Question 1

Why is HOV Law the top-rated personal injury firm in Orlando?

Accepted Answer

HOV Law has earned its reputation as a leading personal injury firm in Orlando through an unwavering commitment to clients and a proven track record exceeding $100 million in recovered compensation. Founded by Serge Hovhanessian, our firm approaches every case with compassion, persistence, and a relentless drive to secure maximum outcomes. Based in downtown Orlando, we understand the specific legal landscape of Central Florida—from Orange County courts to Florida's no-fault insurance rules. We offer personalized, accessible legal support at every stage, and our clients never pay unless we win.

Question 2

What types of personal injury cases does HOV Law handle?

Accepted Answer

HOV Law handles a wide spectrum of personal injury cases throughout Central Florida, including car accidents, truck and commercial vehicle collisions, motorcycle accidents, slip and fall injuries, wrongful death claims, pedestrian accidents, rideshare (Uber/Lyft) accidents, dog bites, and premises liability. If you were injured due to someone else's negligence anywhere in the Orlando metro area—from Kissimmee and Sanford to Lake Nona and Apopka—we want to hear your story. Our experienced attorneys evaluate every case for free and will advise you honestly on your best path forward.

Question 3

Is HOV Law available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Accidents don't happen on a schedule, and neither do we. HOV Law is available around the clock to take your call, answer urgent questions, and start the intake process for your case. The earlier you contact us after an accident, the better we can preserve critical evidence and protect your rights. Call us any time at (407) 801-0101 for an immediate, no-obligation consultation.

Question 4

What should I do if the insurance adjuster calls me?

Accepted Answer

You are not legally required to give a recorded statement to the at-fault driver's insurance adjuster. Their primary objective is to find grounds to deny or minimize your claim—not to help you. Simply inform them that you are in the process of retaining legal counsel and direct all further communication to your attorney. At HOV Law, we handle every interaction with insurance companies on your behalf, shielding you from tactics designed to reduce your compensation.

Question 5

How do I prove the other driver was at fault in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Establishing fault in a Florida car accident relies on gathering strong evidence: official police reports, eyewitness statements, traffic camera or dashcam footage, accident reconstruction data, and photographs of the scene and vehicles. Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system (effective 2023), meaning you can still recover damages if you were less than 50% at fault—but your award is reduced proportionally. Our investigators move quickly to secure and preserve evidence before it disappears, building the strongest possible liability argument for your case.

Question 6

What is the difference between a settlement and a verdict?

Accepted Answer

A settlement is a negotiated agreement between you and the insurance company or at-fault party to resolve your claim for a specific dollar amount, avoiding the need for trial. A verdict is a decision issued by a judge or jury after a formal court proceeding. The vast majority of personal injury cases—over 95%—are resolved through settlement. However, HOV Law prepares every case as if it will go to trial. This thorough preparation signals to insurers that we are serious, which consistently produces higher settlement offers than they would otherwise extend.

Question 7

Can I switch personal injury lawyers in the middle of my case?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. You have an unconditional right to change your attorney at any point during your case. If you feel your current lawyer is not communicating effectively, not aggressively pursuing your claim, or simply isn't the right fit, you can transfer your case to HOV Law. We handle transitions seamlessly with minimal disruption. You will not pay double fees—the contingency fee at the end is simply divided between attorneys based on the work each performed.

Question 8

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer in Orlando?

Accepted Answer

At HOV Law, we operate exclusively on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay absolutely zero attorney fees upfront. We only get paid when we successfully recover compensation for you through a settlement or a court verdict. Our fee is a pre-agreed percentage of the total recovery. If we do not win your case, you owe us nothing in legal fees. This arrangement ensures every client, regardless of financial situation, has access to top-tier legal representation.

Question 9

How does a contingency fee agreement work exactly?

Accepted Answer

A contingency fee means our compensation is contingent on winning your case. Before we begin work, we discuss and agree upon a percentage of your final recovery that will be paid to HOV Law at the conclusion of the case. This fee is deducted from the settlement or verdict amount—not billed to you separately. This fully aligns our interests with yours: the larger your recovery, the larger our fee, so we are always incentivized to maximize your compensation.

Question 10

What out-of-pocket case costs do I have to pay?

Accepted Answer

Legal cases incur various costs beyond attorney fees, including court filing fees, costs for obtaining medical records, expert witness fees, deposition costs, and accident reconstruction expenses. In most cases, HOV Law advances these costs on your behalf so you never pay out of pocket while your case is pending. These advanced costs are then reimbursed directly from your settlement at the conclusion—meaning you only ever pay once, and only after you win.

Question 11

How do I know what my personal injury case is worth?

Accepted Answer

Case value is determined by several factors: the severity and permanence of your injuries, total past and projected future medical expenses, lost wages and reduced earning capacity, property damage, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life. Florida law also allows for punitive damages in cases involving egregious negligence. A precise valuation requires a thorough review of your medical records, accident details, and financial losses—which we provide free of charge during your initial consultation.

Question 12

Is my initial consultation with HOV Law truly free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your initial consultation with HOV Law is completely free and 100% confidential. There is no obligation of any kind. This consultation is your opportunity to share the details of your accident, ask any questions you have, and receive an honest assessment of your potential legal claim. We will tell you exactly what we believe your options are and what your case may be worth—with no pressure and no surprises.

Question 13

Who pays for my medical bills after an accident in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Florida is a no-fault insurance state. Your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays the first $10,000 of your medical bills and a portion of lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. However, PIP covers only 80% of reasonable medical costs and 60% of lost wages. Once PIP is exhausted, we aggressively pursue the at-fault party's bodily injury liability coverage, your underinsured motorist coverage, and any other applicable policies to recover the full extent of your damages.

Question 14

Should I see a doctor even if I feel fine after an accident?

Accepted Answer

Yes—this is one of the most important steps you can take. Adrenaline and shock commonly mask pain and injury symptoms immediately following a collision. Serious conditions such as whiplash, traumatic brain injuries, herniated discs, and internal bleeding may not become symptomatic for 24 to 72 hours. Florida law also requires you to seek medical attention within 14 days of the accident to maintain your PIP insurance benefits. Seeing a doctor promptly protects your health and creates an official medical record that directly links your injuries to the accident.

Question 15

What if there is a gap in my medical treatment?

Accepted Answer

Gaps in medical treatment are one of the most common arguments insurance adjusters use to devalue or deny claims. They argue that if you stopped treating, your injuries must not be serious. If you have a gap for legitimate reasons—financial hardship, lack of transportation, or a conflicting schedule—document everything and inform your attorney immediately. HOV Law works with medical providers who can treat clients on a letter of protection, deferring payment until the case resolves, so cost is never a reason to delay necessary care.

Question 16

What if I had a pre-existing condition or prior injury?

Accepted Answer

A pre-existing condition does not disqualify you from recovering compensation. Under Florida's 'eggshell plaintiff' rule, the at-fault party takes you as they find you. If the accident aggravated, accelerated, or worsened a pre-existing condition, you are entitled to compensation for that aggravation. Insurance companies frequently use prior medical history to argue your current injuries are unrelated, but HOV Law works with medical experts who specialize in documenting and proving the distinction between pre-existing conditions and new harm caused by the accident.

Question 17

What is Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Florida is one of a handful of no-fault insurance states, and PIP coverage is mandatory for all registered vehicle owners. PIP provides up to $10,000 in coverage for medical expenses (80% of reasonable charges) and lost wages (60%) regardless of fault. To access PIP benefits, you must seek medical care within 14 days of the accident. PIP does not cover pain and suffering, and it is frequently insufficient for serious injuries—which is why pursuing the at-fault driver's bodily injury liability coverage is often essential.

Question 18

What is Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage?

Accepted Answer

Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage protects you when the at-fault driver either has no insurance or does not carry enough coverage to fully compensate you. Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers in the nation—estimated between 20% and 26%. UM/UIM coverage is one of the most valuable protections you can carry on your own policy. If you are hit by an uninsured driver and have UM coverage, HOV Law will pursue your own insurer on your behalf to recover the fair compensation you deserve.

Question 19

Should I give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company?

Accepted Answer

No—not without consulting a personal injury attorney first. Insurance adjusters are trained professionals skilled at eliciting statements that can be used against you. A seemingly innocent comment about how you 'feel okay' or speculation about what 'might have' happened can be used to deny or dramatically reduce your claim. You are not legally obligated to give a recorded statement to the adverse insurer. HOV Law immediately assumes all communication with insurance companies the moment you retain us.

Question 20

What if the at-fault driver has no insurance?

Accepted Answer

If the at-fault driver carries no insurance, you have several potential avenues for recovery. First, if you carry UM coverage, your own insurer compensates you up to your policy limits. Second, if the driver was operating a commercial vehicle, their employer's policy may apply. Third, in some cases we can pursue the at-fault driver personally through a civil judgment if they have significant assets. HOV Law explores every available avenue to ensure you are not left without compensation simply because the negligent party failed to carry insurance.

Question 21

What is the statute of limitations for personal injury in Florida?

Accepted Answer

As of March 2023, Florida reduced its general personal injury statute of limitations from four years to two years. This means you have two years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit in Florida. For wrongful death cases, the deadline is also two years from the date of death. Claims against Florida government entities carry even shorter notice deadlines—sometimes as brief as three months. Missing this deadline permanently bars your right to compensation, regardless of how strong your case is. Contact HOV Law immediately to identify and protect your specific deadlines.

Question 22

How long will my personal injury case take to resolve?

Accepted Answer

Case timelines vary based on the complexity of your injuries, the clarity of liability, and the willingness of the insurer to negotiate fairly. Straightforward claims with clear liability and resolved injuries can sometimes settle within three to six months. Cases involving severe injuries requiring ongoing treatment, disputed liability, or multiple parties can take one to three years or longer if litigation becomes necessary. HOV Law prioritizes maximum compensation over a rapid, undervalued settlement—but we understand the financial pressure clients face and provide clear, regular updates throughout the process.

Question 23

Will my case have to go to trial?

Accepted Answer

The vast majority of personal injury cases—estimated at 95% or more—are resolved through pre-trial settlement negotiations. However, we never treat settlement as a certainty. HOV Law prepares every case with full trial readiness: thorough discovery, retained expert witnesses, and a complete legal strategy from day one. This preparation materially increases settlement offers because insurance companies know we are willing and capable of trying the case in front of a jury.

Question 24

What happens immediately after I hire HOV Law?

Accepted Answer

After you retain HOV Law, we immediately begin building your case. This includes sending a representation letter to all insurance companies, ordering police reports and medical records, preserving key evidence, and referring you to appropriate medical specialists if needed. We handle all communication so you can focus on recovery. Your attorney and dedicated case manager provide regular status updates. Once your injuries reach maximum medical improvement (MMI), we calculate your full damages, draft a comprehensive demand package, and begin aggressive settlement negotiations.

Question 25

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Your priority is safety and documentation. Check for injuries and call 911—Florida law requires reporting accidents involving injury, death, or significant property damage. Move to a safe location if possible. Take extensive photos of all vehicles, the road, traffic signs, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Exchange driver's license, insurance, and contact information with all parties. Collect contact information from any witnesses. Do not admit fault or apologize—even a casual 'I'm sorry' can be interpreted as an admission of liability. Seek medical attention within 14 days to preserve your PIP benefits, then contact HOV Law as soon as possible.

Question 26

What evidence is most valuable for my personal injury claim?

Accepted Answer

The strength of your claim depends heavily on the quality of your evidence. The most valuable includes: (1) The official police or crash report, establishing an official record of the accident. (2) Medical records from every treatment provider, documenting the nature, severity, and cause of your injuries. (3) Photographs and video from the scene, traffic cameras, dashcams, and nearby surveillance footage. (4) Written statements from independent witnesses. (5) Documentation of all financial losses—pay stubs, employer letters, receipts for medical expenses. (6) A personal injury journal documenting your daily pain levels, physical limitations, and emotional impact. HOV Law helps you gather and organize all of this from day one.

Question 27

Should I post about my accident on social media?

Accepted Answer

No. Posting about your accident, injuries, or recovery on any social media platform—Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or others—is strongly inadvisable. Insurance defense teams and opposing counsel routinely monitor the social media accounts of claimants. A photo of you smiling at a family event, a post about feeling better, or a check-in at a gym can be taken out of context and used to argue your injuries are exaggerated. Set all profiles to private, avoid posting about your case or physical activities, and always consult your attorney before sharing anything publicly.

Question 28

Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Accepted Answer

Potentially yes, depending on your degree of fault. Florida adopted a modified comparative negligence standard in 2023. Under this rule, you can recover compensation only if you were 49% or less at fault. Your total award is then reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found 20% responsible and your total damages are $100,000, you would recover $80,000. Insurance companies frequently attempt to inflate your percentage of fault to minimize claims. HOV Law fights aggressively to attribute fault accurately and ensure you receive the maximum allowable recovery.

Question 29

What types of compensation can I recover in a Florida personal injury case?

Accepted Answer

Florida personal injury law allows injured victims to recover both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include all quantifiable financial losses: past and future medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, property damage, and out-of-pocket rehabilitation and therapy costs. Non-economic damages compensate for intangible harms: pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of companionship, and permanent disfigurement. In cases involving intentional misconduct or gross negligence, courts may also award punitive damages. HOV Law quantifies every category of loss—including those clients often overlook—to build the maximum possible damages claim.

Question 30

How is pain and suffering calculated in a Florida personal injury case?

Accepted Answer

Florida does not impose a fixed formula for calculating pain and suffering damages. Insurance companies and courts typically use one of two methods. The multiplier method multiplies your total economic damages by a factor of 1.5 to 5, depending on injury severity, permanence, and impact on daily life. The per diem method assigns a daily dollar value to your suffering and multiplies it by the number of days you have lived with the injury. HOV Law uses medical expert testimony, detailed injury journals, and comparative case data to build the strongest possible argument for maximum non-economic damages in your case.

Question 31

Can I recover lost wages after an accident in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If your injuries prevented you from working—even temporarily—you are entitled to claim lost wages as economic damages in Florida. This includes hours or days missed during recovery, income lost during medical appointments, and any reduction in overtime or bonus opportunities caused by your injuries. For severe or permanent injuries, we also calculate future lost earnings and diminished earning capacity with the help of vocational and economic experts. Documentation is critical: pay stubs, employer letters confirming missed work, and your tax returns all support your lost wage claim.

Question 32

Does Florida have a cap on personal injury damages?

Accepted Answer

For most private personal injury claims in Florida—car accidents, slip and falls, premises liability—there is currently no statutory cap on economic or non-economic damages. However, claims against Florida government entities are subject to sovereign immunity caps (currently $200,000 per person, $300,000 per incident, absent legislative approval). The Florida Supreme Court struck down caps on non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases in 2017 as unconstitutional. HOV Law will advise you precisely on which damage categories are available and uncapped in your specific case.

Question 33

What are punitive damages and when do they apply in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Punitive damages are an additional monetary award designed to punish defendants whose conduct was intentional, malicious, or demonstrated a conscious disregard for others' safety—going beyond ordinary negligence. In Florida, pursuing punitive damages requires meeting a heightened legal standard and a separate evidentiary hearing. Common examples include a drunk driver who caused a crash or a property owner who knowingly ignored a life-threatening hazard for months. Florida generally caps punitive damages at three times the compensatory damages awarded or $500,000, whichever is greater. HOV Law evaluates every case for punitive damage potential during the initial investigation.

Question 34

What makes truck accident claims more complex than car accident claims in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Commercial truck accidents involve multiple layers of liability and federal regulation that standard car accident claims do not. Potentially responsible parties include the truck driver, the trucking company, the cargo loader, the truck manufacturer, and even third-party maintenance contractors. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations governing hours of service, vehicle inspections, and load weight create additional standards of care—violations of which can establish negligence per se. Trucking companies also move immediately to send investigators to the scene. HOV Law deploys quickly to preserve electronic logging device (ELD) data, black box records, driver logs, and inspection history before they are altered or destroyed.

Question 35

How do Uber and Lyft accident claims work in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Rideshare accident claims in Florida depend heavily on the driver's status at the time of the crash. If the Uber or Lyft driver had the app on but was waiting for a request, the company's contingent liability policy (typically $50,000/$100,000 BI / $25,000 property) applies. If the driver had accepted a trip or was transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft's $1 million liability policy becomes available. If the app was off entirely, only the driver's personal auto insurance applies. Rideshare companies maintain large legal teams to minimize payouts—HOV Law has extensive experience navigating multi-policy rideshare scenarios and their specific insurance tactics.

Question 36

What are my rights after a motorcycle accident in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Motorcyclists in Florida are uniquely vulnerable and frequently subjected to unfair bias by insurance adjusters who assume recklessness regardless of the facts. Florida's helmet law adds complexity: riders over 21 who carry at least $10,000 in medical coverage may ride without a helmet legally, yet insurers sometimes attempt to reduce compensation by arguing the rider assumed additional risk. Florida's modified comparative negligence system also means every percentage point of fault attributed to the motorcyclist directly reduces their recovery. HOV Law aggressively counters these biases using accident reconstruction experts, traffic engineering analysis, and witness testimony to protect motorcyclists' full legal rights.

Question 37

How do slip and fall and premises liability claims work in Florida?

Accepted Answer

In Florida, a property owner's legal duty to visitors depends on the visitor's status. Invitees (customers at a business) are owed the highest duty of care: the owner must maintain safe conditions and actively inspect for hazards. For a successful slip and fall claim, you must establish: (1) a dangerous condition existed on the property; (2) the owner knew or should have known about it; (3) the owner failed to fix or warn of it; and (4) the condition directly caused your injuries. Florida's 2023 comparative negligence reform means you cannot recover at all if you are 50% or more at fault—making the liability argument especially critical in these cases. HOV Law investigates premises liability claims thoroughly, including securing surveillance footage and incident reports before they are overwritten or deleted.

Question 38

Who can file a wrongful death claim in Florida and what can they recover?

Accepted Answer

Florida's Wrongful Death Act allows surviving family members to recover compensation when a person dies due to another's negligence or intentional act. Eligible claimants include a surviving spouse, children (including adult children in limited circumstances), and parents of minor children. The estate's personal representative files the action on behalf of all survivors. Recoverable damages include medical and funeral expenses, lost prospective net income, loss of companionship and guidance, and mental pain and suffering for surviving family members. Florida's wrongful death statute of limitations is two years from the date of death. HOV Law handles these extraordinarily difficult cases with both relentless legal advocacy and genuine compassion for grieving families.

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