FAQS

You have questions. I have answers!

After suffering a serious injury because of someone else’s negligence, you need fair insurance coverage to pay the costs of the resulting damages. Recovering fair compensation for an accident requires the counsel and representation of an experienced Miami personal injury attorney. At Cullen J. Lane, Esq., P.A., I have more than 10 years of experience and have the knowledge and skill to answer any questions you may have. I can also represent you when working with the big insurance companies or in court if your case goes to trial. Your best interests are my main concern, and I will provide you with one-on-one, tailored service for your personal injury claim. Read through answers to some common questions below before speaking with me in person for more information.

How do I file a personal injury claim?
The first step in filing a claim is to consult a lawyer. With an attorney’s counsel and guidance, you then negotiate with the insurance company in an attempt to work out a settlement. It is best to avoid a court case whenever possible because trial can be more costly; however, you can file a lawsuit against the liable party and / or the insurance company if you are unable to reach a fair settlement. As a skilled injury lawyer, I can guide you through the complex legal process of filing a personal injury lawsuit.

How much is my claim worth?
Determining exactly how much your claim is worth is not possible, although a fair estimate can be calculated. Each personal injury case is unique and involves numerous factors, such as your medical bills, lost wages, property damages and repairs, pain and suffering, and emotional damages. Some of these factors have exact monetary values, such as your medical bills and property repairs, while others do not, such as emotional damage and suffering. Speak with me to discuss your situation and receive an estimate of how much your case may be worth. Keep in mind, however, that the final result may be more or less than what was originally estimated because other factors may arise as your case progresses.

Who is liable for my accident?
Liability is one of the most important factors in any personal injury case. By establishing negligence in and responsibility for your accident, you are much more likely to obtain the compensation that you deserve. In order to determine who was liable for your accident, you must gather evidence to learn – and prove – what each person was doing when the accident occurred and how their actions may or may not have contributed to the incident. For example, if someone was talking on their phone while driving and ran a red light, they are liable for the T-bone car accident that resulted. Other cases may be more complex or difficult to prove, so be sure to retain a skilled attorney.

What is a catastrophic injury?
Catastrophic injuries are those that cause long-term or permanent impairment, disability, or disfigurement to the injury victims. Common examples are scarring injuries, severe burns, severe broken bones, amputations, brain trauma, and spinal cord injuries. Each of these injuries results in lasting or permanent damage that affects the person’s self-image and / or life enjoyment.

Why did the insurance company deny my claim when I have coverage?
Insurance companies often say one thing and do another. Their desire is to make money by skimping on policy payouts whenever possible. If you thought you had coverage only to have the insurance company deny your claim, don’t be surprised. Hire a lawyer to represent you and fight the insurance company for the coverage that you know you deserve. Once the insurance company sees that you are ready to take legal action, they will be much more likely to agree to a fair settlement.

Can your firm help with hurricane damage?
Yes! My firm has helped numerous Miami residents fight the insurance companies for fair coverage after their homes suffered wind damage, water damage, and other damages after a hurricane. Insurance companies can be particularly tightfisted when it comes to hurricane coverage, but with a skilled lawyer fighting on your side, you have a much higher probability of getting the coverage that you need to repair your home or other property.

When should I file a personal injury claim?
You should file a personal injury claim as soon as possible after your accident. First of all, there is a statute of limitations for personal injury: You must file a claim within two years of your accident or else you forfeit your ability to recover compensation. Second of all, waiting to file your claim only makes it more difficult to gather evidence and establish liability, which makes it harder to maximize your compensation. Hire a lawyer and file your claim right away if you’ve been injured because of another person’s negligence.

Do I need a personal injury lawyer in the Miami area?
Yes, it is in your best interest to hire a personal injury attorney after an accident. You may not be required to retain legal representation, but insurance companies will pay little attention to you when you are unrepresented. Once you hire a known and experienced lawyer such as me, the insurance companies will be much more compliant. They don’t want to go to trial, either, and if they see that you are prepared to take a case to court, then they will be more willing to negotiate a fair settlement.

Retain a Miami Personal Injury Attorney

Contact my firm as soon as possible after your accident to receive a free case evaluation in person or over the phone. I will gladly discuss your case with you and help you understand what options are available to you. Time is of the essence, so do not hesitate to learn how I can fight tirelessly for the compensation that you deserve!