Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyer

Fort Lauderdale, located in the heart of Broward County, attracts both residents and visitors thanks to its inviting tropical climate and vibrant culture. With the hustle and bustle of this dynamic city, accidents are an unfortunate reality. In Broward County, as reported by The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were over 41,300 traffic crashes in 2021 alone. These incidents resulted in more than 21,000 reported injuries and 280 tragic deaths.

When faced with the aftermath of a serious accident, seeking legal guidance from a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer is crucial. Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm is here to help you navigate the legal process and obtain compensation for your injuries so you can focus on your recovery. Our experienced team of personal injury lawyers has successfully recovered millions of dollars for clients in Fort Lauderdale throughout South Florida.

If you or a loved one has been affected by any type of accident in Fort Lauderdale, don’t hesitate to reach out to Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm. Complete our online form or call us at 305-638-4143 for a free consultation in English or Spanish.

Table of Contents

• Personal Injury Cases Our Law Firm Handles
• Wrongful Death Cases in Fort Lauderdale, FL
• How a Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You Seek Justice
• Understanding Compensation in Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Cases
• Key Steps to Take After an Accident in Fort Lauderdale
• Common Injuries in Florida Personal Injury Cases
• Proving Negligence in a Florida Personal Injury Case
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Flanagan & Bodenheimer Personal Injury Case Results
• Schedule a Free Consultation

Personal Injury Cases Our Law Firm Handles

Car Accidents

Fort Lauderdale’s busy streets often lead to collisions. Flanagan & Bodenheimer is experienced in representing clients involved in serious car accidents and other motor vehicle accidents. Our experienced team of personal injury lawyers is here to guide you through every step of the process and help you obtain compensation for your injuries after a car crash.

Truck Accidents

Truck accident cases are inherently more complex than typical car accident cases due to various factors. These may include federal regulations governing the trucking industry, multiple liable parties (such as truck drivers, trucking companies, and manufacturers), and the severity of injuries often involved. Our attorneys have experience handling complex trucking accident cases throughout South Florida.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection afforded to riders. Collisions involving motorcycles can lead to catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries. Motorcyclists are at a higher risk of being involved in accidents due to their smaller size and reduced visibility on the road. We understand the complexities of these cases and work tirelessly to protect the rights of injured motorcyclists.

Pedestrian Accidents

Our law firm is experienced in handling personal injury cases arising from pedestrian accidents. Whether it’s due to distracted drivers, reckless behavior, or inadequate road conditions, we advocate for pedestrians who have suffered serious injuries in Fort Lauderdale and throughout South Florida. Contact us today if you suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident.

Slip & Fall Accidents

Slippery floors, uneven surfaces, or poorly maintained premises can lead to serious injuries. Our law firm understands the nuances of premises liability, striving to hold property owners accountable for maintaining safe environments. If you’ve suffered injuries due to a slip and fall incident in or near Fort Lauderdale, Flanagan & Bodenheimer is ready to help you seek justice.

Medical Malpractice

Fort Lauderdale is home to many reputable hospitals including Kindred Hospital South Florida, Holy Cross Health, Broward Health Imperial Point, Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital and others. Unfortunately, accidents and negligence can happen anywhere. Whether it’s surgical errors, misdiagnoses, or medication mistakes, Flanagan & Bodenheimer has the expertise to handle complex medical malpractice cases in Florida. 

Birth Injuries

The joyous occasion of childbirth can turn tragic when medical negligence occurs. Birth injuries can include cerebral palsy, broken bones, brachial plexus injuries, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), and other injuries. Flanagan & Bodenheimer specializes in representing families affected by birth injuries, ensuring that those responsible for medical malpractice are held accountable.

Drowning Accidents

Fort Lauderdale’s coastal charm attracts residents and tourists alike, but water-related accidents can lead to devastating consequences. Whether it’s a pool, beach, or other water-related incident, our law firm is experienced in handling cases involving drowning accidents, seeking justice for the victims and their families.

Product Liability

Defective products can cause serious harm to consumers. From faulty machinery to unsafe pharmaceuticals, our firm has a proven track record of holding manufacturers accountable for their negligence. If you’ve suffered due to a defective product injury, Flanagan & Bodenheimer is here to fight for your rights. Contact our law firm if you were injured due to a faulty product.

Workplace Accidents

Fort Lauderdale’s diverse economy brings with it various occupational hazards. Whether it’s a construction site injury, workplace accident, or exposure to harmful substances, our legal team is well-equipped to pursue legal action against negligent employers. Contact us if you sustained a serious injury while on the job.

Drug & Alcohol Rehab Negligence

Addiction recovery is a delicate journey, and individuals seeking help in drug rehabilitation centers trust in a safe and supportive environment. Flanagan & Bodenheimer is experienced in handling cases involving drug rehab deaths and negligence, where the negligence of staff or facilities leads to tragic consequences.

Wrongful Death Cases in Fort Lauderdale, FL

A wrongful death claim in Florida is a legal action pursued when a person’s death is a result of the negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct of another party. Florida’s wrongful death statute is designed to provide a legal avenue for family members to seek compensation for the damages incurred due to the untimely loss of their loved one. Qualifying individuals who can file a wrongful death claim typically include the deceased person’s surviving family members including:

• spouse
• children
• parents
• other dependents in some cases

Families dealing with the aftermath of a wrongful death don’t only experience emotional pain but also face many financial challenges. Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm is dedicated to providing compassionate legal representation to ease the burdens faced by grieving families. We understand the weight of mounting medical bills, funeral expenses, and the sudden loss of financial support. Your pursuit of justice begins with understanding your rights and seeking the support you need.

How a Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Attorney Can Help You Seek Justice

Our experienced personal injury attorneys understand the complexities of these types of cases and are committed to securing compensation for our clients. Here’s how our legal team can assist you:

• Gathering Evidence: We meticulously gather all pertinent evidence related to your incident, such as photo and video surveillance, statements from eyewitnesses, accident reports, and more. Our goal is to construct a robust case foundation that strengthens your claim.
• Strategic Negotiation: Our Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers are skilled negotiators. We engage with all parties involved, including insurance companies, to secure maximum compensation for our clients, covering medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Your well-being and financial recovery are our top priorities.
• Ready For Trial: In the event that a fair settlement can’t be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial. Our experienced trial attorneys have a track record of success in the courtroom.
• Accessible Support: At Flanagan & Bodenheimer, we believe in open communication. We strategically maintain a small caseload in order to offer personalized attention to every client. Our clients have direct access to their attorney when necessary, allowing them to address any questions or concerns throughout the legal process. 

With a proven history of success, including numerous multimillion-dollar settlements and jury verdicts for personal injury victims in Florida, our team is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Learn more about our accomplished lawyers and their background by clicking here.

Contact our experienced accident lawyers at 305-638-4143 or complete our online form for a free case evaluation.

Understanding Compensation in Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Cases

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer, our commitment is to guide you through the complexities of your case, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. After an accident, you may be entitled to seek compensation for the following:

• Medical Expenses: Injuries often lead to substantial medical bills. Through a personal injury claim, you can seek compensation for past and future medical expenses, ensuring that your recovery is not hindered by financial strain.
• Lost Wages: An accident may force you to take time off work, resulting in lost income. Compensation can include wages lost during recovery, as well as potential future earnings affected by the incident.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical injuries are accompanied by emotional and mental distress. Compensation can be sought for the pain, suffering, disability, disfigurement, mental anguish, and loss of the capacity to enjoy life.  The Florida Jury Instructions provide a detailed explanation of these categories of damages.
• Wrongful Death Damages: In the tragic event of a wrongful death resulting from a personal injury, surviving family members may seek damages for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of services, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one, including loss of companionship, as well as parental guidance and emotional support.

Contact our personal injury lawyers at 305-638-4143 or complete our online form for a free case evaluation.

Key Steps to Take After an Accident in Fort Lauderdale

Knowing what to do immediately after an accident in South Florida is crucial to securing the compensation you deserve. Flanagan & Bodenheimer, your trusted personal injury attorneys in Fort Lauderdale, are here to guide you through the key steps to take after an accident:

• Contact Law Enforcement: The first crucial step is to contact law enforcement. Promptly report the accident, ensuring that an official investigation is conducted. This documentation plays a vital role in establishing the facts surrounding the incident.
• Seek Medical Attention: Timely medical care is essential for connecting the accident to your injuries. Seeking medical attention promptly not only ensures your well-being but also strengthens your case by establishing a clear link between the accident and your injuries.
• Be Cautious with Statements: Exercise caution when dealing with insurance adjusters. Refrain from providing a recorded statement or answering detailed questions without legal guidance. Statements made at this stage can be used against you during the claims process.
• Contact an Attorney: Insurance adjusters may present low ball offers that fail to fully compensate you for injuries and damages. It’s crucial to involve a Fort Lauderdale injury lawyer to handle negotiations on your behalf. Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm is ready to ensure you receive fair compensation after an accident.

Common Injuries in Florida Personal Injury Cases

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

Common in car accidents, whiplash occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments. Whiplash can result in a range of symptoms, including:

• neck pain and stiffness
• headaches
• shoulder pain
• dizziness
• numbness or tingling in the arms

Diagnosis of whiplash typically involves a physical examination, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans, and evaluation of symptoms reported by the patient.

Back Injuries

Personal injury cases often involve back injuries, ranging from sprains and strains to more severe conditions such as herniated discs or fractures. Symptoms of back injuries may include:

• pain
• stiffness
• limited range of motion
• radiating pain or numbness into the arms or legs (radiculopathy)
• in severe cases, loss of bowel or bladder control (cauda equina syndrome)

Burn Injuries

Burns can result from various accidents, including fires, explosions, contact with hot surfaces or liquids, electrical incidents, and exposure to chemicals or hazardous materials. Severe burns can have a profound and long-lasting impact on the victim’s quality of life, requiring ongoing medical care, physical therapy, and psychological support. Burn injuries can range from minor superficial burns to severe, life-threatening burns affecting multiple layers of skin and underlying tissues.

• First-degree burns: These affect only the outer layer of skin (epidermis) and typically result in redness, pain, and minor swelling.
• Second-degree burns: These damage the outer layer of skin and the underlying layer (dermis), causing blistering, severe pain, and potential scarring.
• Third-degree burns: These penetrate through all layers of the skin and may also damage nerves, muscles, and bones. They often result in charred or white skin, numbness, and significant scarring.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Accidents, particularly those involving falls or severe impacts, can lead to spinal cord injuries, affecting mobility and potentially resulting in paralysis.

• Incomplete spinal cord injury: In these cases, some function remains below the level of the injury. The individual may experience weakness, numbness, or loss of sensation but retains some movement or feeling.
• Complete spinal cord injury: These injuries result in total loss of motor function and sensation below the level of the injury. Depending on the location of the injury, paralysis may affect the legs only (paraplegia) or both the arms and legs (tetraplegia or quadriplegia).

Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma can cause internal injuries, such as damage to organs, internal bleeding, or other complications that may require immediate medical attention.

• Damage to Organs: Blunt force trauma can cause injuries to internal organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, lungs, or intestines. These injuries may include lacerations, contusions, or ruptures.
• Internal Bleeding: The impact of blunt force trauma can rupture blood vessels, leading to internal bleeding. Depending on the severity and location of the bleeding, it can be life-threatening and require immediate medical intervention.
• Other Complications: Blunt force trauma may also result in other complications such as pneumothorax (collapsed lung), hemothorax (blood in the chest cavity), abdominal compartment syndrome, or traumatic brain injury.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Severe accidents can lead to traumatic brain injuries, impacting cognitive function, memory, and overall brain health. TBIs can result from various accidents, including motor vehicle collisions, falls, sports-related injuries, workplace accidents, and assaults. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe injuries causing long-term or permanent impairment. Symptoms of TBI may vary depending on the severity and location of the injury but can include:

• headache
• confusion
• dizziness
• nausea
• vomiting
• difficulty concentrating
• memory problems
• mood changes
• in severe cases, loss of consciousness

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Victims of accidents may experience PTSD, a mental health condition resulting from exposure to traumatic events, impacting daily life and overall well-being. Symptoms of PTSD may include:

• flashbacks or intrusive memories of the traumatic event
• nightmares
• severe anxiety or panic attacks
• avoidance of triggers related to the trauma
• hypervigilance
• irritability
• difficulty concentrating
• disturbances in sleep or appetite.

PTSD can have a profound impact on an individual’s daily functioning, leading to difficulties in work, relationships, social activities, and overall quality of life.

Amputations

Amputations can result from various accidents, including motor vehicle collisions, industrial accidents, construction site mishaps, workplace incidents, and medical malpractice. Amputations are considered catastrophic injuries, often resulting in permanent physical disability and significant impact on the individual’s quality of life.

• Partial Amputation: In a partial amputation, only a portion of the limb is removed, such as fingers, toes, or a portion of the arm or leg.
• Complete Amputation: A complete amputation involves the removal of the entire limb or extremity, such as an arm, hand, leg, or foot.

Amputees require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and support services to adjust to life with limb loss. This may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychological counseling, and assistance with prosthetic devices. If you’ve suffered an amputation in an accident caused by another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, prosthetic costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Nerve Damage

Symptoms of nerve damage may include pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, muscle atrophy, loss of coordination, and changes in sensation or temperature in the affected area. Nerve damage can have significant long-term consequences, including chronic pain, loss of sensation or movement, impaired mobility, and reduced quality of life. It may also impact the individual’s ability to work or perform daily activities.

• Neurapraxia: The mildest form of nerve injury, neurapraxia involves temporary loss of nerve function due to compression or stretching of the nerve. It typically resolves on its own over time.
• Axonotmesis: Axonotmesis involves damage to the nerve fibers (axons), resulting in loss of sensation, motor function, or both. Recovery may occur spontaneously but can be slow and incomplete.
• Neurotmesis: The most severe form of nerve injury, neurotmesis involves complete severance of the nerve, leading to permanent loss of function. Surgical intervention may be required to repair the nerve or restore function.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Impact from accidents can result in broken bones or fractures, affecting various parts of the body, such as arms, legs, ribs, or the skull. Treatment for broken bones or fractures may include immobilization with casts or splints, realignment of the bone (reduction), surgical fixation with pins, plates, or screws, and rehabilitation to restore strength and mobility.

Lacerations and Contusions

Cuts, bruises, and abrasions are among the most common injuries sustained in accidents such as motor vehicle collisions, slips and falls, workplace incidents, and assaults. While cuts, bruises, and abrasions are generally considered minor injuries, they can range in severity depending on factors such as the force of impact, the location of the injury, and the individual’s health condition.

Proving Negligence in a Florida Personal Injury Case

Negligence is a key element in personal injury cases. To establish negligence, one must demonstrate that the responsible party had a duty of care, breached that duty, and that breach directly resulted in the plaintiff’s injuries.

• Duty of Care: Identify the duty of care owed by the at-fault party. This could be the duty of a driver to operate their vehicle safely, a property owner to maintain a safe premises, or a healthcare professional to provide competent care.
• Breach of Duty: Establish that the responsible party breached their duty of care. This may involve proving reckless driving, failure to maintain premises, or medical malpractice, among other examples.  Generally, everyone has a responsibility to use reasonable care to do almost any activity.  So, a duty of care can arise from almost any activity.
• Causation: Demonstrate a direct link between the breach of duty and the injuries sustained. It’s crucial to establish that the negligent actions were a substantial factor in causing harm.
• Damages: Document and quantify the damages suffered, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other relevant losses.

Proving negligence in a personal injury case is a meticulous process, and having the right legal team by your side is crucial. At Flanagan & Bodenheimer, our Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys are dedicated to meticulously investigating and presenting compelling cases on behalf of our clients. If you’ve suffered injuries due to someone else’s negligence, let us guide you on the path to justice, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Contact our Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers at 305-638-4143 or complete our online form for a free case evaluation.

Determining The Value of Your Personal Injury Case

Determining the value of your personal injury case is an intricate process, and no two cases are alike. At Flanagan & Bodenheimer, our Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys are committed to evaluating the unique aspects of your case and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a thorough assessment of your case value.

The value of a personal injury case is influenced by various factors, including:

• Nature and Severity of Injuries: The extent and severity of your injuries play a significant role in determining case value. More severe injuries often lead to higher compensation to cover medical expenses, ongoing treatment, and potential long-term consequences.
• Medical Expenses: The total cost of your medical treatment, including hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical expenses, contributes to the valuation of your case.
• Lost Wages and Future Earnings: Compensation may be awarded for the income you’ve lost due to the injury and potential future earnings if the injury impacts your ability to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life, are factored into the case value.
• Property Damage: In cases involving vehicle accidents, compensation for property damage, such as vehicle repairs or replacement, is considered.
• Liability and Negligence: Establishing the degree of liability and negligence of the at-fault party impacts the case value. Clear evidence of negligence strengthens your position.
• Insurance Coverage: The insurance policy limits of the at-fault party influence the maximum amount of compensation that can be recovered.
• Pre-existing Conditions: The presence of pre-existing conditions may impact the case value, with careful consideration given to distinguishing between existing and accident-related injuries. Our skilled attorneys have obtained successful outcomes for multiple clients with pre-existing conditions.
• Duration and Impact of Recovery: The length of your recovery and the lasting impact of the injuries on your life are considered when assessing compensation for pain, suffering, and lifestyle changes.
• Legal Representation: Having an experienced personal injury attorney can significantly impact the case value. A skilled attorney can navigate legal complexities, negotiate effectively, and build a strong case on your behalf.

Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Cases in Florida

In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims generally spans two years from the date of the accident. This timeframe was previously four years until a recent amendment to Florida Law in March 2023. This applies to motor vehicle accidents, premises liability, product liability, and most other injury cases. However, exceptions exist for specific cases like medical malpractice and wrongful death. 

In every instance, in order to be safe you should always attempt to file a lawsuit within less than two years of the date of your accident, with the assistance of an experienced injury lawyer. It’s important to consult with a qualified personal injury attorney in Florida to see if the statute of limitations on your case has passed. An accident lawyer can help you navigate these legal nuances and ensure that your case is filed within the correct time period.

Contact our Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers at 305-638-4143 or complete our online form for a free case evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does a Personal Injury Attorney Cost in Florida?

Most personal injury attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, which means that clients do not have to pay any upfront fees. Instead, the attorney typically charges a percentage of the compensation recovered, if they succeed in securing a favorable outcome for the client. This fee structure ensures that clients seeking legal representation for their personal injury claims can access experienced and skilled attorneys without the financial burden of immediate payments.

What If I Was Partially At Fault For An Accident?

If you find yourself partially at fault for an accident in Florida, it’s important to understand the state’s comparative negligence system. Florida used to operate under a pure comparative negligence rule, which meant that even if you share some degree of fault, you may still be eligible to pursue a personal injury claim. However, your compensation would be proportionally reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you were deemed 20% at fault, your potential compensation would be reduced by that percentage. 

If you did not file a lawsuit prior to March 24, 2023, then Florida’s new modified comparative fault scheme applies to your case (unless you have a medical malpractice case).  Under the new Florida modified comparative fault system, if you were more than 50% responsible for causing your accident, then you are completely barred from making any recovery against the parties who were 49% responsible for causing your accident and injuries.

Our Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of comparative negligence, assess your situation, and work towards securing the maximum compensation possible, even if you bear some responsibility for the accident.

Will I Have To Go To Court If I File a Personal Injury Claim?

Not necessarily. Many personal injury cases are resolved through settlements negotiated outside of court. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial.

How Long Will It Take To Resolve My Personal Injury Case in South Florida?

The timeline for resolving a personal injury case can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the extent of your injuries, and whether the case goes to trial. Generally, it can take several months to several years to reach a settlement or verdict. Once our attorneys review the details of your case, they will be able to give you a clearer timeline.

Flanagan & Bodenheimer Personal Injury Case Results

Through meticulous legal representation, we’ve obtained multi million dollar verdicts and settlements, providing our clients with the financial support they need to navigate the challenges that arise from personal injuries. Here are some noteworthy cases resolved by Flanagan & Bodenheimer:

• $4.2M Wrongful Death Settlement – Single man in his thirties was killed in a shooting at an apartment complex.  His parents were his only survivors.
• $3.75M Slip & Fall Settlement – Our firm represented a man that slipped-and-fell causing him to suffer a concussion.
• $2.75M Premises Liability Settlement – Our client endured a concussion after being injured in a premises liability accident.
• $2.75 Wrongful Death – It was alleged that a hospital failed to timely diagnose and treat an infection which ultimately resulted in the death of the patient.
• $2.6M Wrongful Death Settlement – We represented the parents of a young man that was killed in a car crash. We brought claims for negligence and product liability against a negligent driver and a product manufacturer.
• $2.5M Wrongful Death Settlement – It was alleged that a hospital failed to respond to a patient’s medical emergency, resulting in the death of the patient.  The survivors were the patient’s children.
• $2M Settlement – Our client suffered exacerbated kidney disease requiring a kidney transplant as a result of Defendant’s failure to provide appropriate medical care. The identity of the parties involved in this matter is confidential.

Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyers For a Free Consultation

If you’ve suffered a serious injury in Fort Lauderdale, don’t navigate the legal process alone—reach out to Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury and Wrongful Death Law Firm for a complimentary consultation. Our devoted team of Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers is committed to offering expert guidance and unwavering support during these challenging times. Whether your situation involves a car accident, truck collision, medical malpractice, or any other personal injury, our attorneys are prepared to evaluate your case and help you explore your legal options.

While our primary offices are situated in Hollywood, FL and Miami, FL, we extend our services to clients across all of South Florida, including Fort Lauderdale. Contact us today at 305-638-4143 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation in English or Spanish.