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Category: Car Accidents

  • What is aggressive driving behavior, and why is it unsafe?

    Feeling frustrated, tired and stressed is normal. These emotions could come from various situations. However, they could have severe consequences if left uncontrolled, especially when driving.

    Aggressive driving happens when someone intentionally exhibits dangerous road maneuvers and practices to elicit reactions from other drivers or vent their anger. Doing so could dramatically increase road safety hazards, risking collisions that might cause physical harm or fatalities. A driver’s aggression could translate into illegal or unsafe practices, including the following:

    • Speeding
    • Tailgating
    • Cutting off other drivers
    • Running a red light
    • Switching lanes without using any signals
    • Deliberately shifting in and out of traffic
    • Purposely blocking other drivers from passing or changing lanes

    These examples of aggressive driving could result in road accidents that could harm others and cause considerable damage. Additionally, these practices could cause road rage incidents. Unfortunately, these events might escalate into fights that could lead to injuries or death.

    Aggressive driving is common

    In the United States, it is common for angry drivers to engage in aggressive driving behavior. Millions have admitted to switching lanes, exceeding the speed limit and running red lights to target other drivers. Committing these unsafe habits out of anger or irritation could provide temporary satisfaction, but one collision or altercation could leave life-altering effects on the involved parties.

    How to face an aggressive driver

    Facing an aggressive or angry driver in public could be a scary experience. However, staying calm and maintaining a safe distance from these people is best. By practicing best driving practices, you could get through the situation unharmed. Still, if the driver targets you, follows you and makes you feel unsafe, call the local authorities immediately to de-escalate the encounter.

  • Understanding the hidden damages of a car accident

    The damages involved in a car accident can be significant. It is no wonder Florida’s no-fault laws require car drivers to carry a minimum of $10,000 worth of personal injury protection. The problem is that we do not always realize the extent of the damages until it is too late. They can far exceed what the insurance will cover. If you suffered injuries from a car accident, you might want to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. However, you should understand the hidden costs and damages in a car accident to maximize the settlement.

    The financial costs

    The vehicle repairs could be more extensive than you initially realized. You may have suffered physical injuries that take longer to manifest. Here are other financial expenses you should consider:

    • Income loss
    • Medical expenses and medication
    • Rehabilitative costs
    • Vehicle damage
    • Property damage
    • Traffic fines
    • Increase in insurance premiums
    • Additional and unexpected car repairs
    • Towing services
    • Vehicle rentals or temporary transportation fees

    It is not enough to account for the immediate damages. You must be aware of how the accident will change your daily life. When you cannot work or physically care for your family, you might even need to hire help. Sometimes, the damages are not only financial.

    The emotional costs

    After a car accident, a person can have difficulty driving again. Serious motor accidents can result in posttraumatic stress disorder or PTSD. It could put a strain on your relationships at home and work.

    A car accident can seriously affect your life. Failing to account for all the economic and noneconomic damages you incurred from the car accident might lead you to settle for less than what you need to make a full recovery.

  • Are you a victim of road rage?

    We have all experienced road rage. It is when a person gets behind the wheel while experiencing extreme anger and taking it out on other drivers or pedestrians. Road rage is much like drunk driving in that the driver’s uncontrollable anger may impair their mental faculties the way alcohol would. It is also one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents. The problem is that it is more challenging to make a claim against an angry driver than a drunk one. Breathalyzers only account for intoxication, not aggression. How would you know then if you are a victim of road rage?

    How to tell if another driver is exhibiting signs of road rage

    Drivers experiencing road rage are more prone to dangerous behaviors on the road. They tend to project their stress and hostility toward unsuspecting drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. When on the road, you should be wary of unreasonably aggressive drivers. Here are signs you should watch out for:

    • A driver speeding or attempting to speed even in traffic
    • A driver tailgating or following behind other vehicles too closely
    • A driver ignoring traffic lights or road signs
    • A driver changing lanes without signaling
    • A driver honking their horn nonstop
    • A driver shouting or making obscene hand gestures

    If you feel that an aggressive driver is displacing their anger toward you, do not engage. It can be a terrifying experience when an angry driver is targeting and victimizing you. Try to maintain a safe distance behind them. Remember that they have already lost their temper, so do not lose yours.

    What if the aggressive driver causes a car crash?

    Immediately call the police because they may be capable of more than just property damage. You can pursue a personal injury lawsuit since the driver drove recklessly and negligently. Just because you chose to stand down while the driver was victimizing you on the road does not mean you should do the same in the courtroom.

  • Car accidents: What should I do if I believe the other driver was intoxicated?

    Intoxication often dulls a driver’s senses and reaction times and can increase their risk of being in an auto vehicle accident. Unfortunately, a car crash sometimes affects not just the intoxicated individual but also unsuspecting motorists and pedestrians, and it might also damage property.

    But what should you do if you are in a car accident and believe the other driver was drunk? The following tips can help you in the event you decide to the hold the other driver accountable through a civil lawsuit.

    Items on site

    Certain items at the accident site, such as empty beer containers near the driver’s seat, might cast doubts about the at-fault driver’s sobriety while they operated their vehicle.

    Police report

    Law enforcement generally documents car accidents through a police report. This report details the incident, including the involved individual’s behavior and state of drunkenness.

    Blood alcohol concentration (BAC)

    Law enforcement usually performs blood alcohol tests after a car accident to verify the involved persons’ intoxication levels. They often include these tests’ results in their report.

    Driver’s behavior

    Sometimes, the at-fault driver’s mannerisms might indicate how drunk they are. Sleepiness, lack of attention and coordination, and stumbling are frequent signs of drunkenness.

    It is critical to note that just because a driver had a few drinks does not automatically mean they are at fault when they suffer a car accident. For instance, they will likely not be responsible for a car crashing into their parked vehicle.

    An advocate who specializes in the intricacies of personal injury law can help you navigate these and other issues. They can also help you build a case that holds the driver who was responsible for the accident accountable for their wrongdoing.

  • Things to keep in mind following a motor vehicle accident

    To say the risk of getting into a motor vehicle accident in Florida is high would be an understatement. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), 2021 saw a total of 401,533 car crashes. Of those crashes, 163,961 led to injuries, while 3,445 were fatal.

    If you get involved in a motor vehicle accident, your immediate concern should be your safety. You must seek medical attention as soon as the first responders arrive at the scene. Treatment is a priority before any talk of insurance or filing a lawsuit against the other driver happens.

    But apart from medical treatment and discussing insurance, you should keep a couple of things in mind when handling an accident.

    Reporting to the police

    State laws say that drivers involved in a crash must report the incident to the police if at least one of two conditions are met:

    • If the collision caused at least $500 worth of vehicular or property damage.
    • If the collision led to an injury or death.

    If none of these conditions apply, you must accomplish a crash report on the FLHSMV website. But if you’re looking to sue the other driver for damages, a police report will be essential for your case.

    No-fault insurance

    Florida is a “no-fault” auto insurance system state. Regardless of who may be responsible for the collision, insurers will cover motorists’ injuries through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) for up to $10,000. But once your medical expenses go beyond this cost, you may file a lawsuit against the other driver and their insurer for additional compensation.

    Statute of limitations

    The state’s statute of limitations gives drivers four years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit for compensation. Four years may sound like a lot of time, but considering the time it would take to recover from traumatic injuries such as fractures or possible brain injuries, those four years could easily slip by. You should keep this timeframe in mind, or else your claim will be barred if you miss the deadline.

    If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, you can’t just threaten the other driver with a lawsuit on the spot – there’s a system and process in place which will allow you to seek compensation. Injured motorists might want to discuss their situation with an attorney to determine their next course of action.

  • The most common injuries from car accidents

    In Florida, car accidents can result in injuries. How someone else hits your car, your position in the vehicle and whether you had your seatbelt on determine the severity and types of injuries you could sustain from the force of the impact.

    Even when a vehicle accident seems minor, injuries still occur. Some car accident-related injuries take a few days or even weeks to surface, so seeing a doctor after an accident is critical so that you can have a proper examination and treatment.

    The following categories represent the most common types of car accident injuries.

    Whiplash and other soft-tissue injuries

    Of all car accident injuries, whiplash is the most common. This soft-tissue injury typically involves a cervical sprain, strain or hyperextension. Other soft tissue injuries include bruises or contusions, strains and sprains on any body part.

    These injuries do not appear on X-rays and may not become apparent immediately. Some soft-tissue injuries are acute and will resolve over time with proper treatment. Others become chronic, such as soft tissue injuries in the back, and may cause pain for an indefinite amount of time.

    Broken bones

    Many people involved in car crashes sustain broken or fractured bones, especially the arms, legs and ribs. These injuries can cause extreme pain and require surgery to repair so the bones can heal appropriately.

    Head injuries

    In an accident, traumatic head injuries are common, as occupants may hit their head on the inside of the car upon impact. Injuries include mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI). TBIs can cause life-long physical and cognitive impairment.

    Back injuries

    The impact of a car crash can cause accident victims to sustain back injuries such as herniated discs, nerve damage and more serious spinal cord injuries.

    Cuts and bruises

    Cuts, bruises and abrasions could be minor but still extremely painful. More serious injuries can result from broken glass or jagged metal, causing deep lacerations or amputations.

    Bruising can range from minor bumps to severe internal injuries, including damage to internal organs and major blood vessels. These injuries can bleed internally and become life-threatening.

    Psychological injuries

    This type of injury might not surface right away, but after a vehicle accident, victims can experience anxiety, depression and other symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

    If you are involved in a car accident, it is critical to have a doctor’s examination, even if you do not think you have any serious injuries.

  • 4 ways to recover financially after a car accident

    Many car accident victims struggle to pay for their medical bills and other related expenses after recovering. A serious injury may also keep someone from working indefinitely, leaving them with no means to pay their bills.

    After an accident, these are some bills you can expect to pay:

    • Hospital and emergency room bills
    • Medical free consultations
    • Physical Therapy
    • Prescription medication and
    • Vehicle repair costs

    As you can imagine, all these fees will add up and make it difficult to stay afloat financially. Exploring the following options may help you ease your financial burden.

    1. Set up payment plans

    In Florida, all drivers must have Personal Injury Protection (PIP). Regardless of who caused the collision, this no-fault insurance could help pay up to $10,000 of your medical expenses and lost wages.

    Moreover, many hospitals and doctors are sympathetic to patients. Try to explain your situation and negotiate your payment. The hospital could agree to reduce your bill or offer financial assistance.

    Similarly, notify your landlord or mortgage lender immediately. They may be willing to provide a workaround, such as a repayment plan.

    1. Recover expenses from the at-fault driver

    If the accident was not your fault, the at-fault driver’s insurance provider might be able to reimburse you for the amount you spent on treatment and repair bills following the collision.

    Additionally, you may be able to hold them accountable for future medical expenses, lost wages, and diminished earning potential.

    1. Review your budget

    You will likely have to pay some fees yourself. Hopefully, you have an emergency fund set up, but in case you do not, review your expenses and look for areas where you can make cuts. Organize your finances so you can monitor your spending.

    1. Take out a loan

    Victims in the middle of a lawsuit can consider taking a pre-settlement loan to help keep themselves financially secure until their case settles. However, if you win your case, you will need to pay the pre-settlement loan back along with applicable interest and fees.

    Recovering from an accident can take a toll on anyone but remember you are not alone. If you are having trouble collecting payments from the at-fault driver or your insurance company, it may be time to contact a car accident lawyer.

  • Why many car accidents occur

    Driving carefully and focusing on the road could help a Florida commuter avoid an automobile accident. Sometimes, drivers must pay attention to others who are operating their vehicles recklessly. Government-compiled data shows that reckless behaviors contribute to many accidents annually.

    The reasons for crashes

    Government entities keep track of accidents and their causes. Studying the reasons for accidents may help find solutions to the underlying factors. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration noted that more than 6.7 million traffic accidents occurred in 2019, with a significant number being preventable. A deeper dive into the data reveals the frequent reasons for vehicle crashes.

    The roads will never be free of speeding vehicles. Agitated, stressed or impatient drivers may press down on the gas pedal and drive at an unsafe speed. Hazardous road or weather conditions might not deter them. The same may apply to other traffic violations that increase accident risks, including impaired driving, leaving someone open to criminal and civil consequences after a collision.

    Other causes and concerns

    Distracted driving continues to be a problem. A driver who pays more attention to an infotainment touch screen than traffic could cause a collision. Someone could also become distracted while driving by glancing away from the road when something inadvertently catches their attention. Those who cause motor vehicle accidents because they are too tired to concentrate may face civil actions after a collision.

    The resultant accidents could be a rear-end or head-on collision, or they may involve rollovers. Some crashes could result in a vehicle hitting a pedestrian or bicyclist. Ultimately, if a reckless driver causes harm, there could be civil or criminal consequences.

  • Spotting drivers who might be distracted

    When driving on Florida roads, you might expect other drivers to abide by the laws and regulations just as you would. However, there could be drivers who are distracted while they are behind the wheel. Here are a few ways to spot and try to avoid them.

    Lane maintenance

    One of the ways that you can sometimes determine if a driver is distracted on the road is by how they maintain their position in their lane. Swerving from one side of the lane to the other or from one lane to the other and into oncoming traffic can lead to car accidents, some of which could be severe. You can avoid this type of driver by letting them safely pass your vehicle or by being alert as to which direction they are going so that you can move to the safe side of the road.

    Speed

    While some circumstances could necessitate the need to speed up and slow down while driving, you’ll likely maintain a constant speed for the road conditions. A distracted driver might try to slow down while they are on the phone, talking to a passenger, or performing other activities in the car so that they can still pay attention to the road. Once the driver has completed their task, they might speed up again. A way to avoid this situation is to stay back a few car lengths, which can prevent you from slamming on your brakes.

    Although driving in most areas is safe, there could be times when you encounter a driver who is distracted and could cause an accident because of their actions on the road.

  • Who is at fault for a T-bone car accident?

    Car accidents are a regular occurrence in Florida and around the country. T-bones rank as some of the most common, and they can leave the occupants of the vehicle hit from the side reeling with serious injuries. Establishing who’s at fault for these collisions helps when a victim files a lawsuit.

    Determining fault for a side accident

    Side accidents, also known as T-bones, are dangerous because cars lack the safety features typically found on their fronts and backs. Drivers and passengers alike can sustain catastrophic injuries as a result. Unlike rear-end collisions, it’s not always obvious to tell who caused a side car accident.

    Evidence can show who’s at fault for a T-bone. Photos showing the aftermath of the accident can show the damage while video footage can show the accident as it happened and determine whether a driver acted recklessly or negligently.

    Police reports explain the details of what happened and include any traffic violations and citations issued to drivers. Eyewitnesses often make or break car accident claims; as impartial third parties, they can attest to how the accident occurred and who was at fault.

    If you were injured in the accident and sought medical attention, your medical records can show the extent of how the accident affected you. This evidence should be included with your medical bills.

    In some cases, an investigation might be necessary to determine fault for this type of car accident.

    Causes of side accidents

    Negligence such as distracted driving, ignoring traffic signs and signals and improperly-timed turns often causes side accidents. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, aggressive driving, road rage and reckless driving are also common culprits. If a driver is found to be guilty of any of these categories after a T-bone, it could more easily establish liability.