Personal Injury Blog
The Heart of Lawyering: Clients, Empathy & Honesty
“Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort and intelligent execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives – choice, not chance, determines your destiny.” ~ Aristotle
We want you to make the right choice when hiring a personal injury law firm. A Legal Client Satisfaction Report published in 2018 found that the rate of client dissatisfaction was three times higher for larger law firms than smaller ones. The reasons underlying these survey results is clear: Better communication, more compassion and added specialization are advantages of working with smaller law firms. Boutique firms are often the best option for people facing legal challenges.
Our North Star is putting our clients’ best interests first. Our personal injury firm’s greatest concern is getting your accident case resolved efficiently and successfully. “We care about our clients. It’s that simple. We will make every effort to ensure that our clients receive the best possible advice and representation,” explains Matthew Kobren.
Glotzer & Kobren recently had a client who was involved in a car accident with a student driver. There was (only) $10,000 in available coverage, which we explained to the client at the outset. However, a big law firm promised that they could recover more money. As a result of this false promise, our client went to the large firm, and you can guess what happened next: The case settled for $10,000, the exact amount we told the client was available. However, that was not the end of the bad news for the client.
Florida law provides that both the new and previous attorneys are entitled to their fee, even if it amounts to more than one-third the contingency fee. In a situation where a client comes to us after discharging another firm, we always tell the client we will take care of the former firm’s lien out of our fee so that the client is only paying the standard contingent fee. In the case above, the large law firm took their entire contingent fee and the big firm paid us for the time and effort we put into the case out of the client’s portion of the settlement, leaving even less than the client stood to receive had he not fallen for the false promises.
This is a prime example of how large firms may be uncaring toward clients because they know they will get a certain number of people through the “door” by outspending small firms on digital, TV and billboard advertising so they do what’s best for them and not the client. Unlike a small firm, a big firm’s business model undervalues referral business.
At our boutique law firm, client relationships are paramount since our clients are our number one referral source. At big firms, there’s little incentive to make current clients happy because new clients are primarily gained through expensive advertising campaigns.
Even with a smaller footprint, the quality of our client base has increased, and we have built a reputation for the work we do. Smaller firms run lean as a matter of survival and that carries over to a more conscientious approach to customer service. The large law firm model is a detriment to the client: Big firms pressure associates to bill as many hours as possible, thus minimizing their incentive to be efficient.
At a small firm, a client that generates $250,000 in fees is incredibly valuable. That same client is “small potatoes” to a large firm and would likely be treated accordingly. Smaller, more financially nimble firms are able to step in and put people over profits.
Our personal injury practice serves all of South Florida and embraces success fees over flat fees or monthly retainers, which is why Glotzer & Kobren’s motto is, “NO FEE unless WE WIN money for you.” We will always give you the best advice even if it means less money for us. At Glotzer & Kobren, you are never just a number and you will be represented by a committed lawyer who will take the time to learn about you, along with your concerns and goals to obtain a full recovery.
It is heartbreaking when large law firms make false and misleading promises. Our exceptional team of powerhouse personal injury attorneys will work hard and fight hard for our clients with an emphasis on honesty, transparency and compassion. Allow us to help you achieve the best outcome in your accident case. Contact us at 561-361-8677.
How the Technology in Your Vehicle Can Prove Liability
Your Car’s Black Box
Our personal injury law firm keeps our fingers on the pulse of advanced technologies since the latest innovations may help clients prove liability after a car crash. Event Data Recorders (EDR) are an important technology tool present in most commercial and privately-owned vehicles. This device can have a significant impact on personal injury litigation.
Given that EDR captures large amounts of accurate data they are increasingly being used as evidence in car accident disputes. EDR information can improve the strength of your case, especially where the other driver refuses to accept fault or lies about how the accident happened. Even if the police don’t assign fault and nobody receives a ticket, you may still have a successful case.
EDR is a form of accident reconstruction. It is similar to an airplane’s black box: Both piece together how a crash happened, and information that is obtained from the device can be collected and analyzed to determine what the vehicle was doing before, during, and after the crash. The EDR takes a snapshot of an event to determine the most likely scenario on what caused the crash. Attorneys may obtain data held in the recorder as part of the discovery phase of litigation.
What Information Can EDR Collect?
Data pulled from EDRs may include the following, which can help piece together the sequence of events to explain why the crash occurred and assist attorneys in proving liability:
- Time and date of your accident
- Speed at the time of the crash
- Depth of accelerator pedal
- Steering wheel direction
- Seat position
- Seatbelt usage
- Braking pattern
- Throttle position
- Warning lights
- Airbag deployment status
- Force of impact
These key data points can help shed light on the accident. More often than not, no eyewitnesses to the accident come forward or recollections are unclear. While parties may challenge the admission of the EDR into evidence if it was not in proper working condition at the time of the accident or the data is inconsistent with photos or measurements taken at the scene, EDRs often represent the most reliable and objective evidence in a case. We work with qualified technicians to determine the reliability of the data recorded.
Hire an Experienced Lawyer to Help Establish EDR Evidence
Glotzer & Kobren, P.A. provides skillful representation for those individuals involved in car accidents, and our attorneys have substantial experience with EDR evidence. We work with expert testimony concerning the calibration, results, and maintenance of the EDR system in vehicles. Using this digital footprint to establish a timeline and accuracy of events, we can help accident victims determine who is liable.
If you or someone you love was involved in a car accident, call 561-361-8677. There’s NO FEE unless WE WIN money for you.
Labor Day Weekend Travel Tips for Drivers
Labor Day weekend symbolically brings summer to an end, which means many people are heading out for one last summer getaway. Unfortunately, Labor Day weekend marks one of the deadliest periods for motorists on Florida roadways. As a result, it is important to follow these potentially life-saving safety tips. Keep this guidance at the forefront of your travel plans so that you and your loved ones stay safe.
- Preparation On Purpose. Your vehicle’s condition is a fundamental component of safe driving. Top off fluids, pump air in tires, replace malfunctioning light bulbs, check steering wheel and brakes, and clean windshields and mirrors. Pack an emergency kit so you have the supplies you need, including flares and a first aid kit.
- Click It or Ticket. Lack of seat belt use is a top cause of fatalities in crashes. Safety belts and car seats are one of the best ways you can give yourself and your children the greatest chance of survival if you are involved in an accident. Make wearing your seat belt a habit and ensure that children are in the right car seat type for their age and size.
- Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. Holidays see a spike in impaired driving accidents and fatalities, and alcohol is not the only cause of impaired driving. Opioids, marijuana, and over-the-counter medicines may cause drowsiness, alter visual functions, and impact mental judgment and motor skills. Drunken driving is one of the deadliest yet also entirely preventable crimes. If you are planning to have alcoholic beverages or are impaired, have a designated driver or ride share service get you home safely. Additionally, driving while fatigued or drowsy can drastically impede reaction times. Get enough sleep to keep yourself well-rested and alert for the journey ahead.
- No Need for Speed. Speeding is a major factor in more than a quarter of all traffic fatalities. As you increase speed, you increase your risk of being severely injured in a car accident. Drive the speed limit or below it if conditions dictate, and be aware of inclement weather. Pay close attention to those walking and biking in order to keep all road users safe. Share the road responsibly this holiday weekend, and do not drive aggressively.
- Dangers of Distracted Driving. Too many car crashes involve distracted drivers who are texting, videoing, snapping photos, eating, putting on makeup or looking at their phones for navigation. While navigation apps are helpful for directions and for real-time traffic reports, let one of your passengers be in charge of the app. Drivers get distracted when they are multitasking by looking at their phone and trying to drive.
Should you or a loved one be unfortunate to get into an accident, call our auto accident attorneys who have more than 60 years of combined experience fighting for the rights of accident victims. There’s NO FEE unless WE WIN money for you. Our dedicated personal injury lawyers represent clients throughout Palm Beach County, Martin County, Broward County, and Miami-Dade County. Call 561-361-8677 for a free consultation. Wishing you a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend!
Importance of Getting Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Florida
How Do You Solve a Problem Like Uninsured Motorists?
According to a report released in 2021 by the Insurance Research Council, almost 1 in 4 Florida drivers operate their vehicle without insurance. Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the U.S., with nearly a quarter of the driving population not carrying coverage. What does this mean if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured motorist or a driver who fled the scene?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage stands in for any driver who is uninsured or for an accident involving a hit-and-run driver. The accident victim can make a claim with their insurer for the negligence of the other driver. UM coverage not only applies to anyone in your car if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or hit-and-run driver, but it covers you if you are involved in an accident in someone else’s vehicle or hit by a car as a pedestrian or bicyclist.
UM coverage – and underinsured motorist coverage (UIM) – is insurance that pays for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering related to an accident caused by a driver who either didn’t have insurance; a driver who didn’t have enough insurance to cover all of your damages; or an unknown driver.
UM/UIM coverage is an add-on to your auto insurance policy to help you recover the costs not covered by your personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. UM coverage in Florida is not mandatory but we recommend that drivers carry UM/UIM coverage, in as high of an amount as can be afforded, in order to protect themselves against the possibility of being in an accident with an uninsured motorist or with a hit-and-run driver.
If you are hurt as the result of another driver’s negligence or recklessness, whether or not there was actual contact with another vehicle or if the injured person can identify the other vehicle/driver, it is possible to make a claim through your own UM coverage.
Case Example
Recently our law firm received a call from a former client who was forced off the road while on his bicycle by a vehicle that fled the scene. Glotzer & Kobren, P.A. will be making a claim under our client’s UM coverage. It is imperative to contact an auto accident lawyer immediately to examine your current auto insurance policy and help protect yourself against uninsured, underinsured or unknown Florida drivers.
For UM phantom vehicle cases, most policies require a police report be filled out. This can be done in the days after an accident if it wasn’t done at the time of the accident. The police will collect vital information, including contact information, evidence from the accident, and information about who caused the accident. Failing to report the accident could prevent you from getting compensation either from your insurance company or from other parties that may have contributed to the accident. Relatedly, the accident must be reported to the insurance company timely.
In hit-and-run cases or those involving UM/UIM coverage, a personal injury lawyer can offer numerous advantages following an accident. A car accident attorney can review your insurance policy, help you understand the compensation you deserve, and investigate the circumstances of the accident to identify potentially liable parties. An attorney will also negotiate with your insurance company or litigate your case since insurers may make it difficult for you to get the full compensation you need for your injuries and other financial losses. By partnering with a knowledgeable auto accident attorney, you can maximize your odds of a successful recovery from your injuries.
Contact Us
Car accidents involving an uninsured or unknown driver can be stressful and overwhelming, which is why you should seek the assistance of a seasoned professional who is well-versed in Florida law. At Glotzer & Kobren, our personal injury attorneys have fought on behalf of countless Floridians throughout our combined 60+ years in practice. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident and sustained injuries, get in touch with us as soon as possible to find out how we can help you. There’s NO FEE unless WE WIN money for you. Call 561-361-8677 to get the support, representation, and compensation you need.
‘Tis the Seas-Sun: Florida’s Dram Shop Law Explained
With the official start to summer now here, people are spending more time at bars, beach clubs, nightclubs, campgrounds, casinos, and BBQs. But what if someone oversells or overserves alcohol? Can a restaurant, bar, or host at a private residence who provides alcohol be held liable for the costs of an alcohol-related accident?
The field of liquor liability is of increasing importance. Drunk driving accidents and alcohol-related injuries happen with alarming frequency. Florida’s Dram Shop statute may operate to the benefit of innocent victims of accidents who were injured by drunk drivers.
A successful Dram Shop claim may provide victims and their families with compensation since a venue can be held liable for monetary and non-monetary damages, including:
- Emergency room care, surgery, inpatient hospital stays, rehabilitation, and medications (past and future medical bills);
- Loss of future earnings;
- Permanent disfigurement or disability;
- Pain and suffering;
- Property damage;
- Diminished quality of life; and
- Other substantial damages in the event of a wrongful death.
Florida Statute Section 768.125 (Dram Shop) provides that persons and entities can be held liable for resulting damages and injuries caused to third parties. The law focuses on a venue’s liability for serving alcohol to anyone under the age of 21 or the establishment knowingly providing alcohol to someone who is “habitually addicted” to alcohol.
However, this law does not apply to social hosts who provide alcohol at private gatherings. Hosts of parties cannot be held liable for injuries caused by drunk drivers unless they willingly and unlawfully provide alcohol to a minor. If alcohol is given to or accessed by a person under 21 at a private gathering, the host or property owner can face fines, civil damages, and even criminal charges.
What types of accidents does the statute cover? In addition to drunk driving, which is 100% preventable, the law applies to other alcohol-related accidents where intoxication was the main cause, including slip and fall (premises liability), water sport, and workplace accidents.
If you have questions about Florida’s Dram Shop law, contact us to receive the support, compensation, and representation you need. In some cases, several parties could be negligent and named as defendants in a lawsuit. Speak with the experienced personal injury accident attorneys at Glotzer & Kobren, P.A. by calling 561-361-8677. There’s NO FEE unless WE WIN money for you.
Advantages of Hiring a Boutique Personal Injury Law Firm
In the world of legal practice, bigger is not necessarily better, especially when it comes to selecting a personal injury firm to represent your medical and financial interests after an accident. Glotzer & Kobren, P.A. gives you personalized attention and walks you through every step of the process. You will always speak with an attorney directly and get the answers you deserve. While some may consider hiring a large firm because they recognize the name, doing so puts them at a disadvantage.
One Size Does Not Fit All. Though big firms advertise their “team” of lawyers as a benefit, it can also be a weakness. The more people there are working on a case, the more opportunity there is for mistakes, misunderstandings, and fragmentation between team members, which can result in errors. Large firms are forced to deploy cookie-cutter strategies that fail to capitalize on nuances in the law or subtleties surrounding the facts of a case. At a smaller firm like ours, our attorneys have the time to conference, strategize, and fight for each claim. Our attorneys deliver big results, providing sophisticated legal representation and personalized attention.
When You’re Here, You’re Family. You will never be just a number when working with our attorneys. We pride ourselves on having a superior level of dedication and devotion to each client. Lawyers at our firm provide one-on-one interaction with their clients, which is often unattainable at megafirms. We care for every client that walks through the door as if they were a family member. Our clients receive professional and attentive treatment. Big firms do not operate this way as we hear time and again from clients who initially sought to hire a large firm that they were passed around to different paralegals and they never actually spoke to an attorney.
Size Matters. The value of your case may increase by hiring a boutique personal injury firm like ours. Larger firms make money by taking in every claim possible and settling claims as quickly as possible, often with little concern for the best interests of the client. Megafirms need to cover exorbitant overhead costs such as staffing, TV commercials, and digital advertising. Choosing a small law firm with the desire and capability to give you and your case the attention and treatment they deserve is the smart, first step to take towards your recovery.
Five-Star Service. Our firm has cultivated a positive reputation in the community because local relationships are the cornerstone of our success. We have a conscientious approach to customer service and aim to exceed expectations. Our personal injury attorneys are dedicated to your recovery and results, which is why we are highly recommended by past clients for our skills and ability to achieve wins in court and at the negotiation table. We have a five-star Google rating and glowing reviews that illustrate our experience, track record of success, and tireless work ethic.
Our boutique practice in Boca Raton, FL serves all of South Florida, and we provide client-centric services that give clients a competitive advantage. Our attorneys will be dedicated to handling your case and will have a full grasp on the intricacies of your accident claim. We invite you to contact Glotzer & Kobren at 561-361-8677 if you or a loved one has been injured in an accident. There’s NO FEE unless WE RECOVER money for you.
