Car Accident Lawyer Serving West Palm Beach, FL
Contact a car accident attorney who’s recovered over $85 million for clients
After a car accident in West Palm Beach, it’s crucial to take swift action to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. From gathering evidence at the accident scene to negotiating with insurance companies, navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be complex and overwhelming without help from a lawyer.
With the assistance of a skilled car accident attorney like Mr. Shomo and his dedicated legal team, you can ensure that your legal rights are protected every step of the way. If you were injured or a loved one died in a car accident in West Palm Beach, don’t hesitate to contact The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo, P.A., for a free consultation.
With over three decades of experience, Mr. Shomo stands as a distinguished member of both the Million and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forums, showcasing his steadfast dedication to achieving meaningful results for his clients. His extensive track record is a testament to his unwavering commitment and effectiveness as a car accident attorney.
Among Mr. Shomo’s notable case results are:
- $10.9 million for a car accident stemming from seat belt/seat back failure, tragically resulting in a fatality.
- $8.2 million for a car accident involving a tractor trailer, resulting in neck and back injuries that required multiple surgeries.
- $3.3 million for a car accident that led to multiple surgeries for an injured pedestrian.
- $1.2 million for an accident involving a pickup truck that led to the wrongful death of a motorcyclist.
- $1.1 million for a car accident at an intersection that led to injuries requiring surgery.
- $1 million for a car accident that led to significant surgical injuries.
- $1 million for a car accident involving severe spinal cord injuries necessitating surgeries.
- $1 million for a car accident resulting in spinal surgeries.
“I didn’t even know I had a case, and only wanted my car fixed. I didn’t realize that I was really affected by the accident (physically). They took care of everything and always kept me informed. My car was fixed, and I’m really happy with the end results. Thank you and your staff for an amazing experience. Especially Joann. You are the Bomb.” – Wanda C., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Google Average Rating: 5/5 stars, 38 reviews
Frequently asked questions about West Palm Beach car accident claims
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident in West Palm Beach can feel overwhelming. You might have questions about insurance, legal options, and what to expect during the claims process. Here are some common questions people have after a crash:
- What should I do after a car accident in West Palm Beach?
- What types of car accident cases do you handle in West Palm Beach?
- What is my car accident claim worth?
- What if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance?
- What if a defective car part caused my accident?
- Can passengers in car accident file a claim?
- How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Florida?
- How long does it take to settle a car accident claim?
- Will my car accident case go to court?
- What if the insurance company offers me a settlement? Should I accept it?
- What if I didn’t feel injured at the scene but later developed symptoms?
- How much does it cost to hire a West Palm Beach car accident attorney?
What should I do after a car accident in West Palm Beach?
After a car accident, it is important to take immediate steps to ensure your safety and protect your rights.
- Contact emergency services: First and foremost, ensure everyone’s safety by calling emergency services so those involved can receive medical assistance. Having law enforcement at the scene is also crucial to document the accident and create an official report.
- Get to a safe spot: If possible, move to a safe location near or at the scene of the accident to avoid further harm. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers, but don’t leave the scene (unless necessary to seek emergency medical attention).
- Get contact information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Obtain names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, and insurance policy details. Other than that, refrain from discussing the accident.
- Take pictures: Document the scene of the accident by taking photos of the vehicles involved, the damage sustained, any visible injuries, road conditions, and traffic signs. These photos can be crucial evidence for insurance claims and potential future legal action.
- Contact insurance company: Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible, but be careful. Stick to the facts of what happened and don’t say anything about fault for the accident. If you feel uncomfortable or worried about speaking with them, a car accident attorney may do so on your behalf.
What types of car accident cases do you handle in West Palm Beach?
At The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo, P.A., Mr. Shomo and his experienced legal team handle a wide range of car accident cases in West Palm Beach, providing comprehensive support to clients. Mr. Shomo is well-versed in navigating the nuances of various types of car accidents, including:
- Rear-end collisions: These accidents occur when a vehicle strikes the one in front of it, often resulting from tailgating or sudden stops.
- Head-on collisions: In these severe accidents, two vehicles collide front-to-front, typically at high speeds, leading to catastrophic injuries.
- T-bone accidents: Also known as side-impact collisions, these occur when the front of one vehicle crashes into the side of another, forming a “T” shape.
- Rideshare accidents: Accidents involving vehicles operated by rideshare services such as Uber or Lyft, which may involve complex liability issues.
- Speeding accidents: Collisions caused by drivers exceeding the speed limit, increasing the severity of injuries and property damage.
- Distracted driving accidents: Crashes resulting from drivers being distracted by phones, passengers, or other factors while behind the wheel.
- Hit-and-run accidents: Cases where the at-fault driver flees the scene of the accident, making it challenging to identify and hold them accountable.
- Accidents caused by drunk drivers: Collisions involving drivers operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, leading to severe consequences.
- Fatal accidents: Tragic incidents resulting in the loss of life, necessitating compassionate and skilled legal representation for surviving family members.
- E-bike and e-scooter accidents: With the rise of alternative modes of transportation, accidents involving electric bikes and scooters require specialized legal knowledge and expertise.
What is my car accident claim worth?
After a car accident in West Palm Beach, you may be entitled to seek compensation for your accident-related damages. The sum you receive depends on various factors, including the extent of your injuries. Common injuries from car accidents include traumatic brain injuries (TBI), whiplash, and spinal cord injuries, among others; generally, the more serious the injury, the higher the compensation.
Here are some of the damages you can potentially be compensated for:
- Medical expenses: This includes all medical bills related to the treatment of your injuries, such as hospital visits, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and therapy.
- Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be compensated for the wages you’ve lost during your recovery period.
- Pain and suffering: This compensation is for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured as a result of the accident and your injuries.
- Loss of consortium: If your injuries have affected your relationship with your spouse or partner, you may be compensated for the loss of companionship and intimacy.
What if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance?
Unfortunately, not everyone on Florida’s roads carries proper insurance, even though the law requires it. If you were hit by a driver who is uninsured or doesn’t have enough coverage to pay for your damages, you still have options.
First, check your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. If you have this as part of your policy, it can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance. Florida doesn’t require UM/UIM coverage, but it’s highly recommended for situations like this.
You may also be able to recover compensation through your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, which is mandatory for Florida drivers. PIP covers medical bills and a portion of lost wages, but it may not be enough if you have serious injuries. If the other driver doesn’t have insurance, Casey D. Shomo can still help you explore your options for seeking compensation.
What if a defective car part caused my accident?
Sometimes, a crash isn’t just the result of driver error. It could be caused by a defective vehicle component. If a brake failure, airbag malfunction, or other defect contributed to your car accident, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer or other responsible parties such as mechanics.
These cases can be complicated, as they often require expert testimony and technical investigations. Our West Palm Beach car accident attorneys have the experience to hold manufacturers and auto companies accountable if their negligence led to your injuries.
Can passengers in a car accident file a claim?
As a passenger, you were not responsible for the crash, so you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to file a claim against:
- The driver of the vehicle you were in (if they were at fault)
- Another driver who caused the accident
- Your own PIP insurance policy (if you have one)
If you’re not sure how to pursue a passenger injury claim, an experienced West Palm Beach car accident lawyer at The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo can help you explore your legal options.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Florida?
Florida has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including wrongful death cases. However, it’s important to act quickly. Waiting too long can hurt your case. Evidence can disappear over time and witnesses can forget certain details. As soon as you file your claim and consult with The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo, we’ll get to work piecing your case together and fighting for the compensation you rightfully deserve.
How long does it take to settle a car accident claim?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question because every case is different. Some claims settle in a matter of weeks or months, while others take a year or more, especially if a lawsuit is necessary.
A few key factors can impact how long your case takes:
- Severity of injuries: If you have serious injuries that require ongoing medical care, your lawyer may wait until you reach maximum medical improvement (MMI) before negotiating a settlement.
- Insurance company negotiations: Some insurers cooperate and offer fair settlements quickly, while others drag out the process or dispute liability.
- Going to court: If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, filing a lawsuit may be the best option. Cases that go to trial take longer but may result in higher compensation.
The most important thing is to focus on recovering fair compensation, not just a quick settlement. Insurance companies often try to rush settlements for less than you deserve. However, the Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo can help ensure you get the full amount needed for your recovery.
Will my car accident case go to court?
Most car accident cases in Florida settle outside of court through negotiations with insurance companies. However, if the insurance company refuses to pay what you deserve, filing a lawsuit may be necessary.
If your case does go to court, attorney Casey D. Shomo can handle everything, from filing the lawsuit to gathering evidence and presenting your case before a judge or jury. Our West Palm Beach law firm prepares every case as if it’s going to trial, so we’re ready to fight if needed.
What if the insurance company offers me a settlement? Should I accept it?
It might be tempting to take the first settlement offer, especially if you’re struggling with medical bills and lost wages. But in most cases, that first offer is far too low.
Once you accept a settlement, you can’t go back and ask for more money later, even if you discover new injuries or ongoing medical issues. Insurance companies count on you wanting quick cash, but they often undervalue pain and suffering, long-term care, and lost future income.
Before accepting any settlement, have a West Palm Beach car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo review the offer. We can determine whether it truly covers your current and future expenses and negotiate a better deal if necessary.
What if I didn’t feel injured at the scene but later developed symptoms?
This is more common than you might think. After an accident, adrenaline can mask pain, so you might not realize you’re injured until hours or even days later. Common delayed symptoms include:
- Whiplash: Neck and back pain may not appear immediately.
- Concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Headaches, dizziness, or memory issues might develop later.
- Internal injuries: Damage to organs can take time to become noticeable.
If you start experiencing pain, discomfort, or any unusual symptoms after a car accident, see a doctor as soon as possible. Not only is this important for your health, but delayed treatment can hurt your claim. Insurance companies might argue that your injuries weren’t caused by a car accident. The sooner you see a doctor the easier it will be to prove your injuries.
How much does it cost to hire a West Palm Beach car accident attorney?
One of the biggest concerns people have after an accident is whether they can afford a lawyer. The good news is that hiring a car accident attorney costs nothing upfront. Our law firm works on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything unless we win your case.
Instead of charging hourly fees or requiring large retainers, we take a percentage of the final settlement or court award. This means you can get high-quality legal representation without any financial risk. If we don’t recover compensation for you, you owe us nothing.
Insurance companies have teams of adjusters and lawyers working to reduce your compensation. Having an experienced West Palm Beach car accident attorney on your side at no upfront cost levels the playing field and gives you an advantage.
Get personalized support with a car accident lawyer in West Palm Beach
The impact of a car accident in West Palm Beach can be devastating – from physical pain and suffering to missed work and mounting medical bills. You shouldn’t have to deal with this alone, and in West Palm Beach, you don’t have to.
Dedicated to providing personalized support to crash victims, Mr. Shomo is ready to stand with you from start to finish. To learn more about how our law firm can help you, contact us today for a free consultation.
“Me and my family are absolutely grateful to have found Mr. Shomo to help us after a car accident. Mr. Shomo and his amazing team are very professional and knowledgeable. We highly recommend his law office!” – Vilmar B.