Crucial Steps to Take After a Personal Injury

Young personal injury attorney working in his office

In the blink of an eye, life can take an unexpected turn. Personal injuries can disrupt your routine, leaving physical, emotional, and financial scars. This blog aims to shed light on the crucial steps after an injury, empowering you to navigate the often complex path to recovery.

 

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately:

Your health is the top priority. After an injury, seek medical attention promptly. Documenting injuries and following medical advice not only aids your recovery but also strengthens your case.

 

2. Gather Evidence:

Begin collecting evidence at the scene if possible. Take photographs, gather witness statements, and make note of any details that could support your case. This documentation can be invaluable later on.

 

3. Report the Incident:

File a police report or incident report as soon as possible. This official documentation creates a record of the event, providing crucial support for your personal injury claim.

 

4. Preserve Evidence:

Safeguard any evidence related to your injury, such as medical records, bills, and correspondence. This documentation will serve as a foundation for your case, demonstrating the extent of your injuries and associated expenses.

 

5. Consult with an Attorney:

Engaging a personal injury attorney can make a significant difference in your case. A legal professional can guide you through the process, assess the strength of your claim, and advocate for your rights.

 

6. Know Your Rights:

Educate yourself on your rights as an injured party. Understanding the legal aspects of personal injury claims empowers you to make informed decisions and ensures you receive fair compensation for your damages.

 

7. Document Your Damages:

Keep a detailed record of all expenses related to the injury, including medical bills, rehabilitation costs, medical devices and any lost wages. This comprehensive documentation strengthens your case during negotiations.

 

8. Initiate the Claims Process:

Work with your attorney to initiate the claims process. Timely filing is crucial, and your attorney will help you navigate the paperwork and communication with insurance companies.

 

9. Negotiation and Settlement:

Your attorney will negotiate with the responsible party’s insurance to secure a fair settlement and get you the justice you deserve.  Be patient during this process, as reaching an equitable agreement may take time.

 

10. Consider Litigation:

If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may advise pursuing litigation. While this adds complexity, it may be necessary to ensure you receive proper compensation for your injuries.

 

Conclusion:

Recovering from a personal injury involves both physical and legal aspects. By taking proactive steps, seeking professional guidance, and understanding your rights, you empower yourself to reclaim control over your life. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey—legal support can be a crucial ally in your pursuit of justice and recovery. If you are involved in any type of accident which causes injury, call Hicks & Motto, at 561-683-2300. Results Matter.

What Is a Deposition and How Can Your Lawyer Help You?

deposition written with blocks

When attorneys say the word deposition, some people get worried and nervous, but let’s pull the curtain back on this legal process and understand what a deposition is, what a plaintiff can expect, and some advice on navigating this legal process. In essence, depos are where both parties are questioned after being sworn in and where a court reporter will record the questions and answers given. This step in the legal process reveals what everyone involved knows, and their testimonies are preserved. Ultimately, Depositions are supposed to prepare both parties on what can/will be discussed during the trial and to give both sides a better understanding of the facts of the case. Depositions are usually held at your attorney’s office, the defense lawyer’s office, or an unbiased court reporter’s office. It can be hosted on Zoom or in person, and all parties can attend. A court reporter will be present at every deposition.  

One thing to keep in mind is that your lawyer won’t be playing as much of an active role on the day of the deposition as they will during the trial, as the questions asked are directly related to your life. Still, they may intervene to object to the phrasing of a question or the subject matter. During the deposition, the defense attorney will ask a string of personal questions like your marital status, medical history, residential history, accident history, employment history, and the accident itself. The defense attorney shall inquire about the medical treatment sought, what ways the injuries you sustained are affecting your everyday life, and more. Your Personal Injury lawyer shall prepare with you beforehand by going through different questions with you, answering your concerns, reviewing essential documents like interrogatories/your crash report, and overall, help you feel more confident about the procedure and questions you will be asked.  

A personal injury lawyer will also give you invaluable advice. They might tell you that being brief and truthful is key, as deliberately lying is punishable by court. They might also tell you that the response “I don’t recall” is an appropriate answer to a question. No one can recall all the specifics, but it is vital that you try to identify things as precisely as possible. Furthermore, your attorney will tell you that you have the power to gain access to the transcript after the deposition, and you are allowed to make changes if you see any inaccuracies caused by the reporter or yourself. Please note that the defense can see the transcript and any changes you make and will attempt to use the transcript against you during the trial. In a deposition, it is essential to establish credibility; this is why attorneys will warn you against inconsistent answers to questions and prepare with you beforehand. Personal Injury lawyers will also tell you not to be defensive but polite when answering questions, to differentiate if you are directly quoting or paraphrasing a person, to promptly correct yourself if you misspeak, to take a second before you answer, to hear the entire question prior to responding, and to take this legal process seriously as it directly impacts the direction of your case.  

 

We would be honored to help you take on this legal step. With our many years of experience, we can help you navigate your case and help you feel prepared and confident when you enter your deposition. Remember if you are injured in an accident, call Hicks & Motto, 561-683-2300 

Leading the Way in Brain Injury Advocacy: From Trauma to Toxic Exposure

Female doctor examining a brain cat scan

For clients facing permanent disabilities due to head trauma or chemical exposure, Hicks & Motto attorneys are leading the way in brain injury advocacy. With years of expertise and a commitment to helping those in need, this Florida personal injury law firm is working to ensure that victims of brain injuries are heard and given the opportunity to seek justice.

What is a Brain Injury?

A brain injury is any type of injury that causes a disruption in normal brain functioning. This disruption can be caused by trauma to the head, such as a car accident, a fall, or a sports injury, or by toxic exposure to chemicals or other substances that can cause damage to the brain. Brain injuries can range from mild to severe, and can result in a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional impairments.

The Impact of Brain Injuries

Brain injuries can have a devastating impact on victims and their families. Individuals with brain injuries may experience a range of physical and mental impairments, including difficulty walking, speaking, or performing basic tasks. They may also suffer from memory loss, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Brain injuries can also lead to emotional changes, such as depression, anxiety, and mood swings.

Hicks & Motto: Helping Victims of Brain Injuries

Hicks & Motto is a Florida-based personal injury law firm that specializes in helping victims. With years of experience in representing clients with brain injuries, the firm understands the unique challenges that these cases present, and is committed to providing comprehensive legal representation.

The attorneys at Hicks & Motto are knowledgeable about the laws that govern brain injury cases, and are experienced in negotiating with insurance companies, obtaining settlements, and filing lawsuits. The firm also works with medical professionals to ensure that their clients receive the best care possible.

Brain Injury Cases We Handle

Hicks & Motto handles a wide range of brain injury cases, including those caused by car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, and wrongful death cases. The firm also represents clients who have suffered such injuries due to toxic exposure, such as exposure to asbestos or other hazardous materials.

How We Can Help

If you or someone you love has suffered a brain injury, the attorneys at Hicks & Motto can help. We understand the complexities of these cases, and are committed to fighting for the rights of victims. We will work with you to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, and will help you to understand the legal process so that you can make informed decisions.

Contact Us Today

If you or someone you love has suffered a brain injury, get in touch with the experienced attorneys at Hicks & Motto. We will provide you with the personalized attention and legal representation you need to get the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact Hicks & Motto today for a free consultation.

The Crucial Link Between Speed, Negligence, and Motor Vehicle Accidents

broken motorcycle on the roadway.bicycle wheel after an accident on the road

When it comes to motor vehicle accidents, speed and negligence are two of the most common causes. Unfortunately, these two factors often lead to devastating consequences such as severe injuries, property damage, and even death. In order to better understand the relationship between speed, negligence, and accidents, it is important to examine each factor and how they interact.

The Impact of Speed on Accidents

Speed is one of the primary contributing factors to motor vehicle accidents. When a driver is going too fast, they are less likely to be able to react quickly to changing traffic conditions or road hazards, increasing the chances of an accident. Additionally, a driver traveling at a high rate of speed is more likely to lose control of their vehicle and cause a collision.

When a vehicle is traveling at a high rate of speed, the impact of an accident is also likely to be more severe. The faster a vehicle is traveling, the greater the force of the impact, potentially leading to more serious injuries or fatalities.

The Role of Negligence in Accidents

Negligence is another major contributor to motor vehicle accidents. Negligence can take many forms, including distracted driving, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and failing to abide by traffic laws. When a driver is negligent, they are not taking the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of themselves and others on the roadway. As a result, the chances of an accident occurring are significantly increased.

The Impact of Speed and Negligence on Accidents

When speed and negligence are combined, the consequences of an accident can be even more catastrophic. A driver who is speeding and also being negligent is more likely to cause a severe accident, as they are not taking the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of themselves and other motorists. Furthermore, the increased speed of the vehicle can lead to more serious injuries or fatalities.

Securing Your Rightful Recovery with the Help of a Florida Personal Injury Lawyer

If you have been injured in an accident that was caused by the negligence or recklessness of another party, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. In order to ensure that you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve, it is important to consult with an experienced Florida personal injury lawyer.

At Hicks & Motto, our experienced team of personal injury attorneys is dedicated to helping victims secure their rightful recovery. Our attorneys have a deep understanding of the laws that govern personal injury cases and can help you navigate the legal process.

Trust Hicks & Motto for Your Personal Injury Case

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, the experienced personal injury lawyers at Hicks & Motto in Palm Beach Gardens can help. Our team of attorneys has extensive experience handling a wide range of personal injury cases, including car accidents, motorcycle accidents, and wrongful death claims. We understand the importance of getting the full and fair compensation you deserve, and we are committed to providing you with the highest level of legal representation.

For more information about how we can help with your personal injury case, contact Hicks & Motto today to schedule a free consultation. Our team is here to answer your questions and provide you with the guidance you need to make the best decisions for your case.

How to Determine if you Should File a Personal Injury Claim

Young personal injury lawyer

When you’re injured in an accident, you may be wondering if you should file a personal injury claim. It can be a difficult decision to make, especially if you’re unsure of the process or your rights as an injured party. Having the right legal guidance can make a huge difference in the outcome of your claim. The lawyers at Hicks & Motto can help assess your case and guide you through the process.

What is a Personal Injury Claim?

A personal injury claim is a legal action you take against someone else who caused you injury or harm. This could be an accident involving a car, motorcycle, or other motor vehicle, a slip and fall, a product defect, or a wrongful death. In Florida, you must prove “negligence” in order to have a valid personal injury claim. In other words, you must prove that the other party was at fault for your injury.

What Are The Damages You Can Recover?

In a personal injury claim, you can recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Depending on the facts of your case, you may also be able to recover punitive damages. Punitive damages are designed to punish the other party for their negligence.

How Do I Know If I Have a Valid Personal Injury Claim?

The best way to determine whether you have a valid personal injury claim is to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer. At Hicks & Motto, our experienced attorneys will review the facts of your case and evaluate your potential claim. We will explain the process and answer any questions you may have.

What Information Do I Need to File a Personal Injury Claim?

When filing a personal injury claim, you will need to provide information about the incident. This includes information about the other party, such as their name, address, and insurance information. You will also need to provide information about your injuries, such as medical bills and proof of lost wages.

What is the Time Limit for Filing a Personal Injury Claim?

In Florida, you have four years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. It is important to act quickly, as evidence can fade over time and the other party’s insurance company may refuse to pay your claim if it is filed too late.

How Can Hicks & Motto Help?

At Hicks & Motto, we understand the complexities of personal injury law and we have the experience and knowledge to help you navigate the process. Our knowledgeable attorneys will review the facts of your case and help you understand the legal options available to you. We will work hard to recover the maximum compensation for your losses.

Contact Hicks & Motto Today

If you have been injured in an accident, contact the personal injury lawyers at Hicks & Motto. Our attorneys will review the facts of your case and help you determine whether you can file a personal injury claim. When it’s time to file your claim, our team will guide you through the process and negotiate with the insurance company so you receive the maximum compensation for your losses. Contact us today and let us help you get the justice you deserve.

Who is Liable After an Accident

Who is Liable AFter An Accident

 

With the number of drivers who are licensed to drive in the State of Florida exceeding more than 15 million, it is safe to say there has been many car accidents in this State. Victims of car crashes know that more often than not, the accident was avoidable if everyone had been more cautious and practiced defensive driving. However we know that you can do all the right things and still get hit by a reckless driver or be the victim of an accident and be left with substantial damages.

There are many reasons why motor vehicle accidents happen including negligence of a driver, parts of a motor vehicle that are defective, roadways that were designed poorly, hazards from an area under construction, etc. As most know evidence is the key to building a sustainable and triumphant claim. When you can demonstrate that the car collision caused your injuries and you can prove the defendant is liable for said accident you are more likely to be successful. Some things you can do right after a car accident is write down phone numbers of any witnesses, take pictures of all damages, injuries, and the area. Also seek immediate medical attention regarding your injuries, don’t wait, as this is more evidence of the damages you sustained from the accident in question.

If you decide to hire an attorney, please make sure it is an attorney who practices in the area of personal injury. Every attorney will state they can handle a personal injury claim, but you should do your research and only go with an attorney who specializes in that area, as there are many legal pitfalls regarding the prosecution of a personal injury claim.  As you may or may not know, insurance companies will examine all the details of your case and try to devalue and minimize your claims. A personal injury lawyer will make sure you obtain the proper medical treatment, they will launch an investigation as to the facts of the accident, collect evidence including the black box data from all of the motor vehicles involved in the crash, and fight to get you compensated for your property damage. Finally, they shall prosecute your claim to obtain the justice that you deserve, even if it means going to trial. At Hicks & Motto we have been fighting for our injured clients for over 40 years. If you have questions, we have the answers, call Hicks & Motto 561-683-2300.

Get Ready To Go To Court Online

Lawyer reviewing a case on the computer.

Since the pandemic, we have seen many online services or contactless services become available and this also includes court. Having online platforms like Zoom to help us continue the court process and to accommodate people is very valuable but online court does have its challenges. Below is some advice on what you can do to help make a good first impression in online court

First of all, you want to do a test run a day before your scheduled hearing date or conference with the program you are intending to use for this virtual appearance. You should make sure you know how to use the platform and all of its features.  When you are setting up your account make sure your username and photo that will be displayed is appropriate. Make sure there are no cat filters on either as you may have heard there was a famous incident last year where an attorney did not know there was a filter on and when he went to start a meeting with a judge, the filter turned on and he became a talking cat and he couldn’t change it. During your trial run, check to see if you have a camera that is functioning, the lighting is good and if the location you are tuning in from has a strong internet or wifi signal, if not think of relocating to an area with a steady signal, as this is very important.

Furthermore, take note of where you will be during the court hearing. You should be in an area with limited noise, preferably no noise, have a plain background behind you, do not have people in the frame conversating or doing other activities, dress appropriately, and make sure you talk to your lawyer beforehand so you know how the two of you will communicate throughout the hearing. Treat the virtual event as if you were in actual court, as judges have little tolerance for disturbances or anything that hinders the court process.

Have the attorneys at Hicks and Motto help you professionally and diligently fight for justice with your case and help you through this new world of online court.

Dog Bite/Attacks

Dog barking angrily and showing teeth

 

Surprisingly dog bites/attacks have been the reason for over a billion dollars in injuries a year. This number includes incidents where dogs have hurt bicycle riders, joggers, the elderly, and children by knocking them over and incidents where canines have bitten people.

Dogs are incredible animals; they truly are man’s best friend, but bites from canines may lead to significant scars/injuries and can cause loss due to the dog owner’s negligence. In that case, the owner can be held accountable. In the State of Florida, dog owners are held strictly liable if their dog injures another person. Pursuant to Florida law, victims are able to make a claim against the owner despite the dog owner having no prior knowledge of their canine’s inclination to sometimes be aggressive. On the other hand, if the dog’s owner knew that in certain situations their pet can become aggressive but did not take steps to protect others, they might be charged with dereliction of duty.

If injured by a dog, an individual can make an insurance  claim against the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy, but be aware there are some insurance policies that exclude coverage for certain breeds like pit bulls, rottweilers, chows, etc.

After receiving proper medical attention for your dog bite injuries, it is helpful to note/collect certain information like the pet’s owners contact info, pictures of your wounds and the dog, the pet’s vaccination records, when the incident happened, where it happened, and if there were any witnesses at the time the incident occurred. You should also contact the police and/or animal control to report the incident.

At Hicks and Motto, we have seen many dogs bite cases throughout the years. Reach out to us if you have been a victim of a dog bite/attack and let us pursue your possible claim. Don’t go into a legal battle alone.

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