Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice, Purtz, Smith & Smith, P.A.

Have you been involved in a truck accident and have questions about Florida truck accident case values? Contact us today.


Question:

How do I determine the value of my truck accident claim in Southwest Florida?

Answer:

Recently someone came to us and was asking me, “How do you determine the value of a truck accident claim in Florida?” and we explained to them that that is a complex question. There are a lot of different moving parts that go into that.

First of all, you have to determine liability for the accident. Oftentimes when there’s a trucking accident case, the trucking company’s defense attorney will try to argue that the person injured was partially at fault to try to limit their damages. They’ll hire an expert right away. You need a plaintiff’s law firm that can hire an expert right away to do an accident reconstruction, that can get statements of all the witnesses, and that can do all the work to put together that part of the case, so you have a solid foundation for your case to show that the truck was totally at fault for the accident. The second part of that is damages, that is pain and suffering, lost wages, medical bills, loss of the capacity for enjoyment of life, and sometimes the insurance company for the trucking company, right out of the gate, will understand the extreme value of the case and will pay fair damages. There are sometimes where you need to file a lawsuit, and you determine the value of that case by looking at other verdicts that have happened in the state and by experience. We have four board-certified trial attorneys here at the firm, and we through our experience understand the value of the case, and we can push that case forward and let the insurance company know that we mean business, and that’s usually the way that you can get full value for a case. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us and we’ll be happy to talk to you about this further.


Have you lost a loved one been involved in an accident with a truck in Florida and have questions about Florida truck accident case values? Contact our experienced Southwest Florida truck accident lawyers today for a free consultation and case evaluation. Like us on Facebook

Are you selecting a Florida slip and fall attorney? Learn what you should look for in an attorney in this video and call our attorneys today.

Question:
How do I select the best slip and fall attorney in Southwest Florida?
Answer:
To select the best slip and fall attorney in Florida, you really need to find an attorney that understands the intricacies of a slip and fall case, and our firm does that. We had someone come to us recently. They had hired another attorney to handle their slip and fall case. The other attorney tried to settle the case before lawsuit and there were no good offers. The case went into lawsuit and the attorney really didn’t know how to handle the case. They didn’t take depositions of the appropriate witnesses, didn’t even request the surveillance video that showed the actual accident. The attorney didn’t even know that existed, therefore the client didn’t know.

That person ended up hiring us. We have the appropriate depositions set. We’ve taken that video, which is very helpful to our case and makes the case. You want to hire an attorney, in Florida, in a slip and fall case who understands the whole case, understands how to build your case appropriately, understands there’s evidence that needs to be preserved, and understands the right depositions to take to make sure they can build your case. Feel free to reach out to us if you have had a slip and fall. We are experts in slip and fall cases and can help maximize the value of your case.
Were you or a loved one injured in a slip and fall accident in Florida due to the carelessness or negligence of someone else and have questions about what to look for when selecting a slip and fall attorney? Contact our experienced Southwest Florida slip and fall lawyers today for a free consultation and case evaluation. Like us on Facebook Out of Town Legal Resource: These Spokane Slip and Fall Attorneys have done a great job creating educational content. If you need help with a slip and fall claim in Spokane, we recommend you take a look at their website.

Learn about the qualifications to look for in a personal injury attorney among other commonly asked questions in this video. Give us a call.

Whenever you are hurt as a result of the negligence of someone else or if a family member is hurt or killed, you should hire a personal injury attorney. Why? If there is an injury or a death then you have to be concerned for covering medical expenses, taking care of your family, and so on. Those factors can become very difficult for any person and can really throw a wrench in someone’s life. Hiring a personal injury attorney can help with those factors and more.

When looking to hire a personal injury attorney, you want to know if that attorney is local, experienced, and is board certified in your state. We have four board certified trial attorneys which means that we have been certified by the Florida bar. The Florida bar is the managing organization for Florida attorneys. You want an attorney who has tried a lot of cases and who really has experience in all sorts of injury law, which we do.

When doing your research to hire an attorney, you can look online at our website where you can see our attorneys and their different accomplishments, different verdicts we have had in front of different juries, and the type of law that we handle.

Experience makes a big difference in the way an attorney works and we are offering free confidential consultations to get started on your case so we can help you. Give us a call our schedule your free consultation by going to our website. We look forward to hearing from you soon and helping you with your case.


If you or a loved one has been severely injured, watch this video to learn the qualifications to look for in a personal injury attorney among other commonly asked questions. Then, contact our dedicated and experienced Southwest Florida Personal Injury Attorneys to schedule your free confidential consultation and legal case evaluation.

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Did you lose a loved one due to negligence in Florida? Read the 4 things you need to know about a wrongful death, then call our lawyers today.

1. Filing a Claim

The wrongful death action in Florida is brought by the personal representative of the estate. A deceased person cannot bring their own wrongful death case. A family member doesn’t bring a wrongful death case directly in that person’s name. It would be the personal representative of the estate. Our law firm actually has an estate department that can set that estate up, which makes it easier on you because you don’t have to hire multiple different law firms.

Our law firm will set up the estate, name a personal representative. Usually there’s an agreement amongst family members that it would be one of the family members, but sometimes the family members feel stressed out and don’t want to be involved in that regard, so we can have an attorney act as the personal representative of the estate. It’s really whatever is best for the family of the deceased because the family is grieving and going through a lot, so we want to try to help make this is as easy as we can on them and do what they want to do to make them comfortable.

If there’s a wrongful death case, the personal representative brings that case. Our law firm can set that up, and then also handle the wrongful death action.

2. Wrongful Death Claims

The most important thing to know about a wrongful death claim in Florida is that the insurance company is probably going to try to deny the claim or defend the claim; that is what they do to try to wear down on the family members that have lost their loved one. You need to hire the appropriate attorney that can handle the case, that has an understanding of the value of the case and has the assets to be able to push that case forward and fight the insurance company, and or firm has that.

We’ve been around for nearly 60 years. Our law firm handles these sort of cases all the time. We have board-certified civil trial attorneys who try wrongful death cases, and the insurance companies know that. The number one thing is to understand that because there is substantial value in wrongful death cases, the insurance company is likely going to try to beat you down. We don’t let that happen when we’re involved in a case.

3. Case Value

You have to look at multiple different factors. You have to look for who is at fault for the incident.

There are many different kinds of wrongful death cases. They can be a negligent security case, where a loved one is killed on a property where there wasn’t proper security, such as a gas station, where they know that there’s prior problems with shootings and someone is shot at a gas station. You can have a wrongful death claim from a car accident, motorcycle accident, trucking accident. You can have a wrongful death case from a fall-down, and we’ve recently handled a fall-down wrongful death case where we recovered over $10 million. The value all depends on how you can prove who was at fault, whether it be the premises owner, whether it be the truck driver, whether it be the vehicle driver.

The second step is what are the damages that are involved, that is pain and suffering, loss of the familiar relationship. There are different family members who have different rights under the wrongful death act to make different claims for damages. You need an attorney that can navigate those things.

4. Case Timeline

It depends on the insurance company and how reasonable they’re going to be with you early on. Oftentimes the insurance company will deny, delay, and defend in a case, especially a case that will have substantial value if there’s a loss of a loved one.

You need an attorney that can push that case forward. Sometimes we can settle the case early on because we have a reputation as a firm that tries cases, so the insurance company knows that they’ll need to resolve the case, but sometimes you have to file a lawsuit. If we do have to file a lawsuit, our firm has four board-certified trial attorneys, which is the highest certification you can get in trial. We spend a lot of time in trial and we understand how to try these cases to get the maximum value for these cases. Sometimes just by filing the lawsuit you can get the insurance company to be reasonable without having to actually go to trial.

If the insurance company is reasonable, great; we can settle the case early on. More often than not, though, they’re not going to be reasonable and the case can take months, if not a year or more. You need an attorney that understands that and can be in it for the long haul to try to maximize the value of the case.


Have you lost a loved one due to the negligence of another person in Florida and have questions about the 4 things you need to know about a wrongful death? Contact our experienced Southwest Florida wrongful death lawyers today for a free consultation and case evaluation.

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Have you been injured in a motorcycle accident? Learn how attorneys determine your motorcycle accident case value in Florida. Give us a call.

Question:
How do I determine the value of my motorcycle accident claim in Southwest Florida?

Answer:
Determining the value of a motorcycle injury claim in Florida is somewhat complex; however, there are certain factors that go into analyzing that question. First and foremost, We think the ultimate question that comes into play in these types of cases is liability in terms of who is at fault for the crash. Are there any arguments on both sides as far as liability goes?

That’s something that a personal injury attorney can help you with because oftentimes, insurance companies will try to say that you’re at fault for a crash or you bear some responsibility. Oftentimes, that just isn’t the case. That’s why it’s important to get a personal injury attorney involved early on so that they can assist with the investigation and really make sure that they take any arguments like that away from the insurance company.

The second thing that comes into play when talking about the value of a motorcycle crash injury case is the severity of the injuries. Unfortunately, with respect to motorcycle crashes in particular, the injuries are often very severe. For that reason, the damages are very significant in those types of cases.

That is also why you want to make sure that you hire someone who specializes in personal injury law and motorcycle crashes because they will have the ability to properly present all of those damages to the insurance company, and then if necessary, to a jury. If you have questions about your motorcycle crash case, please feel free to call us. We’re happy to help you.


Have you or a loved one been injured in a motorcycle accident and have questions about how attorneys determine motorcycle accident case value in Florida? Contact our experienced Southwest Florida motorcycle accident lawyers today for a free consultation and case evaluation.

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The loss of a loved one is an unimaginable tragedy, and when that loss is a result of someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions, the pain can be even more profound. In Southwest Florida, FL, families facing such devastating circumstances often seek legal recourse through wrongful death claims. These claims aim to provide compensation for the emotional and financial toll inflicted upon the surviving family members.

Determining Compensation in Wrongful Death Cases

Calculating compensation in a wrongful death case is a complex process that takes into account various factors. One crucial element is the economic damages, which include medical expenses, funeral costs, and the lost income that the deceased would have contributed to the family. These tangible losses are relatively straightforward to quantify, but they are just one aspect of the compensation calculation.

Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are more subjective and challenging to determine. These damages encompass the emotional suffering, loss of companionship, and the overall impact on the family’s quality of life. Assigning a monetary value to these intangible losses requires a careful and thoughtful assessment of the unique circumstances surrounding each case.

In Southwest Florida, courts may consider factors such as the age and health of the deceased, their earning potential, and the nature of the relationship between the deceased and the surviving family members. The goal is to provide a fair and just compensation that acknowledges the profound and lasting impact of the loss.

Statutory Requirements for Wrongful Death Claims in Southwest Florida

Each state has its own set of laws governing wrongful death claims, and Southwest Florida is no exception. In this region, specific statutory requirements must be met for a wrongful death claim to be valid. Understanding these requirements is crucial for anyone considering pursuing legal action in the aftermath of a tragic loss.

One key requirement is the need for a legally recognized relationship between the claimant and the deceased. In Southwest Florida, only certain family members, such as spouses, children, and parents, are typically eligible to file a wrongful death claim. This limitation is designed to ensure that those who suffered the most direct and significant loss have the legal standing to seek compensation.

Additionally, Florida law imposes a statute of limitations on wrongful death claims. This means that there is a specific timeframe within which a claim must be filed. Failing to initiate legal proceedings within this timeframe may result in the loss of the right to pursue compensation. It is essential for individuals considering a wrongful death claim to be aware of and comply with these statutory requirements to ensure their case is valid and has the best chance of success.

Experienced Guidance in Navigating Compensation Complexities

Navigating the intricacies of compensation calculations and meeting the statutory requirements for wrongful death claims in Southwest Florida can be overwhelming, especially for those already grappling with the emotional aftermath of a loss. Legal professionals, experienced in handling such cases, can provide invaluable support and guidance during this challenging time.

Attorneys at Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A. have a deep understanding of the local legal landscape and are well-versed in the nuances of wrongful death cases in Southwest Florida. With decades of combined experience, our legal team is dedicated to helping families secure the compensation they deserve while navigating the complexities of the legal process.

Holistic Support for Grieving Families

Our commitment to clients extends beyond the courtroom. We recognize that each family’s experience is unique, and we strive to offer personalized support that addresses both the legal and emotional aspects of their situation. Our legal professionals work in tandem with grief counselors, support groups, and other resources to ensure that families have access to a comprehensive network of assistance.

Grieving families often find solace in the knowledge that their legal representatives not only understand the legal intricacies of their case but also empathize with the emotional challenges they face. This holistic approach sets Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A. apart, providing a source of strength for families seeking justice while navigating the difficult aftermath of a wrongful death.

At Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A., we recognize the sensitivity and gravity of wrongful death cases. Our legal professionals approach each case with compassion, empathy, and a commitment to securing the best possible outcome for our clients. We understand that no amount of compensation can fully alleviate the pain of losing a loved one, but it can provide financial stability and a sense of justice for the surviving family members.

Our legal team works tirelessly to build a comprehensive case that accurately reflects the extent of the losses suffered by our clients. We collaborate with financial specialists, medical professionals, and other specialists to present a compelling argument for fair and just compensation.

If you have lost a loved one due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another party in Southwest Florida, we are here to help. Contact Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A. to schedule a consultation with our experienced wrongful death attorneys. We understand the emotional and financial challenges you are facing, and we are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation.

Don’t navigate this difficult journey alone. Let our dedicated legal team guide you through the legal process, advocating for your rights and seeking the compensation your family deserves. Seek justice for your loved one – contact us today.

In the scenic expanse of Lehigh Acres, FL, where the open road beckons to motorcyclists, the thrill of the ride often comes with the inherent risks of accidents. In the aftermath of such unfortunate events, navigating the complexities of insurance coverage becomes crucial. One key component of this puzzle is Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, a vital safety net that can make all the difference in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident. Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A, with their deep roots in the local legal landscape, are here to shed light on the intricacies of PIP coverage for motorcyclists.

The Essence of Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

Personal Injury Protection, commonly known as PIP, is a form of insurance coverage that provides compensation for medical expenses and lost wages resulting from an accident, regardless of who was at fault. It is designed to be a swift and efficient way to secure essential benefits after a motor vehicle accident, including those involving motorcycles. In Lehigh Acres, where the thrill of riding is part of the lifestyle, understanding the nuances of PIP becomes paramount.

Motorcyclists and PIP Coverage: Unraveling the Details

Motorcyclists in Lehigh Acres, like all motorists, can benefit from PIP coverage. PIP is a no-fault insurance, meaning that it pays out regardless of who caused the accident. This is particularly significant for motorcyclists, as accidents involving motorcycles can result in severe injuries due to the relative lack of protection compared to enclosed vehicles.

Minimum PIP Requirements in Lehigh Acres, FL

Lehigh Acres, like the rest of Florida, has specific minimum requirements for PIP coverage. Motorcyclists must carry a minimum of $10,000 in PIP coverage. This coverage extends to cover 80% of necessary and reasonable medical expenses and 60% of lost wages. Additionally, it provides coverage for replacement services, which can include household chores that the injured party can no longer perform due to the accident.

Navigating PIP Claims for Motorcyclists

Filing a PIP claim after a motorcycle accident is a crucial step in accessing the benefits you are entitled to. However, the process can be complex, and motorcyclists may face unique challenges. It’s imperative to promptly seek medical attention after an accident, as delayed treatment could impact the success of your claim. Documenting injuries, treatment, and related expenses meticulously is also essential. Motorcyclists must notify their insurance company promptly and adhere to the specific timelines set forth in the policy to avoid any complications.

Challenges in PIP Claims for Motorcyclists

While PIP coverage is meant to provide swift relief after an accident, motorcyclists can encounter challenges in the claims process. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts, and disputes over the extent of injuries or the necessity of medical treatments are not uncommon. Having legal representation, like Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A, can be instrumental in navigating these challenges. Their seasoned attorneys understand the intricacies of PIP claims for motorcyclists and can advocate effectively to ensure that their clients receive the full benefits they deserve.

Why Legal Assistance Matters

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, and the associated medical expenses and lost wages can quickly accumulate. Legal assistance becomes crucial to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation. The attorneys at Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A, bring a wealth of experience to the table, advocating for their clients with tenacity and dedication.

The Role of Legal Representation in PIP Disputes

In the event of a dispute over PIP benefits, having legal representation becomes paramount. Insurance companies may deny or limit benefits, citing various reasons. Having an experienced legal team by your side can help navigate these disputes. Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A, are well-versed in the tactics insurance companies employ and can skillfully counteract them to ensure their clients receive the benefits they are entitled to.

Recovering from Motorcycle Injuries

Motorcycle accidents can lead to a range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe fractures and head injuries. The recovery process may involve extensive medical treatments, rehabilitation, and, in some cases, long-term care. Navigating this journey can be overwhelming, but the financial support provided by PIP can significantly ease the burden.

Addressing Lost Wages: A Crucial Component

In the wake of a motorcycle accident, individuals may find themselves unable to work due to injuries. This loss of income can create a cascade of financial challenges. PIP coverage, with its provision for lost wages, becomes a crucial lifeline, ensuring that individuals can focus on their recovery without the added stress of financial instability.

Navigating the Emotional Toll

The aftermath of a motorcycle accident goes beyond physical injuries and financial strain; it often takes a toll on one’s mental health. Dealing with the emotional aftermath, such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress, requires support and understanding. PIP coverage aims to provide a comprehensive safety net, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of recovery.

In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, the last thing you want to worry about is navigating the complexities of insurance claims on your own. Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A, are here to offer support and guidance. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in Lehigh Acres, FL, don’t hesitate to reach out for a consultation. Remember, time is of the essence in PIP claims, and having the right legal team by your side can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve. Your journey to recovery starts with the right advocates, and Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz, P.A, are ready to stand by your side.

Have you suffered serious health issues related to a faulty medical device? Read these 4 ways to get ahead on your medical device case today.

1. Mistakes To Avoid After an Injury Claim

One of the biggest mistakes people make with a medical device injury claim in Florida is not preserving the defective product, called an explant. When an implant is replaced, the explant, the old part, should be preserved as evidence because, many times, the explant will have evidence of the defect. Most times and many times, that explant is not preserved because of burial hazard issues and things of that nature, but at all costs, if you particularly think you have a medical device injury claim that you should preserve the old product and many hospitals and doctors would be willing to do that for you, but you have to ask in advance. Be sure to preserve the evidence. It’s very critical in these cases.

2. Recall Lawsuits

If your medical device was recalled, that’s evidence that the device was defective, which can be used to support a claim of a defective medical device. It may depend, however, on the length of time the device has been in your body. Most microdevices have a life expectancy based on the state you live in at the time. If it’s somewhere between 10 and 15 years and the device has been implanted longer than that, then the fact it’s been recalled may not be relevant to support a claim; if it’s been less than that, then obviously, it will support a claim. The fact that the device has been recalled is strong evidence that the device is defective and therefore would support a claim for medical device.

3. Available Damages

Florida allows compensation for multiple types of damages in medical device injury claims in Florida, such as what we call special damages, medical expenses, lost income, loss of ability to earn money, and things of that nature. That way you’ll have noneconomic damages as well that are compensable under Florida law to include pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of capacity to enjoy life, disability and disfigurement. All of these different types of damages are put into the hopper, so to speak, when we evaluate those claims because the jury is free to award these damages when there’s proof of them in a medical device injury claim.

4. Case Going to Trial

The vast majority of medical device injury claims in Florida settle because most of them are combined with other injury claims all over the country in what’s known as multidistrict litigation. Very few of those cases actually go to trial unless there’s going to be some test cases that might be tried early on to give the two sides a better idea as to how the jury or the public views these types of claims. The chance of your case going to trial is small but not impossible here in Florida.


Have you suffered serious health issues related to a faulty medical device in Florida and have questions about these 4 ways to get ahead on your medical device case? Contact our experienced Southwest Florida medical device injury lawyers today for a free consultation and case evaluation.

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Have you or a loved one been hurt on due to the negligence of a business or property owner? Read our Negligent Security Tips and contact us.

How do I select the best negligent security attorney in Southwest Florida?

The way you select the best negligent security attorney in Florida is by looking up their credentials, what they’ve done in their career. Our law firm has been around for nearly 60 years. We handle negligent security cases regularly. We have four board-certified civil trial attorneys. What does that all mean? It means that when you hire an attorney, the insurance company knows that attorney. They know if they’re a trial attorney or they know if they’re not, if they’re just an attorney that takes cases and settles them without the willingness to push the case forward to go to trial.

You really need to look into the attorney that you’re hiring, make sure the attorney has a good understanding of negligent security law, and that they can appropriately handle your case to maximize the value of the case. If you have a negligent security case, please feel free to reach out to us. We’d be happy to help you through that.

What should I do if I was injured in a negligent security injury in Southwest Florida?

We have folks come to us where they have a negligent security injury claim in Florida and they ask us what they should do, what some of the steps are that they should take. They’ve taken the right step first, which is to get the attorney involved. An attorney can preserve all the evidence, such as if there’s video, if something happens at a gas station or in the parking lot at a Walmart or any other large establishment like that where they may have parking lot cameras and get statements of witnesses. The attorney can preserve all the appropriate evidence to maximize the value of your case.

The second thing would be to not talk to the insurance company. Don’t give them a statement. You can say things that could potentially hurt your case, so get the attorney involved right away. The attorney can guide you through the steps that you need to take to maximize the value of your case. Our law firm has been handling these sort of cases for nearly 60 years. If you have a negligent security case, please feel free to reach out to our law firm so we can help.

What are some common mistakes people make that can ruin their negligent security claim?

A common mistake that someone may make if they have a negligent security case in Florida is not really realizing they have a negligent security case. A negligent security case is where a property owner, whether it be a gas station or some sort of big-box retailer, know that there are some issues on their property, say with crime. They have violent crimes where they’ve had people mugged or they’ve had shootings, and then they don’t appropriately protect the people that are coming on their property. If they don’t appropriately protect someone and that person is injured, then there’s a case. You see these sort of things happen all the time and the person just thinks, “Well, the person that assaulted me is really the at-fault party,” but, no, the at-fault party can be the actual place of business that you’re going to, where you have an expectation that you’re going to be safe. That’s what a negligent security case is.

Another common mistake is not hiring an attorney right away. In a negligent security case, oftentimes there will be video that will show the incident, if you’re at some sort of business premises where they have video cameras, and the person doesn’t hire an attorney, so we can’t get the appropriate evidence, can’t get the witnesses and statements from them, so we can’t build your case appropriately. You really need to hire an attorney right away that knows what they’re doing.

Our law firm has been handling negligent security cases for nearly 60 years, so we can help you out if you or a loved one has been injured or, unfortunately, there are sometimes death with these negligent security cases.


Have you or a loved one been hurt on due to the negligence of a business or property owner? Read our Negligent Security Tips and contact our experienced Southwest Florida Negligent Security lawyers today for a free consultation and case evaluation.