation and other spinal injuries. The force of a car crash—even a seemingly minor collision—exerts excessive and unusual force on the spine. In addition to car accidents, some of the most common incidents leading to disc herniation injuries include motorcycle crashes, truck accidents, and incidents involving specialty vehicles such as tractor-trailers, busses, commercial trucks, and construction vehicles. If you or a loved one sustained this type of injury in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you may have the right to pursue legal action.     Common Symptoms of Herniated Discs The symptoms of a serious disc herniation can be overwhelming. The type of symptoms you experience can vary depending on which part and how much of the spine was affected. Common symptoms include: The extent of disc-related injuries can be significant. Many spinal injury victims suffer significant neurological damage as a result of their accident, ranging from partial paraplegia to full paralysis, or tetraplegia. Many of these victims never recover fully, requiring a lifetime of pain management, treatment, and personal care. Spine injuries can also lead to complications that further degrade your health and quality of life. If a herniated disc compresses the nerve bundle at the base of the spine, you could experience truly debilitating pain, numbness or weakness. Other potential complications include: Saddle anesthesia is the loss of sensation on the backs of the legs, the inner thighs, lower buttocks, genital and rectal areas—all the parts of the body that would come into contact with a saddle if you sat on one. Patients who experience these complications may require emergency surgery to avoid permanent damage.     How Are Spinal Disc Herniation Injuries Treated? Spinal injuries require advanced treatment from qualified medical practitioners and specialists. To determine the appropriate treatment regimen, your doctor will perform a comprehensive exam to diagnose the nature and extent of your injury. This might require medical testing such as: Based on the outcome of your testing, the doctor will recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Pain management is typically necessary to help victims cope with their symptoms. This could include prescription pain medication (opioids), muscle relaxers, and steroid injections administered directly into the spine. Unfortunately, pain management does nothing to improve the disc herniation itself. Even physical therapy cannot reverse the damage to the spine in most cases. For many back-injury victims, the only way to repair a damaged disc is through surgery. Herniated disc surgery takes many forms. The surgeon may remove some or all of the damaged disc. If the disc requires full removal, the surgeon may fuse the vertebrae together using metal rods for stability and bone grafting.         Contact Us Can a Herniated Disc Settlement Calculator Estimate Your Settlement Value? Do not trust these calculators. Without considering all the details of your case, no individual or automated injury settlement calculator can accurately estimate what your...

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Average Settlement for Car Accident Back and Neck Injury in Florida

Aug 30, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

This article attempts to explain the factors that influence the amount that cervical spine injury victims can get in Florida settlement. According to the cervical spine neck and back injury settlement examples listed on this page, the average settlement for car accident back and neck injury in Florida can range from $300,000 to $650,000. Settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case which is why there is no accurate average settlement amount for cervical spine injuries in Florida. In a car accident, a neck injury can often result in some level of temporary or permanent incapacitation. In Florida, there are many car accidents each year, according to a traffic report published by the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, 401,076 car crashes occurred within the state in 2021, nearly 15% of those crashes, a total of 59,402 of those crashes occurred in Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Pasco counties alone. The report defines incapacitating injuries as disabling injuries like broken bones, severed limbs, etc., that usually require hospitalization and transport to a medical facility.   Our experienced personal injury attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk will research your claim and negotiate a cervical sprain settlement offer on your behalf. Contact us today so we can help maximize your compensation. What is a Cervical Spine Injury – Does it Impact the Neck or Back? Injuries such as penetrating or blunt trauma during a car accident can result in spinal cord injuries in the cervical spine – The cervical spine consists of the 7 vertebrae at the top of the spinal column – C1-C7. If the C5 vertebrae or higher are injured, the central nervous system may be unable to control ventilation. Many complications can occur within the first 24-72 hours after sustaining a spinal cord injury. The accident victim’s survival depends on immediate recognition and treatment. There are 4 general clinical indicators that may prompt a more aggressive medical intervention after a cervical spine or back injury. With any of these symptoms, fast and competent medical care is an immediate need. Long-term care and rehabilitation are most likely warranted. Hiring an attorney well versed in a car accident back and neck injury cases, negotiations, and settlements in Florida can have a huge impact on the rest of your life. Don’t delay – call us today. Our Recent Cervical Spine Injury Cases At Abrahamson & Uiterwyck, we are fully committed to getting you the most money possible for your spine injury case. We have handled cases like yours for many Florida residents, and we take pride in providing compassionate yet bold representation to ensure just compensation for our clients. Our lawyers know how your accident has upended your life. We understand your pain, and we make it our mission to keep fighting for you until we ensure a payout worthy of the pain and uncertainty your car accident may have caused. And when the going gets tough, we do not quit. Insurance companies almost always make lowball, mediocre offers to injured victims and hope that these victims will take the bait and make a deal on an agreement without representation – this may ensure a fast payout, but it does not secure a fair resolution for the client in nearly every case. When they do that, they are attempting to save themselves tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars by denying you the compensation that your case deserves. Do not let them get away with it. Hire us today so we can help you achieve great results. Here is one recent example of a client that we fought for until the insurance company paid up. Genevieve Beck Case Example – $300,000 Recovered Anyone with a driver’s license has heard of the dangers of hydroplaning. Hydroplaning happens when hot and oily roadways combine with the torrential downpours that our state is so famous for. When the rain falls and lands on roads they become slick. High water volumes, high speeds, and low tire treads all exacerbate the slickness of the road. When tires move too quickly over rain there is not enough time for the treads to grab the asphalt. Your car is literally lifted a bit off the ground and you start to slide on the water as your tires lose their grip on the road.  So when you travel too fast on a wet road, you can lose contact with the road in a split second. When you lose contact with the road, you lose control of your car and horrible accidents can happen. That is why it is so critical for drivers to slow down on wet Florida roadways when it rains. However, not everyone behaves as they should protect others and themselves.  This combination of factors led to painful injuries for one of our recent clients, Genevieve Beck. Genevieve was sitting at a left turning lane facing west as the defendant approached her. The defendant was traveling on highway 301 heading north. The rain had made the road wet. As he approached an intersection he began to hydroplane and lost control of his vehicle. The defendant’s car then began to skid in a northeastern direction. It continued to skid, crossing two lanes of an intersecting roadway, jumping a raised median, and broadsiding our client who was sitting in her car waiting to make a left turn. At the scene, police gave the defendant a traffic citation for failing to use due care. The doctors at the emergency room provided Genevieve with her initial treatment immediately following the crash. However, after doctors discharged her from the hospital, Genevieve continued to experience pain in her neck and jaw, as well as her lower back. She followed up her emergency room treatment with visits to her primary care physician who ordered an MRI scan to get a better look at her injuries. The scan revealed a herniated disc at C4-5.  Because this is a very serious cervical spine injury, Genevieve’s doctor referred her to an orthopedic surgeon. This specialist advised...

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How Much Can I Get in a Florida Rear-End Collision Settlement?

Aug 28, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Rear-ended in Florida? Here’s how this article will help you understand the factors that most impact the potential settlement amount for your injuries and damages. Average Florida Rear-End Accident Settlement Amount It’s important to understand that if you’re presenting a claim after being rear-ended, the settlement amount will vary in each case. Every case is different so an average settlement amount is difficult to determine for a Florida rear-end car accident or any other type of personal injury claim. Accident circumstances aren’t always the same and settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case. According to the rear-end car accident settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Florida rear-end collision accident settlement is anywhere from $500,000 to $875,00. Florida rear-end collisions can leave unsuspecting victims with multiple injuries. Some of the most common injuries in these accidents can occur to the neck, back, head, and rotator cuff. Most people think about head and neck injuries in a rear-end accident. However, they may not realize their shoulder pain may also be related. If you injured your rotator cuff in a car accident, you might be entitled to reimbursement for your damages as well as your pain and suffering.  When you retain a professional Florida car accident attorney, we will help you fight for compensation for all of your injuries, time off work, pain and suffering, and more. Photos of Rear-End Collisions Involving Our Injury Clients What Types of Injuries are Most Common in Florida Rear-End Collision Accidents? Depending on the severity of the collision, the types of injuries will differ. Some of the most common ones include head, neck, back, and shoulder injuries. Concussions can happen regularly in rear-end collisions as your head may strike something in the vehicle. Head injuries are not always immediately apparent either. Sometimes it can take 24 hours for someone to realize they have a concussion. In more severe collisions, you may suffer a traumatic brain injury. Symptoms like headaches, blurry vision, sensitivity to light, or an inability to concentrate can be telltale signs of a head injury. Many plaintiffs overlook their shoulder pain and mistakenly assume it’s just sore. Torn rotator cuffs are painful and more common than people realize in rear-end accidents. Symptoms of a rotator cuff tear include: Your back and neck pain may only be soft tissue damage, or there could be something more serious going on. Having x-rays and even MRIs may be necessary to determine the extent of your injuries. Spinal injuries may be severe and cause pinched nerves, leaving you in excruciating pain and unable to walk. If conservative treatment options fail, you may need steroid injections or even surgery.   How Does the Type of Injury Sustained Impact the Amount of my Florida Rear-End Accident Settlement? The type of injury you sustained will impact the overall rear-end accident settlement value in multiple ways. Your amount of medical bills is a primary example. Consider someone who has $200,000 in medical bills compared with someone who has $2,000 in bills. The plaintiff with several hundred thousand in bills will be asking for far more than the other person. Some injuries are more serious and therefore may be entitled to a higher dollar amount for pain and suffering. Someone who suffered only a mild case of whiplash will not receive the same settlement as someone who had to undergo multiple neck and back surgeries. Case values are based on a combination of other factors as well, such as loss of earnings, future treatment, disability, and physical vehicle damages. This is why no two rear-end collision settlements are the same.  Is the Driver Who Rear-Ends the Other Vehicle Always at Fault? No, the driver who rear-ends someone isn’t necessarily at fault. One common example of this is with a multi-car rear-end collision. The car that rear-ended you may have been pushed into you by the vehicle behind them. There are several other situations where the driver who rear-ends the vehicle in front is not entirely at fault. Perhaps the front vehicle suddenly reverses, or it has no working brake lights and stops suddenly. Or perhaps the front vehicle broke down and the driver didn’t put their emergency flashers on or try to pull the vehicle off the road. In situations like this, the driver in front may be at least partially at fault for the accident.  What Evidence Is Most Critical in Determining Fault in a Rear-End Collision? Determining fault in a rear-end collision is not always straightforward. While skid marks, witness statements, and scene photos are important pieces of evidence, they don’t always tell the whole story. Sometimes you need an expert to review the physical vehicle damages and witness statements. This can be accomplished by retaining an accident reconstructionist. These experts conduct a thorough review of the accident and provide a scientific answer as to how the collision occurred. They may also go as far as recreating the accident to duplicate the crash conditions in a controlled environment. The use of experts is typically reserved for cases with severe injuries and/or disputed liability. What Are Some Examples of Florida Rear-End Accident Settlements That Abrahamson & Uiterwyk Has Handled? Our highly-experienced Florida car accident lawyers have handled numerous rear-end collision cases in our over 30 years of experience. Many of these cases were resolved with six-figure settlements for our clients. Several rear-end collision settlement examples are: This list is a small representation of the rear-end accident settlements we’ve handled over the last three decades. When you retain Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we will complete a case evaluation right away. What Factors Does a Lawyer Consider When Deciding Whether to Take a Rear-End Accident Case? Numerous factors play into the decision on whether we take a case. One of the most important factors is when the accident occurred. If the accident was recent, you will be well within the statute of limitations. But what about a case that has been in negotiations for over three years already? There is a chance...

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What Is the Average Florida Slip and Fall Settlement?

Aug 28, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Average Slip and Fall Settlement in Florida According to the slip and fall settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Florida slip and fall settlement is anywhere from $45,000 to $850,000. An experienced personal injury attorney will have the knowledge and legal background necessary to give you an accurate picture of the compensation you may be able to recover. If you are ready to fight for the recovery you deserve in the aftermath of your Florida slip and fall accident, contact an experienced slip and fall attorney today. If you or a loved one has sustained injuries in a Florida slip and fall accident, you may have a legal claim for compensation. But when it comes to Florida slip and fall settlements, exactly how much might you be entitled to recover?  Many people wonder whether there are any average slip and fall settlement amounts in Florida. In fact, the amount of your potential recovery may vary significantly from that of another slip and fall victim.  Determining the appropriate amount for slip and fall injuries settlements can be complicated. Thus, it is imperative that you work with an experienced personal injury law firm that can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.  The personal injury attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk know what it takes to navigate a typical slip and fall settlement. Our team of legal professionals can help you determine the value of your potential recovery based on the facts and circumstances surrounding your case.   Overview of Florida Slip and Fall Settlements Every case is different so an average settlement amount is difficult to determine for a slip and fall or any other type of personal injury claim. Florida slip/trip and fall settlements depend on the circumstances unique to each case. Several factors that might affect a Florida slip/trip and fall settlement include: Because Florida slip/trip and fall settlements depend on the specific facts of each case, it’s best to discuss the details of your situation with our slip and fall injury attorneys. Examples of Recent Abrahamson & Uiterwyk Slip/Trip and Fall Settlements Abrahamson & Uiterwyk has represented over 20,000 injury victims, recovering hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients. Below are some examples of recent trip and fall accident settlements we recovered for our clients. Of course, we can never guarantee the same or similar results. However, we hope that these case examples provide you with an idea of the types of compensation our attorneys can help you pursue.   $650,000/FLORIDA PREMISES LIABILITY/Neck, Shoulder, Low Back, Herniations, Neck Surgery, Radiating pain into shoulder, Rotator Cuff Tear, Shoulder Surgery/ 2021 The client was walking through a commercial establishment when the client slipped on a foreign substance.  Our client was transported to the emergency room where she complained of neck, shoulder and lower back injuries.  The client began to treat with medical doctors who prescribed MRIs of the neck and lower back which revealed numerous herniated discs.   All conservative treatment failed which resulted in a neck surgery to alleviate the neck symptoms which included radiating pain into the shoulder and arms.  The shoulder pain continued after the surgery.  An orthopedic surgeon that specialized in shoulder surgery ordered an MRI of the shoulder which revealed a rotator cuff tear.   The client underwent a shoulder arthroscopic surgery to repair the rotator cuff injury.  The store alleged the employees were not aware of the foreign substance and were not at fault.  The most the store would offer to settle the case before suit was filed was 65,000. A video of the incident which included several hours before the fall revealed that other patrons had slipped in the foreign substance.   The video revealed the foreign substance was on the floor for a lengthy period before our client’s fall and none of the store employees that walked by the spill paid attention as per the store’s policies and procedures.   Suit was filed and depositions of multiple store employees were taken which revealed they did not follow store policies and procedures. $300,000.00/ Florida Trip and Fall Accident / Shoulder and Wrist Injuries / Lee County, FL In late 2018, our client was walking into the clubhouse at her condominium complex. Our client tripped over a rug that had been rolled up and placed in the doorway. The rug had been placed there by an employee of the complex. As a result of her trip, the client fell onto her left side and badly fractured her left shoulder and wrist. The shoulder and wrist each required surgery and inpatient rehabilitation. After the client was released from the rehabilitation facility, the complex’s insurance company reached out to the client and assured her that they would “take care of everything.” When communication with the insurance company broke down, the client called Abrahamson & Uiterwyk. It was only after Abrahamson & Uiterwyk sent the insurance company a formal demand for payment that the insurance company became open to negotiation. As a result of several subsequent telephone conferences with the insurance company, Abrahamson and Uiterwyk settled the claim for $300,000.00. $850,000 Premises Liability Settlement  Our 49-year-old client was injured when she sat on a fitting room bench at a department store. The bench collapsed, and Plaintiff fell to the ground. As a result of this incident, Plaintiff suffered multiple injuries to her hip and back. We settled her premise liability case for $850,000. $689,000 Florida Slip and Fall Premises Liability Settlement Our client sustained a back injury when he slipped and fell at a Wal-Mart. We settled this case for $689,000. $650,000 Trip and Fall Premises Liability Settlement We obtained a $650,000 settlement for our client who tripped over cables and fell headfirst into a concrete barrier. Recent Example of Slip and Fall Settlement Without Surgery This next example is a recent slip and fall settlement without surgery we recovered for one of our clients. Each case is unique and determining the appropriate amount for slip and fall injury settlements without surgery can be...

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What Is the Average Settlement for a Rotator Cuff Car Accident Injury in Florida?

Aug 28, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Average Rotator Cuff Tear Car Accident Settlement in Florida How much should a settlement be for a rotator cuff surgery? Rotator cuff and other shoulder injuries can be complex to diagnose and treat. The prognosis for your recovery depends on the nature of your injury and how severe the tear is. These and other factors have a direct influence on the potential value of your claim. The unique nature of Florida injury accidents makes it difficult to estimate an average settlement for a rotator cuff injury. Likewise, an online car accident settlement value calculator won’t be able to consider the details of your case or grasp all the damages you suffered as a result of the at-fault party’s negligence. According to the rotator cuff settlement examples listed on this page, the typical Florida rotator cuff settlement is anywhere from $525,000 to $1,500,000. Rotator cuff accident circumstances aren’t always the same and settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case. Here’s how to determine the approximate value of your rotator cuff car accident claim, contact one of our Florida injury accident lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk today. Questions About a Rotator Cuff Car Accident Settlement? If you sustained a serious shoulder injury in a Florida car accident, you might be facing the prospect of rotator cuff surgery. A rotator cuff injury can cause extreme pain and require extensive rehab and recovery time. If the actions of another person caused your accident and injuries, you deserve compensation for your losses. Due to the nature of severe shoulder injuries, rotator cuff settlements can be substantial. Although it is difficult to estimate an average settlement for a shoulder injury, a car accident lawyer can help determine the value of your case. Contact one of the experienced Florida car accident lawyers of Abrahamson & Uiterwyk today to learn more.     ROTATOR CUFF TEAR CAR ACCIDENT SETTLEMENT FAQ What Is the Rotator Cuff? This term describes a collection of tendons, cartilage, and muscles that surround the shoulder. These tissues support and stabilize the shoulder and keep the head of the humerus (the upper arm bone) correctly situated in its socket. More importantly, the rotator cuffs allow you to make overhead movements with your arms. Movements such as swimming, shooting a basketball, putting on a hat or reaching for an object on a high shelf wouldn’t be possible without the rotator cuff.     What Does It Mean to Tear the Rotator Cuff? This injury typically occurs when one or more of the shoulder tendons detaches from the head of the humerus. Rotator cuff injuries are classified as either partial or complete tears, depending on whether any part of the tendon remains attached to the bone. The tear that occurs is more like a hole in the tendon. The severity increases as more of the tendon becomes damaged. Tearing a rotator cuff results in extreme pain. In addition, this injury severely impedes your ability to use your arm for lifting, reaching, and other common movements. If you suffer this type of injury, you could lose your ability to perform even the simplest of everyday tasks. These injuries can occur over time due to overuse. Rotator cuff tears can also happen suddenly, due to trauma from improper or heavy lifting or falling on an outstretched arm. A sudden, traumatic injury is known as an acute tear. However, some of the most common and painful causes of acute rotator cuff tears are car accidents and other motor vehicle collisions.     ROTATOR CUFF SETTLEMENTS FAQ What Are the Most Common Causes of Car Accident-Related Rotator Cuff Tears in Florida? Shoulder injuries are a common result of motor vehicle collisions of all types. Whether you were struck by another passenger vehicle, a bus, commercial truck, or delivery van, you face the risk of injuries such as rotator cuff tears. Some of the most common causes of car accidents in Florida include: Drunk drivers, Tired drivers, Distracted drivers, Speeding, A failure to yield, Failure to stop, and Failure to obey traffic signals. Single-car accidents, including rollovers, can also lead to severe injuries. Single-vehicle accidents are often caused by: Obstructions in the roadway, Road construction, Roadway debris, Poor road maintenance, Obstructed views, and Faulty vehicle components. Whether you had an accident with another vehicle, or another factor that caused your car to crash, you have the right to pursue justice. If the actions of another person or party led to your accident, a personal injury attorney can help you recover the compensation you deserve for your damages.         AVERAGE SETTLEMENT FOR ROTATOR CUFF SURGERY REPAIR FAQ Will Requiring Rotator Cuff Surgery Affect the Value of My Florida Personal Injury Claim? Many serious shoulder injuries require surgical repair. Some more fortunate victims can have this repair performed arthroscopically. For this procedure, an orthopedic surgeon makes a minor incision. Through this incision, the surgeon inserts a small camera (scope) and surgical instruments to complete the repairs. Other accident victims cannot have their injuries repaired using this minimally invasive procedure. In that case, the surgeon must access the shoulder using a large, open incision. If your injury requires surgical repair, your medical treatment costs will be exponentially higher—and that increases the value of your claim. In addition, surgery often means a long, painful recovery involving physical therapy and rehabilitation. The pain and suffering involved in your recovery can potentially increase your claim’s value. Finally, if your injury left you with a diminished range of motion or other permanent damage, your lawyer can pursue compensation for your disability as a part of your rotator cuff surgery settlement.     ROTATOR CUFF TEAR CAR ACCIDENT SETTLEMENT FAQ Do I Need a Car Accident Lawyer to Get a Rotator Cuff Injury Settlement in Florida? In Florida, you are not required to have a lawyer to recover a settlement for your injuries. However, rotator cuff settlements pose several challenges. Unless you have a legal background or experience negotiating with insurance companies, you want...

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Average Lower Back Injury Settlement Amounts in Florida

Apr 12, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

This article attempts to explain the factors that influence the amount that lower back injury victims can get in Florida settlement. If you suffered a lower back injury in a car accident, you are entitled to compensation for the harm you suffered if the injury resulted from the negligence of another driver. Therefore, you could be wondering what the average settlement for a lower back injury sustained in a car accident looks like. According to the lower back injury settlement examples listed on this page, the typical personal injury back settlements vary greatly from $200,000 to $1,330,000. Lower back injury settlements can range from incredibly high amounts to relatively modest awards. It all depends on the circumstances giving rise to your individual injury. Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to maximize your lower back injury settlement. Recent Lower Back Pain & Injury Settlements in Florida (Updated in 2022) What Can Influence Lower Back Injury Settlements? If you experienced lower back pain after a car accident, you are not alone. Back injuries commonly occur in car crashes. The average settlement of a lower back injury depends on the circumstances of your individual case. Less severe back injuries often warrant lower settlement offers, while major back injuries can result in large settlements. Damages resulting from a back injury can also be highly speculative. Therefore, we cannot accurately predict the worth of your injury claim without an in-depth analysis of your individual circumstances. Contact us today so we can get started reviewing your claim. Severity of Your Injury The severity of your injury plays a critical role in your lower back pain injury settlement amount. Settlement offers aim to make the victim whole through compensation for damages suffered as a result of the car accident. If the victim suffered a significant injury to their back, such as a spinal cord injury, the damages accumulated from medical bills, missing work, and costs of rehabilitation pile up quickly. Thus, victims that suffer injuries requiring more treatment and healing time are entitled to higher settlements than victims suffering from minor back injuries.  In addition to economic losses, non-economic damages are considered in calculating the value of your claim. Common examples of non-economic damages include: As with economic damages, more severe injuries result in higher values for non-economic damages. Proof of Liability Substantial proof that the other driver caused the crash can increase your settlement offer. Many car accidents occur due to the at-fault party’s negligence. To prove a driver was negligent, you must prove that he or she failed to act responsibly which in turn caused a car accident that resulted in your injuries. Additionally, you need to establish that the injuries you suffered would not have occurred but for the at-fault driver’s negligence.  Comparative Negligence Florida is a modified comparative negligence state. This means that if you are found to be no more than 50% at fault for the accident, your recovery is reduced by the same proportion as your percentage of fault. As an example, if you are found to be 20% at fault in an accident, you may still recover 80% of your damages in a lawsuit. If, however, your percentage of fault is found to be more than 50%, you are barred from any recovery under the law. Back Pain After a Car Accident Even low-impact collisions can cause injuries such as whiplash, which can occur at speeds as slow as 2.5 miles per hour. Back injuries from car accidents can last a few days or can be debilitating for life. Some of the most common back injuries include: Some of these injuries may not present themselves immediately. Adrenaline can help mask pain immediately following a car accident. Some injuries may go undetected for days or weeks. It is important to be seen by a doctor as soon as possible after a car accident, even if you do not think that your injuries are significant. Not only is this ideal for your back injury settlement, but it is also best for your health.  Available Damages for your Back Injuries Settlement Depending on your injuries, there are multiple types of relief you may receive from your back injury settlement. Economic Damages for a Back Injury Settlement  Economic damages cover all expenses that you would not have incurred had it not been for the car accident. These are actual costs that are recorded and can be proven. Economic damages can include: These are all expenses associated with your back injury that you can assign a price to. It is important to keep a detailed record of all payments or invoices to accurately calculate your back injury settlement amount.  Non-economic Damages for Your Back Injury Settlement Non-economic damages consist of compensation for how your injury affects your life in non-monetary ways. These damages do not involve actual financial expenses. Non-economic damages are generally harder to define and prove but are an important part of your settlement. For your back injury settlement, these may include: These damages cover relief in ways that extend beyond finances. Just because you have been financially compensated for your back pain expenses does not mean that your quality of life has been restored back to order. There is a good chance that you will always harbor some sort of pain from the injury, and you should be compensated for that.  How to Get the Most Out of Your Car Accident Back Injury Settlement The amount you receive for your back injury settlement will depend largely on your injuries, but there are steps you can take to ensure you are in the best position to be awarded the compensation you deserve.  Receive Medical Attention Even if you believe that your injury was minor, you should still be seen by a physician. It can take days, weeks, or even months for your injury to surface. Do not procrastinate and hope it gets better.  In Florida, you must receive medical attention within 14 days of your accident to take advantage of your personal injury protection insurance....

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Average Head-on Collision Settlement in Florida

Mar 21, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Few moments are more frightening than watching another vehicle speed toward you at a head-on angle and knowing there is little you can do to avoid the impact. The aftermath of this scenario can be just as, if not more, frightening. In 2018, head-on collisions accounted for 29.5% of multiple-vehicle crash fatalities. For those who survive head-on collisions, severe injuries can alter their lives in unimaginable ways.  If you have suffered a head-on collision injury, addressing medical needs, wage loss, and property damage is likely daunting. You may be too overwhelmed to also think about suing the at-fault driver in court. The defendant will likely be eager to settle with you in lieu of trial, but do not settle without legal advice. The advice of an experienced car accident attorney can maximize your recovery in a head-on collision car accident settlement.  What to Expect from a Head-On Collision Settlement Do not base the value of your accident on the average settlement for a head-on collision. That average does not exist. Every accident is unique, and settlement values should be treated accordingly. However, there are many factors that can help you predict the settlement value of your particular accident. How your accident occurred, the nature of your injuries, the level of property damage, and the ways in which your life has changed dictate the kind of settlement you could obtain in a negotiation. Damages You Should Receive in a Settlement Your settlement should cover the amount of damages you could be awarded at trial. Like a trial award, your settlement should cover your present and future economic losses, your pain and suffering, and any punitive damages applicable against the at-fault driver.  In Florida, not all car accidents involving bodily injury are appropriate to a lawsuit against a third party. To file a claim against an at-fault driver for your pain and suffering damages in Florida, your accident must involve:  An experienced attorney can determine whether you meet this threshold for recovery against an at-fault driver. If you do not meet the threshold, an attorney can help you determine your best options for relief.   Economic damages The simplest portion of a settlement amount to calculate is your economic damages. An at-fault driver should compensate you for accident-related medical care (past, present, and future), your wage loss from missed work and diminished earning capacity, the cost of property repair or replacement, and any other financial expenses or losses you experience. Evidence for these damages is in your receipts, invoices, estimates, financial statements, and medical reports.  It is imperative that you seek medical attention immediately after a collision to establish your present and future medical needs. Common head-on collision injuries can be severe and can require long-term medical intervention. An experienced personal injury attorney has the knowledge and resources to forecast the cost of your lifetime medical needs before you enter settlement negotiations.  Non-economic damages There are no exact financial statements for your non-economic damages, but these damages are incredibly important in your recovery. Your post-accident stress, pain, and difficulties with routine activities and hobbies are worth something in a settlement. Although money does not fix everything, you should receive non-economic damages to compensate you for your pain and suffering. A personal injury attorney can undertake the complicated task of holding an at-fault driver accountable by converting your pain and suffering into a just dollar amount.  Punitive damages When an at-fault driver’s conduct exceeds ordinary negligence, they can be liable for punitive damages. To receive punitive damages under Florida law, you must prove by clear and convincing evidence that the at-fault driver’s actions were intentional or grossly negligent. Though there is no average settlement for a head-on collision, there are limits to the punitive damages you can collect. In most cases, your punitive damages cannot exceed the greater of: The standards to prove your entitlement to punitive damages are high, but an experienced attorney knows how to meet them.  Your Level of Fault Can Diminish Your Recovery Unless the at-fault driver is liable for an intentional tort, Florida law reduces your economic and non-economic damages by the percentage of fault you had in causing the accident. The other driver’s insurance company wants to reduce or eliminate a settlement offer by arguing the accident is your fault. A car crash lawyer near Tampa knows what facts and legal standards to highlight to diminish your fault and effectively pursue every penny your claim is worth.  Common Causes of Head-On Collisions What is especially tragic about head-on collisions is that they are usually preventable. Common causes of head-on collisions include: These collisions happen more often on two-lane roads that don’t have dividers. They are also common on roads undergoing construction where proper signage hasn’t been used. Most Common Types of Head-On Collision Injuries Head-on collisions are one of the most dangerous types of accidents. This is because in a head-on collision, there is nowhere for the car’s energy to go except into the other car. Compared to a sideswipe or a fender-bender, head-on collision injuries are usually much more serious. Passengers can suffer fatal or life-threatening injuries, even with airbags and seatbelts. Every day, tens of thousands of people drive on Florida’s roadways. With so many drivers, traffic accidents are inevitable. In 2019, there were more than 400,000 traffic crashes in the State of Florida. After one of these accidents, the cost of medical care can skyrocket. Hiring a personal injury attorney can help you obtain damages to pay for these costs and more. If you were injured in a head-on collision, Abrahamson & Uiterwyk is here to help. Common Head-on Collision Injuries Head-on collision injuries can be far more severe than other types of car accidents. When two cars are speeding toward one another, a collision between them will involve much more force than other types of crashes. As a result, drivers and passengers may suffer a greater number of injuries. In a head-on collision, common injuries occur to both the body and the head. Broken Bones, Bruises,...

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Average Truck Accident Settlement in Florida

Feb 16, 2022 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Getting into a Florida truck accident is devastating. You may be facing serious injuries and feel unsure where to turn. Large commercial trucks, such as 18-wheelers, are involved in accidents more than most of us would like to think. Many times, these types of cases settle before going to trial. A fair settlement is often the fastest way to get the compensation you need after your accident. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about commercial truck accident settlements in Florida. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we have years of experience handling truck accident cases, and have settled numerous cases for clients involved in these accidents. We’ve helped our Florida clients get substantial compensation from 18-wheeler accident settlements. We can help you make sense of this uncertain time and get the financial recovery you truly deserve. We invite you to contact us anytime for a free consultation about your case and to discuss what your Florida truck accident settlement could look like. TOPICS COVERED HERE Florida 18-Wheeler Truck Accident Settlements Is There an Average Settlement Amount for Truck Accidents? Example Truck Accident Settlements That Our Law Firm Has Achieved Case Study: Florida Truck Accident Settlement Example Who Can Be Liable for Damages in Truck Accident Cases? What Factors Most Impact How Much My Truck Accident Settlement is Worth? Commercial Truck Accident Settlements Are Often Large Due to the Serious Nature of These Accidents Why Is It Critical for Truck Accident Victims to Hire a Lawyer? Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Attorney to Assist in Your Claim Is There an Average Amount for Florida Truck Accident Settlements? According to the truck accident settlement examples found on this page, the typical Florida truck accident settlement is anywhere from $530,000 to $5,000,000. Settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case. The facts and circumstances of each truck accident are vastly different, which makes it difficult to point to an average settlement amount for truck accidents. Semi-truck accident settlements can be all over the map so giving an average payout for a semi-truck accident is very difficult. It is hard to predict how commercial truck accident settlements will go since there are many factors to consider such as is only the driver liable, the trucking company, or other third parties as well. What you receive as a payout in your truck accident case will be dependent on many different things. The important thing is to hire an experienced attorney near you who understands how to craft your case, so you get the maximum amount possible. Return to top ↑ How Much Will You Get Paid If An 18-Wheeler Hits You? How much you will get paid if an 18-wheeler hits you relies on many factors including Florida’s no-fault law, the presence of permanent injury, and your total expenses from the accident. The Florida no-fault law also might be a factor in the answer to this question. Under no-fault rules – the personal injury protection coverage that is part of your insurance policy cover reimbursement of the first 80% of your medical bills and up to 60% of your lost wages up to $10,000. Because a semi-truck is so large – it’s unlikely that the damage to your vehicle or your medical bills will be small. Under Florida’s No-Fault Rule, in most cases, you must have a permanent injury to recover pain and suffering compensation. Getting help wading through the rules of these cases, and getting the trucking company’s insurance to cover your costs beyond what your personal injury protection insurance will cover will have a direct impact on how much you will get paid if an 18-wheeler hits you in Florida. According to our featured cases page, here’s how much we have been able to obtain for past clients after being hit by an 18-wheeler. We obtained a recovery of $5,000,000 for one of our clients who was severely injured when a truck hit her on the highway. We also obtained a $2,500,000 recovery for another client who was rear-ended by a truck, sustaining severe injuries. Settlements depend greatly on the unique circumstances of each case. Abrahamson & Uiterwyk has fought hard on behalf of truck accident victims to get our clients everything they deserve in the way of compensation. Example Truck Accident Settlements That Our Law Firm Has Achieved in Florida Return to top ↑ Case Study: Florida Truck Accident Settlement Example $530,000 Settlement / Truck Accident / Sumter County, Florida On October 17, 2017, our client was working in a construction area on Interstate 75 in Sumter County, Florida when a utility trailer being towed by a passing truck became dislodged from the truck and careened into a truck that our client was working in. The defendant was cited by the police for careless driving in that he negligently failed to secure his load. Our client suffering immediate and severe injuries was transported to the emergency room where he was diagnosed with a fracture to his lower back. An MRI of his back revealed several disc injuries, as well. After conservative treatment failed, he underwent nerve ablation surgery followed by a lumbar spine fusion several months after his accident. The parties to the case agreed to submit to a voluntary mediation before the filing of a lawsuit. With the assistance of a trained mediator, the parties negotiated. However, the defense was unwilling to come above $400,000.00. After mediation impassed, our law firm continued to push the case forward and were eventually able to convince the defense to pay an additional $130,000.00, and the case settled for $530,000.00. Abrahamson & Uiterwyk has the experience to understand your case thoroughly and get you what you deserve. You can read more on our case results page. Please note that any potential recovery depends upon the facts of your specific case and that past results do not guarantee a similar outcome in your case. Return to top ↑ Who Can Be Liable for Damages in Truck Accident Cases? If you were...

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Average Allstate Car Accident Settlement in Florida

Aug 3, 2021 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Consulting an Experienced Law Firm Can Help You Maximize Your Allstate Car Accident Settlement Allstate is a well-known insurance company whose television ads center on how easy they are to work with. Well, that may be true if you pay regular premiums for their insurance products. However, you will not be “in good hands with Allstate” if you suffered injuries in an accident caused by someone they insure. What they hide is their unwillingness to offer a fair Allstate car accident settlement once one of their customers hurts you. If you sustained injuries in a car crash caused by an Allstate customer, you are going to need an aggressive, tough, and knowledgeable Florida car accident lawyer to fight for justice. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we understand that a car accident often derails peoples’ lives. That is why we use our extensive experience and wealth of resources to give you the help you need to pursue the compensation you deserve. What Is the Average Car Accident Settlement in Florida? You might be surprised to learn that there is no average Allstate settlement amount in Florida. Each case turns on the facts and circumstances of the accident. As a result, calculating the “average” of all Allstate accident insurance payouts is impossible. You should resist the urge to compare your accident to someone else’s. You do not know all of the nuances and variables that could make a huge difference in your Allstate car accident settlement. Instead, the focus must be on you and your case. Your injuries are unique to you. The way the injuries upset your life is also unique. You should be wary when someone who does not know the law or your case tries to tell you how much it is worth. Instead, you should rely on the opinion of an experienced Florida car accident attorney to analyze your claim. What Factors Affect an Allstate Accident Insurance Payout? Florida law allows an injured person to collect damages from everyone who contributed to their injuries, as well as their pain and suffering. The amount of compensation you could recover depends on factors such as: The severity of your injuries; Whether you suffered permanent injuries or scarring; How much time you were forced out of work; If you will lose money or economic opportunities in the future because of your injuries; Whether you have injuries that will need treatment in the future; The amount of pain and suffering you experienced; and The amount of mental anguish you suffered as a result of the crash. Not every case will include all of these damages. Some cases might involve punitive damages as well. Every case is different and talking with a knowledgeable lawyer can help you better understand what your case is worth. Do Allstate Settlement Calculators Work? To put it bluntly, no, Allstate settlement calculators do not work. We have discussed some of the variables that go into determining how much your case is worth. There is no way that a “settlement calculator” can compute all of the idiosyncrasies and nuances involved in your claim.  Perhaps more importantly, the settlement calculator is run by a company that does not want to pay you any money in the first place. Why would you trust an adversarial calculator to give you an accurate statement of the value of your claim? Companies like Allstate put settlement calculators on their websites to deter people from talking to lawyers. They know that they can save money by making lowball calculations to people without lawyers.  You should only rely on the analysis of a Florida car accident lawyer with over 30 years of experience fighting to help clients maximize their Allstate settlement. How Fast Can I Get My Money? We understand that you and your family are in a financial bind because of your accident. The financial strain can become unbearable. As a result, you might think that taking a quick, easy settlement would solve your problems. One of the first questions our clients ask is “How long does it take Allstate to settle an auto accident?” We realize that you need money fast and we work to get your Allstate settlement check fast. But we cannot simply accept any bodily injury settlement offer they make. We need to make sure that we review your case thoroughly before we answer the question, How long does it take Allstate to pay a claim? Beware of Quick Allstate Accident Insurance Payouts Insurance companies like Allstate have adjusters who work within parameters when offering settlements on Allstate personal injury claims. They know that offering a quick settlement, especially if a lawyer is not involved, might help them settle a claim for less money than it is worth. For instance, suppose a distracted driver hit you from behind. You could be seriously hurt. However, the adjuster might give you a standard Allstate rear-end settlement offer that sounds good at first. You might think that accepting a quick and easy soft tissue injury settlement from Allstate is the best option for you. However, you should consider talking to a lawyer who understands your case thoroughly before deciding whether you should accept a settlement.  Accepting a quick settlement now puts some money in your pocket quickly. But, once you accept the settlement and sign a release agreement, you cannot file another claim against the at-fault driver. You are stuck with the settlement agreement and can never go back for more money, no matter what happens. So if you accept a low offer and later develop a long-term costly disability, you are forever barred from going back to the table and asking for more money.  Why Should I Get an Attorney? You might be tempted by the notion that you could save money by handling your claim without hiring a lawyer. There are several reasons why you should hire a lawyer instead of trying to negotiate a settlement with Allstate by yourself.  The most important reason is that insurance companies reduce their offers when talking...

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Average Bodily Injury Claim Settlement in Florida

Aug 3, 2021 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Putting the pieces of your life back together after suffering a personal injury can be incredibly difficult. Regardless of whether you are claiming bodily injury because of a car accident, dog bite, or a slip and fall, you are likely wondering what the average bodily injury settlement is in Florida. As we’ll discuss below, the average bodily injury settlement varies based on the circumstances of your case.  However, the best way to know the value of your claim is by seeking legal assistance. That is why we recommend consulting an attorney right away.  What Factors Affect the Average Bodily Injury Claim? There are several components that can either increase or decrease bodily injury claim settlement amounts.  Medical Bills For many bodily injury cases, the cost of receiving proper medical treatment is an important factor. Naturally, the cost of medical treatment ranges greatly based on the type and severity of your injury. A minor and temporary injury like a muscle strain may require only a single doctor visit.  On the other hand, a more serious injury—such as brain trauma or a spinal fracture—may result in seven-figure medical bills.  The higher the cost of your medical treatment, the higher the value of your bodily injury settlement.  An experienced personal injury attorney will be able to help you pursue compensation not only for past medical treatment costs but also for all future anticipated medical costs, including the cost of therapeutic and rehabilitative remedies. Pain and Suffering Another significant factor in bodily injury claims is pain and suffering. Most people don’t know that they can obtain significant compensation for all pain and suffering that they have experienced because of their bodily injuries.  Unlike medical bills, pain and suffering damages are often difficult to estimate. In general, your bodily injury claim settlement will be higher if you experience pain and suffering over a longer period of time. The degree and pervasiveness of the pain will also affect your bodily injury claim value.  Wage Losses (Past and Future) Yet another frequent cost in personal injury cases is lost wages from missing work. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you might miss a week, a month, or even a year of work. In extreme cases, you might receive a disability which permanently prevents you from being able to perform your job.  If that happens, you can pursue compensation for both the wages that you have lost in the past and anticipated future lost wages.  Is There a Bodily Injury Calculator in Florida to Help Me Find My Bodily Injury Claim Value? No. No accurate bodily injury settlement calculator exists in Florida. But a knowledgeable personal injury attorney will be able to give you a general sense of what your case may be worth based on your individual circumstances and their past experience with bodily injury claim settlements.  What Can a Lawyer Do to Help My Bodily Injury Settlement? Knowing how to settle a bodily injury claim is essential to helping you pursue the compensation you deserve. Attorneys know how to settle claims successfully for their clients based on their years of specialized training and professional experience. On top of that, an attorney will be able to realistically assess your case and provide you with a full understanding of your rights. Imagine, for example, that you’re seeking a car accident bodily injury settlement. Just claiming bodily injury in a car accident is far different than successfully negotiating a bodily injury settlement. For one thing, Florida’s no-fault laws prevent you from seeking compensation from an at-fault party unless your injuries are serious. But an experienced attorney will have the negotiation experience and legal knowledge to prove the seriousness of your injuries and maximize your compensation. Moreover, they will aggressively defend your rights against groups like insurance companies that seek to protect themselves at your expense.  Therefore, it’s essential to hire a superb attorney who will advocate on your behalf, collect evidence for your claim, and maximize your compensation.  Want to Learn More About Your Bodily Injury Claim Value? Because there’s no bodily injury calculator in Florida, it’s best to seek out an experienced personal injury attorney. But it’s important to choose the right attorney to assist you as you pursue a bodily injury settlement.  Abrahamson & Uiterwyk is a personal injury law firm based out of Tampa, Florida. For over 30 years, we’ve fought zealously for over 20,000 clients. Our attorneys have obtained hundreds of millions of dollars on behalf of our customers, including many multi-million dollar case results. Our practice focuses specifically on helping our clients pursue bodily injury claim settlements. Feel free to peruse our hundreds of positive client testimonials.  On top of that, you incur absolutely no legal fees or costs unless you win.  Give us a call today at 800-538-4878 or contact us online.

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How Much Is the Average Grocery Store Slip and Fall Settlement Worth in Florida?

Jul 30, 2021 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

The short answer to the question of how much the average slip and fall grocery store settlement is worth is that there is no average amount. Slip and fall claims are highly dependent on the details of the individual case. It is possible, however, to identify the factors that contribute to a settlement value and apply them to your claim. Premises Liability: The Legal Foundation of a Florida Slip and Fall Claim To settle your slip and fall claim, the following needs to proven: The foregoing elements must be proven by “the greater weight of the evidence,” which is a probability of greater than 50%. Causes of Grocery Store Slip and Fall Cases The most common causes of grocery store cases include: This is only a partial list. If you suffered an injury due to any dangerous condition in a grocery store, you should reach out to an experienced premises liability attorney. Slip and Fall Grocery Store Settlements The same basic principles that underlie any personal injury settlement also apply to grocery store slip and fall settlements. Some factors, however, are unique to grocery store slip and fall cases. These factors arise from the specific types of accidents that you are likely to suffer in a grocery store. Factors in Florida Grocery Store Injury Settlements The following factors are all likely to affect the settlement value of your slip and fall claim: A good lawyer will identify these factors quickly and exploit them to your advantage. How Fast Can I Get My Money? Estimating the time you will need to get your money from a slip and fall claim is a lot like estimating how much money you will get. It is difficult to say because results vary widely from case to case. Relevant factors include: Remember, the quickest settlement is also likely to be the most inadequate settlement. How a Lawyer Can Help The slip and fall accident lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk have handled a multitude of slip and fall claims over the past three decades. We offer the following advantages: The foregoing list is just the tip of the iceberg of the myriad ways that an experienced Florida slip and fall lawyer can help with your claim. We Have Recovered Hundreds of Millions of Dollars for Our Clients We could use this space to tell you about our experiences. But don´t take our word for it—listen to our clients instead. Among the 20,000 clients we have served over the past 30 years, hundreds have left us five-star reviews on Google and Facebook. Contact the Tampa injury lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk 24/7 by calling 866-201-8701 or by contacting us online.

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Average Settlement for a Broken Arm in Florida

Jul 30, 2021 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Unfortunately, there is no average settlement for a broken arm in Florida. Any number that we could give you would be meaningless and misleading because settlement amounts vary widely from case to case. The injury lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk can give you a better estimate after reviewing your unique case. Factors That Affect Settlement Value Most victims of broken arms choose to resolve their claim through private settlement rather than through a trial. The shadow of a trial always looms over settlement negotiations, however, because a trial is what will happen if settlement negotiations fail. The following are some of the factors that affect settlement value: The type and location of your fracture—this affects how much pain you suffer, which in turn affects the amount of pain and suffering compensation you could win at trial. How the fracture affects your job—If your job requires you to use your fractured arm extensively, you might be out of work for weeks or even permanently. A court may grant you compensation for these lost earnings. The defendant’s financial resources—Florida does not require drivers to carry bodily insurance liability coverage (you are required to maintain $10,000 in insurance for your own injuries, however). Whether you were partially at fault for the accident—If you were, your damages will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault. Whether you suffered a significant disability—Significant or permanent disabilities usually mean that you will get more money in damages. Whether your injury required surgery. A multitude of other factors might also affect your claim, some of which may be arbitrary. Special Case: Settlement for Broken Arm in a Car Accident Broken arms are common in serious car accidents. A broken arm is a broken arm, however, no matter what kind of accident caused it. You might find inflated “averages” for car accident-related broken arm settlements online, but these settlements typically include more serious injuries such as traumatic brain injury (TBI). A car accident settlement includes compensation for all injuries. But rarely does the settlement agreement break down exactly how much of the settlement applies to each part of the body. Special Case: Settlement for Elbow Injury Elbow injuries are also common in car accidents. Unlike much of the rest of the arm, the elbow is not protected by muscle or fatty tissue. Accordingly, it is very susceptible to fracture. At certain angles, impact to the elbow can cause it to collide with the triceps muscle. This is an injury that typically requires surgery to correct. Another common elbow injury involves the radial head, the ball of the forearm that connects to the elbow. The radial head can be broken or jammed into the elbow, and tendon damage can result. These elbow injuries can be excruciatingly painful. Why You Need a Lawyer A lawyer can help you in more ways than it is possible to mention in a short article. An experienced Florida personal injury lawyer can negotiate a deal that is far better than what you can get on your own. In fact, the difference often pays for the lawyer’s fees several times over. Some of the ways a lawyer can help you include: Determining the real value of your claim; Gathering and presenting the evidence in a compelling way to increase the settlement offer; Negotiating with the opposing party while keeping the threat of trial foremost in their minds; Drafting a clear, concise settlement agreement that contains no tricks; Thinking calmly even when you are in distress; Advising you against making damaging errors; and Representing you in court if necessary. These are only a few of the many, many ways in which a claimant represented by experienced counsel is better off than someone who represents themselves. How Fast Can You Get Your Money? Typically, resolving a broken arm claim takes a few months. In some cases, however, it might take only a few weeks. If the case goes to trial, however, it can take some time to resolve the claim. Although it is impossible to precisely predict the time frame for compensation, a good rule of thumb to remember is that the more money you ask for, the longer it will take to resolve your claim. The complexity of your claim is also a critical factor.  Nobody Takes Advantage of Our Clients. NOBODY. We won’t sit back and let one of our clients be stonewalled or short-changed by a stingy defendant or insurance company. And it shows. In 30 years of practice serving over 20,000 clients, we have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for our clients. Contact the Tampa personal injury lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk any time of the day or night by calling (866) 201-8701 or by contacting us online.

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Average Nationwide Insurance Claim Settlement in Florida

Jul 30, 2021 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Getting in a car accident is always a hardship. It is an inconvenience at best, life-altering at worst, and everything in between for many. Having insurance coverage can make the process easier, but it is rarely simple. Even dealing with large, well-established insurance companies can prove challenging. If you have been in an accident and have questions about your potential Nationwide Insurance claim settlement, there are several things you should know. Filing an Insurance Claim in Florida Florida is considered a “no-fault” state. This means that regardless of who is at fault for the accident, your own insurance pays the first $10,000 of your medical bills and lost wages under which is known as personal injury protection coverage or PIP. All drivers are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. Basic PIP coverage includes: Up to 80% of medical expenses;  Up to 60% of lost wages;  Travel expenses for medical appointments; and  $5,000 in death benefits.  This system is designed as a way to help you get compensation quickly, regardless of who is at fault. Complications may arise when an insurance company refuses to provide an adequate settlement or damage extends beyond your coverage.  Nationwide Insurance Claim Settlement Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company is one of the largest insurance providers in the country. They have policies for homeowners, renters, business owners, the elderly, and drivers. Their automotive policies are most widely known. Because of their size and experience, working with a larger company like Nationwide can be beneficial when it comes to car insurance claims, but it can also have its downfalls. Companies like Nationwide understand how to make a profit and that often means offering a lower Nationwide insurance claim settlement than what you deserve. Should You Use An Accident Settlement Calculator? The short answer is no. These so- called calculators are notoriously unreliable and inaccurate. Often, they are actually hosted by insurance companies who are motivated to pay you as little as possible for your claim. These calculators also fail to take into account the individual aspects of your case. The best way to get an accurate evaluation of your claim is through experienced legal counsel.  What Factors Affect Your Nationwide Insurance Claim Settlement? There are a number of factors that may impact your Nationwide insurance claim settlement. The biggest one is the severity of your injuries and associated cost of care. The more expenses you have, the larger the settlement you should get. It is important to be able to prove your expenses. So make sure to keep all records and receipts for any costs associated with your accident.  In Florida, your Nationwide personal injury settlement will only include non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and mental anguish, if you meet Florida’s injury severity threshold. In order to cross that threshold, you must demonstrate that the accident caused either: Permanent limited use of a bodily organ or member;  Significant and permanent loss of an important bodily function; A permanent injury; Significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement; or death. How Fast Can I Get Paid For My Nationwide Car Accident PIP Claim? When you are injured, the medical bills can pile up quickly. When you are filing a PIP claim in Florida, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident. By law, your insurance company must pay or deny the claim within 30 days. If your original claim is incomplete, the insurance company can extend the deadline by 30 additional days when each piece of information is received. If the claim is denied, the insurance company must provide an explanation. At that time you have 15 days to revise and resubmit your claim.  Tips For Filing Nationwide Car Insurance Claims  Despite the fact that Florida is a no-fault state, it is important that you gather as much information as possible at the time of the accident. This could include the police report (which you should always file), contact information for the other driver and witnesses, and various photos. Nationwide recommends that you take photos of the following: The VIN, which is usually located on the inside driver’s side door or on the dashboard;  The current mileage on the odometer;  The vehicle’s registration information;  A view of both the rear and front of the vehicle;   A close-up view of damage to the car; and  A view from 10 feet away, showing all damage to the vehicle.   These are important things to have on hand if requested but pertain primarily to property damage. It is important to note that Florida’s no-fault policy does not apply to vehicle damage. You can file a lawsuit against a negligent party for property damage without stipulations.  For your Nationwide personal injury settlement, your most important assets are records of your injuries, doctor’s visits, and all related medical expenses. If your injury causes you to miss work, you can include those lost wages. Keeping detailed records is extremely important in order for you to receive fair compensation.  Why Should You Hire An Attorney? One of the most important things to understand when dealing with insurance companies is that, though they are there to help, they are in the business of making a profit. They make a profit when they pay you the least amount of money possible. Big companies like Nationwide have entire legal teams dedicated to enticing accident victims into taking the lowest settlement possible.  An experienced law firm like Abrahamson & Uiterwyk will take the time to understand the details of your claim and your expenses. By closely examining your case, we can determine the appropriate amount of compensation you deserve. We strive to provide prompt and aggressive representation and push insurance companies to settle claims quickly and fairly so you can get back to living your life. Contact us to schedule your free case consultation.

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Average Progressive Insurance Settlement Offer in Florida

Jul 30, 2021 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Here’s Why You Should Have an Experienced Florida Auto Accident Lawyer Represent You  Progressive Insurance airs a lot of television commercials. Their gimmick is to have the familiar “Flo” pitch ways to save on auto and home insurance, along with other insurance products. Based on Progressive’s aggressive ad campaign, you might think that they are easy to deal with if you file a claim for personal injury compensation. However, Progressive Insurance settlement offers, like other major insurance company offers, are notoriously low. Abrahamson & Uiterwyk are the Florida auto accident attorneys you need to help you get a fair settlement from Progressive. Drawing upon our 30 years of experience fighting for accident victims in Florida, we assemble the best compelling case possible. We advocate for you and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. What Is the Average Progressive Settlement in Florida? Contrary to what you might hear, there is no average settlement from Progressive Insurance. Progressive Insurance is a massive insurance company that is in business to make money. As a result, Progressive does not pay out easily. Instead, Progressive Insurance will nitpick every part of your claim to find ways to reduce your Progressive Insurance settlement offer. They will blame you for causing the accident or try to show that your injuries are not as serious as you say they are. Also, Progressive’s representatives may try to offer less than you want because you had a prior accident claim or previous injury.  What Factors Affect Progressive Insurance Settlement Offers? Settlement amounts vary based on many factors. Those factors include: How the accident happened; The amount of medical bills you have; The wages you lost because of the crash; Whether your injuries are permanent; If you have scarring; How long it took for your injuries to heal; Whether you will need medical care in the future; The amount of pain and suffering you endured from the injuries sustained in the crash; Whether you had any emotional trauma such as loss of enjoyment of life; and The amount of damage to your property.  Not every personal injury claim will involve all of these factors. Since no two people are alike, no two claims are alike. It is important to remember that the unique facts of your case determine the settlement offer you receive from Progressive Insurance. Florida law also factors into your settlement offer. Progressive can lower your offer if you did something to contribute to the accident. This is called comparative negligence. Under this system, your award is reduced by the same percentage. In other words, your award can be reduced by the amount you were found to be responsible for in the accident. As we said, Progressive will try to use Florida’s comparative negligence law to its benefit. That is one of the reasons why it is so important to have a highly experienced and knowledgeable Florida car accident attorney represent you. Do Progressive Settlement Calculators Work? In short, no, Progressive settlement claims calculators do not work. Settlement calculators are a tool Progressive and other companies use to convince you to accept a lowball offer. They do not give you an accurate reading of the appropriate Progressive car accident settlement for your unique case.  Talking with an experienced attorney from Abrahamson & Uiterwyk is the best way you can know how much your claim is worth. An experienced personal injury lawyer will evaluate your claim and do everything possible to help you pursue the settlement you deserve. How Fast Can I Get My Money? Quick settlements are a trick Progressive Insurance may use from time to time to limit their exposure to paying out a large settlement. A Progressive representative may try to convince you that a quick settlement is in your best interest. However, before you accept any offer from Progressive, you need to talk to a lawyer first. Accepting a quick settlement without talking to an experienced car accident lawyer can be extremely risky. A Progressive settlement claim adjuster will not offer you a settlement unless you sign a release. That release means once you cash your Progressive settlement check, you forever forfeit your right to seek additional damages. Even if you need additional surgeries or other medical attention related to the accident, you cannot go after the person insured by Progressive.  Why Should I Get an Attorney? You need an attorney to advise you about the Progressive Insurance car accident settlement process. You might think you could save yourself money by handling your claim by yourself. However, you are far more likely to receive a small settlement if you do not have an attorney. Additionally, an experienced attorney will know where to look for evidence that can strengthen your claim. Would you know what to do to preserve evidence that is helpful to you? Do you know how to find witnesses and interview them? Would you know how to respond effectively if Progressive denies your claim?  Having the right attorney allows you to focus on your recovery and getting your life back on track. An aggressive attorney will take the stress of your claim off your shoulders and personally take on that burden. If you get a low Progressive Insurance pain and suffering offer, you might end up suing the Progressive insured person who caused your accident.  Abrahamson & Uiterwyk Are the Right Lawyers to Settle Your Progressive Accident Claim For more than 3 decades, the Florida car accident attorneys with Abrahamson & Uiterwyk have fought vigorously for our clients. And we continue to do so. To date, Abrahamson & Uiterwyk’s nearly 20,000 clients have received over $800 million in compensation. We never take a fee or costs unless we recover money for you.  Abrahamson & Uiterwyk’s peers and clients voiced their opinion as well. Abrahamson & Uiterwyk has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell. An AV rating is the highest possible rating bestowed by Martindale-Hubbell. Additionally, Abrahamson & Uiterwyk proudly received a “Best Law Firm” rating...

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Average Knee Injury Car Accident Settlement in Florida

Jul 29, 2021 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

This article attempts to explain the factors that influence the amount that knee injury victims can recover in a knee injury settlement. If you have injured your knee in an accident, it may be difficult to perform even simple tasks. In fact, knee injuries can be some of the most painful and difficult types of injuries to recover from.  So, what do you do after a knee injury accident? Is there a knee injury settlement average? What can you do to maximize your recovery? We’ll answer these questions and more in the post below. If you still have questions, contact the injury attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk. We are standing by and ready to discuss your case and help you fight for your rights.  Knee Injury Settlements: An Overview The knee is the largest joint in the body and also easily injured. And while knee injuries can occur in nearly any setting, we frequently see clients come in with knee injuries caused by the careless actions of another party in a car accident. In fact, traffic accidents are one of the leading causes of knee joint injuries.  Some of the most common knee injuries include:  It can take significant amounts of time and money to heal from these types of knee injuries. Thus, knowing how to move forward after your knee injury can be a crucial step to recovering.  If you or a loved one has suffered a knee injury in a car accident or any other type of accident, contact an attorney today. Doing so can be the first step toward getting the compensation you need to recover.  Knee Injury Settlement Average in Florida A question that many people have after a car accident knee injury is, what is the average payout for a knee injury car accident settlement? Of course, this is a natural question to ask when determining whether and how to move forward with a potential case. Unfortunately, however, the answer is more complicated than you might think. But our team is here to help you get the answers you need so that you can get to work on what matters most—recovering from your injuries.  Is There an Average Knee Injury Settlement?  The short answer is no. Unfortunately, there is no “average” knee injury settlement.  Despite legal blogs and advertisements that might indicate otherwise, the fact remains that there is no knee injury settlement “average” that you can rely on with any certainty.    Do Knee Injury Settlement Calculators Work?  Many websites will claim that you can use a knee injury settlement calculator to determine your potential settlement. However, you should not rely on such knee injury settlement calculators.  This is because each case is different and there are many factors to consider. There is simply no way to take all of these factors into account in a way that will provide you with a reliable settlement calculation.  The best thing to do after an accident that results in a knee injury is to contact an attorney. An attorney can evaluate the facts of your case and help you determine what your case might ultimately be worth.  Factors that Affect a Knee Injury Settlements in Florida So what are the factors that a personal injury attorney will take into account to determine your potential settlement? These factors might include:  Depending on the combination of factors that exist in your case, your settlement value may vary a great deal from another accident victim’s settlement. Thus, it is important to contact an experienced injury attorney to help you evaluate your case. What Types of Things Can I Recover Compensation For?  The monetary compensation you can receive for your knee injury settlement is known as your legal “damages”. Damages in your knee injury settlement case might include compensation for:  Knowing what types of damages exist in your case is imperative. If you don’t know what damages you can recover, you risk losing out on valuable compensation you might otherwise be entitled to.  Thus, we strongly encourage you to reach out to an injury attorney who can help you evaluate your case. Doing so can be the key to maximizing your recovery.  Why Is It Important to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney After a Florida Knee Injury? You’ve likely seen advertisements for personal injury law firms and wondered if hiring an attorney can really be that useful. In reality, hiring an attorney truly is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your case.  If you have never been involved in a legal dispute before, it can be difficult knowing where to begin. Even if you have some familiarity with personal injury law and the legal process, the benefits of having an attorney in your corner to fight on your behalf cannot be overstated.  So don’t wait any longer. Contact an attorney today to help you with your knee injury settlement so that you can get the relief you deserve. How We Will Help with Your Case At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we have dedicated our practice to helping injury victims in need. If you have suffered a knee injury in a car accident or in any other accident due to the wrongful or negligent actions of another, we want to help.  Our team of experienced attorneys can help you evaluate your case, assess your damages, and negotiate with opposing parties, all in an effort to maximize your recovery. We will fight for your rights every step along the way.  If you’re not ready to move forward quite yet, we encourage you to browse our website, read about our past case results, and check out some testimonials from our former clients.  We have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for clients, and we hope we can do the same for you. Contact us today for your free case review to discuss your case and see what we can do for you. Get Your Accident Questions Answered We know you probably have a lot of questions, so we’ve included some...

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Average Settlement for a Traumatic Brain Injury in Florida

Jul 29, 2021 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

This article attempts to explain the factors that influence the amount that brain injury victims can recover in a traumatic brain injury settlement. A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can be a severe and even life-threatening injury. In fact, roughly 150 Americans die each day from TBI-related injuries.  If you or a loved one has suffered from a TBI, it is important to know what to do next. Knowing what steps to take after a TBI-related accident can be crucial to physical, emotional, and financial recovery moving forward.  If you have questions about a TBI-related accident and what compensation you may be entitled to recover, the injury attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk want to help. Contact us today to discuss your case and see what we can do for you. Traumatic Brain Injury Settlements: An Overview TBI affects thousands of people nationwide each year. But what exactly constitutes a traumatic brain injury? And what are you entitled to recover if you have suffered a TBI-related injury? We’ll answer these questions and more below.  What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury? The CDC defines a traumatic brain injury as “a disruption in the normal function of the brain.” This can be caused by a penetrating head injury or a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. TBI-related These injuries remain a serious public health concern and can happen to anyone at virtually any time. Thus, it is important to know how they occur and what to do if you sustain one.  What Are the Leading Causes of TBI-Related Accidents?  The CDC ranks car accidents, slip and fall accidents, assaults, and object strikes among the leading causes of TBI nationwide. In fact, a 2014 CDC study found that falls and motor vehicle crashes were the first and second leading causes of all TBI-related hospitalizations. Falls accounted for 52%, and motor vehicle crashes accounted for 20%.  If you have suffered a TBI-related injury in a slip and fall, car, or motorcycle accident, contact an attorney to discuss your rights and see what your settlement might be worth.  Do TBI Settlement Calculators Work? No. Settlement calculators do not work with any certainty. These TBI settlement calculators are unreliable because they simply cannot take into account all of the various factors that go into determining what a particular case might be worth.  Is There an Average Settlement for a Traumatic Brain Injury in Florida? The short answer to this question is no. Settlements in a TBI case can range from thousands to millions of dollars. Every case involving a traumatic brain injury is different. Thus, it is important to have an attorney review the information for your case specifically to determine what your case might be worth. What Factors Impact Traumatic Brain Injury Lawsuit Settlement Value the Most in Florida? Again, there is no “average” settlement for a traumatic brain injury. In fact, traumatic brain injury settlements will vary greatly from case to case. So, what are the factors that will have the biggest impact on the value of your brain injury settlement amount? These factors might include:  The extent and severity of your TBI;  Availability of medical reports corroborating your injuries; Amount of expenses incurred in addressing and recovering from your TBI;  The extent to which your TBI will affect your ability to work; and  Whether you had any pre-existing brain conditions before your accident occurred.  While there are many factors to consider, an experienced attorney can help you identify what factors exist and determine how those factors will impact your settlement. When Should I Hire an Injury Attorney? In almost every scenario, a personal injury lawyer can help you fight for your rights and work to maximize your settlement. A brain injury attorney can help you assess your case, gather evidence, and determine the value of your damages. Thus, we would always recommend reaching out to an attorney as soon as possible after your accident to begin discussing your case.  How We Can Help with Your Case At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk we have dedicated our practice to helping injury victims in need. If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, we want to help.  Our team of experienced attorneys has helped more than 20,000 injury victims throughout Florida over the last 30 years. We have recovered more than $300,000,000 in compensation for our clients, and we will work to get you the compensation you need and deserve too. No matter what your case requires, we will fight for your rights at every step along the way.  If you are not yet ready to move forward, we understand. Deciding what law firm to hire is no easy task.  We encourage you to read about our previous case results and see what our former clients have to say about working with us. We hope this will help you determine whether we are the right fit for you.  Contact us for your free case review to discuss your case and see what we can do for you. Get Your Accident Questions Answered We know you probably have a lot of questions about how to move forward after your TBI-related accident. We’ve included some answers to frequently asked questions below to help you get the answers you need. I Can’t Afford an Attorney—What Should I Do?  At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we don’t think financial status should be a barrier to getting the legal representation you need and deserve. That’s why when you hire our team, you will not pay any legal fees or costs unless and until we win your case.  Can You Still Take My Case During the COVID-19 Pandemic? Absolutely. As the world continues to adapt to COVID-19, so will we. We are standing by and ready to discuss your case remotely and see what we can do to help you, even during these unprecedented times. What Are the Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury?  Some of the most common symptoms of TBI include headaches, dizziness, blurry vision, confusion, disorientation, nausea, and vomiting. If you...

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Average Wrongful Death Medical Malpractice Settlements in Florida

Jul 6, 2021 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

This article attempts to explain the factors that influence the amount that families of deceased accident victims can recover in a Florida wrongful death medical malpractice settlement. When a loved one passes away due to medical malpractice, surviving family members could have the legal right to bring a claim against the responsible parties. Understandably, prospective clients want to know the average compensation for wrongful death medical malpractice settlements. Unfortunately, there is no average settlement amount for wrongful death medical malpractice. Every case is different, and therefore, each settlement or jury award will differ. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we have decades of experience with Florida medical malpractice and wrongful death cases. We can review the facts of your case and advise you on what the potential settlement value is. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at one of our offices in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, New Port Richey, Spring Hill, or Lakeland. Factors that Impact Florida Medical Malpractice Wrongful Death Settlements As we mentioned, every Florida wrongful death case is different, and the value will vary based on the individual circumstances of your case. It’s essential to understand what factors impact a medical malpractice wrongful death case. Some of these factors include: Funeral and burial expenses; Medical expenses if paid by a survivor; Age and health of the victim and how long their life expectancy was; Who is at fault; The circumstances of the case; Financial support surviving family members would’ve received from the deceased; and Whether the deceased left behind dependents.   No two cases settle for the exact amount, even if they have similar facts. Your potential settlement also depends on the skill of your legal team. You need an experienced medical malpractice attorney in Florida who has the skills and resources available to pursue a medical malpractice claim, which may require going to trial. Hospitals and doctors will vigorously fight these cases to avoid paying out and risking damage to their reputations. While many cases resolve out of court, we must be prepared for the possibility that your case may be the one that goes to trial. If you don’t retain a law firm from the start that has the resources to handle your case through trial, you will need to find a new firm that does. That means your new firm will need time to get up to speed on your case. The longer it is, the greater the chance is that evidence may be lost or harder to obtain. Who Can Present a Wrongful Death Claim in Florida? In Florida, a personal representative of the estate must file a wrongful death claim. They will be responsible for collecting compensation on behalf of eligible family members. Florida has specifically designated who is qualified to collect damages in a medical malpractice wrongful death claim. Family members are: The spouse; Children who are 25 years old or younger; Adult children who are dependent on the deceased for financial support; and Parents, if their child was 25 years old or younger. Unfortunately, if a family member falls into any other category than these four, there is no viable claim under Florida’s medical malpractice wrongful death law. Many people are shocked to find out they don’t have a right to recovery in a wrongful death case if it involves medical malpractice due to Florida’s narrow definition of qualified survivors.  Why Hire a Florida Wrongful Death Medical Malpractice Attorney? Wrongful death claims are complicated to resolve, but they are even more complex when they involve medical malpractice. You don’t want to go up against the hospital, medical facilities, doctors, etc., on your own. They have skilled legal teams working for them that will do whatever is necessary to keep from paying out any compensation. When you retain Abrahamson & Uiterwyk to represent you, we will review your circumstances to determine whether you have a claim for wrongful death involving medical malpractice. If you do, we will immediately commence an independent investigation to preserve all available evidence. In addition, we will request medical records and reports on your family member’s treatment.  In some cases, it may be necessary to retain industry experts. We might need another doctor in the same medical field who can review the case and testify as to whether they believe the defendants were medically negligent. We may need specialists who can quantify your family’s financial losses and the future support you are losing now that your family member has passed away. Given the complex nature of Florida’s laws surrounding wrongful death claims when medical malpractice is involved, you need an attorney who understands the nuances of the rules. We know how frustrating it can be to find out that no surviving family members qualify to bring a claim. Let us review the facts of your case and advise you who has the legal standing to bring a wrongful death claim. Let us put our decades of experience to work for you and help your family hold the medical professionals responsible for your family member’s death accountable. Please schedule a consultation today at our Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, New Port Richey, Spring Hill, or Lakeland offices to learn more about how we can assist you.

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Average Dog Bite Settlement Amounts in Florida

Jul 6, 2021 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

This article attempts to explain the factors that influence the amount that dog bite victims can get in Florida settlement. Being bitten by a dog is a traumatic experience, no matter how minor the bite is. If you are bringing a claim against the dog owner, you may be wondering what your possible compensation might be. Unfortunately, there is no standard range of Florida dog bite settlement amounts. Every case is different and evaluated individually. Even dog bites with similar circumstances won’t settle for the same amount. To learn more about what your case is worth, speak with an experienced Florida dog bite attorney at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk. Our dedicated legal team has decades of experience representing injured Florida clients just like you for all their personal injury needs, including dog bites. These cases can be complicated to pursue, which is why you need a knowledgeable attorney representing you. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation in our Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, New Port Richey, Spring Hill, or Lakeland office. Recent Dog Bite Case Our client, an 88-year-old grandmother enjoying her retirement in the Sunshine State, was walking her small dog on the sidewalk in her apartment complex when a large pit-bull leapt through the open window of a neighboring apartment and charged her.  The pit-bull immediately attacked the client’s dog, and when our client attempted to pick her dog up, the pit-bull turned its attention to her.  The pit-bull bit our client on the leg several times which resulted in several large gashes and a complex fracture of her leg.  The brutal attack was only stopped after witnesses rushed to our client’s aid. Following the attack, our client was rushed to the hospital by ambulance where emergency surgery was performed to clean and close her open wounds and to set her fractured leg.  Our client then spent two days in the hospital to receive intravenous before being discharged to the care of an orthopedic doctor.  The orthopedic doctor prescribed home healthcare for physical therapy and wound care.  The bite marks from the attack left permanent disfiguring scarring and our client was forced to walk with a cane.   Our law firm pursued the insurance company for the owner of the pit-bull.  We were able to convince them to pay their entire policy limits of $100,000.  In an effort to get more compensation for our client, we explored responsibility for the dog bite from the apartment complex.  It was our position that the apartment complex had allowed a dangerous dog to reside on their property even though there had been prior complaints about the pit-bull’s aggressive behavior.  The apartment complex denied liability for the attack and our firm promptly instigated a lawsuit against the apartment complex, which is still ongoing at this time.   Liability for Dog Bites in Florida Dog owners can be held liable in both civil and criminal court when their dog attacks someone. Florida is what’s known as a “strict liability” state. That means that the law holds dog owners liable when their dog bites someone, even if the owner was not aware their dog is aggressive. Under strict liability, victims do not have to prove a dog owner’s negligence caused their injuries. What you need to show is that the dog bit you in either a public space or private property you were lawfully on. In the event your injuries occurred differently, there is still a chance you could hold the dog owner liable. However, you would need to show the dog owner acted negligently or did not use reasonable care. Florida’s Dangerous Dog Statute Dog bite laws in Florida include a dangerous dog statute. Under the law, if a dog is declared dangerous, the owner must abide by specific rules and take certain precautions to protect others from the dangerous dog. Failure to adhere to these rules could result in criminal charges against the owner for any injuries their dog causes. Here are some of the rules owners of dangerous dogs must follow: The owner must register the dog with local authorities; The owner must keep the dog in an enclosed and secure location; and The owner must always ensure the dog has a harness and muzzle anytime it leaves the secure location. A dog is declared dangerous if it’s previously bitten or aggressively attacked someone causing injury. Even if it was only an attempted attack, the dog could be declared dangerous. Any dog that has aggressively approached or chased someone could also be declared dangerous. Dogs that have seriously injured or killed other animals multiple times also fall under the category of dangerous dogs. If a dangerous dog caused your injuries, let Abrahamson & Uiterwyk help you get the compensation you deserve. Defenses to Dog Bite Liability Dog owners have several defenses available that could reduce or even eliminate their liability altogether. Possible defenses include: The plaintiff provoked the dog; The plaintiff was not on the property lawfully; or The dog perceived a threat and was protecting its owner or someone else in the area. In the case of a dangerous dog, the owner might not be liable if they had proper precautions in place, including warning signs. However, don’t assume that the dog owner isn’t responsible based on these possible defenses without speaking with a Florida dog bite attorney first. Potential Compensation in a Florida Dog Bite Case Depending on the circumstances of your case, you could be eligible to collect monetary damages for: Medical expenses to date; Future medical expenses including cosmetic surgery and scar revision surgery; Lost wages; Future loss of earning capacity; Physical pain and suffering; and Emotional distress.    To maximize your potential dog attack lawsuit settlement amount, you need an attorney who has ample experience with these claims. The amount of your compensation is often directly linked with the skill of your attorney. The Florida dog bite attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk have years of experience litigating these types of claims. We will work tirelessly to fight for the...

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Broken Ribs from a Car Accident: Settlement Amounts and FAQs

Jul 3, 2021 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Numerous types of injuries can occur in a car accident, including broken ribs. Suffering trauma to the chest region increases the likelihood that you might sustain fractured ribs. If you or someone you love was injured due to another driver’s negligence, you might be wondering what to do after a car accident. A broken ribs settlement is possible, but you may need an experienced Tampa auto accident attorney on your side who can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. How to Know If Your Rib(s) Are Broken? To properly determine whether your ribs are broken, you need to seek immediate medical treatment. Broken ribs can be dangerous as they could damage other organs, such as puncturing a lung. When you have a broken rib, you cannot take deep breaths easily. In fact, it’s usually very painful to breathe deeply. Some of the most notable symptoms with a broken rib include: Doctors can usually diagnose a fractured rib by doing an x-ray. Not all fractures will show up on a negative x-ray, so it’s important to communicate your symptoms to your doctor. They may need to order CT scans or other diagnostic tests to confirm whether you have a broken rib. Is There an Average Settlement Amount in Florida? Understandably, car accident victims want to know what they might receive in compensation after an accident. However, there is no average settlement amount for broken ribs or any other types of injuries. Every client’s case is evaluated based on its circumstances and associated factors. What Factors Most Impact Florida Settlements? Several elements can play a crucial role in the possible settlement you might receive. Factors that can most impact your settlement include: If you develop complications from broken ribs, your settlement amount might be higher. One possible complication includes pneumonia. Pneumonia is a risk because victims cannot breathe deeply due to severe pain. Some other cases may also require surgery if your rib cage detaches from the chest wall or a rib punctures an organ. Will I Need to Go to Court? If your case doesn’t resolve during the negotiations phase, you may need to go to court at some point. We will file a lawsuit on your behalf and start preparing your case for trial if the other party is not willing to engage in meaningful settlement negotiations. There may be hearings, a deposition, arbitration, mediation, etc. If your case still does not resolve, you will need to be present in court for the trial. Will a Lawyer Help Me Get a Favorable Settlement? There is no guarantee that you will get a favorable settlement, but an experienced attorney can usually help you get a higher settlement amount than you would if you pursued a claim independently. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, our experienced Tampa & Pinellas Park car accident attorneys have helped over 20,000 injured victims to date fight for the compensation they deserve. We’ve collected over $300,000,000 on behalf of our clients. If you suffered broken ribs or other injuries in a Florida car accident, let us help. Contact Abrahamson & Uiterwyk today to schedule an initial consultation. Get Your Accident Questions Answered Prospective clients typically have numerous questions about the general claims process and how a personal injury claim works. We’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions we receive to help you prepare for your upcoming consultation with our office. What Types of Compensation Can I Receive in Florida? Depending on the specifics of your accident, you might be eligible to receive compensation for your medical expenses to date, time off work, property damage, future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and more. Can I Get a Settlement If I’m at Fault for the Accident? Florida is a modified comparative negligence state. This means that if you are found to be no more than 50% at fault for the accident, your recovery is reduced by the same proportion as your percentage of fault. As an example, if you are found to be 20% at fault in an accident, you may still recover 80% of your damages in a lawsuit. If, however, your percentage of fault is found to be more than 50%, you are barred from any recovery under the law.

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Average Settlement for Pedestrian Hit By Car in Florida

Jun 24, 2021 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

I Was Hit by a Car How Much Money Will I Get? If you or a loved one was struck by a car while you were on foot, you may have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries and other damages. To maximize your compensation, you must prove the driver’s negligence and thoroughly document all your economic and non-economic damages. An experienced Tampa pedestrian accident lawyer can help. Your attorney can build a persuasive case and fight to get you the maximum compensation possible. With your lawyer handling every aspect of your case, you can focus on healing and getting back to work.     PEDESTRIAN HIT BY CAR SETTLEMENT FAQ What Are the Most Common Causes of Florida Pedestrian Accidents? Although pedestrians can cause or contribute to an accident, motorists’ negligence is the most common cause of pedestrian accidents in Florida. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, our personal injury lawyers frequently assist accident victims who suffered injuries due to: Distracted driving, Impaired driving, Speeding, Failure to yield, Failure to stop, Aggressive driving, and Failure to obey traffic control signals. In some cases, motorists strike pedestrians due to other factors such as poor visibility or obstructed views. In these instances, a third party might have contributed to your accident and injuries.     HIT BY A CAR SETTLEMENT FAQ I Was Hit by a Car: How Much Money Will I Get? If you were a pedestrian hit by a vehicle, compensation can help ensure you get the treatment and resources you need to get your life back on track. It’s natural that you might wonder what your claim value could be worth. To determine what your case value might be, consult a pedestrian accident attorney for a consultation and case analysis. You may be eligible to recover compensation for: Medical bills, Lost income and benefits, Pain and suffering, and Emotional trauma. An attorney can also pursue compensation for any future treatment you need as well as any expected income losses. You could recover compensation for disfigurement, scarring, or disability you suffered as well as diminished earning capacity and diminished quality of life.     Featured case result: Client Who Suffered Leg and Neck Injuries This unfortunate accident occurred in Madeira Beach, Florida at around 7 p.m. Our clients were walking to their car following dinner that night. As they were crossing a street in a marked crosswalk, they were both struck by a vehicle headed north. The case was difficult because the police officer found that our clients had run into the road while the driver had the right of way. Our clients denied running and stated that they had the right of way at the time they began crossing the street. We were able to show that our clients had crossed six lanes of traffic prior to being struck by the vehicle. One of our clients suffered a fractured sternum as well as a fibular fracture in her lower leg. She also sustained herniated discs in her neck and lower back and a torn meniscus in her right knee. Her partner broke his ankle badly and required a surgery known as an open reduction and internal fixation to repair the fracture. We were able to convince the insurance company (for the driver of the vehicle that struck them) that their driver had liability for the accident since our clients should have been visible to her as they crossed the road…and thus should have avoided the accident. As a result, the company paid its limit of liability insurance to each of our clients. FAQ What Is the Average Settlement for an Injury? How much should I settle for getting hit by a car? Being struck by a car can leave pedestrian victims with injuries ranging from cuts and bruises to traumatic brain injury—and everything in between. The severity of your injuries can be affected by factors such as the vehicle’s speed, the size and type of the vehicle, and the surroundings where the incident took place. Other factors that can affect the value of your claim are the severity of your injuries and how they will affect your life. Life-threatening and permanent injuries are typically valued more highly than injuries from which the victim fully recovers. If the victim’s actions contributed in any way to the accident, that could potentially affect the claim’s value as well. These and other variables make it impossible to determine an average settlement value for a pedestrian hit by a car. Discussing the details of your case with a knowledgeable attorney will provide you with the potential settlement value you might stand to recover.     FAQ What Duties Do Motorists Have to Pedestrians? Motorists have a duty to act reasonably to protect others from harm. This duty extends to other motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. This means that drivers must pay attention behind the wheel, avoid driving when tired or impaired, and obey traffic laws and posted signage. When a driver behaves recklessly or is negligent, they fail to uphold their duty of care. If a driver’s negligence causes an accident, he or she is liable for any resulting damages suffered by the victim or victims.     FAQ What Rights and Duties Do Pedestrians Have? Anyone who walks in the vicinity of vehicle traffic has the right to basic safety. For example, a pedestrian walking along the sidewalk should not have to worry about a distracted driver swerving, hopping the curb, and hitting them with their car. If a pedestrian observes the law and acts reasonably, they have the right not to be harmed. Pedestrians also have a duty to act with reasonable care to avoid being hit by a car. If someone fails to act reasonably and gets hit as a result, they may contribute to any resulting accident and subsequent injuries. Some examples of exercising reasonable care include using crosswalks, crossing only when the “walk” indicator is present, and not darting out between parked cars into the street. However, even if you...

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What to Expect From Geico Car Accident Settlements in Florida

Apr 3, 2021 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

If you are dealing with GEICO after an injury accident, you might be curious about how the injury claim and settlement process works. If you suffered injuries in an accident caused by a GEICO customer, you must deal with this mega-insurer to get a settlement for your damages. Some common questions you might have include: What is GEICO’s claims process? How long does it take for GEICO to settle? and Will GEICO offer a reasonable settlement in my case? Learning some basic information from the team of experienced car accident lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk about this popular insurance company can help. Likewise, understanding their policies and processes can make it easier to get through the complex process of obtaining an injury accident settlement. Before making any decisions, consider talking to a car accident lawyer in Florida near you about your case. A car accident lawyer can help protect your legal rights and fight to get you the settlement you deserve for your injuries and other damages. What Is GEICO Insurance? You’re likely familiar with GEICO’s many light-hearted and irreverent commercials and their little gecko mascot. Beyond the clever advertising campaigns, however, you might not know too much more about the company’s history and reputation as an insurance company. Originally established in 1936 as the Government Employees Insurance Company, GEICO insured only military members and federal employees until 1974. Today, GEICO provides auto insurance policies to the general public. The company ranks as the second-largest insurer in the U.S., second only to State Farm. Although GEICO formerly underwrote property and life insurance, the company focuses exclusively on auto insurance today, insuring more than 28 million vehicles. How to Contact GEICO’s Claims Department for Florida GEICO writes a large percentage of its policies directly to consumers, rather than selling through insurance agents. You can learn how to file a GEICO insurance claim on the company’s website. You can also find information there about how to contact GEICO about an existing claim. Some customers do purchase their policies through authorized agents. If you had an accident with a GEICO insured, you may be able to contact their independent agent for help reaching the claims department. Should I Expect GEICO to Make a Fair Settlement Offer? Just as you would expect to encounter with any large insurer, GEICO personal injury settlements come in all forms and sizes. No insurance company is anxious to pay an accident victim fair value for their claim. In fact, most insurers will attempt to pay as little as possible. Getting a fair settlement offer from GEICO requires time, patience, and, sometimes, help from an experienced car accident attorney in your area. Several settlement disputes involving GEICO have made headlines over the past few years. In many of these cases, including one notable case in Miami, the jury held GEICO accountable for bad faith dealings with accident victims. In another court case, this one in Palm Beach, a jury compelled GEICO to pay $8.48 million to a victim’s family in a wrongful death claim. The insurer’s original payment on the claim had been for $100,000. GEICO appealed, but the verdict was upheld. GEICO has substantial resources at its disposal. The company will not hesitate to leverage those resources to minimize your claim value or deny your claim outright. Featured case result: GEICO Policy Limits Settlement for Client Who Suffered Head Injury in Auto Accident This was a difficult case where the driver of the vehicle, in which our client was a passenger, made a left turn in front of oncoming traffic causing a collision with a Ford Mustang. Unfortunately, the driver turning left had no bodily injury insurance. Our client was taken to the emergency room where she remained for three days. She suffered a significant head injury including a traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage. Additionally, our client sustained a fracture to the lower portion of her neck and was recommended for surgery. We presented a comprehensive demand package to GEICO, the company that insured the other driver of the Mustang. We argued that that driver had a clear opportunity to see that the vehicle our client was in was in control of the intersection. Further, the vehicle our client was in had nearly completed its turn when the Mustang plowed into it. The facts also suggested that the Mustang was speeding. Thus, we argued that the Mustang was partially at fault for causing the accident. Recognizing its potential for being sued and partially responsible, GEICO paid its entire limit of liability insurance to our client. Fortunately, we were also able to reduce our client’s substantial medical bills and obtain a substantial recovery for her. How Long Does It Take GEICO to Send a Settlement Check? You won’t collect any compensation from GEICO until you agree to a settlement. Once you initiate a claim, the company will assign an adjustor to review the facts of your case. The adjustor will eventually come to you with an offer to resolve the case. The company’s first settlement offer is likely to seriously undervalue your claim, often to the point of being ridiculous. However, some accident victims accept these lowball offers because the company’s adjustors convince them it’s the best they’re going to get. Other victims accept lowball offers because they need the funds immediately. If you want to recover the full value of your damages, you could be waiting and negotiating for a long time. GEICO and other insurers rely on the fact that individual consumers often lack the legal knowledge and resources to fight for fair compensation. Hiring a car accident lawyer near you in Florida to represent you can help force the insurer to negotiate in good faith and offer a reasonable settlement. Tips for Getting Fair Value in Your Florida GEICO Accident Settlement You can’t expect GEICO (or any large insurance company) to play fair when it comes to negotiating your settlement. Fortunately, you can take action to help prevent large insurers from taking advantage of you. Do Not Provide...

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Bulging Disc from Car Accident Settlement

Dec 10, 2020 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Though they occur every day, no one ever expects to be involved in a car accident. However, the trauma of a car accident in Florida is further complicated if you suffer a debilitating injury. Though common, bulging disc injuries affect everyone differently. If you suffered a bulging disc injury from a car accident, settlement with the other driver’s insurance may be an option for you. The severity of your injury affects your bulging disc settlement value. Contact a personal injury attorney to review the facts of your case and possible bulging disc car accident compensation.  What Is a Bulging Disc? In our back, we have multiple discs positioned between our vertebrae to cushion our movements. Soft cartilage wraps each disc, shaped to fit between the vertebrae it cushions. As we age, the discs change shape and begin to protrude. Bulging disc is the term applied to these protruding discs.  Bulging discs can exist anywhere from the neck to the lower back. Though relatively common and often painless, bulging discs become uncomfortable when irritated or when a disc rests against the nerves of your spine.  Bulging discs can cause a wide array of symptoms, many not directly associated with the bulging disc’s location. Typically, these injuries cause headaches, numbness, pain in the neck, face, shoulder, back, and hands. A bulging disc in the lower back may cause numbness, pins-and-needles, and weakness in the legs. While bulging discs occur due to age and general deterioration, they may also be caused by traumatic events like a car accident. In these situations, you may wonder what your rights are for bulging disc car accident compensation.  Is There An Average Settlement For a Bulging Disc? Due to the wide range of injuries a bulging disc may cause, there is no average settlement for a bulging disc from a car accident. You can seek a settlement for a bulging disc injury in the neck or spine. However, you may wonder how much would a settlement be for a bulging disc injury you suffered. Various factors influence a bulging disc settlement value.  Age  As you age, your risk of suffering a bulging disc injury increases. Additionally, as you age, your ability to recover more quickly from injuries lessens. Therefore, age and your ability to recover will play a factor in your bulging disc settlement.  Medical History  Even if you had a bulging disc or another injury before your accident, this does not prevent you from pursuing a bulging disc from car accident settlement. Insurance companies may attempt to call your bulging disc a pre-existing injury.  You can receive compensation even for a pre-existing injury if the accident made your injury worse. However, you may receive less for your bulging disc car accident compensation than you would with a new injury. The average settlement for pre-existing injuries depends greatly on the unique circumstances of each case. Salary & Lost Wages If your bulging disc keeps you from working, you have a right to recover your lost wages in your settlement. The higher your pre-injury wages, the higher your bulging disc settlement may be.   Nature of Injury  A bulging disc settlement value is affected by the prognosis of your injury after your car accident. For example, if your bulging disc injury improves over a few months, your bulging disc car accident compensation may not be substantial. In contrast, if you suffer lifelong issues such as chronic pain, limited mobility, inability to work, and other symptoms as a result of your bulging disc after a car accident, your settlement amount may be greater.  Pain and Suffering In many cases, a bulging disc injury can cause pain and suffering, including psychological and emotional symptoms that are not easily quantifiable. For example, if your bulging disc injury causes chronic pain, this may result in emotional stresses since you cannot return to your everyday life before your injury. These types of injuries, while difficult to quantify, may also increase the settlement value of your case. Bulging Disc Injuries and Insurance Companies  Insurance companies are not eager to pay out fair bulging disc settlements. Insurance companies may claim your injury was pre-existing in an effort to reduce your compensation. Additionally, they may attempt to claim you were at fault for the accident. For these reasons, it’s essential to have an experienced personal injury attorney representing your interests. Many unrepresented and injured parties settle for less compensation than they would have received if they retained a personal injury attorney.  Personal injury attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk carefully compile necessary evidence and documentation to strengthen your claim. We guide clients on their path to recovery through diligent representation and advocacy.  What Should I Do About Treatment For My Bulging Disc?  After suffering a suspected bulging disc injury, it’s best to seek medical attention to receive an assessment from a medical professional. For purposes of your bulging disc settlement, retain all medical records regarding your injury. Your diagnosis and prognosis are all factors impacting your bulging disc settlement value.  How Long Can the Bulging Disc From a Car Accident Settlement Process Take?  If parties agree to a settlement, an insurance company must pay the claim within 20 days. If it is a personal injury protection claim, the insurance company must pay the claim within 30 days. Timelines are dependent, however, on the ability of the parties to reach a satisfactory settlement.  There are many reasons why a settlement may take longer to reach. Disputed Factual and Legal Issues In many situations, the parties may not agree on various factual or legal issues relating to a bulging disc injury. For example, there may be a dispute regarding the injury’s severity or who is at fault for the accident.  Settlement Value  If your bulging disc settlement value is likely to be high, your case might take longer. Insurance companies are not eager to pay out large sums of money in lawsuits, so they are more likely to contest legal or factual issues in high-value cases. Medical Improvement If your...

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Do Car Accident Settlements Cover Chiropractic Treatment?

Nov 3, 2020 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Many car accidents result in back and neck injuries or nerve damage. If you do not receive treatment for a back or neck injury, you may suffer long term pain and discomfort. Seeing a chiropractor after your accident is one way to avoid long term complications from injuries. If a negligent driver caused your car accident, you may be able to receive compensation from them or their insurance company. This compensation can cover the costs of seeing a chiropractor. There are some things you should know about compensation for chiropractor costs and your car accident claim. When Should I See a Chiropractor? Even if you do not experience immediate pain, it is a good idea to see a doctor after your accident. You should seek medical attention after a car accident whether or not you think you are injured. Some injuries are not apparent right away. You may start to feel pain or discomfort hours or even days after the accident occurs. Seeing a doctor can help you identify and treat injuries before they become worse. If your doctor recommends chiropractic treatment, you should see a chiropractor. Chiropractors can help you heal and rehabilitate after a back or neck injury.  You should listen to your doctor and chiropractor and continue to receive chiropractic treatment for as long as they recommend. Your chiropractor can also help you document your injuries and your recovery process, which can be helpful supporting evidence for a personal injury lawsuit. Will a Car Accident Settlement Cover My Chiropractic Treatment in Florida? A car accident plaintiff who proves that the other party’s negligence caused their injuries is entitled to compensation for reasonably necessary medical expenses. Courts consider chiropractic treatment a medical expense. This means that your personal injury settlement can cover your chiropractic treatment as long as the treatment was reasonably necessary. Your attorney can produce carefully documented treatment records to prove to a jury that the treatment was necessary.  While some people are skeptical about whether chiropractic treatment is effective, this will not prevent you from receiving damages that include the cost of your treatment. The main obstacle to receiving compensation for your chiropractic expenses will be establishing that all of the treatment you received was needed to treat your injuries.  Negotiating with Insurance Agents We will likely have to negotiate a settlement with the responsible driver’s insurance company. Most personal injury cases are resolved through settlements and do not get in front of a jury. The responsible driver’s insurance company may try to offer you a settlement amount that does not cover the full cost of your chiropractic bills. This is where hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer can greatly benefit you. Your personal injury lawyer will know how a jury is likely to decide your Florida car accident claim. They can use this information as leverage to negotiate a higher settlement with the insurance agent. If you have a strong claim and evidence showing that all your chiropractic expenses were necessary, you have a better chance of convincing an insurance agent to pay your full chiropractic costs through a settlement. How Can We Help with Your Accident Case? If you or a loved one saw a chiropractor after your accident, Abrahamson & Uiterwyk can help you get the compensation you deserve. With over 30 years of experience handling a variety of personal injury claims, our attorneys will know how to handle insurance agents who are reluctant to give you a fair settlement. Our attorneys can gather medical records and support for your claim to establish that you should recover the full cost of your chiropractic expenses. We will advocate passionately for you and make your case a top priority. Get Your Accident Questions Answered Contact Abrahamson & Uiterwyk with all of your car accident questions. Our experienced attorneys and staff are ready to listen to the details of your personal injury claim and discuss next steps. Call us today to start the process to pursue the compensation for your post-accident chiropractic expenses.

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What Should I Expect from the Car Accident Injury Settlement Process with State Farm?

May 29, 2020 | Category: Valuing Injury Claims | By Erik Abrahamson

Car accident injury in Florida? This article will help you understand the factors that most impact the potential settlement amount for your injuries and damages when dealing with State Farm. Handling a car accident injury settlement with an insurance company can be complicated and stressful. Unfortunately, this process cannot always be avoided. However, an experienced personal injury attorney can play a pivotal role in obtaining a favorable settlement. If you have been involved in a car accident in Florida and are overwhelmed with handling the claims process with State Farm, or any other insurance company for that matter, we want to help. The Tampa car accident lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk have a reputation for excellence in helping car accident victims recover. We have extensive experience dealing with insurance companies, and we are ready and willing to fight for your rights to get you the compensation you deserve. What You Need to Know About State Farm Accident Settlements The Florida car accident settlement process can be strenuous and time-consuming. To make matters worse, it often feels as if insurance companies, like State Farm, will try anything they can to deny your claim or pay out as little as possible. However, there are some important things you should know that can help you maximize your State Farm accident settlement. What Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Florida The time immediately following a car accident in Florida is crucial. If you are able, there are a few important steps that you should take to give yourself your best shot at success: Stop and check for injuries;  Call the police and report the accident; Get identification and contact information of other parties involved in the accident; Gather evidence to support your claim; Take photographs of the scene and the vehicles involved Collect witness statements; Seek medical attention to further assess any injuries; and Continue to monitor how you feel in the coming days and weeks.  Unless you have sustained substantial injuries in your car accident, in which case you should seek medical attention immediately, it is imperative that you take the above steps. State Farm may try to deny your claim for a number of reasons. However, taking the appropriate steps and collecting as much information and evidence as possible can go a long way in preventing your claim from being denied. What to Do If You Are Insured by State Farm  Once you’ve made sure to take the proper steps immediately after your accident, it is time to begin your claims process. If you have sustained injuries or property damage in a car accident and you are insured by State Farm, the first step in this process will be to contact State Farm to file your claim. In fact, your policy will often require this. Failure to promptly file your claim could result in losing out on valuable compensation you may be owed. You can file a claim online or by calling 800-SF-CLAIM (800-732-5246). Once you file your claim, State Farm will assign an insurance adjuster to investigate your claim and negotiate your settlement with you. However, it is important to note that you do not have to sign or accept any settlement that State Farm offers you. We would always recommend consulting with an attorney before agreeing to any settlement to ensure that you do not miss out on any compensation you may be entitled to. What to Do If State Farm Contacts You If you are not insured by State Farm and they contact you, know that you are not obligated to speak with their representatives. In this scenario, State Farm does not represent your best interests. Rather, they will have a strong financial incentive to protect the interests of their insured. Thus, State Farm will likely do everything in its power to deny your accident claims outright or negotiate the lowest possible settlement. Dealing with another party’s insurance company can feel intimidating. Our car accident attorneys can take on this burden and communicate with them on your behalf. Don’t feel pressured to accept any offer until you have had a chance to review it with a lawyer. What Is the Average State Farm Settlement Amount for Whiplash? Unfortunately, there is no “average” settlement amount for a whiplash claim or any other bodily injury resulting from a car accident. However, there are certain factors that exist that can help you determine your potential recovery. What Compensation Can I Recover? In a Florida car accident case, there are generally two types of damages for which you may receive compensation: compensatory damages, which can be broken down into economic and non-economic damages, and punitive damages. Economic damages are the monetary losses that you incur as a result of your accident. These include: Past and future medical expenses; Property damage; Loss of earning capacity; and  Lost wages.  Economic damages will help compensate you for your financial losses. Thus, it is important to get the full amount you are owed from the insurance company so that you can begin to recover. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are more subjective and can be difficult to ascertain and calculate. Examples of non-economic damages include: Pain and suffering;  Loss of enjoyment of activities; and  Loss of consortium.  Economic damages will help compensate you for your financial losses. Thus, it is important to get the full amount you are owed from the insurance company so that you can begin to recover. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are more subjective and can be difficult to ascertain and calculate. Examples of non-economic damages include: Are There Any Limits to My Amount of Recovery?  In Florida, there are no limits to the amount of compensatory damages a court can award in a car accident lawsuit. However, State Farm will not be obligated to offer a settlement amount above the policy limit. Thus, if your actual damages exceed State Farm’s settlement offer, you may need to begin to consider whether you want to settle or seek a higher...

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