Car Accident

Texting and driving. Picking up something that dropped onto the floor. Changing the radio station. Distracted driving occurs when the driver of a motor vehicle is not 100% focused and attentive on driving. These are common causes of car accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that distraction from all sources is a factor in 25 percent of crashes reported by police.

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in an auto accident because of another driver’s bad decision, our Florida car accident lawyer will patiently and compassionately guide you through the entire process and be dedicated to obtaining the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact an experienced accident attorney today to discuss your injury claim and the steps you can take to help your case.

What to do after a Car Accident

When you are involved in a car accident, you are left with many questions: Do I need to call the police? What if the other driver offers to pay for the damage to my vehicle? What does it mean when the insurance company wants a recorded statement? They should always call the police to come to the accident scene. If you or a passenger are severely injured, call 9-1-1 immediately. Otherwise, call your local police.
There are several essential steps an individual should take after being in a car accident to prepare for the trial. Do not speak to others about the accident. Only speak with the police. If you are able, draw a sketch of the accident scene. Take photographs. Write notes while they are fresh in your memory: lighting, road conditions, the speed(s) of the vehicles involved, were there hazards in the road? Did a tire, seat belt or air bag fail? Insist on a police report. A police report is extremely helpful if you develop pain or injuries later and can be used by a car accident attorney in Florida to assist with your claim.

Many times the other driver will offer to pay for the damages to your vehicle and for your injuries if you do not call the police. Unfortunately, oftentimes the other person will change their story and say the accident was your fault when they receive the bill for repairs and it is $2,000 instead of the $200 they had planned on giving you.

Contributory vs. Comparative negligence

Florida is a comparative negligence jurisdiction, a pure comparative state, meaning that assessment of fault against the victim can go from 0% to 99%. Some states are contributory negligence states or recovery at some point.

If a person is injured and their case is worth a $1,000 but the jury finds them 75 percent at fault they will still recover the $250 that is remaining. So whatever their damages are would be reduced by the amount of comparative negligence. Comparative negligence does not bar recovery as contributory negligence would.

Florida does not have contributory negligence. Comparative negligence comes into play when there is some dispute as to who did what that caused the accident. It is essential to get the most information in a case to properly argue who was at fault and who owes an amount of negligence.

Importance of a Florida Car Accident attorney

These are just a few of the reasons why it is important to contact Florida car accident attorneys. Rest assured, you will be guided through the case process and trial process with a complete understanding of the situation. Skilled attorneys have served car accident victims in Florida and the surrounding areas for more than 20 years. They have established a strong track record of success and a reputation second to none.

There are several benefits to having a skilled and dedicated attorney if you have suffered injuries from a car accident in Florida. If you need more information about what to do after a car accident, or if you have already been in an accident and would like a free, no-obligation consultation, please contact a Florida car accident injury lawyer today.