Category Archives: Personal Injury

Personal Injury litigation

Posted on July 27, 2012 by Blick Law

A common question asked by personal injury clients is:  “Will I have to go to court?”  While Blick Law Firm will diligently prepare your case, there is no guarantee that the client will be exempt from going to trial for a personal injury matter.

Though most personal injury cases are settled between parties during pre-trial settlement negotiations, some cases will go to court if the parties fail to settle on an amount suitable for both parties. If a court date is set, the two parties could still negotiate and reach a settlement, even as late as the day of the hearing.

It is important that you know that only you have the authority to agree on a settlement on your claim.  Tampa Lawyers can only advise you on a settlement figure and have no authority to settle your case without your express permission to do so.

If you have a personal injury issue and need help, call Blick Law Firm today at 813-931-0840. Make an appointment for a free 15 minute consultation with Attorney Michael Blickensderfer to assess your legal claim.

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Shopping around for an attorney? Choose wisely!

Posted on July 11, 2012 by Blick Law

When shopping around for a Tampa attorney online, many consumers first instinct would be to choose the lowest rates that an attorney will offer. However, going for a cheap rate attorney may not be the best strategy.

In the economy today, competitive advantage makes it easy for a consumer to find the best for the cheapest price. However, when it comes to legal counseling, many times that is not the case.

When “shopping” around for an attorney, cheaper is not always better. Here are a few tips to look for when you are searching the internet for a Tampa lawyer.

1)     Cost. Comparing cost is very important and of course should weigh into your decision making. In this economy, finding an attorney willing to give their clients payment plans, if appropriate can seal the deal when it comes to retaining an attorney.

2)     Experience. Do a little research on the attorney you are seeking and check his background. An attorney has been practicing for one month will more than likely not be as capable as an attorney that has been in practice for 10 years. Having an attorney with experience will add value to your case and will allow the experts to takeover, ensuring you relief in whichever situation you may be facing

Attorney, Michael C. Blickensderfer has been in practice for over 25 years. His experience includes serving as a prosecutor both in Florida and in Long Island. In the past he served in cases dealing with narcotics, Medicaid fraud, and DUI offenses within New York City. He has also served as a Public Defender, practicing criminal law within the felony division in Tampa, Florida. Other legal experience includes real estate, family law, criminal defense, social security and labor law.

Mr. Blickensderfer’s background includes courtroom and trial experience, both in criminal and civil cases.

3)     Licensed. Many times an attorney may practice in more than one state. An attorney that has more than one license is well-versed in legal laws, statutes and legal systems.

Attorney Michael C. Blickensderfer is licensed to practice law in Florida, New York and New Jersey. Having such a diverse familiarity of the legal system allows him to provide his clients with expert knowledge earned through many years of study.

4)     Ethics. When hiring an attorney clients’ seeking to get best results may lean towards a hard, cut-throat lawyer. However, rather than choosing based on commercial ads of what an attorney portrays themselves to be, check resources. Retaining an attorney based on integrity and moral standards may be the wiser choice.

Our Mission: Blick Law Firm‘s mission is “Helping the Hurting.” Grounded as a Christian law firm and following Christian values, the firm strives to not only meet the legal needs of its clients and their families, but also to provide physical and emotional support. We treat each client equally and with the utmost respect, offering high-quality legal representation and counsel to those who need us most.

If you are looking to retain a low-priced attorney, more than likely you will get what you pay for. Be sure to do what is best for you and your situation. Don’t sell yourself short by only considering the financial perspective. Instead, consider the overall situation, such as, the level of experience, morals and values brought to both you and your case by the attorney you choose to retain.

Call Blick Law Firm today and speak with us at 813-931-0840. We offer free case evaluation and want to strive to not only assist with your immediate legal needs, but assist for results that will make for a blessed and prosperous future!

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Insurance companies quick to settle auto accident claim

Posted on July 10, 2012 by Blick Law

Insurance companies often try to get personal injury victims to settle a personal injury claim quickly and for a low amount.

If you have recently been in an auto accident and have filed a claim, many times the insurance company will call the injured party right away to offer a settlement amount. In hopes to end the claim right away an insurance company will offer a settlement that may seem too good to be true. As a personal injury lawyer, attorneys confirm that that is not the victim’s best course of action!

Here are 4 steps to receiving your best possible personal injury settlement:

1)     If that insurance company calls, do not offer any recorded statements right after an auto accident. *In many cases the injured party may suffer soft tissue injuries that will not show signs until days after an accident.

2)     Seek medical attention. After an auto accident it is best to go immediately to the hospital or other treatment facility to check for severe injuries. Many times the insurance companies will try to get you to settle your claim prior to treatment. Only after treatment will you know the severity of the case.

3)     Seek a Tampa Personal Injury attorney! Choose an attorney that has trial experience and has many years’ experience working with insurance adjusters and injury claims.

4)     An attorney will take the time to evaluate your situation and take the proper steps to assist you in recovering monetarily from your injuries and will work with you in hopes of receiving the best possible outcome for you and your loved ones.

Insurance companies will try to get an accident victim to settle quick and cheap! Take the time and seek proper medical and legal representation so you are not cheated from an unfair insurance company’s settlement offer. In an auto accident your time, financial situation, health and ability to move forward are all taken into consideration with Blick Law Firm. Call us today to receive your free case evaluation from an experienced car crash attorney.

Blick Law Firm has over 25 year’s legal experience in Florida, New York and New Jersey.  Seek direction from a Tampa Christian law firm today! Former prosecutor, former Marine. Call 813-931-0840.

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Florida Firework displays may lead to personal injury lawsuits

Posted on July 5, 2012 by Blick Law

Fireworks are not all fun and games. They can result in severe injuries and in turn, pursuing a personal injury claim.

Independence Day is celebrated in recognition of the Declaration of Independence being approved by the Continental Congress in 1776, setting the 13 colonies on the road to freedom and liberty. Today, this most American of holidays, is celebrated by parades, fireworks and barbecues across the country.

Fireworks have become an iconic symbol in the commemoration of our independence on the 4th of July and they play a major role in American’s celebration of this day. Seeing fireworks shoot off in the sky brings fond moments, as bright lights flash in a glittery display for all to see. But if not used with safety and caution, fireworks can cause harmful situations, resulting in serious damages.

In Florida, it is illegal to buy, sell, or explode consumer fireworks.  You can do so, however, if you have a city permit.  Be aware that if you are shooting off fireworks without a warrant, you are breaking the law, which may result in unnecessary fines and a possible police investigation. If law enforcement decides to crack down and you’re caught buying or shooting off illegal fireworks, it is a first-degree misdemeanor.

Fireworks may be banned in certain locations to prevent property damages. For example, if there has been a recent drought, fireworks may be banned in nearby fields to prevent the cause or spread of wildfires.

Fireworks not only have damaging effects on property, but also heighten the risk for injury; this is especially true under the influence of alcohol. Firework personal injury claims are especially high in the month of July. Florida fireworks are not only illegal but may result in severe hand, body, arm and/or leg injuries, or even worse, it can result in death.

As a personal injury law firm, it is important to understand the risks associated with the use of fireworks, and to be aware that they are explosives and should be handled with extreme caution.

Take safety measures this holiday season and be mindful of your surroundings. If you have been injured due to a recent firework accident, please contact a Tampa personal injury attorney today to represent you and assist you with your damages.

For a FREE consultation, contact Blick Law Firm today at 813-931-0840.

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What do I do if I am in an accident?

Posted on July 5, 2012 by Blick Law

We don’t like to think about automobile accidents, but they are part of reality, and everyone will probably be involved in at least one, maybe more, in their lifetime.  When you are involved in an auto accident, there are steps that need to be taken to properly file a report and avoid penalties for not following Florida law.

First when involved in an auto accident move your vehicle in such a manner that it doesn’t obstruct traffic.  Ask all parties involved if there are any injuries and call the police to file a report.

Many may ask:  “Must I call the police?”  Accidents involving an injury or death, a hit-and-run or intoxicated driver or property damage that appears to be over $500 need to be reported immediately to law enforcement.

*Make sure you have your driver’s license, registration and insurance information available when the officer arrives on the scene.

After the police arrive at the scene exchange information with all drivers of vehicles involved and take pictures of the property damages for future evidence, possibly in court.

* However, if a crash report hasn’t been filed by law enforcement, then you’ll need to do so within 10 days of the accident.

Suppose you are the only party involved in an accident.  Should you hit an unoccupied vehicle, a light pole or some other type of property, you are required to notify the owner.  If you cannot locate the owner, then attach a note to the damaged vehicle or property, including your name, address and license plate number.  Again, take photos and report the accident to law enforcement right away.

The state of Florida is serious about behavior following an accident.  Failure to follow proper procedures could result in license suspension, criminal charges or other penalties.

If you have recently been involved in accident, you will want an experienced and very knowledgeable personal injury attorney as your advocate.  Attorney, Michael C. Blickensderfer has more than 25 years legal experience and will be happy to offer a free case evaluation regarding your potential personal injury claim. Call Blick Law Firm today at 813-931-0840.

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How much should I expect from a personal injury settlement?

Posted on June 9, 2012 by Blick Law

When it comes to a personal injury case, there are many factors involved that affect the outcome of your settlement, but the two major parts of your case are: 1) liability, and 2) causation which include damages.

In terms of liability, if someone else is 100% liable for your injuries, you have passed the first hurdle; but the value of your case can be less if you are partially responsible for your injuries, and Florida statutes allow apportionment of damages based upon the comparative negligence of the parties.  For example, if the at fault party is 80% at fault, but you were judged 20% at fault, typically your damages or value would be reduced by 20%.  You can have very serious injuries but have very weak liability in your case; or you can have great liability, but have very minor injuries as a result.

The second major part is causation, or do the injuries you are complaining of stem from the accident you were involved in??  This is primarily developed from a medical opinion from one or more of your treating doctors.  Proper follow through and treatment with your doctors will allow them to give a final opinion as to the nature of your injuries and link them causally with the accident, i.e., your injuries were caused by and are a direct result of the accident.

Injuries resulting in an auto accident are generally split into two major categories: soft tissue injuries, and really everything else.  Roughly 90% of personal injury cases involve some sort of soft tissue injury or whiplash, which is a ripping and damaging of the muscles, ligaments and tendons of the neck and back area of your body.  Soft tissue injuries can cause bulges or herniation to the disc material between the spinal vertebrae.

Other types of injuries include injuries to knees, shoulders and extremities, broken bones, concussions, cuts, bruises and the like. These types of injuries typically receive a higher personal injury settlement because these injuries are easily documented and can be proven in court more objectively than soft tissue injuries, even though the chronic pain of permanent soft tissue injuries can be severe and debilitating to an individual.

A severe wound may also cause a psychological damage or financial loss. For example, a scar resulting from an incident on a professional model can hurt her ability to earn future income and as a result be a great financial loss. And if the scar is permanent, this would further increase a personal injury settlement. Some cases may even lead to plastic surgery which greatly weighs into the benefit of the plaintiff’s case.

Many injuries may result from a personal injury incident so it is important to know your legal rights to receive fair compensation for pain and suffering due to someone else’s negligence.

Seek a Tampa personal injury attorney today for further consultation if you have been severely hurt from an accident. Attorney Michael C. Blickensderfer of Blick Law Firm has over 25 year’s legal experience in personal injury cases and will aggressively pursue your case to the best outcome possible. Call us today for your free consultation at 813-931-0840.

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