Miami Car Accident Attorneys

Independent Expert Witnesses in Catastrophic Car Accident Cases

Every personal injury firm uses expert witnesses. We’re selective about which ones. When a case calls for an engineering opinion, we don’t look for a generalist. We go directly to department heads at institutions such as MIT, drawing on faculty in metallurgy and body mechanics whose independence is unimpeachable. We don’t retain in-house professionals, because an expert with a financial relationship to a law firm offers an insurer’s attorney an easy target. Independent experts present the facts of a case without that vulnerability, and that distinction has mattered in the cases we’ve tried.

We also build the damages side of every catastrophic case with leading medical professionals, financial analysts, and life-care planners. Their work documents not just what a client has already lost, but what the rest of their life can cost.

Notable Car Accident Results

Our case results reflect decades of high-stakes litigation on behalf of seriously injured clients and surviving families. Past results don’t guarantee similar outcomes, but they do reflect how we approach these cases.

$2.8 Million Verdict, Single-Car Accident:
We obtained what is described as the largest known verdict for a single-car accident against an insurance company for uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. A 48-year-old chiropractor was forced to slam on his brakes to avoid a reckless driver, herniated his back in the process, and the insurer refused to negotiate reasonably. We took it to verdict. That case also established a significant legal precedent: physical contact between vehicles is not required for an injured person to recover damages under the Impact Rule.

$3.6 Million Jury Verdict, Wrongful Death Against the DOT:
In Miami, we obtained a $3.6 million jury verdict against the Florida Department of Transportation for the wrongful death of a single parent killed by a DOT truck driver. We then secured an additional $2 million through a special bill passed by the Florida Legislature for the same family, advocating at every available level while pursuing compensation available under the law.

$1 Million Presuit Settlement, Motorcycle vs. 18-Wheeler:
In Palm Beach County, we reached a $1 million presuit settlement against a trucking insurer on behalf of a motorcyclist struck by an 18-wheeler, resolving the case before a lawsuit was ever filed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Steps Can I Take to Strengthen My Car Accident Claim?

If your injuries allow, photograph the crash scene, all vehicles, and any visible injuries. When you seek medical care, make sure a physician thoroughly documents all injuries in writing. Don’t tell your insurer you’re fine unless you’re completely certain, and avoid any statements suggesting fault. Insurers use those words to limit payouts later. Retaining an auto accident attorney Miami before speaking with any insurance adjuster is one of the most protective steps you can take.

I Was Hurt on I-95 in Miami. Can I Get Compensation?

Yes. Once we’re retained, we handle all communications with insurers and opposing parties on your behalf. A vehicle accident attorney Miami advocates for what your claim is actually worth based on your injuries, lost income, and long-term needs, not what an adjuster’s first offer reflects. You focus on recovery while we handle the legal work.

The Driver Who Hit Me Fled. Can I Still Recover After a Hit-and-Run?

Yes, though it requires more steps. File a police report immediately. Your PIP coverage applies first. If the driver is never identified, your uninsured motorist coverage may provide an additional layer of recovery. You may also be eligible for compensation through the Florida Crimes Compensation Trust Fund if the at-fault driver is not located. A police report is required for both the insurance claim and the trust fund application.

How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Car Accident Claim in Florida?

Timelines vary considerably. Straightforward claims with clear liability and well-documented injuries can resolve in several months. Cases involving disputed facts, severe injuries, or litigation can take a year or longer. At Kurzban Kurzban Tetzeli & Pratt, we keep clients informed at every stage and work to move claims forward without compromising what they’re worth.

Can I Recover Damages If I’m Partially at Fault?

Under Florida’s modified comparative negligence law, effective March 24, 2023, under HB 837, you can recover damages if you’re found less than 51% at fault. Your recovery is reduced proportionally by your percentage of fault. If you’re found 51% or more at fault, you’re barred from recovering any damages. Fault allocation is contested in many cases, which is why having an attorney document and argue the other driver’s negligence matters from the start.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Accident Lawsuit in Florida?

For accidents occurring on or after March 24, 2023, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the crash under Florida Statute 95.11(4)(a) as amended by HB 837. Filing an insurance claim doesn’t pause this deadline. If you miss the two-year window, you lose the right to sue regardless of how serious your injuries are. Don’t wait.

What Not to Do After a Miami Car Accident

The decisions made in the minutes and days after a crash can affect the value of a claim significantly. A few things to keep in mind:

• Don’t leave the scene. Doing so can result in a hit-and-run charge regardless of fault.
• Check for injuries. Assess everyone involved and call for emergency assistance immediately.
• Document everything. Photograph vehicle damage, visible injuries, road conditions, and any relevant details at the scene.
• Collect information. Get the name, contact information, and insurance details of every involved party.
• Write it down. Record everything you remember about the crash as soon as possible while the details are fresh.
• Seek medical care within 14 days. Florida’s 14-day rule requires qualifying medical treatment within 14 days of the accident to preserve PIP benefits. Don’t delay.
• Don’t speak to insurers first. Insurance adjusters work to limit payouts. Talk to a car accident lawyer Miami before giving any recorded statement.
• Avoid admitting fault. Don’t say you’re fine or apologize at the scene. Those statements can be used against you in settlement negotiations.

Contact us today to get started with our Miami car accident attorney.