Fort Lauderdale
Personal Injury Lawyers

Navigating the aftermath of a severe accident can be overwhelming. Physical injuries, mounting medical bills, and emotional trauma can disrupt your life and livelihood. At Barnett Injury Law, P.A., our Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers are dedicated to advocating for accident victims throughout Broward County.

Navigating Accidents in Broward County

Fort Lauderdale is a vibrant city, home to scenic beaches, busy commercial districts, and significant traffic congestion. High-traffic corridors such as Interstate 95, the Florida Turnpike, and US-1 see thousands of vehicles daily, and this high traffic rate leads to an equally high rate of collisions. 

When you are injured as a result of another party’s negligence in Fort Lauderdale, you need legal representation that understands the local landscape.

Our Main Practice Areas

At Barnett Injury Law, P.A., we handle a wide array of personal injury cases with precision and dedication.

Car Accidents

Whether it is a rear-end collision at a red light or a high-speed crash on I-95, car accidents are a daily occurrence on Fort Lauderdale roads, and the resulting injuries can be catastrophic. We meticulously investigate auto collisions, utilizing traffic camera footage, police reports, and witness testimonies to establish fault and pursue maximum compensation for your property damage, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.

Truck Accidents

Commercial truck accidents often result in devastating injuries as a result of the sheer size and weight of semi-trucks and tractor-trailers. These cases often involve multiple liable parties including the driver, the trucking company, and the cargo loaders, so we analyze logbooks, maintenance records, and electronic logging devices to prove negligence and hold the appropriate corporations accountable.

Slip and Fall and Premises Liability

Property owners in Florida have a legal duty to maintain a safe environment for visitors and patrons. If you suffer a slip and fall because of wet floors in a grocery store, uneven pavement in a parking lot, or poor lighting in an apartment complex, we handle the intricacies of premises liability claims.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, lacking the protective enclosure of a passenger vehicle. Florida’s year-round warm weather makes it a popular state for riders, but distracted and reckless drivers pose a constant threat. We advocate fiercely for injured motorcyclists, combating the biases often held by insurance companies and seeking full recovery for road rash, fractures, and traumatic brain injuries.

Bicycle Accidents

Fort Lauderdale has seen an increase in bicycle commuters and recreational riders. Unfortunately, not all roads have adequate bike lanes, and many drivers fail to share the road safely. We assist injured cyclists in obtaining compensation for accidents caused by drivers who speed, run stop signs, or open their car doors without checking for oncoming bicycle traffic.

Construction Accidents

Construction sites are inherently dangerous environments. Although workers are primarily protected by Workers’ Compensation, accidents caused by third-party negligence—such as defective machinery manufacturers or independent subcontractors—warrant a separate personal injury claim.

Wrongful Death

Losing a loved one because of someone else’s negligence is an unimaginable tragedy; a wrongful death claim allows surviving family members to seek justice and financial stability. We approach these highly sensitive cases with compassion and rigorous legal strategy, pursuing compensation for funeral expenses, loss of future income, and the loss of companionship and guidance.

Dog Bites

Florida imposes strict liability on dog owners for injuries caused by their pets. If you or your child has been attacked by a dog, you do not have to prove the owner was negligent; you only need to prove the dog caused the injury while you were in a public place or lawfully on private property. We help victims recover costs for medical treatments, reconstructive surgeries, and emotional trauma.

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians in Fort Lauderdale frequently face dangers from distracted or speeding drivers, especially at busy intersections and crosswalks. Because pedestrians have no protection, the injuries sustained in these accidents are often severe or fatal. We are committed to holding reckless drivers accountable and pursuing full restitution for our injured clients.

Workers' Compensation

Under Florida law, most employers are required to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance. If you are injured on the job, you are generally entitled to medical benefits and partial wage replacement regardless of fault. We assist injured workers in navigating the complex claims process, appealing denied claims, and ensuring they receive the full scope of benefits required for their recovery.

Uber and Lyft

Rideshare services are incredibly popular in Fort Lauderdale, but accidents involving Uber and Lyft drivers introduce complicated insurance issues. The applicable insurance in question—whether the driver’s personal policy, the rideshare company’s policy, or a third party’s—depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. We untangle these complex liability issues to help you receive appropriate compensation.

Understanding Personal Injury Claims in Florida

Succeeding in a personal injury claim requires a deep understanding of state-specific laws and procedural rules, and the legal framework in Florida has recently undergone significant changes that directly impact how victims pursue justice.

The Statute of Limitations

In Florida, the time you have to file a lawsuit is strictly governed by law. According to the Florida Legislature, the statute of limitations for most standard negligence-based personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident; failing to file a lawsuit within this period typically results in the dismissal of your case.

Modified Comparative Fault

Florida evaluates personal injury damages based on a system of modified comparative negligence; under this rule, your financial award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. 

Crucially, if you are found to be more than 50% responsible for the accident, you are entirely barred from recovering any damages from the other party. 

Insurance adjusters frequently exploit this law, attempting to shift the blame onto you to minimize their financial liability.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury

What should I do immediately after an accident in Fort Lauderdale?

Your top priority should be your health. Seek emergency medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine, as some injuries manifest hours or days later. Call law enforcement to the scene so that a formal report is generated. If you are physically able, document the scene by taking photographs and collecting contact information from any witnesses. Finally, reach out to an attorney before providing a recorded statement to the insurance company.

The timeline for a personal injury claim varies widely based on the complexity of the case, the severity of your injuries, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate fairly. Some cases settle in a matter of months, whereas heavily contested cases requiring formal litigation can take over a year to resolve.

The vast majority of personal injury claims are resolved through out-of-court settlements. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement that adequately covers your damages, we are fully prepared to take your case to court to fight for your rights before a judge and jury.

doctor wrapping a patients leg in wrap after an injury

Key Takeaways About Personal Injury in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyers at Barnett Injury Law, P.A., Will Help You Focus on Your Recovery

You have many options when selecting a personal injury lawyer in South Florida. Many large firms operate as “settlement mills,” prioritizing volume over results.

If you or a loved one has been injured because of the negligence of another party, reach out to the Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers at Barnett Injury Law, P.A. Our team will provide dedicated legal advocacy while you focus entirely on your physical and emotional recovery. Call us today at 954-736-3070 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation. Our office is located in Fort Lauderdale, FL, and we serve clients in the surrounding area.