What to Do If Your Stomach Hurts After a Car Accident

Nov 3, 2020 | Category: Articles & FAQ | By Abrahamson & Uiterwyk

After a car accident, some injuries take a few days to become noticeable. One type of pain that commonly appears sometime after an accident is stomach pain. Stomach or lower abdominal pain after a car accident can be caused by the seat belt pressing against your abdomen. Here, we will talk about what you should do if you or someone you know is experiencing stomach pain after a car accident. Stomach Pains After a Car Accident: First Steps The first thing you should do if you have abdominal pain after a car accident is seek medical attention. Stomach and lower abdominal pain can be a sign of internal injuries or internal bleeding. Sometimes, the impact of a car accident can cause rupture or other damage to your internal organs. Even if you just think you are a little sore, you should see a doctor to make sure the pain isn’t the result of a more serious post-accident injury.  It is especially important that children see a doctor if they are experiencing stomach pains after a car accident. Children do not have as much abdominal fat to cushion an impact as adults. Their abdominal muscles may also not be fully developed, making them more susceptible to abdominal injuries. Signs and Symptoms of Abdominal Pain While abdominal pain after a car accident is one sign of abdominal trauma or internal injury, there are other symptoms to watch for as well. Possible signs of an internal injury include: Swollen stomach after car accident; Cuts or bruises where the seat belt rests on your abdomen; Upset stomach after car accident; Nausea and vomiting; Constipation or diarrhea; and Fever. If you have any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Abdominal pain after a car accident may not start until hours or days after the accident. You should see a doctor about delayed stomach pain just to be safe. Seat Belt Syndrome The medical community has dubbed the various car accident injuries caused by seat belts “seat belt syndrome.” When a car stops or decelerates suddenly, your body will push against the seat belt with a lot of force. While seat belts help to keep drivers and passengers in place, preventing head injuries, the force of your body pressing against the seat belt can cause other injuries. These include bruises or marks from the seat belt, chest and neck injuries, and fractures of the lower spine. The force of the impact from your seat belt during a car accident can be strong enough to rupture or cut organs or major arteries. This can cause conditions such as internal bleeding which can be deadly if left untreated. Even if you do not think you were in a high impact collision, you should seek medical attention for stomach pain after a car accident. How We Will Help with Your Case If you experienced abdominal pain after a car accident and were diagnosed with internal injuries, our law office can help you get compensation. If a negligent driver caused your accident, you may be able to recover your medical costs and lost wages through a lawsuit. Abrahamson & Uiterwyk has more than 30 years of experience helping accident victims and other injured people get the compensation they deserve.  Our law office is ready to talk about your accident and answer any questions you may have. We will treat your case like a priority from beginning to end so you can cope with the aftermath of your accident injuries. Contact us today to talk about receiving prompt and aggressive representation in your personal injury case.

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Do Car Accident Settlements Cover Chiropractic Treatment?

Nov 3, 2020 | Category: Articles & FAQ | By Abrahamson & Uiterwyk

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 Settlement Cover My Chiropractic Treatment? 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 You 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 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 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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Reasons Why Delayed Pain After a Car Accident Can Be Serious

Nov 3, 2020 | Category: Articles & FAQ | By Abrahamson & Uiterwyk

Car accidents can cause injuries; that’s no secret. They can range from minor bumps and bruises to broken limbs and traumatic brain injuries and practically everything in between. Sometimes, in the aftermath of an accident, you may feel just fine. The human body’s natural response to stress is to flood your body with adrenaline, masking underlying pain or injuries. But days or even weeks down the line, you may begin to feel twinges and aches that could be signs of serious or injury. If you experienced delayed pain after a car accident, you need to see your doctor right away. Common Delayed Pain Symptoms While stiffness and soreness are common after-effects of a car crash, there are some physical signs that you should not ignore. For example, delayed back pain after a car accident is more normal than you think. There are a few symptoms to watch out for, and they can be indicative of a serious injury. Bodily Injury Pains You should not ignore any aches and pains following your accident. Delayed stiffness and soreness in your back or shoulders can mean you suffered a severe whiplash injury and may have damage in your neck or back.  Back pain is another common delayed symptom of injury. Back pain can mean you suffered a musculoskeletal or nerve injury in your upper, mid, or lower back. You should also take any abdominal pain seriously. This can signal internal injuries like lacerations or bleeding that requires surgical intervention. Symptoms of a Head Injury Brain injuries are very serious. Concussion symptoms may take a little while to manifest, and brain clots or brain bleeds can be deadly. Be on the lookout for: Headaches, Memory issues and trouble focusing, Vision and balance problems, Mood swings, and Fainting and bouts of unconsciousness. Remember to always listen to your body. If something doesn’t seem right, go with your instincts. It may save your life. How Long After an Accident Can Pain or Injuries Show Up? When pain after a car accident is delayed, it is usually due to the type of injury a person suffers. Doctors don’t know exactly why some people experience symptoms right away, and others don’t. One explanation is the high amount of adrenaline in a person’s system in stressful situations, but that doesn’t explain all delayed symptoms. Regardless, it is not an uncommon phenomenon, especially with the following injuries: Internal bleeding may not manifest symptoms for 24 to 72 hours; Concussion symptoms may take days to show up; and Brain and neck injuries may be undetected for up to a week. Don’t ignore any symptoms, even if they show up days or even weeks after your accident. If My Symptoms Are Delayed, Can I Still Seek Compensation? Delayed pain and injury symptoms after an accident are common. If your injury is the result of the crash, you are absolutely entitled to seek compensation for it. But it can be harder to prove to the insurance company that those injuries are related to the same accident. Be sure to keep records of any medical treatments you receive, as well as any future therapy you may need. Then contact an experienced personal injury attorney to help you build your claim the right way. Never Accept a Settlement Offer Without Legal Advice In the aftermath of an accident, the other driver’s insurance company will want to do their best to settle your claim quickly and for as little money as possible. Remember that they probably will not offer you the entire amount you’re entitled to—at least at first. Keep calm and talk to an attorney as soon as you can. An experienced personal injury attorney can tell you if the insurance company’s proposed settlement is a lowball offer and can negotiate with the insurer on your behalf. If necessary, they can even take your claim to court to pursue the full amount of compensation you deserve.  Suffering Delayed Pain After a Car Wreck? Call Abrahamson & Uiterwyk Today! At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we know that the aftermath of an accident is a chaotic and stressful time. If you are experiencing delayed symptoms and pain from the wreck, this stress is only multiplied. Our team of personal injury attorneys is here to help you fight for fair compensation for your injuries and will be with you every step of the way. From our offices in Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and New Port Richey, we take pride in providing Floridians with personal and passionate legal advocacy. Get in touch with us anytime via phone at 800-753-5203, text us at 727-312-1275, or fill out our online contact form for a free case evaluation today.

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Average Settlement for a Fractured Sternum After a Car Accident

Nov 3, 2020 | Category: Articles & FAQ | By Abrahamson & Uiterwyk

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? Is there an average settlement for a fractured sternum?  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 any accrued medical bills, lost wages, and damage to your vehicle. 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 damages for physical pain and suffering, emotional and psychological trauma, loss of quality of life, and 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 the Average Broken Sternum Car Accident Settlement? The simple answer is, there is no average settlement. Every single personal injury case is different, and this is true even for each fractured sternum claim. 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. They can help you calculate a fair amount to seek in settlement but will also prepare to take your case to trial if necessary.  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. In addition to the physical pain, you are probably worried about the medical bills and wages you’ll lose if you aren’t able to work.  At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we are here to help. Our experienced team of personal injury attorneys will put our years of experience to work for you and fight to get you the compensation you deserve. We have offices in Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and New Port Richey and offer a free case evaluation. Get in touch with us anytime via phone at 800-753-5203, text us at 727-312-1275, or fill out our online contact form.

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Common Questions About Average Broken Rib Car Accident Settlement Amounts

Nov 3, 2020 | Category: Articles & FAQ | By Abrahamson & Uiterwyk

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: Tightness in your chest; Pain and tenderness in the general area, especially if you touch it; Bruising and swelling in the area of fracture; Pain when you twist or bend your body; Internal bleeding; and Pain when you cough. Doctors can usually diagnose a fractured rib by doing an x-ray. Not all fractures will show up though, 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? 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 the Settlement? Several elements can play a crucial role in the possible settlement you might receive. Factors that can most impact your settlement include: The severity of the car accident and your injuries; The types of treatment you received and how long you needed to treat; The amount of time you missed from work and whether you can return to work; and Whether there’s any future treatment required. 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 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? 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 follows the legal theory of pure comparative negligence. That means you can potentially collect a portion of your damages, even if you are primarily at fault for the accident. For example, if you are deemed 20% at fault, you could collect up to 80% of your damages. If you are 60% at fault, you could receive up to 40% of your damages.

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What Are Average Sciatica Car Accident Settlement Amounts

Nov 3, 2020 | Category: Articles & FAQ | By Abrahamson & Uiterwyk

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 car accident that resulted in sciatic nerve pain, you might be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Sciatica car accident settlements vary, which is why it’s essential to speak with an experienced Tampa car accident lawyer who can help. Symptoms of Sciatica After a 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: Tingling or burning in your leg, often made worse when sitting down; Sharp pain when you stand up or try to walk; Constant pain in one leg or side of the buttocks; Numbness or weakness when moving the foot or leg; and Difficulty bending the foot upward, known as “foot drop.” 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 Settlement for Sciatica After An Accident 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 settlement amount. However, no set amount or range determines how much you could receive for your injuries. Every person’s injuries are different, and therefore they are evaluated on an individual basis.    Factors That Impact Compensation Multiple things can affect your potential settlement or jury award. The factors that can impact your compensation most include:   The severity of the accident; What your injuries are; The severity of your injuries; The type and length of your treatments; The amount of time you lost from work; Your future medical needs; Whether you now have a disability rating; How much impact the accident had on your daily activities; and Your physical pain and suffering. Keep a pain journal and document how your injuries impacted your life. Be sure to share all the details with your lawyer.   Will a Lawyer Help Me Get More Money Hiring a Tampa car accident law firm like Abrahamson & Uiterwyk can work to obtain more money in a sciatica car accident settlement. We have the experience necessary to fight for the compensation you deserve. We’ve represented over 20,000 injury victims in Florida, earning a successful reputation for helping our clients recover over $300,000,000 to date. How We Can Help with Your Case When you hire the Tampa car accident attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, we will help with every aspect of your case. We will conduct a thorough independent examination and gather all the evidence necessary to prove your case. You won’t need to worry about dealing with the at-fault driver’s insurance company either. We will handle all communications and negotiations with all responsible parties. We will prepare your case for trial if it doesn’t resolve through negotiations. We have more than three decades of experience. Let us put our experience to work for you. Contact Abrahamson & Uiterwyk today to schedule a consultation. Get Your Accident Questions Answered Prospective clients often have questions before meeting with us. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we get to help you prepare for your initial consultation. Will I Receive Any Compensation If I’m Partially at Fault? Florida law allows you to collect for a portion of your damages even if you share some responsibility for the accident. That is because Florida is a pure comparative negligence state. For example, if you are 30% at fault, you could still receive 70% of your damages. How Soon After the Accident Should I Retain an Attorney? The sooner you retain an attorney, the better it is for your case. We can immediately start working on gathering evidence and strengthening your liability argument. Early representation can also reduce the risk of you saying something to the insurance company that could jeopardize your case, such as an answer in a recorded statement. How Much Does It Cost to Retain an Attorney? Most car accident attorneys work on a contingency basis. You aren’t responsible for any upfront fees or costs. Your attorney will take a percentage of your settlement or jury award to cover their expenses and costs. That means if you don’t recover any compensation, you won’t be responsible for paying any attorney’s fees or costs.

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Leg Pain After a Car Accident? Here’s What to Do Next.

Nov 3, 2020 | Category: Articles & FAQ | By Abrahamson & Uiterwyk

Are you or a loved one experiencing leg pain after a car accident? If so, it may not be in your best interest to wait and see if you get better on your own. Car accident victims face a high risk of suffering injuries to the lower extremities. The hips, legs, and feet are highly susceptible to injury in most types of car accidents, along with the ankle and knee joints. Left undiagnosed and untreated, you could develop complications and potentially even permanent injuries or disability. If the accident wasn’t your fault, you might have a valid legal claim. You could be entitled to recover compensation for your medical treatment, lost wages, emotional trauma, pain and suffering, and more. At Abrahamson & Uiterwyk, our Florida car accident lawyers help personal injury victims pursue the justice and financial compensation they deserve. If you are suffering from any car accident-related injury, call on us for help. Common Types of Leg Injuries Suffered in Car Accidents The structure of the lower limbs involves a complex network of bones, ligaments, tendons, nerves, blood vessels, and soft tissue. The possibilities for injuries—from mild to devastating—are countless. The following are some of the most common types of leg injuries that result from car accidents. Fractures You have more than 60 different bones in your lower extremities, including the femur (thigh bone), tibia, and fibula (lower leg bones). The force of a collision can break or shatter one or more of these bones.  Broken femurs, which are unfortunately common in car accidents, can take months to heal, leaving you immobile and potentially unable to work. Soft Tissue Damage Damage to your ligaments, tendons, cartilage, muscles, or nerves are all potential results of a car crash. Some of the most common include ACL tears and damage to the meniscus in the knee. Without proper treatment, you could develop arthritis and other potentially debilitating conditions. Lost Limbs or Digits In extreme cases, accident victims can suffer leg injuries so severe that they result in the full or partial loss of the leg(s) or toe(s). This type of injury can also occur after the fact if the victim develops an infection or loses blood flow to the lower limbs. If you suffered a severe injury, you likely had immediate medical attention. If your injuries didn’t seem serious at the time, however, you might have skipped seeing a doctor for evaluation. As a result, you could develop leg pain later without knowing the cause. Should I Seek Medical Treatment Even If My Injuries Don’t Seem Serious? After any motor vehicle collision, you should see a qualified medical treatment professional for evaluation. If you don’t get checked out by EMTs at the scene of the crash, consider going to the ER or urgent care immediately. You can also make an appointment with a doctor for evaluation, as long as you do so right away. You might not experience symptoms of your injuries right away. If you’re in shock, you may not feel pain or discomfort as you normally would. Internal and soft tissue injuries can take hours or days to start causing symptoms. By then, you could develop potentially dangerous complications. Building the strongest possible legal case is another important reason to seek medical attention immediately. Your attorney will use your medical testing and treatment records as the basis of your claim. If you hold off on going to the doctor or ER, the insurance company could argue that your injuries must not have been that serious. Can I Seek Compensation for My Car Accident Injuries? If another person caused or even contributed to your accident, you have the right to pursue legal action. Florida’s comparative negligence laws allow you to seek recover compensation for damages even if your actions contributed to the accident. Attorneys typically establish fault by demonstrating that another party caused your injury accident through negligent, reckless, or intentional action. The best way to determine if you have a viable case is to talk to an attorney. After reviewing the facts of your case, an attorney can recommend the best approach to pursuing legal action. Attorneys recommend pursuing a claim as quickly as possible. This helps ensure that your legal team can try to negotiate a settlement with the insurance company. If the insurer agrees to an acceptable settlement, you won’t have to wait for a trial to seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Talk to a Florida Car Accident Attorney Today for Answers The Florida personal injury lawyers of Abrahamson & Uiterwyk have more than three decades of experience helping car accident victims get justice. We offer a free consultation and case evaluation to help you get started with the legal process. We answer your questions and explain your options, so you can make the best choice for your future health and well-being. Before you make any decisions or provide any statements to the insurance company, call or contact us online to learn more, or to speak with one of our Florida car accident attorneys about your leg pain.

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What to Do If You Experience Wrist Pain After a Car Accident

Nov 3, 2020 | Category: Articles & FAQ | By Abrahamson & Uiterwyk

Car crash victims commonly experience wrist injuries as a result of their accident. These injuries can be significant, causing pain and stripping the victim of mobility and function. If you are experiencing wrist pain after a car accident, it is important for you to seek medical treatment to help avoid complications and further damage. If your accident was caused by the actions of another party, you should also contact an experienced personal injury attorney to explore your options for pursuing legal action. In Florida, the experienced car accident attorneys of Abrahamson & Uiterwyk fight to protect the rights of the wrongfully injured, helping them get justice and financial compensation for their injuries and other damages. Types of Wrist Injuries You Might Suffer in a Car Accident Although a motor vehicle collision can cause virtually any type of injuries, wrist and hand injuries are some of the most common. Dislocations, sprains, fractures, and tendon damage are common. You could also experience nerve damage and other complications. Left untreated, these conditions can lead to permanent damage. You could be rendered unable to work or handle basic household or personal tasks. Next Steps to Take After a Collision If You Experience Wrist Pain After an accident, victims may not realize the extent of their injuries right away. Some injuries—especially internal and soft tissue damage—may not present with symptoms immediately. In addition, you might go into shock, which can also mask any pain or discomfort you would otherwise experience. It’s always best to seek medical attention at the scene of the accident or seek treatment immediately afterward. However, if you experience wrist or hand pain in the hours, days, or even weeks after an accident, consider the following steps. See an Orthopedic Physician Immediately after an accident, going to the ER or an urgent care facility can help ensure you get the treatment you need. If you develop pain later, however, see a specialist in the area of concern. For hand and wrist pain, that is likely to be an orthopedic doctor or surgeon. These treatment professionals have the knowledge and resources to thoroughly evaluate your condition and recommend the best course of treatment. If you don’t know an orthopedist, a personal injury attorney may be able to recommend one for you. Document Your Experience Whenever you are involved in an accident of any kind, it’s imperative to collect as much information as you can. On the scene, take photos and gather contact information from witnesses and other involved parties. Request the police report number from the officer on-scene, so you can easily obtain a copy later. Keep all receipts, medical treatment records, and any other documentation involved with your accident and the aftermath. Get a small, spiral-bound notebook and keep an ongoing record of your symptoms and how they affect your life. Together, these records will form the basis of your car accident injury claim. Talk to a Car Accident Attorney The sooner you can talk to a lawyer, the better. Having a lawyer onboard is highly effective for protecting your legal right to recover compensation. Your attorney can collect evidence and interview witnesses while the accident is still fresh in their memories. Waiting too long to pursue a claim may give the insurance company grounds for attempting to deny or undervalue your claim. What Is the Average Florida Car Accident Settlement for Wrist Injuries? Hand and wrist injuries can be complex to diagnose and difficult to treat. The nature of your injuries and how they may affect your life helps determine the potential value of your claim. However, because every accident is different, we can’t accurately estimate any average wrist injury settlement value. The best way to find out whether you have a viable claim is to consult an experienced attorney. The Florida injury accident lawyers at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk can evaluate the details of your case and recommend the best course of action. In most cases, we can reach a settlement agreement with the at-fault party’s insurance company. We have more than 30 years of experience. During that time, we have helped more than 20,000 clients and recovered more than $300 million in settlements and jury on their behalf. We provide a highly personalized level of service, helping us earn a wealth of praise and positive feedback from our clients. Contact a Florida Car Accident Attorney Today for Help The experienced and compassionate personal injury lawyers of Abrahamson & Uiterwyk will handle every aspect of your case. We take on the biggest insurance companies and fight to get you the outcome you deserve. Before you talk to the insurance company, provide a statement, or consider accepting any settlement officer, contact us to explore your options. For a free consultation, contact us today or call to speak to one of our Florida car accident lawyers about your case.

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Compensation to Expect From Nerve Damage After a Car Accident

Nov 3, 2020 | Category: Articles & FAQ | By Abrahamson & Uiterwyk

Along with bringing financial and emotional stress, car accidents can leave a person severely injured. Injuries resulting from a car accident can vary greatly, including nerve damage. It is essential to understand what nerve damage is and how it can affect you. Thankfully, you have legal options.  If you or a loved one has suffered nerve damage after a car accident, do not hesitate to contact a car accident attorney.  What Is the Nervous System? The nervous system plays a vital role in your body. This system is responsible for everything your body does, from controlling muscle movements to speaking. The nervous system is primarily composed of the brain and spinal cord.  There are three main types of nerves in the body:  Autonomic nerves: control heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and other involuntary or partially voluntary bodily activities; Motor nerves: control every movement by sending signals from your brain down to your spinal cord and muscles; and Sensory nerves: located under skin and muscles, these nerves transmit information to your brain and spinal cord, allowing your brain to process feelings and sensations.  Because the nervous system is so important, nerve damage can severely affect a person’s quality of life.  What Is Nerve Damage? Nerve damage, or neuropathy, is often caused by stretching and pressure of the nerves or when an injury severs nerves completely. Nerve damage can occur for various reasons aside from accidents, including infection and exposure to toxins.  Nerve damage can occur in multiple locations in the body, most commonly the back, neck, and extremities. Typical treatment for nerve damage can include medication, physical therapy, or surgery. After a car accident, seeking medical treatment is essential to determine whether you’ve sustained nerve damage and to start treatment right away. How a Car Accident Can Cause Nerve Damage Because car accidents can be dangerous and result in severe injuries, nerve damage occurs often. Typical causes of nerve damage in a car accident include: Whiplash; Lacerations; and Blunt-force trauma.  The body can experience significant force and trauma in a car accident, resulting in nerve damage. However, this is not always immediately evident after a car accident. A doctor may be able to diagnose nerve damage even if you don’t feel it. Checking for nerve damage is another important reason to seek medical attention immediately after a car accident. Common Signs and Symptoms of Nerve Damage Nerve damage after a car accident can present itself in many different, unexpected ways. What you feel will all depend on the nerves affected and what kind they are. Common signs and symptoms associated with autonomic nerve damage include: Inability to feel chest pain, Dry eyes/mouth, Lightheadedness, Bladder dysfunction, and Sexual dysfunction. Signs and symptoms of motor nerve damage include: Weakness, Twitching, and Paralysis. Signs and symptoms of damage to the sensory nerves include: Numbness, Tingling, Pain, and A burning sensation. In some instances, a car accident victim may experience a mixture of symptoms, indicating damage to multiple types of nerves. It is crucial to discuss any signs and symptoms you are experiencing with your doctor to properly diagnose any nerve damage. What Compensation Can I Expect? If you’ve suffered nerve damage after a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. The two kinds of damages you can seek are economic and non-economic damages.  Economic damages are straightforward and quantifiable. They include compensation for: Medical bills, Lost wages, and Loss of earning ability. On the other hand, non-economic damages are a little more challenging to calculate. These include compensation for: Pain and suffering, Mental and emotional anguish, and Loss of enjoyment of life. These damages are for emotional losses and typically have with little to no supporting documentation. Luckily, your car accident attorney will calculate the damages available to you, fighting aggressively to get the compensation you deserve.  Factors Affecting Compensation Certain factors may affect the amount of compensation you receive. Some of these factors include: The severity of the injury; Whether you share fault for the accident; The insurance company’s willingness to settle. Is a Lawyer Necessary? While no law requires anyone to have legal representation after a car accident, it is to your benefit to have a car accident attorney on your side. Car accident cases involving severe injuries like nerve damage can present challenges, but an attorney will know how to handle your case. Your attorney will: Conduct a thorough investigation; Gather evidence and documentation; Calculate damages; and Engage in settlement negotiations.  Having an attorney will give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on your recovery, knowing your case is in the best hands.  Get Your Accident Questions Answered Abrahamson & Uiterwyk has over 30 years of experience fighting for injured clients. We’ve had the pleasure of representing over 20,000 clients, working diligently to secure hundreds of millions of dollars in damages. Our team understands the hardship and frustration car accidents can cause, and we’re here to help you find a solution. We offer free case reviews. Contact us today, and let’s explore your legal options. 

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Am I Eligible for Compensation If I Experience PTSD After a Car Accident?

Nov 2, 2020 | Category: Articles & FAQ | By Abrahamson & Uiterwyk

A car accident can result in not just physical injuries but mental and emotional damage as well. Car crashes, especially those involving high-speed impact or serious injury are stressful and trauma inducing. Sometimes, the stress responses your body produces to help you cope during a traumatic event continue once the event is over. This can result in post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. PTSD can interfere with your life just as much as physical injury. You may be eligible for compensation for PTSD after a car accident.  What Is PTSD? When you witness an anxiety-inducing situation, your brain activates certain stress responses that are helpful in the particular situation. These responses, sometimes called fight or flight responses, include increased heart rate, feelings of anxiety, and hyper-alertness, including inability to sleep and focus. People suffering from PTSD continue to experience these symptoms long after the stressful event has passed.  PTSD manifests differently in different people, but some common symptoms are: Panic attacks; Anxiety surrounding certain events, places, or situations; Desire to avoid social interaction; Recurring recollections of the stressful event; Depression; Feelings of hopelessness or inability to feel emotions; Hyper-alertness; Paranoia; and Sleep disturbance. If you were recently in a car accident and are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. How PTSD Affects Your Car Accident Claim Several categories of car accident damages may account for the effects of PTSD on your life.  Damages related to car accident PTSD might be included in damages awarded for pain and suffering. One of the most important things about the effect of PTSD on your car accident claim is that you should avoid settling too soon after the accident. Often, the full extent of your PTSD symptoms will not be apparent right away. Even if your symptoms have appeared at the time you agree to a settlement, you may not yet be aware of the extent of the effect these symptoms have on your life. The avoidance and depression caused by PTSD may affect your personal relationships in the long term even though the short term effects are not evident. How We Will Help with Your Case The attorneys at Abrahamson & Uiterwyk can help you pursue compensation for PTSD suffered after a car accident. The experienced personal injury lawyers at our firm know how to use medical treatment records and other supporting evidence to establish that PTSD caused you losses following your accident. We can also provide you with the negotiating leverage you need to avoid accepting an initial, inadequate settlement offer.  Our attorneys have over 30 years of experience handling car accident cases. This includes extensive experience helping our clients obtain the compensation they deserve for PTSD after a car accident. Your case will be handed with compassion and professionalism from start to finish. Get Your Accident Questions Answered Contact Abrahamson & Uiterwyk to get all of your car accident questions answered. Our experienced attorneys and staff will discuss next steps and recommend the best course of action based on the details of your car accident. Call our office today to begin seeking the compensation you deserve for your car accident injuries, both physical and mental.

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