At Ferraro Law, we understand that motor vehicle accidents can change your life in an instant. These accidents can involve cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles on busy highways, quiet rural roads, or bustling city streets. Car accidents happen for many reasons, and when they occur, the aftermath can be overwhelming. From dealing with an insurance company that might try to minimize your claim, to navigating complex legal processes and worrying about how to cover medical costs, it’s easy to feel lost. Our goal is to guide you every step of the way, ensuring we pursue the fair compensation you deserve.
We have represented individuals and families affected by motor vehicle crashes, from minor fender-benders to fatal motor vehicle crashes resulting in permanent losses. Such collisions can occur due to several factors, including distracted driving, speeding, or ignoring traffic signals and road signs. They might also involve impaired driving, where drunk drivers, drowsy driving, or high blood alcohol concentration levels reduce a driver’s driving ability. The presence of mobile phones, poor weather conditions, and failure to consider road conditions further complicate these scenarios. When an at-fault driver causes a car crash, the result can be serious injury, property damage, and sometimes tragic loss of life through fatal crashes.
At Ferraro Law, we are familiar with personal injury claims arising from motor vehicle accidents. We know car accidents happen under various circumstances: maybe other drivers failed to use a seat belt, committed a moving violation, or perhaps a sober driver tried to avoid a collision but faced unavoidable hazards. Regardless of the situation, you deserve representation that understands these nuances. Whether dealing with other vehicles that didn’t use turn signals, coping with extensive property damage, or facing lost wages, we work to recover damages that cover rehabilitation costs, therapy, and future care.
What to Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident
What to Do After a Motor Vehicle Accident
At Ferraro Law, your safety is our top priority. Taking the right steps immediately after an accident can protect your well-being and strengthen your legal claim.

Get to Safety
Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention if needed.

Document the Scene
Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be crucial for your claim.

Exchange Information
Collect the names, contact details, and insurance information of all parties involved. Also, gather contact information from any witnesses.

Avoid Admissions of Fault
Do not admit fault or apologize, as these statements may be used against you later.

File a Police Report
A police report can provide an official record of the accident, which is often required for insurance claims.

Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurer about the accident promptly but avoid providing detailed statements until you consult with a lawyer.
Consult a Lawyer
Speak with a motor vehicle accident attorney to understand your rights and discuss next steps, especially before agreeing to any insurance settlements.
In addition to these steps, it’s essential to be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury or property damage claim. The statute of limitations is a strict deadline that varies by state, and missing it could prevent you from recovering compensation for your injuries or losses. In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is two years from the date of the accident. Acting quickly helps your case be filed within the required time frame.
Understanding Motor Vehicle Accidents
Understanding Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle collisions remain a leading cause of injuries and fatalities worldwide. In the United States, fatality rates connected to traffic crashes are a significant concern. Some crashes are head-on collisions, others are rear-end or intersection-related. Other vehicles, including large trucks, can cause more severe harm. Motor vehicle deaths devastate families and communities. Car accidents happen for several factors—from weather conditions affecting traction to road signs being ignored. Understanding these factors helps build stronger personal injury claims.
Common Causes & Risk Factors
Distracted driving
Using mobile phones, eating, or any activity that takes attention off the road.
Impaired driving
Drunk drivers, high blood alcohol concentration, or drug use impairing judgment.
Drowsy driving
Fatigue reduces reaction times, especially on long trips.
Speeding
Exceeding the speed limit amplifies crash severity and limits reaction time.
Road conditions & weather conditions
Rain, ice, poor lighting, or damaged pavement make driving harder.
Moving violation & no turn signals
Breaking traffic laws, failing to signal, or ignoring right-of-way rules cause collisions.
Who is at Risk?
Who is at Risk?
40 Years of fierce representation
40 Years of fierce representation
Since 1985, Ferraro Law has guided victims through the complexities of motor vehicle accidents. We’ve seen how car accidents happen from various factors: impaired driving by drunk drivers, distracted driving involving mobile phones, or ignoring the speed limit. Whether it’s a single-vehicle crash or a multi-car pileup, we uncover truths at the accident scene.
Our attorneys collaborate with accident reconstruction experts, medical consultants, and vocational specialists to piece together a clear picture. We consider blood alcohol concentration, seat belt usage, weather conditions, and whether other vehicles triggered chain reactions. Over decades, we’ve learned to anticipate insurance company tactics, navigate uninsured motorists or underinsured situations, and tailor strategies to help secure full compensation. By understanding the victim’s immediate and long-term needs—medical treatments, lost income, emotional trauma—we aim to deliver comprehensive results.

How We Can Help You
How We Can Help You
Assessment & Consultation
We begin with a free consultation. We listen to your story, review police reports, check if mobile phones distracted anyone, and see if traffic signals or road signs were ignored. We factor in weather conditions and road conditions to assess how they influenced the crash. Understanding each detail early forms the basis of a strategic approach.
Tailored Legal Strategies
No two auto accident cases are identical. If drunk drivers caused your crash, we use blood alcohol concentration results as evidence. For distracted driving or drowsy driving, we highlight those lapses. If ignoring the speed limit or failing to use turn signals was involved, we show how that negligence affected you. This meticulous approach helps us pursue the fair compensation you need and deserve.
Ongoing Support & Communication
We maintain transparent communication, simplifying legal jargon and updating you on negotiations with the insurance company. We handle the recorded statement process carefully so insurers can’t twist your words. Your focus stays on recovery while we manage the legal and administrative burdens. We push for settlements that cover financial compensation comprehensively—from immediate medical costs to future therapy and adjustments in your lifestyle.
What We Handle
What We Handle
Ferraro Law represents clients across a wide spectrum of motor vehicle accident scenarios:

Automobile collisions
We represent victims of diverse motor vehicle accidents, from simple rear-end fender-benders to catastrophic pileups. Whether other drivers ignored a moving violation rule, exceeded the speed limit, or failed to maintain a safe following distance, we pinpoint their negligence. If distracted driving or impaired driving played a role, we highlight that to strengthen your claim. Our goal: prove liability and link it directly to your injuries, property damage, and potential costs like long-term rehab or assistive devices.

Motorcycle accidents
These accidents pose unique risks. With less protection, riders often suffer severe or visible injuries. If other vehicles didn’t use turn signals or if the at-fault driver was speeding, we highlight these facts. Understanding that weather conditions or road conditions might have complicated the rider’s scenario helps us explain why the rider wasn’t at fault and deserves comprehensive financial compensation.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Collisions
Bicyclists and pedestrians face high risk due to lack of physical protection. Distracted driving, impaired driving, and drunk drivers threaten their safety. Even if these vulnerable road users follow every rule, other drivers ignoring road signs or weather conditions can cause a life-altering collision. We represent pedestrians and cyclists, fighting to prove negligence by at fault drivers and seeking fair compensation for their medical costs, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
Wrongful Death Lawsuits
Fatal motor vehicle crashes are devastating. Losing a loved one shatters families emotionally and financially. We handle wrongful death claims with compassion, addressing funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and the emotional toll. We use evidence to hold the responsible party accountable.
Deciding Whether to Hire a Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer
Deciding Whether to Hire a Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer
You might wonder if hiring a lawyer is necessary, especially if your insurance company offers a settlement. However, insurers often try to reduce payouts, ignoring potential costs like future medical bills, long-term rehabilitation, or the emotional toll of the accident. An experienced attorney understands how to handle personal injury claims, uncover contributing factors such as speeding, distracted driving, or fatigue, and hold at-fault parties accountable. By hiring a lawyer, you’re more likely to secure full and fair compensation instead of accepting a settlement that falls short of covering your true needs.
Motor Vehicle Accidents: Compensation for Victims
Motor Vehicle Accidents: Compensation for Victims
Being involved in a motor vehicle accident can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. For many victims, pursuing compensation is an essential step toward recovery.
Compensation may cover:

Medical expenses
Covering hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and mental health support to aid recovery.

Lost wages & future earnings
Compensation for income lost during recovery and diminished earning capacity in cases of permanent disability.

Property damage
Costs for repairing or replacing your damaged vehicle and other affected personal belongings.
Pain and suffering
Addressing emotional distress, trauma, reduced enjoyment of life, and anxiety about returning to driving.

For families who lose loved ones, covering funeral costs and intangible losses like companionship. Although nothing can replace the loss of a loved one, you may be entitled to compensation that can relieve some of the burden caused.
Understanding how insurance works after a motor vehicle accident is crucial to protecting your rights and finances. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage often helps cover immediate medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault, but it may not account for all damages. Filing a claim can sometimes raise concerns about whether it will affect your insurance premiums. While many factors determine premium changes—such as fault, claim history, and the type of claim—most insurers only increase rates for policyholders deemed responsible for the accident. Our attorneys are here to help you understand how your specific policy applies, explore options for additional compensation, and guide you through the claims process with your financial interests in mind.
What to Look for in a Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney
What to Look for in a Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney
Not all law firms provide the same level of service. When selecting a motor vehicle accident attorney, it’s important to consider:
Relevant Experience
Choose an attorney with a proven track record in handling motor vehicle accident claims. They should understand how accidents occur, navigate complex insurance processes, and have experience dealing with tough insurance companies.
Compassion and Communication
A dedicated lawyer should take the time to listen to your story, address your concerns, and provide clear guidance at every step. You deserve an attorney who treats you with empathy and respect, acknowledging the emotional struggles and physical pain caused by your accident.
Access to Resources and Experts
Look for a firm with access to expert witnesses, accident reconstruction specialists, and other resources to build strong evidence and support your claim. These tools can be critical in proving liability and securing fair compensation.
No Upfront Costs
Choose a law firm that operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. This arrangement allows you to focus on the road ahead of you, instead of mounting legal fees.

What to Expect When You Partner with Ferraro Law
What to Expect When You Partner with Ferraro Law
Selecting a reputable motor vehicle accident law firm isn’t just about credentials—it’s about finding a team that places your needs first and understands the legal process from start to finish. At Ferraro Law, we believe in delivering more than legal advice; we offer genuine support, strategic planning, and practical guidance, making sure you never feel adrift in a complex system.
We take the time to understand every detail of your motor vehicle accident, from the behavior of the at-fault driver—whether they were speeding, distracted, or under the influence—to the role of external factors like poor weather conditions. Our team listens to your story, tailors our approach to your unique situation, and ensures you feel supported throughout the process.
Navigating the complexities of accident claims requires a thorough understanding of insurance rules and liability considerations. We gather insurance information meticulously, review recorded statement requests with caution, and analyze every aspect of the case, including seat belt usage or other factors that could influence the insurer’s argument.
We push for compensation that fully accounts for your immediate and long-term needs. Whether dealing with an insurer’s lowball offer or addressing the impact of comparative negligence rules, we clarify your options and guide you toward the best path for your case. If trial becomes necessary, our team is thoroughly prepared to present a strong, evidence-based argument on your behalf.
We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and only pay if we secure compensation. This approach eliminates financial stress, allowing you to focus on recovery while ensuring you have access to quality legal representation.
Our attorneys break down legal concepts, insurance procedures, and key factors like comparative negligence or state laws that may impact your claim. At every step, we keep you informed, so you can feel confident moving forward.
Partnering with Ferraro Law means working with a team that is dedicated to fighting for justice and fair compensation for motor vehicle accident victims. With our deep knowledge and compassionate approach, you can focus on healing while we manage the complexities of your case.
Client Experiences
Client Experiences
When individuals experience motor vehicle accidents—facing extensive injuries, escalating medical bills, and the emotional toll of recovery—they turn to Ferraro Law for comprehensive legal support. Through meticulous case preparation and collaboration with medical experts, our firm builds strong claims pursing meaningful settlements. These settlements address medical expenses, repair costs, and financial stability, offering clients a path toward justice and recovery. Ferraro Law provides the clarity and reassurance needed to navigate the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident, helping clients move forward with confidence during a challenging time.
5 Stars!! Berta, I want you to know you have the patience of a saint. It is not easy working with the public. I know firsthand. You take your time to explain so that the person understands what you are saying & if there is a problem you get to the bottom of it and come up with the answer as to why – problem solved. You are professional (very). Thank you for your time & energy you spent with me. Hopefully, management will recognize your work ethics. People like you are hard to find. You are an asset to the law firm.
Wishing you all the Best,
Bernardine Brown
Bernadine B.
It has been 12 years since my father passed away. Every time this anniversary comes, it always overwhelms me with a mixture of emotions. On one side, just like most people, I start to reminisce about the great times we had as a family and how I miss it so much. On the other side, I can’t help but remember the pain and suffering he endured the last several months of his life. I believe closure sits right in the middle of these emotions. Closure is always hard when someone you love passes away. To us, closure felt unattainable. It was hard because we did not understand why he was taken from us so soon. Collectively as a family we felt that he never needed to suffer the way that he did. When I start to think about closure, part of me thinks about James Ferraro Jr. and The Ferraro Law Firm. My mother found the law firm while my father was still alive. She had inquired about possibly finding out, and holding accountable, those individuals and/or companies that had contributed to my father’s illness. They went to work for my mother immediately and inevitably helped her find a little piece of closure that she so desperately needed following his death. As I have always said, no amount of money could ever replace my father. However, because of the tireless work of James Jr. and the rest of the firm, my mother was able to move forward with her life. She moved forward knowing she would be okay, our family would be okay, and that those responsible were held accountable. Fast-forward to today and I still think about James Jr. and the firm during this anniversary. I cannot stress enough the amount of appreciation my family and I have for them and what they did for us.

David, we thank God everyday for you coming into our lives. We wish you all the love, health, wealth and happiness and the best to come.
S.L. & Y.L.
You have brought joy (to say nothing about funds) to our humble home. You continue to act on my behalf relentlessly and I thank you for that.
B.G.
The Steps Your Lawyer Will Take in a Motor Vehicle Accident Case
The Steps Your Lawyer Will Take in a Motor Vehicle Accident Case
Once you decide to hire a motor vehicle accident attorney, they will guide you through a structured, step-by-step process:
1
Initial Consultation
Your attorney will listen to your account of the collision, review key details such as police reports and insurance information, and address any immediate concerns. This initial meeting provides a clear understanding of your priorities and the unique aspects of your case.
2
Investigation & Evidence Gathering
Your legal team will conduct a thorough investigation, collecting police reports, interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, and consulting crash reconstruction experts. They will analyze contributing factors like speeding, distracted driving, or traffic violations to establish negligence.
3
Claim Preparation & Filing
With evidence in hand, your attorney will prepare and file all necessary legal documents. They will make sure deadlines are met and that your claim accurately reflects the specifics of your injuries and damages.
4
Negotiation & Settlement Discussions
Your lawyer will engage with insurance companies and responsible parties to negotiate a fair settlement. They will use compelling evidence and, if necessary, challenge inadequate offers to pursue a resolution that aligns with your needs and goals.
5
Trial Preparation (If Necessary)
If a settlement cannot be reached, your legal team will prepare for trial. They will organize evidence, secure expert witnesses, and develop a strategic argument to present your case effectively in court.
6
Ongoing Support & Communication
Throughout the process, your attorney will keep you informed, answer your questions, and clarify your options. This helps you remain actively involved in your case and can make decisions with confidence.
Meet Your Motor Vehicle Accident Attorneys
Meet Your Motor Vehicle Accident Attorneys
Learn More About Our Team

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a serious motor vehicle accident, it can feel like life has been turned upside down—endless medical bills, time away from work, the emotional toll of recovery, or even the devastating loss of a loved one. Ferraro Law’s attorneys, Jose L. Becerra, Ignacio J. Segurola, and Jim L. Ferraro, understand these struggles and approach every client with care, dedication, and the insight gained from handling countless motor vehicle claims.
Their collective goal is to pursue fair compensation that accounts for your immediate and future needs. They thoroughly investigate the crash, negotiate firmly with insurance companies, and stand ready to litigate if necessary. Through their steady guidance and advocacy, they aim to restore a sense of stability and help you reclaim your peace of mind.
Jose L. Becerra
Jose focuses on personal injury and product liability litigation, including asbestos, toxic torts, and talcum powder claims. Known for his trial skill and meticulous case workup, he’s helped secure more than $85 million in verdicts for clients across Florida and beyond.
Ignacio J. Segurola
Ignacio brings over 20 years of trial experience in serious injury and wrongful death cases, including medical malpractice and catastrophic crashes. A longtime advocate in South Florida courts and communities, he’s known for his sharp litigation style and results-driven approach.
James L. Ferraro Sr.
For over 40 years, Jim has led high-impact cases against major corporations in asbestos, environmental, and injury litigation—securing billions of dollars and meaningful outcomes for people facing some of life’s toughest challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
01.
How do motor vehicle accidents differ from other personal injury cases?
Motor vehicle accidents often involve multiple layers, such as distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding, and various road conditions. Insurance companies may dispute fault, requiring detailed evidence. We analyze blood alcohol concentration levels for drunk drivers, see if other drivers violated the speed limit, and check recorded statements to build a strong case.
02.
How long do these cases take?
Timelines vary. Straightforward cases might settle within months, while severe injuries, disputed liability, or fatal crashes can extend the process. We keep you informed, every step of the way.
03.
What if I’m partially at fault?
Comparative negligence laws allow you to recover damages even if you share some responsibility, but your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. We’ll guide you on how to address shared blame to protect your claim.
04.
Will I have to go to court?
Many personal injury claims settle out of court. If insurers won’t offer fair compensation, we prepare for trial.
05.
Can I afford a lawyer?
With a contingency fee, you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we secure compensation, reducing financial stress during this challenging time so you can focus on your recovery.
06.
How do I prove the other driver was at fault?
Establishing fault involves gathering strong evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and expert analysis. Key factors might include violations like speeding, ignoring traffic signs, or reckless behavior. In cases of drunk driving, blood alcohol levels can serve as critical proof, while distracted driving claims may rely on phone records or other evidence of inattention. We compile and present this information to build a compelling case for negligence.
07.
Are motor vehicle accidents still a leading cause of injury and death?
Yes, motor vehicle accidents continue to cause significant injuries and fatalities. Factors like distracted driving, impaired driving, and speeding contribute to these high numbers. When you’re a victim, these statistics highlight the importance of pursuing fair compensation for your losses.
08.
Does seat belt use matter?
While seat belt use improves safety, not wearing one doesn’t always bar compensation. Insurers might argue it worsened injuries, but we focus on the at-fault driver’s negligence as the primary cause.
09.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Florida?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit related to a car accident depends on the type of claim:
- Personal Injury Claims: You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for injuries sustained.
- Property Damage Claims: You typically have two years to file a claim for damages to your vehicle or other property.
10.
How do weather conditions factor in?
Drivers are expected to adapt their behavior to match weather conditions. Failing to slow down in rain or take extra care on icy roads can indicate negligence. We use this to support your claim and demonstrate the other driver’s responsibility.
11.
Do I need to give a recorded statement to the insurance company?
Speak with an attorney first. Insurance companies may use your statement to minimize your claim. We’ll advise you on how to handle recorded statements to safeguard your rights and interests.
12.
Can Ferraro Law handle my case if I live outside of Florida?
Absolutely. We represent clients nationwide. Our extensive experience in complex litigation and specialized claims helps us can effectively advocate for your rights, no matter where you live.
have more questions?
Glossary of key Terms
glossary of key terms
At fault driver
The driver whose negligence or traffic rule violation caused the accident. Identifying the at-fault driver is key to establishing liability and seeking compensation for injuries, property damage, and other loss.
Blood alcohol concentration (BAC)
A measure of alcohol in a driver’s bloodstream. Higher BAC levels impair judgment, slow reaction times, and increase the risk of crashes.
Drowsy driving
Driving while fatigued reduces reaction times, focus, and the ability to handle hazards, increasing the risk of accidents. Drowsy driving can be as dangerous as drunk or distracted driving.
Distracted driving
Operating a vehicle while distracted by activities like texting, adjusting the radio, eating, or talking. Such distractions reduce focus and increase the risk of collisions.
Drunk drivers
Drivers with a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit. Drunk driving reduces judgment, coordination, and reaction times, increasing the risk of severe or fatal crashes.
Future medical care
Treatment and rehabilitation services an injured person may require long after the accident. Estimating future medical care costs is important for securing enough compensation to cover ongoing therapies, surgeries, medications, and support services.
Full compensation
A settlement or verdict amount that covers the complete range of expenses and losses associated with an accident. Full compensation includes immediate medical costs, long-term rehabilitation, lost wages, property damage, and intangible harms like pain and suffering.
Impaired driving
Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances that impair driving ability. Impaired driving raises the risk of accidents, causing serious injury or death to the driver and others.
Medical expenses
Costs incurred for treating accident-related injuries. Medical expenses include hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, mental health support, and any other healthcare services needed to recover from the incident.
Moving violation
A traffic offense committed by a driver while the vehicle is in motion, such as running a red light, speeding, or failing to use turn signals. Moving violations often indicate negligence and can be key factors in proving fault in an accident.
No-fault states
Jurisdictions where each driver’s own insurance covers certain medical expenses and losses after an accident, regardless of who caused it. In no-fault states, insurers pay policyholders directly, limiting the need for lawsuits unless injuries are severe or costs exceed certain thresholds.
Pain and suffering
A type of non-economic damage reflecting the emotional distress, mental anguish, and reduced quality of life an individual experiences after an accident. Pain and suffering compensation acknowledges that injuries affect victims in ways beyond financial and physical harm.
Legal actions taken by accident victims to seek compensation for physical, emotional, and financial losses caused by another’s negligence. Personal injury claims often arise from motor vehicle accidents and can cover medical bills, lost income, property damage, and intangible harms.
Property damage
Harm to a vehicle or personal belongings as a result of an accident. Property damage compensation covers repair or replacement costs, ensuring that victims don’t bear the costs caused by an at fault driver’s negligence.
Rehabilitation costs
Expenses related to therapies, treatments, and assistive devices that help accident victims regain mobility, independence, or normal functioning. Rehabilitation costs can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, mental health counseling, and any other long-term support needed.
Road conditions
The condition of the road during the accident. Issues like potholes, uneven pavement, missing signs, or poor drainage can reduce traction, impair steering, and limit visibility, raising the risk of collisions.
Uninsured/underinsured coverage
An insurance provision protecting you if you’re in an accident caused by a driver without any insurance (uninsured) or without enough coverage (underinsured). This coverage ensures you can still receive compensation for your medical expenses, property damage, and other losses despite the at fault driver’s lack of proper insurance.
Vehicle miles
The distance traveled by a vehicle over time. High vehicle miles on certain routes or periods of the year may correlate with increased accident risks, as greater exposure to traffic, variable weather conditions, and more opportunities for encountering reckless drivers raise the likelihood of collisions.
Weather conditions
Environmental factors such as rain, snow, fog, or ice that affect visibility, tire traction, and stopping distances. Weather conditions play a significant role in accident causation, and failing to adapt driving behavior to these conditions can be evidence of negligence.
What's Next?
what’s next?
If you or a loved one is coping with the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident—facing medical bills, lost income, and the strain of recovery—Ferraro Law is ready to help. We offer a free consultation, listen to your story, and guide you toward justice, accountability, and the compensation you need to move forward with confidence.

Attorney Referral
attorney referral program
Ferraro Law is nationally renowned for achieving significant settlements in complex personal injury cases. Firms across the country refer clients to Ferraro Law, recognizing our commitment to exceptional service, groundbreaking results, and readiness to tackle cases others find too risky or costly.