Cheating Spouse Investigations

Adultery / Infidelity Investigations

(Marital): The first step in the evaluation and discovery of a potential affair with infidelity, unfaithful spouses, adultery, and cheating mates is the obtaining of an objective, professional opinion as to the merits of the case. CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC provides free consultations from professional and experienced private investigators nationwide.

Is your spouse unfaithful, having an affair, acting suspicious, or deceitful? Do you know what is happening for certain? Surveillance, bodily fluids testing, and communications investigations for phone activity, internet use, email, instant messenger, and more are some effective ways to determine inconsistencies or consistencies in a subject’s behavior to discover the affair. Documentation is the most important part of your case. Having a thorough report, an explanation of video, and still photography evidence can help you with your presentation of the facts. If you decide to work with a qualified Florida family attorney, it is important that we can work together for your case to protect you and your interests.


Even if you are an Executive, Professional Athlete, Professional, Entrepreneur, Public Celebrity, Government Official, or a spouse of one, with Cory T. Knight and our Florida private investigators at CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC you can be 100% assured and guaranteed confidentiality! Our investigation agency and our team understand the need for a thorough and discrete spousal or significant other investigation.

Have you noticed changes in the subject’s behavior- signs of infidelity?
• Excessive or discreet use of the computer
• Overtime hours or holdovers with work
• Hiding of phone, credit card, or bank accounts histories
• Excessive arguing of facts related to time
• Blaming behavior of false accusing
• Negative projections behavior - accusing you of an affair
• Lack of sexual interest or abnormal renewed sexual interest
• Abnormal call activity at the home or cell phones - Hang ups and long tones
• Removal of pictures or photos from wallet
• Lost wedding ring
• Singles behavior - out with friends
• These are only some of the signs



All evidence is collected and provided in a strict, factual and specific manner. Preliminary and scientific forensic lab analysis is also available. Extramarital affairs often lead to divorce; we do not interfere -- we are here to help. We can assist in items from the discovery process to recovering from infidelity. Our Florida private investigators believe infidelity is a very serious matter and should be treated accordingly -- infidelity is hurtful and degrading and we can help in a courteous and professional manner.



If your spouse or significant other is cheating, you deserve to know the truth. With the help of one of our Florida infidelity private investigators at CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC can begin to start the healing process. This may not include keeping the relationship together. If you decide that your marriage is irrevocably broken, you are going to need the discreet services that the Florida private investigators at CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC offer. As difficult as it may be to come to terms with, you are going to need to get the facts and protect your interests. Coping with infidelity is not easy, but living with it is worse. Call Cory T. Knight today to discuss your spousal or significant other infidelity investigations.



As always, please feel free to contact Cory T. Knight at (954) 652-0733, or any of our Florida private investigators for a FREE consultation. If you prefer, you can click here to e-mail us. Our private investigation agency is here to assist you, contact us today.

Items to which you can expect to have access for Unfaithful and Cheating Mate - Adultery Investigations:
• Surveillance
• Polygraph Examination Lie Detection
• Semen Testing
• Bodily Fluid Testing
• DNA for Hair and Skin
• Covert Pregnancy Testing
• Surface Drug Testing
• Photos of Unknown Subjects
• Communications Activity
• Computer Usage
• Internet Usage
• Email Tracing
• Identity Verification
• Covert and Undercover Assignments

People who we catch (the cheater):
• Cheating Wife or Unfaithful Wife
• Cheating Husband or Unfaithful Husband
• Cheating Spouse or Unfaithful Spouse
• The Emotional Infidelity
• The Other Woman
• The Other Man
• Marital Infidelity
• Matrimonial Investigations


Online Infidelity
Many times e-mail, messenger activity, the workplace, and other communication mediums are aggravators in the process. We have Florida private investigators and computer experts that have extensive forensics experience that can explain how you can discover and use our investigations and computer monitoring software with your discovery process.

Cheating Spouse Surveillance

Ft. Lauderdale Florida Cheating Spouse Investigator.....

Chances are that if you suspect your wife or husband is cheating on you, they may or may not be. Before you make any rash or harsh decisions, ask the direct question. Are you cheating on me, on our relationship. If the answer is no and you "gut instinct" is telling you that they are not truthful you may want to make a decision.

At this point you can decide that you have no time in you life for untrustworthy people, and move on. If that is not the case and you NEED that piece of mind in simply knowing the truth, call Cory T. Knight or any of our cheating spouse private investigators today at (954) 652-0733. We would urge you to speak to you attorney (if you have one) prior to hiring a private investigator as many top divorce attorneys work with private investigators like CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC that specialize in surveillance and counter surveillance. your attorney may advise you that unless there is a pre-nuptial agreement the surveillance may not be used or even helpful in Florida, however to protect yourself from disease and ultimately your sanity, you may wish to proceed.

If you wish to proceed we would first review the case and the merits of the case with you, what our expectations are and how we run our surveillance cases. If you agree with how we manage our investigations, and you decide to retain us we will proceed on an agreed upon investigation.

We understand the frustrating and emotional situation you are in, however it is our job to provide you with the facts. If you need to know the truth, call Cory Knight today for a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your case.

Internet Safety Florida Private Detective

Internet safety for your Children:

The internet is an increasingly important place for children to learn, work and play. But it also presents challenges for parents, teens and younger children, especially considering that anonymity that masks users. At CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC we are receiving frequent requests from parents for computer monitoring software to ensure their children are safe. We feel this information will prove helpful for parents.

You can help your child avoid online pornography and encounters with predators, hackers and others who would exploit children and their personal information by establishing rules for internet use, and making sure the rules are enforced.

General tips for parents:

· Learn everything you can about the Internet. Have your children show you the sites they visit, learn chat room lingo and acronyms that chatters use (like POS for Parent Over Shoulder; more examples are included on this page). Know what other Internet functionally your child may have access to like instant messaging, chat, e-mail and other text messaging.

· Establish approved Internet time and territory. Make it clear to children what sites they can and cannot visit, what hours they may use internet, and with whom they may communicate.

· Keep the computer in a common area of the home, such as a living room or family room, where adults can easily monitor online activity.

· Discuss the importance of telling you or a trusted adult if something ever makes your child or teen feel scared, uncomfortable or confused while online.

· Consider safeguarding options like site blocking, filtering and monitoring. Enter these keywords into any search engine to learn more about software and browser settings that can help you control where children and teens go online. Know how to set parental controls and check the browser’s history files.

· Show your children how to turn off the monitor when something makes them feel scared, uncomfortable or confused.

· Make sure you are aware of any other places your child may be using the Internet, such as friend’s house or the library.

· Talk to your children about what personal information is and why they should never give it out.


E-mail Safety:


· Check the e-mail your children receive for appropriate content. All too often, e-mail addresses are “harvested” by unscrupulous marketers; the resulting “spam” messages frequently contain adult content.

· NEVER post your child’s e-mail address in any directory.

· Don’t unsubscribe on unwanted, un-requested or unsolicited e-mail. Don’t sign up for free offers (remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it is!)

· Don’t forward e-mails to everyone in your address book.

· Make sure children only exchange email with people they know and let them use chat areas you supervise.



Tips for children and teens:


· Print these requirements and post them near the computer in your home after discussing them with your family.

· Don’t give out personal information such as name, age, address, telephone number, parent/guardian’s name and school name/address.

· Do not respond to mean, offensive, threatening or unwanted email or instant messaging.

· Chose a screen name that doesn’t identify you as a young boy or girl.

· Don’t share your password with anyone (except a parent/guardian) not even a best friend.

· NEVER agree to meet with someone you don’t know. Remember, people online may or MAY NOT be who they say they are.

· Tell your parents, a teacher or trusted adult if you read or see something online that makes you uncomfortable or is someone threatens you or suggests you meet.

Internet Chat Acronyms:

AFAIK = As far as I know
AFK= Away from the keyboard
ASL= Age Sex Location
BB= Bathroom Break
BF= Boyfriend
BRB= Be right back
CUL8R OR CULR= See you later
HW= Homework
IDC= I don’t care
KOTC= Kiss on the cheek
LOL= Laugh out loud
LYL= Love you Lots
LYAS= Love you like a Sister
LYAB= Love you like a Brother
OMG= Oh my G-d
POS= PARENT OVER SHOULDER
SN= Screen name
TMI= Too much information

Please feel free to view our web-page at http://www.ctkinvestigations.com/ , or contact Cory T. Knight for any additional information

Computer Forensics Hollywood Florida Private Detective

South Florida Computer Forensics

My last blog discussed your children and Internet safety; today I will review computer forensics and an overview of forensic investigations. What would you do if you realized that while you read this blog, every pathway from the second you turned your computer on, until the second you think you shut the computer down is encoded and copied? Do you still have a right to privacy? Is the computer you are reading this on now yours, or is it the property of your employer? If the answer is the latter, does your employer not have the right to ensure that you are doing work on their time? Have you ever realized that even after you delete documents, e-mails, instant messages, chat sessions, and cell phone backups your information can be restored. Computer forensics has been defined as the science of applying computer science to aid the legal process. In our experience we have been called upon by parents to monitor their teenager&risqué;s computer activity, by business men and women that deleted work files, doctoral students that have deleted their thesis, criminal investigations to clone hard drives and establish a timeline of activity among many other computer forensics investigations. When you think of Big Brother you may not completely understand the comprehensive realm of computer forensics. Basically, anything that has an internal memory or memory device has the ability for computer forensics investigators to recover data.

With the ever growing digital age, we have been able to utilize forensic investigations on computers to assist in documenting and presenting evidence in a variety of cases from attempted homicide, employee theft, adults preying on children online, among other private investigations. The systematic inspection of computers, cell phones, pda&risqué;s, USB devices, or other digital memory devices can support evidence in a civil investigation, criminal investigation, or for personal data recovery or employee monitoring. Computer forensics requires specialized expertise and tools that goes above and beyond the normal data collection and preservation techniques available to end-users or system support personnel.

The computer forensic private investigator can render an opinion, based upon the examination of the material that has been recovered. After rendering an opinion and report, to determine whether they are or have been used for criminal, civil or unauthorized activities, many times the forensic investigation speaks for itself. The ability to complete a variety of investigative searches is essential. Some children will find when parents monitor their computers an invasion of privacy, however their innocence can be exploited. Computer monitoring software and open discussions with your children will take the DO NOT TALK TO STRANGERS talk to the new millennium stranger, the Internet predator.

The use of digital evidence has increased in the past few decades as courts have allowed the use of e-mails, digital photographs, ATM transaction logs, word processing documents, instant message histories, files saved from accounting programs, spreadsheets, Internet browser histories, databases, the contents of computer memory, computer backups, computer printouts, Global Positioning System tracks, logs from a hotel&risqué;s electronic door locks, and digital video or audio files. Florida computer forensic private investigators are used now more than ever to preserve evidence, recover data, analyze information, interpret and present the findings based on the recovered computer forensics.

Computer Forensic Examples

Forensics can be defined as the use of technology and science for investigation and fact recovery when dealing with criminal matters. Computer forensics is the technological aspect of retrieving evidence to use within criminal or civil courts of law. They are able to recover damaged and deleted files. Some cases in particular used the art of computer forensics as their lead of evidence to indict a criminal offender or find the location of a missing person.

Example One
Chandra Levy , who went missing on April 30 , 2001, was a Washington, D.C. intern whose disappearance was widely publicized. While her location was unknown, she had used the Internet as well as e-mail to make travel arrangements and to communicate with her parents. The use of this technology helped a computer criminalist trace her whereabouts. The information found on her computer led police to her location, even though she had been missing for one year.

Example two
There have been a number of cases at private schools where authority figures have been charged with possession of child pornography. These discoveries were made using computer forensics. By tracking the buying and selling of pornography online, computer forensic investigators have been able to locate people involved in these crimes. They are able to use information found on the computers as circumstantial evidence in court, allowing prosecution to occur.

Example three
A final example of how computer forensics is affecting the current workplace is the aspect of security. Employees' work computers are now being monitored to ensure no illegal actions are taking place in the office. They also have heightened security so outsiders cannot access a company’s confidential files. If this security is broken a company is then able to use computer forensics to trace back to which computer was being tampered with and what information was extracted from it, possibly leading to the guilty parties and other potential parties involved.
Hopefully this helps as many people e-mailed me and asked for more information on employment and children monitoring forensics. Feel free to read more on my webpage http://www.ctkinvestigations.com/ .

E-Scams - South Florida Computer Forensics

New E-Scams & Warnings

PHISHING RELATED TO ISSUANCE OF ECONOMIC STIMULUS CHECKS

The FBI warns consumers of recently reported spam e-mail purportedly from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which is actually an attempt to steal consumer information. The e-mail advises the recipient that direct deposit is the fastest and easiest way to receive their economic stimulus tax rebate. The message contains a hyperlink to a fraudulent form which requests the recipient's personally identifiable information, including bank account information. To convince consumers to reply, the e-mail warns that a failure to complete the form in a timely manner will delay the issuance of the rebate check.

One example of this IRS spam e-mail message is as follows:

"Over 130 million Americans will receive refunds as part of President Bush's program to jumpstart the economy.

Our records indicate that you are qualified to receive the 2008 Economic Stimulus Refund.
The fastest and easiest way to receive your refund is by direct deposit to your checking/savings account.

Please follow the link and fill out the form and submit before May 10th, 2008 to ensure that your refund will be processed as soon as possible.

Submitting your form on May 10th, 2008 or later means that your refund will be delayed due to the volume of requests we anticipate for the Economic Stimulus Refund.

Consumers are advised that the IRS does not initiate taxpayer communications via e-mail. In addition, the IRS does not request detailed personal information via e-mail or ask taxpayers for the PIN numbers, passwords, or similar secret access information for their credit card, bank, or other financial accounts.

Please be cautious of unsolicited e-mails. It is recommended not to open e-mails from unknown senders because they often contain viruses or other malicious software. It is also recommended to avoid clicking links in e-mails received from unknown senders as this is a popular method of directing victims to phishing websites.

If you have received an e-mail similar to this, please notify the IC3 by filing a complaint at http://www.ic3.gov/.

Cyber Investigations - Florida Private Investigator Computer Forensics

Cyber Investigations
How To Protect Your Computer


The same advice parents might deliver to young drivers on their first solo journey applies to everyone who wants to navigate safely online. A special agent in our Cyber Division offered the following:



- "Don't drive in bad neighborhoods." - "If you don't lock your car, it's vulnerable; if you don't secure your computer, it's vulnerable."- "Reduce your vulnerability and you reduce the threat."
Below are some key steps to protecting your computer from intrusion:



- Keep Your Firewall Turned On: A firewall helps protect your computer from hackers who might try to gain access to crash it, delete information, or even steal passwords or other sensitive information. Software firewalls are widely recommended for single computers. The software is prepackaged on some operating systems or can be purchased for individual computers. For multiple networked computers, hardware routers typically provide firewall protection.



- Install or Update Your Antivirus Software: Antivirus software is designed to prevent malicious software programs from embedding on your computer. If it detects malicious code, like a virus or a worm, it works to disarm or remove it. Viruses can infect computers without users' knowledge. Most types of antivirus software can be set up to update automatically.



- Install or Update Your Antispyware Technology: Spyware is just what it sounds like—software that is surreptitiously installed on your computer to let others peer into your activities on the computer. Some spyware collects information about you without your consent or produces unwanted pop-up ads on your web browser. Some operating systems offer free spyware protection, and inexpensive software is readily available for download on the Internet or at your local computer store. Be wary of ads on the Internet offering downloadable antispyware—in some cases these products may be fake and may actually contain spyware or other malicious code. It's like buying groceries—shop where you trust.



- Keep Your Operating System Up to Date: Computer operating systems are periodically updated to stay in tune with technology requirements and to fix security holes. Be sure to install the updates to ensure your computer has the latest protection.



- Be Careful What You Download: Carelessly downloading e-mail attachments can circumvent even the most vigilant anti-virus software. Never open an e-mail attachment from someone you don't know, and be wary of forwarded attachments from people you do know. They may have unwittingly advanced malicious code.



- Turn Off Your Computer: With the growth of high-speed Internet connections, many opt to leave their computers on and ready for action. The downside is that being "always on" renders computers more susceptible. Beyond firewall protection, which is designed to fend off unwanted attacks, turning the computer off effectively severs an attacker's connection—be it spyware or a botnet that employs your computer's resources to reach out to other unwitting users.

Wi Fi Security Tips - Florida Private Investigator

Wi-Fi Security
FBI



You’re at the airport waiting for your flight. With time to kill, you’re thinking of connecting your laptop to the airport's Wi-Fi to check your office e-mail...do some personal banking...or shop for a gift for your spouse.




But first, consider this: odds are there’s a hacker nearby, with his own laptop, attempting to "eavesdrop" on your computer to obtain personal data that will provide access to your money or even to your company's sensitive information.




Here's something else to consider: there are 68,000 Wi-Fi "hot spots" in the U.S. (see the graphic below for the top Wi-Fi countries), at airports, coffee shops, hotels, bookstores, schools, and other locations where hundreds or thousands of people pass through every day. While many of these hot spots have secure networks, some do not, according to Supervisory Special Agent Donna Peterson of our Cyber Division. And connecting to an unsecure network can leave you vulnerable to attacks from hackers.




How do hackers grab your personal data out of thin air? Agent Peterson said one of the most common types of attack is this: a bogus but legitimate-looking Wi-Fi network with a strong signal is strategically set up in a known hot spot...and the hacker waits for nearby laptops to connect to it. At that point, your computer—and all your sensitive information, including user ID, passwords, credit card numbers, etc.—basically belongs to the hacker. The intruder can mine your computer for valuable data, direct you to phony webpages that look like ones you frequent, and record your every keystroke.




“Another thing to remember,” said Agent Peterson, “is that the connection between your laptop and the attacker's laptop runs both ways: while he's taking info from you, you may be unknowingly downloading viruses, worms, and other malware from him.”




Businesses that offer free or ad-hoc Wi-Fi often don't know their networks have been breached. Individual victims usually don't realize they've been targeted either until it's too late. That’s why, according to Agent Peterson, there aren't reliable stats on the number of these breaches, although the FBI does periodically receive reports on them. It's also very tough to trace a hack that originates on an open, unsecure network.




Agent Peterson explained that the criminal aspect comes into play once data taken by the hacker is used to commit a crime. If the hacker, armed with your personal or corporate information or access codes, tries to break into a secured network—whether it’s a case of intrusion, identity theft, bank fraud, theft of intellectual property, or any other type of crime—then law enforcement gets involved.




What can you do to protect yourself? Agent’s Peterson’s best advice is, don’t connect to an unknown Wi-Fi network. But if you have to, there are some precautions you can take to decrease the threat:

• Make sure your laptop security is up to date, with current versions of your operating system, web browser, firewalls, and antivirus and anti-spyware software.
  
• Don't conduct financial transactions or use applications like e-mail and instant messaging.
  Change the default setting on your laptop so you have to manually select the Wi-Fi network you’re connecting to.
  
• Turn off your laptop's Wi-Fi capabilities when you're not using them.

Mortgage Fraud - Florida Private Investigator

MORTGAGE FRAUD

New Analysis of a Rising Threat

We’ve just released a comprehensive new report on mortgage fraud—now posted in full on this website. And, as you might expect given the downturn in the economy and all the troubles in the lending industry, it isn’t a pretty picture.

The information can get quite technical, with plenty of charts, graphs, and hard numbers. But we invite you to take a read if you’re interested in getting educated on the issue—and on emerging schemes that might impact your own pocketbook.
Among the key findings:

... Mortgage fraud is clearly on the rise. Although there is no central way to track the total extent of the problem, we received 46,717 Suspicious Activity Reports related to mortgage fraud last year—compared to 35,617 in 2006 and just 6,936 in 2003. Only seven percent of these reports documented an exact dollar amount in terms of losses, but even so, the total loss from this seven percent was $813 million. Our caseload has also escalated. By the end of fiscal year 2007, we were handling just over 1,200 mortgage fraud investigations—a 47 percent increase from 2006 and a whopping 176 percent increase from 2003.

... The downward trend in the housing market will continue (see forecasts provided by the Mortgage Bankers Association in the report), providing further incentive for shady real estate industry insiders to look for dishonest ways to turn a profit and growing opportunities for scam artists to prey on vulnerable homeowners.

... The subprime lending crisis is a contributing factor to mortgage fraud, both directly and indirectly. Subprime loans, designed for people with poor or limited credit histories, now represent more than 13 percent of all outstanding loans—double the percentage of five years ago. These high-interest, high-risk loans contributed to the 2.2 million foreclosures filed during 2007, up 75 percent from 2006. The trouble actually began when home prices were rising a few years ago, leading to relaxed lending practices throughout the industry and the exaggeration of assets by borrowers anxious to qualify for loans, both of which contributed to fraud.

... The top 10 hotspots nationwide for mortgage fraud in 2007, carefully mapped from multiple public and private sources, were: Florida, Georgia, Michigan, California, Illinois, Ohio, Texas, New York, Colorado, and Minnesota. The north-central region had the largest share of mortgage fraud, followed by the west and southeast regions.

.. The latest mortgage scams run the gamut: from “builder-bailout” schemes where developers unload excess inventory through financial trickery…to foreclosure rescue frauds that trick homeowners into signing over the deed to their house; from seller-assistance scams that use false appraisals to sell homes…to identity theft that leads to home equity credit lines being opened and drained. See the report for more details.

The report also briefly recounts our proactive response to the problem, including our participation in the Department of Justice's Mortgage Fraud Working Group, through which we are helping to identify large-scale industry insiders and criminal enterprises conducting systemic mortgage fraud...our work in multi-agency mortgage fraud task forces and working groups around the country...and our recent “Mortgage Fraud Summit” to discuss the issue with special agents nationwide.

Florida Workers' Compensation - Florida Private Investigator

Florida Workers' Compensation

Injured Workers FAQ
How long after an accident do I have to report it to my employer?
When should my employer report the injury to their insurance company?
My employer will not report my injury to the insurance company. What can I do?
What kind of medical treatment can I get?
Do I have to pay any of my medical bills?
Will I be paid if I lose time from work?
How much will I be paid?
Do I have to pay income tax on this money?
When will I get my first check?
If I'm only temporarily disabled, how long can I get these checks?
Can I receive social security benefits and workers' compensation benefits at the same time?
Can I receive unemployment compensation and workers' compensation benefits at the same time?
What can I do if I am not receiving my benefit check?
If I am unable to return to work until my doctor releases me, does my employer have to hold my job for me?
Can my employer fire me if I am unable to work because of an injury and am receiving workers' compensation benefits?
If I am unable to return to the type of work I did before I was injured, what can I do?
My employer and the insurance company have denied my claim for workers' compensation benefits. Do I need legal representation to get my benefits? What should I do?
What is the time limit for filing a Petition for Benefits?
Is there a period of time after which my claim is no longer open?
Can I get a settlement from my claim?
If I settle my claim for medical benefits with the insurance company and my condition gets worse later, who pays for my future medical care, surgeries, etc?
What can I do when it is difficult to get a prescription filled or I am having problems with the pharmacy where I get my workers’ compensation medication?

Q: How long after an accident do I have to report it to my employer?
A: You should report it as soon as possible but no later than thirty (30) days or your claim may be denied.
Reference: Section 440.185 , Florida Statutes

Q: When should my employer report the injury to their insurance company?
A: Your employer should report the injury as soon as possible, but no later than seven (7) days after their knowledge. The insurance company must send you an informational brochure within three (3) days after receiving notice from your employer. The brochure will explain your rights and responsibilities, as well as provide additional information about the workers' compensation law. A copy of the brochure can be viewed on this website under “Publications”.
Reference: Section 440.185 , Florida Statutes

Q: My employer will not report my injury to the insurance company. What can I do?
A: You have the right to report the injury to their insurance company. However, if you need assistance, contact the Employee Assistance Office (EAO) at (800) 342-1741 or e-mail wceao@fldfs.com
Reference: Section 440.185 , Florida Statutes

Q: What kind of medical treatment can I get?
A: The medical provider, authorized by your employer or the insurance company, will provide the necessary medical care, treatment and prescriptions related to your injury.
Reference: Section 440.13(2) , Florida Statutes

Q: Do I have to pay any of my medical bills?
A: No, all authorized medical bills should be submitted by the medical provider to your employer's insurance company for payment.
Reference: Section 440.13(14) , Florida Statutes

Q: Will I be paid if I lose time from work?
A: Under Florida law, you are not paid for the first seven days of disability. However, if you lose time because your disability extends to over 21 days, you may be paid for the first seven days by the insurance company.
Reference: Section 440.12 , Florida Statutes

Q: How much will I be paid?
A: In most cases, your benefit check, which is paid bi-weekly, will be 66 2/3 percent of your average weekly wage. If you were injured before October 1, 2003, this amount is calculated by using wages earned during the 91-day period immediately preceding the date of your injury, not to exceed the state limit. If you worked less than 90% of the 91 day period, the wages of a similar employee in the same employment who has worked the whole of the 91-day period or your full-time weekly wage may be used. If you were injured on or after October 1, 2003 , your average weekly wage is calculated using wages earned 13 weeks prior to your injury, not counting the week in which you were injured.
In addition, if you worked less than 75% of the 13 week period, a similar employee in the same employment who has worked 75% of the 13-week period or your full time weekly wage shall be used.
Reference: Section 440.02(28) & 440.14 , Florida Statutes

Q: Do I have to pay income tax on this money?
A: No. However, if you go back to work on light or limited duty and are still under the care of the authorized doctor, you will pay taxes on any wages earned while working. For additional information on Income Tax, you may want to visit the Internal Revenue Service website at: http://www.irs.gov/

Q: When will I get my first check?
A: You should receive the first check within 21 days after reporting your injury to your employer.
Reference: Section 440.20 , Florida Statutes

Q: If I'm only temporarily disabled, how long can I get these checks?
A: You can receive Temporary Total, Temporary Partial Disability payments or a combination of the two benefits during the continuance of your disability for no more than a maximum of 104 weeks.
Reference: Section 440.15(2) , Florida Statutes

Q: Can I receive social security benefits and workers' compensation benefits at the same time?
A: Yes. However an offset, or reduction in your workers' compensation check may be applied because the law states that the two combined may not exceed 80 percent of your average weekly wage earned prior to your injury. For further information on Social Security, you may contact the Social Security Administration at (800) 772-1213 or visit their website at http://www.ssa.gov/.
Reference: Section 440.15(9) , Florida Statutes

Q: Can I receive unemployment compensation and workers' compensation benefits at the same time?
A: No, not if you are receiving temporary total or permanent total disability benefits as you must be medically able and available for work to qualify for unemployment. For additional information on Unemployment Compensation, you may want to utilize the Unemployment Compensation website at: http://www.floridajobs.org/.
Reference: Section 440.15(10), Florida Statutes

Q: What can I do if I am not receiving my benefit check?
A: Call the insurance company and ask for the adjuster or claims representative. If you still have questions and don't understand why the checks have stopped, call the EAO at (800) 342-1741 or e-mail mailto:wceao@fldfs.com.
Reference: Section 440.14 , Florida Statutes

Q: If I am unable to return to work until my doctor releases me, does my employer have to hold my job for me?
A: No, there is no provision in the law that requires your employer to hold the job open for you.

Q: Can my employer fire me if I am unable to work because of an injury and am receiving workers' compensation benefits?
A: No, it is against the law to fire you because you have filed or attempted to file a workers' compensation claim.
Reference: Section 440.205 , Florida Statutes

Q: If I am unable to return to the type of work I did before I was injured, what can I do?
A: The law provides, at no cost to you, reemployment services to help you return to work. Services include vocational counseling, transferable skills analysis, job-seeking skills, job placement, on-the-job training, and formal retraining. To find out more about this program, you may contact the Department of Education, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Bureau of Rehabilitation and Reemployment Services at (850) 245-3470 or visit their website at: http://www.rehabworks.org/
Reference: Section 440.491 , Florida Statutes

Q: My employer and the insurance company have denied my claim for workers' compensation benefits. Do I need legal representation to get my benefits? What should I do?
A: It is your decision whether or not to hire an attorney. However, the EAO can assist you and attempt to resolve the dispute. If unable to resolve, the EAO can further assist you in completing and filing a Petition for Benefits. This service is provided at no cost to you. For assistance call: (800) 342-1741 or e-mail mailto:wceao@fldfs.com. For the location of the nearest EAO, click on: http://www.myfloridacfo.com/WC/dist_offices.html.
Reference: Section 440.191 & 440.192 , Florida Statutes

Q: What is the time limit for filing a Petition for Benefits?
A: In general, there is a two (2) year period to file a Petition. However, it depends on the type of issue in dispute. You may call the EAO at (800) 342-1741 or e-mail mailto:wceao@fldfs.comfor specific information.
Reference: Section 440.19(1) , Florida Statutes

Q: Is there a period of time after which my claim is no longer open?
A. If you were injured on or after January 1, 1994 , the claim is closed one (1) year from the date of your last medical treatment or payment of compensation. This period of time is referred to as the Statute of Limitations. If you were injured before January 1, 1994 , the period is two (2) years.
Reference: Section 440.19(2) , Florida Statutes

Q: Can I get a settlement from my claim?
A: Settlements may be made under certain circumstances and are voluntary; not automatic or mandatory.
Reference: Section 440.20 (11)(a)(b)(c), Florida Statutes

Q: If I settle my claim for medical benefits with the insurance company and my condition gets worse later, who pays for my future medical care, surgeries, etc?
A: You are responsible for your future medical needs after your claim for medical benefits is settled.

Q: What can I do when it is difficult to get a prescription filled or I am having problems with the pharmacy where I get my workers’ compensation medication?
A: In Florida, an injured worker has the right to select a pharmacy or pharmacist. Florida law prohibits interference with your right to choose a pharmacy or pharmacist. However, a pharmacy is not required to participate in the workers’ compensation program. If at any time, you become dissatisfied with your pharmacy or pharmacist’s services, you can seek another pharmacy to fill your prescriptions.
Reference: Section 2006->Ch0440->Section 13#0440.13">440.13 (3)(j), Florida Statutes

Feel free to contact Cory T. Knight today with your Florida workers' compensation accident questions. (954) 652-0733 or click here to contact us via e-mail.

Burn Injury Information - Florida Personal Injury

Burn Injuries

The American Burn Association reports that fire and burn deaths occurred over 4,000 times in 2007, 500,000 people required medical intervention for burns, plus 65,000 additional hospitalizations were reported last year. Burns are caused from a variety of reasons such as: when heat or chemicals come in contact with the skin, prolonged sun exposure, chemical burns, tar injuries at work, and a variety of other tissue damage. Burn injuries can cause not only skin damage, but can also cause serious damage to muscles, nerve endings, and other tissues under the skin. This sort of serious injury can cause mobility problems.

There are many causes for burn injuries:

Workers’ Compensation Injuries
Coffee Burns from Negligent Supervision (daycare)
Children Playing with Fires
Defective Candles, Heaters, and Fireplaces
Lighters & Matches
Airbag Deployment and Automobile Accidents
Flammable Liquid Fuel Explosions
Scalding Water
Electrical Accidents at home and Work Related Injury
Industrial Accidents
Gasoline Spills
Chemical Contact Burn
Prolonged Exposure to Sun

There are literally hundreds of possible causes of burns from a work related accident, to a child playing with matches, to a burn caused by an automobile accident. No matter what caused the burn injury this type of personal injury can cause serious pain and suffering. Depending upon the severity of the burn, burn victims may suffer serious trauma and psychological pain. They may dread leaving the house or resuming normal social and work duties. Chronic pain resulting from burns can plague victims for months, and on some occasions for years. Physical therapy, wound care, and lengthy rehabilitation may be needed to regain lost mobility, and to decrease contractures. Unfortunately, burn victims often face an uphill battle when seeking help and guidance. Many bodily injury or liability insurance companies view post burn treatments as purely cosmetic and may offer little or no assistance for this type of surgery and rehabilitation, even though it may be needed for victims to recover physically and emotionally from their injuries. This is where our background can help. Our Florida private investigators have a dynamic background including extensive work with burn victims and the extraordinary measures needed to heal.

For these reasons, it is imperative that you contact qualified Florida private investigators, as well as Florida personal injury attorneys to help you. The offices of CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC can help you present your case in a clear and factual basis to the adjuster, providing expert witnesses, as well as directly relating your injuries to the your accident. Our goals are to ensure you get the best medical care possible, as well as to provide the investigation needed to assist your Florida personal injury attorney to get you compensation for your injuries. After you seek immediate medical attention for your burn injuries, ensure you seek help from experienced Florida private investigators and Florida burn injury attorneys. With our assistance, you may have access to the resources necessary to pay for lost income and the quality medical treatment you deserve. Click here to contact Cory T. Knight today, or call us at (954) 652-0733.

If you or a loved one has experienced a burn injury, whether it is a work related accident or due to someone else’s negligence, feel free to click here to send our private investigation agency an e –mail or us or call Cory T. Knight today at (954) 652-0733 to set up a FREE consultation to discuss your options.



More information on burns:

First-degree burns are usually limited to redness (erythema), a white plaque, and minor pain at the site o injury. These burns usually extend only into the epidermis.

Second-degree burns additionally fill with clear fluid, have superficial blistering of the skin, and can involve more or less pain depending on the level of nerve involvement. Second-degree burns involve the superficial (papillary) dermis and may also involve the deep (reticular) dermis layer.

Third-degree burns are which most of the epidermis is lost. They additionally have charring of the skin, and sometimes produce hard eshcars. An eschar is a scab that has separated from the unaffected part of the body. These types of burns are often considered painless, because nerve endings have been destroyed in the burned areas. However, there is in reality a significant amount of pain involved in a third degree burn. Hair follicles and sweat glands may also be lost. Third degree burns result in scarring elastic banding of the skin can smooth the scarred skin. Third degree burns over large surface areas are often fatal.

Fourth-degree burns are burns in which most of the dermis is lost often burning the muscle underneath. These burns usually present hard-to-reverse damage to the skin and there is little sensation in the burn area as a result. These type of burns will require hospitalization. Grafting is needed to close up the areas.

Fifth-degree burns are burns in which most of the hypodermis is lost charring and exposing the muscle underneath. Sometimes, fifth-degree burns can be fatal.
Sixth-degree burns are burn types in which almost all the muscle tissue in the area is burned away leaving almost nothing but charred bone. Often, sixth-degree burns are deadly. Sixth-degree burns are the highest in the burn category.

Please feel free to contact Cory T. Knight or one of our South Florida private investigators at (954) 652-0733 to discuss your investigative needs. If you prefer, you can contact CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC via e-mail by clicking here.

Bedsores / Decubitus Ulcers - Medical Negligence?

Bedsores

Located in South Florida, and serving all of Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and the entire state of Florida, the nursing home abuse and medical malpractice Florida private investigators at CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC have extensive experience in investigating bedsore, and medical malpractice claims. Our Florida private investigators work in conjunction with your Florida Nursing Home Negligence attorney or your South Florida Medical Malpractice attorneys to effectuate the best possible outcome for you.



Do I Have a Bedsore Lawsuit Claim?
Decubitus Ulcers or commonly known as pressure sores or bedsores, are a breakdown of skin and tissue resulting from a lack of blood flow or stress that deprives the skin or tissue of oxygen, thus killing the skin or surrounding tissue. If you or a family member has a bedsore, and you acquired this injury while under medical supervision, you may have a viable claim. Feel free to contact Cory T. Knight today to discuss your case, or click here to contact our Florida private investigators.

Frequency:

Two thirds of pressure sores occur in patients older than 70 years. The prevalence rate in nursing homes is estimated to be 17-28%. Our Florida private investigators can work in conjunction with your Florida malpractice attorney to properly document your injuries and investigate the negligent circumstances that led to you or your family member’s painful bed sores.

Among patients who are neurologically impaired, pressure sores occur with an annual incidence of 5-8%, with lifetime risk estimated to be 25-85%. Moreover, pressure sores are listed as the direct cause of death in 7-8% of all paraplegics. Proper nursing and medical care is needed to ensure that ulcers do not occur. Durable medical equipment such as air mattresses and daily skin inspections can minimize the potential for bedsores.

Research and investigation has proven that patients hospitalized with acute illness have an incidence rate of pressure sores of 3-11%. If you or a loved one has been hospitalized and acquired a bed sore, contact us today.

Disturbingly, even with current medical and surgical therapies, patients who achieve a healed wound have recurrence rates of as high as 90%.

Etiology:

Many factors contribute to the development of pressure sores, but pressure leading to ischemia (lack of blood flow), is the final common pathway. Tissues are capable of withstanding enormous pressures when brief in duration, but prolonged exposure to pressures slightly above capillary filling pressure initiates a downward spiral towards ulceration. That sounds fancy but the bottom line is, if you look at your fingernail, briefly press on the nail bed, you will see the brief change in color from pink to white and rapidly back to pink. This is an indicator of good blood flow. With the lack of mobility, and lack of proper medical care, patients that are not properly cared for can suffer from bedsores.

Impaired mobility is an important contributing factor. Patients who are neurologically impaired, heavily sedated, restrained, or demented are incapable of assuming the responsibility of altering their position to relieve pressure. Moreover, this paralysis leads to muscle and soft tissue atrophy, decreasing the bulk over which these bony prominences are supported.

The literature has proven that contractures and spasticity often contribute by repeatedly exposing tissues to pressure through flexion of a joint. Contractures rigidly hold a joint in flexion, while spasticity subjects tissues to considerable repeated friction and shear forces.
Sensory loss also contributes to ulceration by removing one of the most important warning signals, pain.

Paralysis and insensibility also lead to atrophy of the skin with thinning of this protective barrier. The skin becomes more susceptible to minor traumatic forces, such as friction and shear forces, exerted during the moving of a patient. Trauma causing deepithelialization leads to transdermal water loss, creating maceration and adherence of the skin to clothing and bedding, which raises the coefficient of friction for further insult.

Malnutrition, hypoproteinemia, and anemia reflect the overall status of the patient and can contribute to vulnerability of tissue and delays in wound healing. Poor nutritional status certainly contributes to the chronicity often observed with these lesions. Anemia indicates poor oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Vascular disease also may impair blood flow to the region of ulceration.

Bacterial contamination from improper skin care or urinary or fecal incontinence, while not truly an etiological factor, is an important factor to consider in the treatment of pressure sores and can delay wound healing.

Pathophysiology:

The inciting event is compression of the tissues by an external force such as a mattress, wheelchair pad, or bed rail. Other traumatic forces that may be present include shear forces and friction. These forces cause microcirculatory occlusion as pressures rise above capillary filling pressure, resulting in ischemia. Ischemia leads to inflammation and tissue anoxia. Tissue anoxia leads to cell death, necrosis, and ulceration.
Irreversible changes may occur after as little as 2 hours of uninterrupted pressure.



Clinical:

Clinical presentation of pressure sores can be quite deceiving to the inexperienced observer. Soft tissues, muscle, and skin have a differential resistance to the effects of pressure. Generally, muscle is the least resistant and will necrose prior to skin breakdown. Also, pressure is not equally distributed from the bony surface to the overlying skin. Pressure is greatest at the bony prominence, decreasing gradually towards the periphery. Once a small area of skin breakdown has occurred, one may be viewing only the tip of the iceberg, with a large cavity and extensive undermining of the skin edges.

Many classification systems for staging pressure ulcers have been presented in the literature. The most widely accepted system is that of Shea, which has been modified to represent the present National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel classification system. This system consists of 4 stages of ulceration but is not intended to imply that all pressure sores follow a standard progression from stage I to stage IV. Nor does it imply that healing pressure sores follow a standard regression from stage IV, to stage I, to healed wound. Rather, it is a system designed to describe the depth of a pressure sore at the specific time of examination, to facilitate communication among the various disciplines involved in the study and care of such patients.

Stage I represents intact skin with signs of impending ulceration. Initially this would consist of blanchable erythema from reactive hyperemia that should resolve within 24 hours of the relief of pressure. Warmth and induration also may be present. Continued pressure creates erythema that does not blanch with pressure. This may be the first outward sign of tissue destruction. Finally, the skin may appear white from ischemia.

Stage II represents a partial-thickness loss of skin involving epidermis and possibly dermis. This lesion may present as an abrasion, blister, or superficial ulceration.

Stage III represents a full-thickness loss of skin with extension into subcutaneous tissue but not through the underlying fascia. This lesion presents as a crater with or without undermining of adjacent tissue.

Stage IV represents full-thickness loss of skin and subcutaneous tissue and extension into muscle, bone, tendon, or joint capsule. Osteomyelitis with bone destruction, dislocations, or pathologic fractures may be present. Sinus tracts and severe undermining commonly are present.

Other important characteristics of the wound should be noted in addition to depth. One should note the presence or absence of foul odors, wound drainage, eschar, necrotic material, and soilage from urinary or fecal incontinence. This provides information regarding the level of bacterial contamination and the need for debridement or diversionary procedures.

The overall state of health, comorbidities, nutritional status, mental status, and smoking history also should be noted. Presence or absence of contractures and spasticity also are important in the formulation of a treatment plan. One should note where the patient normally resides and the extent of his or her support structure. Examining the support surfaces present on the patient's bed or wheelchair also is important.

Relevant Anatomy:

A frequency among anatomic sites exists in affected individuals. The hip and buttock regions account for 67% of all pressure sores, with ischial tuberosity, trochanteric, and sacral locations being most common. The lower extremities account for an additional 25% of all pressure sores, with malleolar, heel, patellar, and pretibial locations being most common.
The remaining 10% or so of pressure sores may occur in any location that experiences long periods of uninterrupted pressure. Nose, chin, forehead, occiput, chest, back, and elbow are among the more common of the infrequent sites for pressure ulceration. No surface of the body can be considered immune to the effects of pressure.

References:
• Barbenel JC, Jordon MM, Nicol SM: Incidence of pressure sores in the greater Glasgow Health Board area. Lancet 1977; 2: 548-550[Medline].
• Staas WE Jr, LaMantia JG: Decubitus ulcers and rehabilitation medicine. Int J Dermatol 1982; 21: 437-444[Medline].

Bedsores are caused from sustained pressure on certain parts of the body, usually from being bedridden as a result of a recovery or medical condition (such as paralysis, paraplegia, or quadriplegia).

Bedsores can result from a caretaker's negligence in failing to turn incapacitated patients. If you have a relative who has suffered bedsores while in the care of a nursing home or medical facility, please contact us for a free case evaluation to determine if you have a strong bedsore claim.

Am I at Risk for Bedsores?

If you are immobile due to injury or illness, then you are at risk for bedsores. Bedsores can occur within hours of pressure being applied to a particular location or body part, and can occur whether the pressure results from sitting in a wheelchair or lying in a bed. If you have nerve damage resulting in a loss of feeling in certain areas of your body, such as diabetes or stroke, you may be at a higher risk of bedsores because you cannot feel the pain to realize you need to turn or shift. In addition, the elderly have thinner skin, and are therefore at higher risk for bedsores.
For more information about bedsores, or to discuss your bedsore claim with an experienced Florida private investigator call Cory T. Knight today at (954) 652-0733. We will be able to discuss our bedsore investigation experience with you, and if you need a Florida personal injury attorney, or South Florida medical negligence attorney we can tell you who has successfully assisted our clients. Please feel free to contact Cory T. Knight or one of our South Florida private investigators at (954) 652-0733 to discuss your medical malpractice investigative needs. If you prefer, you can contact CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC via e-mail by clicking here.

Personal Injury Accident Investigations

Personal Injury TopicsAuto Accident Information:


Auto Accidents Info


Car Accident Private Investigator in South Florida


What to Do if You Are Involved in an Auto Accident in Florida


How will a Car Accident Private Investigator or Attorney Help?


Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Law


Uninsured Motorist Coverage


Frequently Asked Questions about Florida Automobile Insurance


Frequently Asked Questions about Motor Vehicle Accidents






Personal Injury Topics:
Brain Injury


Bicycle Accidents


Boating Accidents


Motorcycle Accidents


Dog Bites


Currently working on this page. I will have all links and issues resolved in 48 hours.





Auto Accidents Info - Car Accident Private Investigator in South Florida

Careless and aggressive driving is an unfortunate reality in our daily lives, and auto accidents have become a regular occurrence on our highways and streets. Most of us have at one time or another been involved in a car accident, but we often fail to realize the extent to which we are vulnerable on the road. At CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC, we have seen firsthand the devastating consequences auto accidents can have on innocent victims and their families. From sky high medical bills to lost wages and crippling injuries, victims must overcome serious obstacles to get their lives back in order. This is why following auto accidents, our private investigators and attorneys in south Florida are committed to helping victims recover.

If you have been involved in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for property damage, injuries, and pain and suffering. Even if you are unsure of who was at fault, our private investigation agency may be able to help. Please contact Cory T. Knight at CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC today to speak with our car accident investigators, located in Hollywood and cities throughout Florida.


Top






How will a Car Accident Private Investigator or Attorney Help?

What You Should Know?

Following serious auto accidents, victims can expect vehicle property damage to be the least of their problems. Serious bodily injury can be sustained not only from the initial contact with the other vehicle, but from the secondary impact within your own vehicle. And despite the fact that vehicles are designed with new and improved safety features, auto accidents remain the leading cause of death among young adults. Unfortunately our Florida private investigation agency has investigated thousands of car crashes, we have investigated rear end collisions, head on collisions, pedestrians struck by motor vehicles, bicycle accidents, as well as fatalities as a result of Florida auto crashes.

Our private investigator agency is well aware that injuries associated with auto accidents can wreak havoc on the lives of victims and also the lives of their family members. For this reason, the car accident private investigators at our Hollywood, Florida investigation agency are committed to offering the kind of invaluable investigative and guidance that puts families on the path to recovery. Our Florida auto accident investigators and the attorneys we deal with can help you and your family receive financial compensation for:
• Property damage
• Lost wages
• Your Pain and suffering
• Loss of Consortium
• Medical Expenses
• Scaring, Disfigurement and traumatic brain injury
• Funeral costs (following the death of a loved one)
• Emotional trauma

If you would like to speak with one of our auto accident private investigators, please feel free to contact Cory T. Knight at C.T.K. INVESTIGATIONS, LLC in Hollywood, Florida today.


Top










What to Do if You Are Involved in an Auto Accident

Many private investigation agencies may offer similar advice, however we realize that while we handle thousands of Florida auto accident investigations a year, this may be your (or your family members) first auto accident. The first moments following an auto accident can be extremely freighting, hectic and confusing. If you are involved in a traffic collision, our auto accident investigators advise you to take the following steps immediately to ensure that your rights are protected:

• First Dial 911 – In Florida, a police report must be completed after all auto accidents involving property damage exceeding $500.00, injury, or death. We recommend that you Call 911 to report the accident and make sure to advise the 911 operator of any injuries that you sustained as a result of this accident.

• If you are physically able, we suggest you move your vehicle to the side of the road and turn off your ignition (and the ignition of other cars involved in the accident). Raise the hood (if possible) and turn on your hazard lights. Stand apart from the vehicle (in a safe location away from traffic) while calling for help to avoid injury in case the car is hit again. If other people are injured, do not attempt to move them unless they are in immediate danger.

• From our years of car accident investigation experience, we always recommend that you avoid admitting fault or discussing fault with other parties involved in the car crash. It is best to avoid confrontation and cooperate fully with the police. While this is an emotional time, try and state the facts, ask that the officer document your injuries as well as any witnesses.

• Our Florida private investigators recommend that you exchange information with all parties involved in the collision (again, avoid discussions of fault). Make sure to write down the tag number, registration numbers, driver’s license info, and insurance information. If possible take pictures of the cars, location of the accident. If a camera is not available, take note of exactly where the accident occurred so that our detectives can help with your accident reconstruction.

• We recommend that you check for witnesses to the auto accident – if there are witnesses obtain their contact information (including work and home phone numbers). Ask the officer that responded to note them in the report. Always be kind to the officer.

• If you are experiencing any pain, seek medical attention immediately (even if you feel the injury is minor). If you have any questions about medical intervention, feel free to contact us.

• Make sure to photograph your vehicle (before repairs are completed) and injuries sustained from the crash. If you have a cell phone camera available, you may want to photograph the crash scene and vehicles involved in the collision. As well as any signs or trees that may have contributed to the accident.
Above all, protect your rights. You are not required to give any statements to the other party's (defendants) insurance company. While you should cooperate with your own insurance company, you may want to consider consulting one of the auto accident investigators or we can recommend one of the attorneys that have assisted our clients over the years before giving a statement.

Top





How can a Car Accident Private Investigator Help?

Anyone who has been involved in a minor auto accident knows that you can sometimes resolve these types of claims without the assistance of an investigator or attorney; however, when serious injury or property damage is involved, victims of Florida auto accidents can benefit greatly from the assistance of the car accident private investigator. Our Florida private investigators have investigated thousands of car accidents and we can assist with your claim. Call us today to discuss how we can help you.

The reality is that car accident claims are anything but simple to resolve. Our Florida auto accident investigators understand the rules of the road, and we employ experts who are capable of reconstructing accident scenes to discover the true causes of collisions. We are familiar with the tactics insurance companies use to avoid paying out claims, and we fight aggressively for victims to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve. If you have been involved in an auto accident, having one of our knowledgeable Florida car accident investigators securing your interests can be the difference between receiving a small settlement or the substantial sum you deserve. It is our goal on every Florida car accident, Florida motorcycle accident, Florida bicycle accident, Florida trip and fall, Florida slip and fall, Florida scooter accident, etc.. to help you to obtain the tort feasor’s policy limits and any uninsured or underinsured motorist limits if possible.

If you or someone you love has recently been involved in an auto accident, our car accident investigators in Hollywood and throughout Florida can evaluate your claim and help you move forward with your case. Please visit our car accident section of our web page (www.ctkinvestigations.com) to view answers to common questions about auto accidents and find out what do to following a collision. If you would like to speak directly with one of our Florida auto accident investigators or you would like to hear about some of the attorneys that have represented some of our clients throughout the years, contact the offices of Cory T. Knight at CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC.



Top






Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Law

I can tell you that I hear the following on a daily basis, "I have full coverage." Yet our years of experience have proven that if we were generous one out of fifty callers to our private investigation agency actually do have FULL COVERAGE. Full coverage would include the following: PIP, BI, UM, Med-Pay, Umbrella, and Stacking Coverage. If you doubt this, feel free to contact your insurance company and request a copy of your "dec" (declaration) page. In the state of Florida, especially the active city of Hollywood, Florida car accidents occur every day and accident victims, particularly those who do not have uninsured motorist coverage, may need a Private Investigator to help them properly investigate their accident in order to maximize your chances of receiving compensation to pay their medical bills. Uninsured motorist coverage is one of the most important types of insurance you can have, especially in Florida, where it will protect you in the event of a hit and run accident, as well as a traffic collision involving an underinsured motorist. However, for those who do not have uninsured motorist coverage and are injured in a car accident in South Florida, having Ft. Lauderdale car accident Private Investigator Cory T. Knight and our entire investigation agency may be in your best interest.

In an attempt to reduce the number of lawsuits filed each year, Florida implemented a no-fault insurance law. This law requires motorists to carry $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, as well as $10,000 in property damage liability. With PIP insurance, a motorist injured in a car accident will not have to hire a Florida injury lawyer or Private Investigator to retrieve money for medical expenses or disability. Instead, a motorist injured in an auto accident in Ft. Lauderdale, Hollywood, or other areas of Florida will be reimbursed by their own insurance company for medical bills, disability, or death expenses related to the accident, regardless of who was at fault. While the number of auto accident lawsuits filed in Florida is reduced through the no-fault law, an individual may still file a lawsuit against a negligent driver. We understand that while you were not at fault in the accident your own insurance company should be responsible for paying the first $10,000.00 of related expenses but that is the law. That is where the term No-Fault was derived.

While motorists in Florida are required to carry PIP and property damage liability to cover themselves and any property that is harmed in the event of an accident, they are not required to carry bodily injury liability insurance to cover the injuries of the other drivers involved. Over 50 percent of drivers are underinsured when it comes to covering the injuries of another driver involved in an accident. This is typically not a problem since most drivers have PIP insurance to cover their own injuries. However, motorcyclists and individuals visiting Florida, who are not required to have PIP coverage, are at risk.
Motorcyclists involved in an accident with a driver carrying PIP coverage are automatically eligible to receive compensation for pain and suffering, whether or not they sustained a permanent injury, whereas motorists must prove that their injuries are permanent. However, motorcyclists are not able to receive compensation for medical bills or disability unless the driver involved was carrying bodily injury insurance. For this reason, it is especially important for motorcyclists and those traveling through the state of Florida to carry what is called uninsured motorist coverage. Please feel free to contact your personal injury Private Investigator Cory T. Knight at (954) 652-0733. We are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week to answer your personal injury related questions. If you prefer you can click here to contact us via e-mail. We also may be able to recommend you to a Florida auto accident attorney that has successfully represented many of our clients in the past.

Top














Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured motorist coverage is one of the most important types of auto insurance you can buy, as it will allow you to receive compensation for the medical and disability expenses of both you and the passengers riding in your vehicle when the car accident occurs. This way, you are guaranteed coverage whether the driver of the other vehicle is insured or not.

If you own one or more vehicles, Ft. Lauderdale car accident Private Investigator Cory T. Knight recommends that you invest in stackable insurance, which will allow you to provide uninsured motorist coverage for all your vehicles. For example, if your coverage for one vehicle covers $25,000 and you have stackable insurance that covers three vehicles, then you should have $75,000 in uninsured motorist coverage under which to make a claim. Considering how many Florida drivers are uninsured, it is likely that if you are involved in an accident the uninsured motorist coverage can easily pay for itself.
Uninsured motorist coverage can also protect you in Florida if you are the unfortunate victim of a hit and run accident. If a driver hits you or your vehicle, but does not stop to exchange information, this is called a hit and run. Without proper insurance coverage, a hit and run accident can cost you money out of your own pocket to pay for any medical expenses and repair property damage. For more information on uninsured motorist coverage and how it can help you in the event of a car accident, speak with a Private Investigator in Hollywood, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami, Miami-Dade, South Florida, Orlando or the Central Florida area today.

For more information regarding auto insurance options for Florida residents, or for a review of your Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Hollywood, Florida Keys hit and run or car accident claim, contact a Private Investigator at the Florida private investigation agency of CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC today for your FREE consultation, or you can call us today at (954)652-0733.

Top






















Bicycle Accidents

Our Florida private investigators at CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC have investigated more bicycle accidents than we can count. In reality, I guess we could count the number, but the main point is we have years of experience investigating bicycle related accidents. In Florida, bicycling accidents cause many fatalities and personal injuries each year. Unfortunately many bicycle accidents are completely preventable, as they are usually caused by the negligence of motorists or by defective bicycles and products. If you are a pedestrian or cyclist who has survived a bicycle accident or if you've lost a loved one to a bicycle accident, the south Florida private investigation agency of CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC can help. We have successfully assisted many clients who have suffered due to the negligence of another person. Our Florida private investigators have worked in conjunction with your south Florida bicycle accident attorney to obtain the best medical care and support needed to reconstruct your lives after the trauma of a bicycle or pedestrian accident.

It is clear that bicycle collisions and bicycle accidents can cause severe injuries. You do not need to be a physicist or accident reconstruction expert to realize that a six thousand pound vehicle would cause potentially fatal injuries to a bicycle that may weight three to five pounds. Common injuries such as neck and head injuries are very common, and many bicyclists suffer brain damage and closed head trauma, after a serious bicycle accident. Spinal cord injuries, nerve damage, broken limbs, and even permanent injuries are not uncommon with bicycle accidents. Due to the severity of injuries as well as the lack of protection, cyclists involved in accidents often miss considerable amounts of work while they are recovering. These injuries may require reconstructive surgery or lengthy and expensive medical treatment. Not all insurance companies are willing to pay a bicyclist without a hassle. You probably hear this on every attorney commercial, but it is true…many insurance companies hire attorneys of their own to protect their interests, why should you not do everything possible to protect your interests. We have assisted bicyclists with accident reconstruction, as well as worked in conjunction with your Florida personal injury attorney to investigate the accident represent your interests so that you can get the best medical treatment and the best support possible.

A bicyclist or pedestrian who has been injured in an accident may be entitled to Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits up to $10,000 from the vehicle that injured them or from any vehicle owned in their household. In order to get the full Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits you may be entitled to, it is important to speak to qualified South Florida Private Investigator. The investigators at CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC -- who have experience dealing with bicycle injury cases.

Our qualified Florida Private Investigators can help you understand your rights and can help you decide from the many options available to you. Our Florida private investigators can investigate your case, evaluate your situation, and work with you and your family and any insurance companies to make sure that you get the help you need quickly. With Cory T. Knight and our Florida private investigators by your side, you may be able to enjoy better medical care and additional assistance that you may need to get back on your feet.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, or if you've lost someone due to bicycling accident, contact The South Florida Private Investigators at CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC or call us at (954) 652-0733 to set up a FREE consultation. There is no obligation for this complimentary consultation, and we can easily meet in your office, hospital room, or home to discuss your case.


Top














Boating Accidents

According to the United States Coast Guard, there were 4967 recreational boat accidents in 2006, 710 fatalities resulting from boating accidents, and 3,474 injuries coupled with $43,670,424.00 in property damage. While we live in sunny south Florida, many of us enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, jet skiing, water skiing, not to mention the privately owned vessels, commercial boats, and other watercraft that are utilized for work. Unfortunately boating accidents can make excursions out to canals, lakes or oceans deadly. If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident or if you have lost a loved one in a boating collision, contact CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC today. We are your South Florida Boating Accident private investigators. We have successfully assisted boating accident survivors and victims' families and have helped them get the assistance and the help they needed in order to recover from the accident. Moreover, we work in conjunction with your Florida boat accident attorney.

Statically speaking, the vast majority of boating accidents are entirely preventable. Many collisions and accidents involving personal watercraft and other vessels are caused by inadequate training, negligence, equipment failure, intoxication, or weather and water conditions. The inexperience or the errors of the person operating the vessel also cause collisions. Under Florida law, boating operators and boat owners must display a great deal of responsibility and care in order to insure that swimmers, divers, other boats, boat passengers, and others are not injured killed or hurt. A traumatic brain injury can disrupt functioning of the brain and can cause anything from a mild concussion to permanent injury, coma, and even fatalities. According to the Brain Injury Association of America: The National Stroke Association: year in the U. S., roughly 1.4 million people sustain a TBI. One million people are treated and released annually from hospital emergency rooms after sustaining a brain injury. Brain injury claims more than 50,000 lives and leaves more than 80,000 individuals with livelong disabilities each year. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are at least 5.3 million Americans living with a disability as a result of brain injury. Unfortunately many traumatic brain injuries and closed head traumas often occur from trip and fall accidents, slip and fall accidents, automobile accidents, firearm related injuries, boating accidents, and other traumatic injuries. It is not just the victims of brain injury that suffer; the families that provide round the clock support suffer as well. In many cases, these injuries require them to hire caregivers, undergo extensive medical testing and treatments, undergo modifications to your home, and miss significant amount of time from work. The qualified Florida private investigators at CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC have assisted and worked with many clients who have suffered brain injuries. Our experienced in investigating and dealing with South Florida brain injury attorneys have helped people obtain the medical treatment and the assistance they needed to rebuild their lives after serious brain injury.

If you have been injured or if you lost a loved one due to boating collision or an accident, call our experienced and qualified South Florida private investigator today. Our Florida personal injury investigators are able to assist your South Florida personal injury lawyers with your case. We can help you understand your options can discuss your specific case, so that you know what to expect. The South Florida personal injury lawyers that we have worked with on boating accidents can provide you with legal advice. We can also work with insurance companies and others who were involved in your particular situation. Our Florida private detectives can obtain witness statements, and affidavits to protect your interests. Our investigators are here to ensure that you get excellent care and medical attention quickly and effectively. Call us today to see if we can assist you with your south Florida boating accident, Florida jet ski accident, Florida fishing accident, Jones Act, or Longshoreman case.

The Florida private detectives at CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC have extensive experience in handling boating accident / injury cases. Our investigators have worked in conjunction with many Florida personal injury lawyers to protect your rights. If you have been injured, suffered fractures, closed head injuries, sprain / strains or a lost loved one in a boating collision, CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC may also be able to help you get the compensation you deserve. With correct private investigation and legal assistance, you may be able to get coverage with paying for your medical bills, paying for the damage or replacement of your boat, and paying for any pain and suffering you have sustained as a result of your accident, not to mention lost wages.

If you wish, we may be able to provide you with some names of Florida Personal Injury Lawyers that have handled numerous boating related cases. These attorneys will work on a contingency basis, which means that you do not pay unless and until they either win your case or settle out of court. If you were injured on a vessel while at work, do not hesitate to contact us. As always, we offer a FREE, no obligation consultation so that you can ask any questions and get a real advice upfront. Please feel free to contact Cory T. Knight or one of our South Florida private investigators at (954) 652-0733 to discuss your investigative needs. If you prefer, you can contact CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC via e-mail by clicking here.

Top











Brain Injury



The national institute of neurological disorders and stroke, explains that a traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to a blow or a jolt to the head. A traumatic brain injury can disrupt functioning of the brain and can cause anything from a mild concussion to permanent injury, coma, and even fatalities. According to the Brain Injury Association of America: The National Stroke Association: year in the U. S., roughly 1.4 million people sustain a TBI. One million people are treated and released annually from hospital emergency rooms after sustaining a brain injury. Brain injury claims more than 50,000 lives and leaves more than 80,000 individuals with livelong disabilities each year. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are at least 5.3 million Americans living with a disability as a result of brain injury. Unfortunately many traumatic brain injuries and closed head traumas often occur from trip and fall accidents, slip and fall accidents, automobile accidents, firearm related injuries, boating accidents, and other traumatic injuries. It is not just the victims of brain injury that suffer; the families that provide round the clock support suffer as well. In many cases, these injuries require them to hire caregivers, undergo extensive medical testing and treatments, undergo modifications to your home, and miss significant amount of time from work. The qualified Florida private investigators at CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC have assisted and worked with many clients who have suffered brain injuries. Our experienced in investigating and dealing with South Florida brain injury attorneys have helped people obtain the medical treatment and the assistance they needed to rebuild their lives after serious brain injury.

Because of our extensive experience, CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC understands how traumatic TBI can be, both to the victim and to the family. We also understand how important it is to get help quickly from a qualified south Florida TBI lawyer. We may be able to let you know which South Florida personal injury attorneys have successfully worked on many TBI cases. Is important to get immediate assistance and guidance so that your medical bills can be paid and lost income can potentially be recouped. If you have suffered from a closed head injury, brain injury or have a loved one who has sustained a TBI, feel free to contact our office so that we can discuss your situation. We work with attorneys that may be able to help ensure that insurance companies will continue to pay for any future medical treatments, home modifications, and any other durable medical equipment necessary in order to help the injury heal as much as possible. Our Florida private investigators will comprehensively evaluate your case, help you understand all your options, and work hard to ensure that you get the maximum amount of assistance as quickly as possible.

The brutal reality is that in many cases, brain injuries can change lives forever. However, with the right Florida private investigator, and with the assistance of a qualified Florida personal injury lawyer, you may be able to get the help you need to rebuild your life. CTK INVESTIGATION, LLC has the closed head injury, TBI, and brain injury experience you need to get you the help you or your family deserve.

Our Florida Private Investigators can meet in your home, hospital room, or office to discuss your particular case. Our FREE consultation comes with no obligation whatsoever, this is simply a chance for you to ask questions and get the information you need to make an informed decision. Keep in mind, too, that the attorneys we work with work on a contingency fee basis. They are willing to defer fees until you reach an out-of-court settlement or win your case.
Please feel free to contact Cory T. Knight or one of our South Florida private investigators at (954) 652-0733 to discuss your investigative needs. If you prefer, you can contact CTK INVESTIGATIONS, LLC via e-mail by clicking here.



Top



















Dog Bites
Please check back for more information as we are updating our website.



Top



















Frequently Asked Questions about Florida Automobile Insurance

Florida Automobile Insurance

Our Florida private investigators get questions every day from clients about their auto insurance. Even if you haven’t been in an accident, it helps to understand the general language of Florida auto insurance. Below are descriptions of the various types of coverage in the state of Florida. If you are in an accident, the type of coverage you and the other party carry can often determine what type of settlement beyond medical expenses and lost wages you may be able to receive.

Personal Injury Protection Coverage (mandatory)

Florida is a "No Fault" State, which means that regardless of who is at fault in an accident, you must go to your own auto insurance to pay your medical bills. This insurance is referred to as PIP or Personal Injury Protection coverage; this coverage is mandatory for all automobile owners in Florida. PIP coverage provides for payment of 80% of medical bills and 60% of lost wages up to $10,000.00. Because of this limit, many people purchase additional extended PIP coverage or Medical Payments Coverage. If you were not at fault in the accident, you may also claim against the person who was at fault for the balance of your medical bills as well as money or compensatory damages. However, your medical bills will still be paid at 80% by your own PIP carrier. PIP covers you, your spouse, relatives living with you at the time of the accident who do not own a motor vehicle, and drivers/passengers of your vehicle who do not own a motor vehicle nor live with a relative who owns a vehicle.

Property Damage Liability Coverage (mandatory)

This coverage pays the other party's property damage in the event you are at fault in an accident. If you were not at fault in the accident, it does not apply. Property Damage Liability Coverage and PIP are the only two types of coverage which are mandatory in the State of Florida.

Bodily Injury Liability Coverage

This coverage applies only in the event that you are at fault in an accident. Bodily Injury Liability Coverage will pay money or compensatory damages to a claimant, if he/she meets certain requirements under Florida's No Fault Law, up to the limit of your coverage. Your insurance company will also pay your legal fees. While most states have statutes requiring motorists to have at least some Bodily Injury Liability Coverage, Florida does not require this type of coverage.

Medical Payments Coverage

MEDPAY coverage provides payment of the other 20% of your medical bills not covered by Personal Injury Protection coverage.

Collision Coverage

If you are at fault in an accident, or the at-fault party has no insurance coverage, collision coverage may be the only source of payment for damage to your vehicle.

Uninsured-Underinsured Motorist Protection
If the at fault party does not carry Bodily Injury Liability insurance, this coverage is crucial. Instead of making a claim for money damages to the at-fault party, the claim is made to your own insurance company and treated as if you were proceeding against the other party.

Top
























Frequently Asked Questions about Motor Vehicle Accidents:

Q: Can I recover even if the accident was my fault?
A: Whether you can recover if the accident was your fault depends on the laws of your state. Some states do not consider fault with regards to some damages, and in those states some of your economic losses may be paid by your own no-fault policy. Other states consider fault, but you may still be able to recover for your injuries, even if the accident was partially your fault. However, in that case, you may be required to prove that the other party's fault was greater than yours, or to reduce the amount of your compensation by your percentage of fault.

Q: Who can I sue to recover my damages?
A: In some cases, an accident victim may be able to sue parties other than the at-fault driver. For example, if the at-fault driver did not own the car, the car's owner may also be liable for your damages. If the at-fault driver was impaired from consuming too much alcohol, you may be able to bring a "dram shop" complaint against a business that served alcohol to the driver even though he was visibly impaired. In some cases, you may be able to bring an action against another party, such as an automobile manufacturer or construction company, if a defect in the vehicle or the roadway caused the accident. If the accident involved a tractor-trailer, the driver's violation of rules and regulations may be the basis for a lawsuit against the driver or his or her employer.

Q: What is my case worth?
A: The value of a case depends on a variety of factors and cannot be determined without analyzing information regarding the injury, medical bills, loss of income, and permanency of the injury. There is no rule of thumb, and each set of facts results in a different amount of damages.

Q: Will I have to go to court?
A: Not necessarily. Many motor vehicle accident cases are concluded without even filing a lawsuit. Most lawsuits are settled without an actual trial. A settlement avoids the costs and delay of a trial and may result in a greater net recovery. However, if the case cannot be settled on satisfactory terms, it may be necessary to go to trial.

Q: Where will the money come from to compensate me?
A: The at-fault party's insurance typically pays for your damages in many states. If you are in a no-fault state, your own insurance may pay for some of your damages. If the at-fault party is not adequately insured, your own insurance policy may include coverage that will compensate you for your injuries.

Q: How long will it take me to receive my money?
A: The length of time necessary to conclude your automobile accident injury case depends upon a number of factors. For example, if you suffer a serious injury, you will not want to settle your claim until you have received sufficient medical care so that either your physician has released you or your future medical expenses related to the accident can be determined with reasonable certainty. Therefore, the amount of time you need to heal may determine the length of time necessary to conclude your claim. The amount of time before you recover also depends on whether your case is settled or goes to trial.

Q: What should I do if I can't afford an attorney?
A: Many law firms will agree to pursue a personal injury claim for a contingent fee, which means that the law firm's fee is subtracted from any amount that the firm collects for you. If no amount is recovered, then the firm receives no fee, but the client is typically responsible for actual expenses, such as court filing fees or witness fees, whether he or she wins or loses.

Q: Do I have to see a doctor?
A: If you are injured in an automobile accident, you should seek medical attention. Whether or not you have a claim, you should be examined by a doctor, both for your own peace of mind and to document the injury to support your claim. Frequently, an automobile accident injury will not be immediately apparent. Whenever symptoms first appear, go to your family doctor, a hospital emergency room, or another medical professional to obtain medical help.

Q: How soon must I bring my claim?
A: Each state sets a time limitation for bringing a personal injury claim. Both the length of that period and the way it is measured in motor vehicle accident cases varies from state to state. Even within a state, the time period may vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident, such as the plaintiff's age, the type of personal injury claim, the particular facts giving rise to the injury, and when the injury is discovered. You must be absolutely certain that you know the time limitation period that applies to you, or you risk jeopardizing your legal rights.

Q: Should I accept a check from the at-fault driver or his or her insurance company?
A: Accepting a check may be construed as a settlement that prohibits you from obtaining any additional amounts from the at-fault driver or his or her insurance company. Therefore, you should not accept a check or sign a release from the at-fault driver or his or her insurance company until after you have conferred with an attorney. Typically, an attorney will encourage you to wait to accept a check until you have completed your medical treatment and have been released by a doctor, so you know you have received an amount that adequately covers your medical bills and other damages. An insurance adjuster may push you to settle the claim for the lowest possible amount and may discourage you from contacting an Florida personal injury attorney. If so, you should ignore his or her advice, and consult an qualified personal injury attorney immediately before accepting any payment, signing any release, or otherwise settling your claim to insure that you are receiving fair compensation and not jeopardizing your right to a full and fair recovery.

TopBurn Injuriesupdating this information TopMedical Negligenceupdating this information Top