Collisions are inevitable in Fort Lauderdale, as they are across the country. Car accidents are a leading cause of injury and death in the area. Because crashes are so common, most states, including Florida, require drivers to carry insurance for property damage and bodily injury.
The Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers at Anidjar & Levine are dedicated to protecting your rights after a collision. We know how insurance companies are focused on protecting their bottom line, not your needs. Our Fort Lauderdale collision insurance lawyers provide client-focused legal services to injured drivers and their families. Contact us for a free consultation.
Fort Lauderdale Drivers Depend On Collision Insurance
As residents and commuters in the Fort Lauderdale area, we know people rely on their cars every day, so even minor collision damage can feel overwhelming. Repairs are costly, often leaving you without transportation for days. That’s when collision insurance becomes essential.
Collision coverage helps pay to repair or replace your own vehicle after an accident—regardless of who was at fault. If your car is totaled, the payout can be used toward a new vehicle. You can also file a claim under your policy or the at-fault driver’s insurance, depending on the circumstances.
Typically, your insurer will cover repair costs up to your policy limits. Sometimes, the damage is so extreme that it is declared a total loss, and you may opt for the cost of a replacement vehicle instead. Our Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers can help you determine who may owe you compensation after your accident.
Is Collision Insurance Mandatory In The State of Florida?
Florida law doesn’t require collision coverage. Florida insurance requirements include at least $10,000 in personal injury protection and property damage liability, but collision insurance is optional. It’s designed to supplement your coverage and usually comes with a deductible.
If your vehicle is financed, your lender may require collision coverage. Unlike comprehensive insurance, which covers non-collision events like theft or weather damage, collision insurance applies only to crashes involving vehicles or objects. You can purchase either type separately or bundle them for broader protection—depending on your budget and risk tolerance.
If you have collision insurance but insurers are delaying or rejecting your claims, the Fort Lauderdale collision attorneys at Anidjar & Levine can guide you.
Collision Insurance Does Not Bar Personal Injury Compensation
Even if your collision insurance covers vehicle repairs or replacement, you can still file a third-party claim against the at-fault driver and their insurer, depending on the severity of your injuries. If you are eligible to take legal action, you may be able to recover:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disability or disfigurement
- Loss of quality of life
You don’t have to navigate this process alone. Our collision insurance lawyers can help you pursue additional compensation through a personal injury claim or lawsuit. It’s important to note that Florida generally has a two-yearstatute of limitations for personal injury cases.
What To Do After A Collision To Protect Your Safety And Your Claim
Being in a car accident can be overwhelming, but the steps you take immediately afterward are crucial—for both your safety and your ability to recover compensation. Knowing what to do can help protect your health, preserve important evidence, and strengthen any insurance or legal claims that follow.
Here’s what to do after a collision to safeguard yourself and your rights:
- Check for Injuries and Move to Safety: Make sure you and others are safe. Call 911 right away if anyone is injured or unresponsive. If the vehicles are drivable and it’s safe to do so, move them out of traffic to avoid further danger. Turn on your hazard lights.
- Call the Police: Always report the accident to law enforcement, such as the Fort Lauderdale Police Department or other relevant law enforcement agency. A police report creates an official record that may be critical for your insurance claim or personal injury case.
- Exchange Information: Collect names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information from all involved drivers.
- Document the Scene: Take clear photos of all vehicles, damage, skid marks, street signs, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. Jot down the date, time, location, and weather conditions.
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Stay calm and courteous, but don’t apologize or accept blame. Statements made at the scene can be used against you later.
- Seek Medical Attention: Visit your primary care doctor or an emergency room like Broward Health as soon as possible, both for your well-being and to document injuries for your claim.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident promptly and stick to the facts. Avoid speculation or assigning blame when speaking with your insurer.
In addition to these steps, make sure to call our firm. A lawyer can help you understand your options, deal with insurance adjusters, and pursue compensation if you’ve been injured or suffered significant property damage.
At Anidjar & Levine, we help injured drivers navigate the aftermath of a crash and pursue the fair compensation they deserve. If you’ve been in a collision, don’t go through it alone.
What To Expect When Our Fort Lauderdale Collision Insurance Attorney Goes To Work For You
If you added collision insurance protection to your auto coverage and the insurance company is refusing to honor your claim after an accident, we can help. Our client protection team will:
- Provide ongoing and responsive legal care and support
- Ensure you have a phone number for your attorney
- Make sure you get frequent updates about your case
- Provide straightforward answers to all your questions
- Ensure you do not overpay your insurance deductible
- Protect you from bad faith insurance practices
Our law firm goes the extra mile for you. While you worry about getting better, we take care of everything else. Our testimonials highlight the dedication and personalized support we provide every step of the way.
Our contingency fee agreement means we will cover all the costs associated with preparing your case, including any documentation, filing, or expert witness fees. We accept a percentage of your settlement or verdict instead of traditional fees, which means we only get compensated when you do.
Our lawyers never stop fighting for the clients we represent, and we are proud to offer client service and support you can depend on.
Contact A Fort Lauderdale Collision Insurance Lawyer Today
Our firm is dedicated to ensuring you are protected from liability for damages in the event of an accident. We offer instructional videos and a free policy examination to recommend important coverage you should consider adding.
At Anidjar & Levine, we know that car collisions are traumatic, so we are dedicated to helping you back on your feet. Contact our Fort Lauderdale collision insurance lawyers for a free consultation.
We Can Help.
