Florida Child Car Accident Injury Lawyer

When a child is seriously injured in a car accident, the effects are devastating and far-reaching. Beyond the immediate medical crisis, families often face overwhelming emotional, financial, and legal burdens. At Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa, we understand that nothing is more important than your child’s well-being. Our Florida child injury lawyers are here to provide trusted legal counsel and fierce advocacy during your family’s most difficult moments.

We have successfully represented families across Florida in complex personal injury claims involving minors. Our team is deeply experienced in handling the legal, medical, and emotional complexities of child injury cases. We take every case personally—because we know that behind each case is a child who deserves a future and a family that deserves justice.

Car Accidents Involving Children in Florida

Children are especially vulnerable in car accidents due to their physical development and inability to protect themselves. Even at low speeds, a collision can result in life-altering trauma. According to the CDC, motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of serious injury and death among children in the United States.

Common injuries suffered by children in car accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis
• Internal bleeding and organ damage
• Fractures and orthopedic trauma
• Psychological trauma, including PTSD and anxiety

These injuries often require long-term or even lifelong care, which can impose significant costs on families. In many cases, children may face permanent disability or developmental challenges that impact their education, relationships, and quality of life.

Legal Protections for Injured Children in Florida

Florida law recognizes the special vulnerabilities of injured minors. When a child is involved in a personal injury claim, additional legal safeguards are in place to ensure their interests are fully protected. For example:

• A parent or legal guardian must file the claim on behalf of the child.
• Any settlement involving a minor must be approved by a judge, regardless of the amount.
• In larger settlements, funds may be placed in a court-monitored trust or guardianship account to be released when the child reaches adulthood.

Our attorneys are highly experienced in managing these legal complexities. We handle all filings, approvals, and court proceedings so you can focus on what matters most—your child’s recovery.

What Compensation Can Be Recovered?

A child injury claim in Florida can provide compensation for both economic and non-economic losses. Depending on the nature and severity of the injury, damages may include:

• Emergency and long-term medical expenses
• Rehabilitation and therapy (physical, occupational, psychological)
• Special education or developmental services
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of future earning capacity
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Diminished quality of life

At Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa, we collaborate with pediatric specialists, economists, and life care planners to project the full lifetime impact of the injury. Our goal is to ensure that your child receives the resources necessary to live a full and supported life.

Why Choose Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa?

When your child’s future is at stake, you need a legal team you can trust. Our firm offers:

• Respected Trial Attorneys: We are known for handling high-stakes personal injury cases and taking on powerful insurance companies and negligent parties.
• Family-Focused Representation: We treat our clients with empathy, urgency, and respect. Your child’s story matters to us.
• Proven Results: Our attorneys have secured millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for families across Florida.

We don’t just pursue compensation—we pursue accountability. Whether through negotiation or courtroom litigation, we are relentless in our mission to protect injured children and give their families the justice they deserve.

What to Do If Your Child Was Injured in a Car Accident

Time is critical in child injury cases. After ensuring your child receives appropriate medical care, contact a lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can:

• Investigate the accident
• Collect medical and accident-related documentation
• Identify all liable parties (including drivers, vehicle owners, or product manufacturers)
• File claims on your behalf
• Represent your family during any settlement negotiations or court proceedings

We handle all communication with insurance companies, so you’re not pressured into accepting a low settlement that doesn’t reflect your child’s true needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How is a child car accident injury case handled differently?In Florida, parents or legal guardians must file a claim on behalf of the injured child. Any settlement must be approved by the court to ensure it is in the child’s best interest.
• How long do I have to file a claim?The standard statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Florida is four years. However, in cases involving minors, that period may be extended. It’s best to consult with an attorney promptly.
• What happens to the settlement money?In most cases, the court will require the settlement to be placed in a trust account or structured annuity, which the child can access when they reach adulthood.
• Do we need to go to court?Many cases settle out of court, but we prepare every case as if it will go to trial to ensure the strongest position during negotiations.
• Why is hiring a lawyer so important?Child injury cases involve complex legal rules and long-term implications. A skilled lawyer ensures your child’s rights are protected and that all available compensation is pursued.