A whiplash injury not treated in time could generate permanent consequences in the body and emotions of a victim of a vehicular accident.
At The Ward Law Group, we have seen hundreds of Orlando cases since we began our field experience; we always recommend the initiative to take prompt action in every case. It is better to get advice as soon as possible and not let so much time go by, thus avoiding irreparable events.
Whiplash Attorneys in Orlando
Whiplash is not just a minor inconvenience—it's a significant injury that can impact your life for years to come. Without proper treatment, what may start as a temporary discomfort could develop into a long-term and debilitating condition. However, seeking treatment for whiplash can be financially daunting without proper support.
If you've experienced a whiplash injury, contact The Ward Law Group for help. Our dedicated team of attorneys specializes in assisting individuals like you to navigate the complexities of personal injury claims, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Types of Whiplash Cases We Handle While motor vehicle accidents are the most common cause of whiplash, this severe neck injury can occur in various situations. At The Ward Law Group, our experienced personal injury attorneys can represent you in whiplash cases resulting from:
- Auto accidents
- Workplace incidents
- Defective product incidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Nursing home abuse
- Truck collisions
With years of legal expertise, we're prepared to assess your situation and determine the best course of action. Together, we'll work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions and secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
Filing Your Whiplash Injury Claim within the Legal Deadline
By Florida Statutes § 95.11(3)(a), you have a window of four years to initiate a personal injury lawsuit. While certain exceptions may extend this timeframe, addressing any concerns regarding deadlines with our legal team at the onset of your case is crucial.
Although four years may appear ample, time can swiftly pass. Our dedicated Orlando whiplash injury team requires sufficient time to conduct thorough investigations, compile evidence of negligence, and negotiate with insurance companies. Thus, initiating the filing process sooner rather than later is advisable.
Failure to adhere to this deadline could result in the court dismissing your case. Protect your entitlement to compensation by commencing legal proceedings promptly.
Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Claims
If you have tragically lost a loved one due to a whiplash injury, our heartfelt condolences go out to you during this challenging period. Rest assured, our team is here to offer support and guidance throughout this distressing time.
To pursue compensation, you must file your claim within two years of your loved one's passing.
Our Orlando whiplash injury lawyer stands ready to assist you in initiating your claim and addressing any inquiries you may have regarding the legal proceedings.
Damages You Can Seek in a Whiplash Injury Case
You can pursue financial compensation for your losses if you've suffered whiplash due to someone else's negligence. Our Orlando attorneys are here to assist you in seeking both economic and non-economic damages to address your pain and suffering.
Non-Economic Damages You Can Pursue
Non-economic damages encompass intangible losses and are typically associated with the enduring effects of your injuries. Our team can assist you in seeking compensation for the following:
Pain and Suffering
Whiplash can inflict significant physical and emotional distress. Your claim may account for the discomfort you've endured, as well as any resultant depression or anxiety. Pain and suffering stemming from your accident might include some whiplash injury signs and symptoms:
- Loss of physical and cognitive abilities
- Emotional distress
- Depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
These emotional and physical tolls may have financial implications, such as the inability to work and the need for counseling. We will vigorously pursue full coverage for your pain and suffering through a whiplash injury lawsuit.
Loss of Consortium
If your whiplash injury has disrupted your ability to engage in certain activities with your spouse, you may be eligible to seek compensation for this loss. Some activities you may no longer be able to participate in include:
- Everyday activities shared with your partner
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Fertility issues
It would be best if you didn't bear these consequences without adequate compensation for the negligent party's actions. Our team will advocate for maximum compensation for your pain and suffering.
Economic Damages You Can Pursue
Economic damages represent tangible losses you've incurred due to the accident. We can help you seek compensation for the following economic damages:
Healthcare Expenses
You may have accumulated substantial medical expenses as you've sought treatment for your injuries. It's essential to document all medical care received, including:
- Emergency services
- Diagnostic tests
- Surgical procedures
- Hospital stays
- Prescription medications
- Rehabilitation
Whiplash injuries can lead to chronic medical issues, and we will account for your future medical expenses when pursuing a settlement.
Lost Wages and Benefits
Whiplash may necessitate time away from work, resulting in lost income. You may receive full compensation for any wages or benefits lost during your recovery. Documentation from your employer can help substantiate your claim.
Property Damage
Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may be eligible to recover damages for property damage, including:
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Damage to personal property inside or attached to your vehicle
We will seek compensation for replaceable and unique items affected by the accident.
Loss of Earning Power
A severe injury such as whiplash can impact your ability to perform certain job functions. You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Future lost income
- Permanent loss of earning capacity
- Diminished earning potential
- Other work-related losses
Our Orlando attorneys have extensive experience assisting clients whose accidents adversely affect their income. We will meticulously evaluate your financial losses and pursue fair compensation.
What to Do After an Orlando Whiplash Injury Accident?
The most important thing you can do after experiencing whiplash is to seek immediate medical help from a professional. Any delay in treatment could make it challenging to link your injuries to the accident.
You may also consider consulting with an Orlando whiplash accident lawyer from The Ward Law Group. An attorney can discuss your case details, address your concerns, and explore your legal options. You can file your claim with legal representation and pursue damages compensation.
Benefits of Hiring an Orlando Whiplash Injury Attorney
When you choose our firm, you're not just getting legal representation; you're also gaining a support system. Here's what you can expect from our approach:
We Work on a Contingency Fee Basis
You don't need to worry about upfront costs when hiring a lawyer from our firm. Operating on a contingency basis means:
- No upfront charges
- No out-of-pocket expenses
- No fees unless we win your case
This arrangement ensures that you only pay for adequate legal services. We are fully invested in your case's success, as our payment depends on it.
What Our Team Does for Your Case
We have assisted numerous clients who have suffered whiplash injuries. Our comprehensive legal services include:
- Gathering evidence of fault and liability
- Evaluating the value of your case
- Negotiating with insurance companies for a fair settlement
- Providing ongoing legal guidance
- Developing a strategic approach to win your case
Our firm is committed to pursuing justice for whiplash accident victims.
We Provide Client-Focused Legal Care
Our primary objective is to secure your compensation through insurance, a settlement, or a judgment. We tailor our approach to your specific circumstances, efficiently seeking a fair financial recovery.
We May Hire Experts for Your Case
In certain situations, experts can enhance the strength of your case. We cover the cost of hiring experts who can provide valuable insights, testimony, accident reconstruction, and negotiation support.
We Do Everything Necessary To Complete Your Case
Navigating a lawsuit or insurance claim can be complex. We handle all communication, documentation, evidence gathering, and legal proceedings while supporting your recovery.
We Start the Legal Process with a Free Call
Your initial consultation with us is obligation-free. We're available 24/7 for free case evaluations. During this call, we'll:
- Gather critical details of your case
- Record your account of the events
- Address your questions and concerns
- Explain the next steps in your case
Contact The Ward Law Group today for a free case evaluation with a member of our team. We're ready to help you seek the compensation you deserve.
The Comparative Negligence Rule: some additional legal facts.
According to Florida Statute § 768.81, the amount you receive in compensation depends on whether the jury determines you share any responsibility for the accident that caused your whiplash injury. For example, if the court finds you 20 percent at fault for not avoiding the other driver, your award will be reduced by that percentage.
Punitive Damages Caps
In cases where the liable party's actions are deemed excessively negligent or intentional, the court may order them to pay punitive damages as additional punishment.
However, Florida Statute § 768.73 imposes a cap on punitive damages. Typically, you may only receive up to three times your economic losses. In certain circumstances, the cap may be set at $500,000.
Common Causes of Orlando Car Accidents
Regrettably, various factors contribute to car accidents on Orlando's bustling streets and highways. Some of the common causes include:
- Drunk Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
- Driving Under the Influence of Drugs: Operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or medication.
- Driving While Drowsy: Operating a vehicle when tired or sleepy can impair reaction times.
- Distracted Driving: Being distracted while driving, whether by physical distractions like phone use or mental distractions like daydreaming.
- Failure to Adapt to Changing Conditions: Not adjusting driving behavior to suit changing weather or road conditions can lead to loss of control.
- Reckless Driving: Reckless behaviors include running red lights, unsafe lane changes, and speeding.
It's essential to note that distractions can also stem from drivers being unfamiliar with their surroundings, a common occurrence among tourists navigating Orlando's roads. One particularly hazardous scenario arises when drivers physically handle maps or directions.
Moreover, although Florida enacted a law prohibiting texting while driving in 2019, enforcement has been minimal.
For instance, during the initial enforcement period, the Orange County Sheriff's Office issued only 114 texting-while-driving tickets, while the Orlando Police Department issued just 12.
Furthermore, drivers are still legally permitted to use handheld devices while driving for navigation, checking traffic and weather conditions, and making calls, except in designated construction and school zones.
Additional factors contributing to Orlando auto accidents may include:
- Driving with Defective Vehicle Parts: Operating a vehicle with faulty components or systems.
- Poor Road Conditions: Negligently maintained or hazardous road conditions.
- Medical Conditions: Health issues affecting a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely.
The Most Dangerous Roads and Intersections in Orlando
Based on a Time magazine data analysis from 2003 to 2012, the intersection of Old Cheney Highway and North Semoran Boulevard stands out as not only Orlando's most challenging but also one of the nation's most hazardous.
Each intersection listed in the nationwide study had witnessed at least six fatal accidents within those ten years.
Additionally, recent findings indicate that a stretch of East Colonial Drive, east of Orlando, earns the designation as one of Florida's deadliest roads. Over the years 2017 to 2019, this 5-mile segment, also known as State Road 50, witnessed 16 fatal accidents.
One tragic incident, in particular, occurred in March of 2023 when a pedestrian lost their life after being struck by a vehicle near the intersection of East Colonial Drive and Sandy Creek Lane.
Contact an Orlando Whiplash Injury Lawyer
The Ward Law Group extends our heartfelt wishes for the swift recovery and good health of all those affected by such incidents.
To all victims seeking guidance and support, we invite you to visit our offices in Orlando. Our team stands ready to assess your case and provide assistance during this challenging time. Take care, and we hope to see you soon.
Contact The Ward Law Group right now, and allow our firm to evaluate your case and share with you the best legal path to fighting for fair compensation! Call now at 855-DOLOR-55!