Personal Injury

Can Crime Victims Sue for Compensation in Florida?

Published on: August 1, 2025 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

After being injured in a violent attack, victims get some closure knowing that criminal laws are tough on offenders. Florida criminal statutes classify most violent crimes as felonies, leading to lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and serious legal consequences. However, many crime victims don’t realize they have another legal remedy in civil court. It is possible to pursue a civil lawsuit against the attacker or other responsible parties, even if a criminal case is pending.

Because these cases are complicated, it is essential to retain a Miami crime victims lawyer who will aggressively pursue all at-fault parties. Plus, you can read on for the basics about how crime victims can sue for compensation in Florida.

Comparing Civil Claims from Criminal Cases in Florida

How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Florida?

Published on: July 25, 2025 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

If you or a loved one was recently hurt in an accident, one critical issue is the time restrictions imposed by law. In Florida, the personal injury statute of limitations governs how long you have to file a lawsuit, and it applies to most accident cases.

Missing the deadline can lead to harsh consequences, so you should reach out to a Miami personal injury attorney to preserve your rights. A summary will also help you understand how long you have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Florida.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Florida?

What is the Average Car Accident Settlement in Miami?

Published on: July 18, 2025 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Car accident rates in South Florida are so high that it’s likely you or someone you know has been involved in one. According to the statistics from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there are almost 125,000 total crashes in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach Counties annually. Around 70,000 people are killed or suffer injuries in these collisions.

Florida traffic crash laws provide you with legal remedies as a victim, and a settlement is a standard route for resolving claims. Your Miami car accident lawyer can provide details, but it’s also helpful to know the average car accident settlement for reference purposes.

Factors That Affect Car Accident Settlements in Miami

When to Get a Lawyer for Burn Injuries in Miami

Published on: July 4, 2025 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Burns from flames, explosions, chemicals, and other accidents cause significant agony and pain for victims, who often endure extended periods of recovery and life-long scarring. The American Burn Association reports that almost 30,000 people are admitted to the hospital every year for burns, and hundreds of thousands more are treated in ERs.

Burn victims have legal options after an accident, but you might be questioning whether to retain counsel. It is useful to check out an overview of when to get a Miami catastrophic injuries lawyer for burns.

Why You Need Legal Counsel After a Catastrophic Injury

Steps When Hiring a Miami Personal Injury Lawyer in Miami

Published on: June 27, 2025 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Accidents remain one of the top causes of death and disability in the US, but victims do have options after suffering injuries. Florida personal injury laws authorize you to sue for damages, including your medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Compensation can help you get your life back, so it’s crucial to enforce your rights.

Legal assistance is essential for the process, but many victims don’t know where to begin with hiring a Miami personal injury lawyer. Here are some steps that should help you find the right fit.

What to Look for When Seeking Legal Counsel

Who is Liable in an E-Scooter Accident in Miami?

Published on: May 23, 2025 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Electric scooters are popular due to their convenience and affordability, but this form of transportation is even more attractive when riders can easily rent them. In a recent assessment, it was reported that there are nine different rental scooter companies operating in Miami, including Baus, Bird, Bolt, Helbiz, Jump, Lime, Lyft, Spin, and Wheels. These organizations operate through a sharing service, in which riders can rent, use, and then drop off the e-scooter when finished.

The risk of accidents is still very real when using an e-scooter, so it’s wise to know your rights if you’re involved in a collision. You can trust a Miami e-scooter accident lawyer to explain the details about fault, but read on for helpful information on who is liable.

Common Causes of E-Scooter Accidents in Miami

How Much Do Personal Injury Lawyers Charge in Miami?

Published on: May 2, 2025 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Legal fees for personal injury lawyers in Miami vary widely, but there is one critical standard that applies to all client relationships. Under Rule 4-1.5 of the Florida Rules of Professional Conduct, attorneys are permitted to use a contingency fee agreement. Payment is contingent upon winning your case, and legal fees are a percentage of the amount recovered.

Most Miami personal injury lawyers work on a contingency, so you need to understand how this method of billing works. Answers to a few FAQs are useful.

What is the Typical Contingency Fee for Personal Injury Lawyers in Florida?

Resort SCUBA Trips in Miami: Dangers When Divers Left Behind

Published on: March 28, 2025 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Miami’s warm, clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a top destination for resort SCUBA trips, attracting divers from around the world. PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) reports that there are eight dive sites in and around Miami, including five reef dives, three at shipwrecks, and two in the Atlantic Ocean. Like many avid divers, you’re aware of the risks that are involved with your favorite activity.

However, a risk you do not expect is getting left behind by a resort SCUBA tour operator. It is critical to discuss your rights with a Miami resort torts lawyer if you suffered harm because of the dangers associated with being out in the open water. They include:

Risk of Drowning

Hidden Costs of a Miami Car Accident: Beyond Medical Bills

Published on: January 24, 2025 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Traffic crashes are one of the biggest causes of death and disability in the US, and statistics indicate that the problem hits close to home in Miami. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there are almost 395,000 vehicle collisions in the state every year. More than 3,400 people lose their lives, and around 253,000 victims suffer injuries in these accidents.

Car accidents in Miami often leave victims dealing with far more than just physical injuries. While medical bills can be substantial, many people fail to recognize the hidden costs that can add up over time. With help from a Miami car accident attorney, you can recover the full extent of your damages. An overview demonstrates that there are many losses you might not expect.

Hidden Costs of a Car Accident

Comprehensive Guide to Miami’s Slip and Fall Laws

Published on: December 27, 2024 | by Gerson & Schwartz, P.A.

Slip and fall accidents are common around Miami restaurants, stores, parks, and other businesses, often leading to serious injuries. Broken bones, back and neck injuries, head trauma, and other injuries are common. Fortunately, you have legal remedies under Florida law if you were hurt in an accident on property, and your rights are grounded in premises liability concepts.

In addition to premises liability details, having in-depth knowledge of several other laws that impact your rights is critical. A Miami slip and fall accidents lawyer can explain how the following legal concepts impact your unique situation.

Premises Liability Overview