Common Questions About Personal Injury

Personal Injury Lawyer

A Vero Beach, FL personal injury lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in helping people who have been injured in accidents or incidents caused by someone else’s negligence. When someone is injured due to the negligence of another party, they may be entitled to compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Hiring a personal injury lawyer, such as a lawyer at Tuttle Larsen, P.A., can be a smart choice for those seeking justice and fair compensation, but many people have questions about what to expect from a personal injury lawyer. In this article, we will explore some of the most common questions people have about personal injury lawyers.

What does a personal injury lawyer do?

A personal injury lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in representing individuals who have been injured in accidents caused by someone else’s negligence. They work to ensure that their clients receive fair compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident. Personal injury lawyers handle a variety of cases, including car accidents, slip and fall accidents, medical malpractice, and more.

Do I need a personal injury lawyer?

If you have been injured in an accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. While you can pursue a claim on your own, hiring a personal injury lawyer can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation. Personal injury lawyers are trained to navigate the legal system and negotiate with insurance companies to get their clients the compensation they deserve.

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer?

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they only get paid if their client receives compensation. Typically, the lawyer will take a percentage of the compensation as their fee. This percentage can vary, but it is typically around 33% of the total compensation. It is important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer before hiring them.

How long does it take to resolve a personal injury case?

The length of time it takes to resolve a personal injury case can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and the cooperation of the other party. In some cases, a settlement can be reached quickly, while in other cases, it may take several months or even years to reach a resolution. Your personal injury lawyer can provide you with an estimate of how long your case is likely to take.

What kind of compensation can I receive in a personal injury case?

The compensation you can receive in a personal injury case can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. Generally, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident. Your personal injury lawyer can help you determine what kind of compensation you may be entitled to.

Will I have to go to court?

Not all personal injury cases go to court. In fact, many cases are settled outside of court through negotiation and mediation. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, it may be necessary to take the case to court. Your personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and advise you on the best course of action.

Driver Flees Into Swamp After Car Wreck

Car Accident Lawyer

A car accident in Florida led to a peculiar situation in which a driver went to extreme measures to elude the scene of a car crash. Responding deputies state that a driver had attempted to hide in a swamp close by. The accident happened in the evening, around 8:30 p.m. (ET) near the city of Mulberry on April 10, 2023. Just south of Lakeland, a Nissan Sentra crossed the centerline on Highway 640 and struck a semi-truck. Polk County Sheriff Office deputies responded to the area and learned that the Sentra driver had panicked and tried to hide in a swap about a mile away. Zachary Brooks, 23 year old resident of Mulberry, allegedly fled the scene while removing most of what he was wearing at the time.

The driver ran from the scene without exchanging necessary information with the truck driver, such as first and last name, driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance details. The defendant was described as essentially scampering away while in his undergarments. Brooks was found by search dogs who were brought to the scene. Eventually, he was found hiding one mile away in a swamp. After deputies located him, Brooks was cooperative and complied with the arrest. He was treated for minor injuries. He is being charged with failing to maintain insurance, leaving the scene of an accident with injuries, and knowingly driving a vehicle while his license was revoked or suspended.

In the scenario described here, despite the silly behavior of the offending driver, it is important to realize that by fleeing the scene, it only made matters worse. The driver did not call 911 and left the truck driver unattended, who may have required medical attention for injuries of his own. It is never recommended to elude the scene of a crash, as it can cause an exacerbated situation to unfold and risks the lives of others. A Melbourne, FL car accident lawyer knows the extreme lengths people will go to try and avoid being at fault for a car accident. But the team at Tuttle Larsen, P.A. prioritizes victim’s rights and wellbeing. We understand the impacts that a car accident can have on the body and mind, and victims may be entitled to substantial compensation for what they have endured.

While your situation may not entail someone fleeing the area into a swap, you may have sustained physical injuries and significant property damage due to a reckless driver. If this is the case, then we suggest contacting a law firm that is experienced in handling car accidents. During your consultation, we will ask more details about the incident and how you were negatively affected. From there, you may choose to file an insurance claim and/or sue the driver directly for your losses. But each case is unique, so it will be difficult to know if your situation warrants legal action or not, that is, until you speak with a lawyer. If you have questions or concerns in the aftermath of a serious car wreck, contact us as soon as possible.

Fatal Crash On Turnpike Near Fort Pierce

Car Accident Lawyer

On the afternoon of April 3rd, there was a sizable car accident involving a total of five vehicles, also including a tractor trailer, on Florida’s Turnpike near Fort Pierce. Unfortunately, while other victims only suffered minor injuries, one victim did not survive the crash. Car accidents on a highway are frantic and overwhelming. Watching a crash like this happen in real time is simply hard to believe and absorb. Like any everyday driver on the road, we all understand that accidents happen in the blink of an eye, but we do not actually understand this reality until we ourselves witness or actually experience a devastating car crash. There are friends and family mourning this victim who didn’t survive. And the day of April 3rd was really just like any other day. If you have been involved in a car accident, even a more minor one, you know that there are almost always steep financial and emotional repercussions. That said, should you find yourself in a car accident, it could be in your best interest to hire an experienced Fort Pierce, FL car accident lawyer.

The aftermath of a car accident, no matter the size of damages, is so taxing and daunting. With no legal background, it is often hard to gauge if you are making the best financial and medical decisions. If you are working with an insurance company to retrieve compensations for damages, they likely are trying to give you the least amount of compensation possible. A passionate lawyer, such as a lawyer at Tuttle Larsen, P.A., will do the exact opposite and actively fight for your rights. Not only will a lawyer tirelessly protect and defend your case, but also work hand-in-hand with you as you walk through the legal steps. There are so many variables to consider following a car accident, and you want to have the best case possible. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer understands all the hidden angles in a case, and they will make sure you do not have any missed opportunities for compensation. A lawyer will study and evaluate all evidence at hand – and they may think of evidence that you wouldn’t know is useful if you were building your case on your own. Without a professional legal background, you sometimes simply don’t know what you don’t know, and that’s why a lawyer can really dig through all of your possible legal and financial options as you move forward. You deserve to move forward with your personal life and focus on your own road to recovery. When you hire a dedicated lawyer, they will handle all communication moving forward on your behalf. You no longer need to address the hospital, at-fault party, insurance company, etc. Your lawyer is there to lift this stressful burden from your plate, let you move on with your life, and allow you to refocus on your routine day-to-day. Don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer in your area when you are seeking legal guidance following a car crash.

Fatal Car Accident On I-95

Car Accident Lawyer

It was the middle of the night on April 2nd along I-95 when a woman had crashed into the side of the road. Police reported that her vehicle caught fire shortly after the crash, in which she escaped. Yet unfortunately, the woman was standing on the road when a man in a sedan was driving down the highway and fatally hit her. It was of course incredibly dark, and the driver stated her body was essentially unavoidable – the woman wasn’t able to jump out of the way in time nor was the driver able to swerve away in enough time. The woman was pronounced dead once first responders were able to arrive on scene. While we don’t have the latest details, it’s very possible that the man in the sedan was fully focused on the road despite the late hours, but this is inevitably an example of how little control we have in these emergency situations. Neither driver in this event could even remotely predict that this was their fate that night. We must be reminded just how fragile our lives are, especially when getting behind a steering wheel. Car accidents happen every single day, and most of us in our adult lives will probably face some sort of car accident, even if it’s minor. In other words, it is imperative to be prepared and professionally equipped when you do find yourself involved in a car accident. 

If you do find yourself the victim of a car accident, it is likely in your best interest to contact a Palm Bay, FL car accident lawyer that you can trust, such as a lawyer at Tuttle Larsen, P.A. Even minor car accidents can lead to serious injuries and financial consequences. That said, car insurance companies of an at-fault party will not have your best interest in giving you maximized emotional and financial compensation. A dedicated and experienced lawyer will actively fight for your rights so that you don’t have to. The aftermath of a car accident, regardless of the severity, is taxing, tiresome, and just all-around overwhelming. You shouldn’t have to face this process on your own, and you deserve passionate legal guidance that understands your individual situation. Not only will a lawyer tirelessly protect and defend your case, but also work hand-in-hand with you as you walk through the legal steps. There are so many variables to consider following a car accident, and you want to have the best case possible. Without a professional legal background, you sometimes simply don’t know what you don’t know, and that’s why a lawyer can really dig through all of your possible legal and financial options as you move forward. A lawyer can analyze your car accident case from any possible angle in order to ensure you will receive your rightful compensation. Once you pass off evidence, paperwork, eye witness information, and anything else pertaining to the crash, your lawyer will remove that workload from you. You should focus on getting your personal life back on track and working towards the path of mental and physical recovery.

Fatal 2023 Accident After Driver Runs Red Light

With 2023 upon us, there have unfortunately been a number of fatal accidents in the state of Florida. Recently in a tragic multi-car accident, two died and a woman was critically injured In a February 2023 accident near Boca Raton, Florida. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office reported that their vehicle was struck by another vehicle that ran a red light near the intersection of U.S. Highway 441 and Kimberly Road around 10:30 am that morning. The intersection of U.S. Highway 441 and Kimberly Road was closed for about five hours after the accident happened. The names of the two who perished and the name of the woman that sustained critical injuries were not released by law enforcement. 

Authorities reported that the driver who ran the red light survived. He was driving a 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee and reportedly was heading southbound on U.S. 441 in the right lane as his vehicle approached the Kimberly Road exit where he struck the other vehicle, causing two fatalities and injuring one other critically. Alcohol/drugs were listed as being present in his vehicle in the police report. The driver of the Jeep was taken to a nearby hospital but there were no significant injuries reported. 

The Crucial Role of Car Accident Lawyers

Experienced car accident lawyers play a crucial role in helping clients navigate the complex legal process that follows a fatal car accident such as this one. The primary objective is to advocate for clients during the most challenging times and ensure they receive fair compensation for their injuries, damages, and losses.

Key Roles & Responsibilities

One of the key responsibilities of a car accident lawyer is to investigate the accident and gather evidence to support their client’s case. This includes reviewing police reports, medical records, witness statements, and other relevant documents. They may also work with accident reconstruction experts to help determine the cause of the accident.

Once the evidence has been gathered, the lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on behalf of their client to secure a fair settlement. They will also represent their clients in court if a lawsuit becomes necessary.

State Specific Knowledge & Insight

An experienced car accident lawyer has an in-depth knowledge of personal injury law and understands the various factors that can impact a client’s case, such as comparative negligence and insurance policy limits as they pertain to the state in which the accident occurred. A lawyer that specializes in car accident-related personal injury and wrongful death are also skilled at assessing the value of a claim and determining the appropriate compensation for their client’s injuries and losses.

Post-Accident Emotional Support & Guidance

In addition to their legal expertise, car accident lawyers provide emotional support to their clients during what can be a stressful and traumatic time for the families of car accident fatalities. They can answer questions, provide guidance, and offer reassurance, all while advocating for their client’s rights.

By working diligently to investigate the accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent their clients in court if necessary, your lawyer serves as an invaluable resource during times of adversity. 

An experienced Melbourne, FL car accident lawyer from Tuttle Larsen, P.A. is here for you and your family during your time of need and is prepared to fight for the compensation you need after a tragic car accident.

Criminal Defense Law FAQs

A criminal charge can have significant implications for an individual’s life, including potential incarceration, fines, and other legal penalties. In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction can also result in civil penalties, such as job loss or deportation, and have a lasting impact on a person’s personal and professional reputation. An experienced Vero Beach, Fl criminal defense lawyer from Tuttle Larsen, P.A. is well prepared to represent those who are facing criminal charges.

Here are five frequently asked questions about Florida criminal defense law:

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?

In Florida, a misdemeanor is a less serious offense than a felony. Misdemeanors are typically punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine, while felonies carry a penalty of more than one year in prison and/or a fine. Additionally, a felony conviction can have significant consequences beyond incarceration, such as loss of voting rights, inability to own firearms, and difficulty finding employment or housing.

What are some common criminal defenses?

Some common criminal defenses often include lack of intent, self-defense, duress, entrapment, and insanity. A lack of intent defense argues that the defendant did not intend to commit the crime, while a self-defense defense asserts that the defendant acted to protect themselves or others. A duress defense argues that the defendant committed the crime because they were coerced or threatened, and an entrapment defense asserts that law enforcement coerced the defendant into committing the crime. An insanity defense argues that the defendant was not mentally competent to understand the nature of their actions.

What is the role of a criminal defense lawyer?

The role of a criminal defense lawyer is to represent individuals who have been accused of criminal offenses. This includes providing legal advice and guidance, representing the defendant in court, negotiating plea bargains, and advocating for the defendant’s rights and interests. A criminal defense lawyer may also conduct investigations, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a defense strategy designed to achieve the best possible outcome for their client.

What are the potential penalties for a criminal conviction?

The potential penalties for a criminal conviction in Florida vary depending on the offense and the circumstances of the case. Penalties may include fines, probation, community service, house arrest, incarceration, or a combination of these. In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction may also result in civil penalties, such as loss of professional licenses, job loss, or deportation if the defendant is not a US citizen. A criminal conviction can also have a significant impact on an individual’s personal and professional life, reputation, and future opportunities.

Can a criminal conviction be expunged?

In some cases, a criminal conviction in certain states, including Florida may be eligible for expungement or sealing. Expungement involves the physical destruction of a criminal record, while sealing involves restricting access to the record. Eligibility for expungement or sealing depends on a variety of factors, including the type of offense, the amount of time that has passed since the offense, and the defendant’s criminal history. If a conviction is expunged or sealed, the defendant may legally deny that the conviction occurred, and the record will not show up on most background checks. 

2023 Fatal St. Lucie County Alligator Attack

On February 20th, 2023 an 85 year old woman died after being bitten by an alligator while she was walking her dog near a pond located in a St. Lucie County golfing community. First responders were able to recover her body from Spanish Lakes Fairways near Fort Pierce. 

Officers of The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and deputies of the St. Lucie County Sheriff Department was sent to the area in response to 911 calls from residents who live near and around the pond. Local residents reportedly witnessed the alligator “grabbing her” at which point emergency personnel were called in. 

St. Lucie County fire rescue personnel arrived at the scene within minutes to recover her body, around 12:00 pm. They remained on-scene to aid in identification and location of the alligator. A contracted nuisance alligator trapper was able to locate and remove the gator from the pond later that day, around 2:30pm with the help of local fire rescue personnel.

A Spanish Lakes resident who lives near the pond where the tragedy occurred stated that she was familiar with the alligator and it had never demonstrated any aggressive tendencies towards humans.

Alligator-Related Premises Liability & Personal Injury 

Unfortunately, alligator attacks are fairly common in the state and this tragic incident only reinforces this notion. When predatory wildlife may unexpectedly attack. Alligators are native to Florida and much of the south east, and due to their prominence, property owners have a legal obligation to display warnings that advise visitors, residents, passers, about the threat of alligator attack. 

Alligator attacks can result in devastating physical, emotional, and financial damages to victims and their families. A Vero Beach, FL personal injury lawyer can help these victims in various ways, including:

• Investigating the incident: A personal injury lawyer can investigate the attack to determine the cause, including whether there was any negligence on the part of the property owner or any other party that could be held liable.
  
• Evaluating damages: A lawyer can assess the extent of the victim’s injuries and damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future medical care needs.
  
• Negotiating with insurance companies: A lawyer can work with the victim’s insurance company and any other involved parties to negotiate a fair settlement that covers all damages.
  
• Representing the victim in court: If necessary, a lawyer can represent the victim in court and present their case to a judge or jury.
• Providing legal advice and guidance: A personal injury lawyer can offer legal advice and guidance to help the victim understand their rights and options.
  
• Gathering evidence: A lawyer can gather evidence, including witness statements, medical records, and other relevant information to support the victim’s claim.
  
• Advocating for the victim: A personal injury lawyer can serve as an advocate for the victim and fight for their rights throughout the legal process.
  

Overall, a lawyer that specializes in personal injury and premises liability, such as those of Tuttle Larsen, P.A. can be a valuable resource for victims of wildlife attacks, helping them to navigate the legal system and obtain the compensation they deserve for their injuries and damages.