Accidents happen when you least expect them. A car crash on the Palmetto Expressway, a slip-and-fall at a local business, or even a dog bite in your neighborhood park can suddenly turn your life upside down. If you were injured in Miami Lakes because of someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to file a personal injury claim and seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
But filing a personal injury claim in Florida can be complex—and your case may depend on the exact steps you take right now. That’s why DLE Lawyers created this guide: to help you understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and start your path to recovery with clarity and confidence.
What Is a Personal Injury Claim?
A personal injury claim is a legal process used to seek compensation after you’ve been physically, emotionally, or financially harmed due to another person or entity’s negligence or wrongdoing. This type of claim typically involves accidents, injuries, or incidents where someone else failed to exercise reasonable care.
The goal of a personal injury claim is to make you whole again—to recover money for the losses you’ve suffered and hold the responsible party accountable.
Common Types of Personal Injury Cases in Miami Lakes
Miami Lakes is a growing community with residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, parks, and high-traffic roadways. While it’s a vibrant place to live and work, accidents still happen.
Here are some of the most common personal injury cases we see at DLE Lawyers:
Car Accidents
Collisions at intersections like NW 67th Ave and Miami Lakes Drive are frequent. Many result from distracted driving, speeding, DUI, or failure to yield.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Falls at restaurants, supermarkets, shopping centers, and apartment complexes often result from wet floors, uneven walkways, or poor lighting.
Truck and Commercial Vehicle Accidents
With major routes like SR 826 nearby, Miami Lakes sees heavy commercial traffic. Accidents involving large trucks often cause serious injuries.
Motorcycle and Bicycle Accidents
Narrow roadways and lack of dedicated bike lanes put riders at higher risk of injury in traffic.
Dog Bites and Animal Attacks
Florida has strict liability laws regarding dog bites. If you were bitten or attacked, the owner may be responsible regardless of prior behavior.
Workplace Injuries
Construction, warehouse, and delivery workers in Miami Lakes may suffer job-related injuries that lead to both workers’ comp and personal injury claims.
Do I Have a Valid Personal Injury Claim?
Not every injury qualifies for a lawsuit. To file a personal injury claim in Florida, your case must involve negligence.
To prove negligence, your attorney must demonstrate four elements:
- Duty of Care – The other party had a legal obligation to act with reasonable care (e.g., drivers must follow traffic laws).
- Breach of Duty – They failed to meet that obligation (e.g., running a red light or not cleaning up a spill).
- Causation – Their actions directly caused your injury.
- Damages – You suffered measurable harm (medical bills, missed work, pain, etc.).
A Miami Lakes personal injury attorney can help assess whether these elements apply to your situation.
Florida’s Comparative Negligence Rule
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system (as of 2023). This means:
- If you are 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages.
- If you are less than 50% at fault, your compensation is reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Example: If you’re awarded $100,000 in damages but found 20% at fault, you can still recover $80,000.
Insurance companies may try to shift more blame onto you to reduce their payout, which is why strong legal representation is critical.
What Damages Can You Recover?
A successful personal injury claim in Miami Lakes may entitle you to compensation for:
Economic Damages:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays and surgeries
- Physical therapy and rehab
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages and future earning potential
- Property damage (vehicle repairs, personal items)
Non-Economic Damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement or disability
- Loss of companionship (in wrongful death cases)
Punitive Damages:
In rare cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm, a court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer.
How to File a Personal Injury Claim in Miami Lakes
1. Get Medical Attention Immediately
Your health comes first. Visit a doctor or ER right away—even if injuries seem minor. Documented treatment is essential to prove your claim.
2. Report the Incident
- Car accident: Call the police and file a report.
- Slip and fall: Notify the property manager or store owner.
- Dog bite: File a report with Miami-Dade Animal Services.
3. Document the Scene
Take photos of your injuries, the accident location, vehicles, hazards, or anything else relevant. Get witness contact information if possible.
4. Save All Records
Keep copies of medical bills, doctor’s notes, pay stubs showing lost wages, repair estimates, and any written communications about the incident.
5. Do Not Talk to Insurance Companies Alone
Insurers may ask for recorded statements or try to pressure you into a quick settlement. Don’t sign or say anything without legal counsel.
6. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Call an experienced Miami Lakes attorney like DLE Lawyers before making any moves. We can evaluate your claim and guide you through each step.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
Florida’s statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident (shortened from four years under recent legislation).
However, some exceptions apply:
- Medical malpractice: May vary based on discovery of injury
- Claims against government entities: Require additional notice and shorter timelines
- Minors or incapacitated individuals: May extend the deadline
The sooner you act, the better your chances of preserving evidence and maximizing compensation.
Why Choose DLE Lawyers?
We’re more than legal professionals—we’re your advocates. With a focus on personal injury and a commitment to client care, we proudly serve the people of Miami Lakes and beyond.
Here’s why clients choose us:
- Proven Results: Millions recovered for Florida injury victims
- Bilingual Team: We serve English and Spanish-speaking clients
- No Fees Unless We Win: You don’t pay unless we recover compensation
- Local Focus: We understand Miami Lakes roads, courts, and insurance companies
- 24/7 Support: We’re here when you need us most
If you were injured in Miami Lakes due to someone else’s carelessness, you don’t have to deal with the aftermath alone. A personal injury claim is your legal right—and it can be the difference between financial hardship and a full, supported recovery.
At DLE Lawyers, we’ll handle the legal burden while you focus on healing. From the first call to the final settlement, we’re by your side every step of the way.