Discover accident legal assistance in Florida? When is a Driver Negligent and Liable for Damages in a Car Accident? While every car accident is unique, here are some common scenarios in which a driver in Florida might be negligent and liable for the damages caused: Violating the traffic code: A driver who causes an accident by violating the traffic code will likely be liable for the damages caused by the accident. In fact, this is the most common causes of car accidents. Violations of the traffic code that regularly result in car accidents include drivers who ignore traffic lights and drivers who are speeding. Impaired Driving: Sadly, alcohol-related crashes are still fairly common in Florida. According to the Florida Department of Transportation, 5,223 crashes were caused by drivers impaired by alcohol, which in Florida means that the driver has a Blood Alcohol Level (or BAC) over 0.08.
In putting together your settlement demand letter, you figured out a range of what you believe your claim is worth. Before you speak to an adjuster about your demand, decide on a minimum settlement figure within that range that you would accept. This figure is for your own information, not something you would reveal to the adjuster. But once the figures and discussions start going back and forth, it helps if you already have your bottom line in mind. That way, you don’t have to make a snap decision if an adjuster makes you a take-it-or-leave-it offer on the phone. You will know whether it meets your minimum level or not. However, you do not have to cling to the figure you originally set for yourself. If an adjuster points out some facts you had not considered but which clearly make your claim weaker, you may have to lower your minimum figure somewhat. And if the adjuster starts with a low settlement offer or a number at or near your minimum — or if you discover evidence that makes your claim stronger — you may want to revise your minimum upward.
Keep your attorney informed of anything that might affect your case. Certainly nothing should be signed without first consulting the attorney. Applications for insurance benefits, reports to the State, any change in doctors, returning to work, any change in treatment, etc., should be reported promptly. Disability or unemployment applications should first be checked by the attorney. Keep your attorney advised of any vacation times when you may not be available. An emergency telephone number and an alternative way of reaching you must be in your attorney’s file at all times.
If you were wrongfully injured, you deserve fair compensation. The more accurately and thoroughly you can document your claim, the better your chances of maximizing your personal injury settlement. This might include demonstrating how the at-fault party’s actions caused your accident and injuries. Take photos of the accident scene and collect contact information from any witnesses that are present. You’ll also need to get a copy of your police report.
Florida has a relatively short statute of limitations, the legal term for the amount of time a person has to file a lawsuit. Under state law, a victim of a car accident caused by a negligent driver must file a lawsuit within four years of the accident. Because time is of the essence in these types of cases, it is important for you to contact a car accident attorney in Orlando to discuss any possible legal options that may be available to you. To reach out to a knowledgeable attorney, contact Bengal Law at 407-315-8000. Discover even more info at Bengal Law: Florida Accident Lawyers & Personal Injury Attorneys PLLC.
Don’t assume that you’re limited to any one type of damages. There are several different types of damages you may suffer because of your injury. You may not even be aware of all of the kinds of injuries and losses that you have. You can claim compensation for loss of regular use of body functions and even emotional damages. These are in addition to recovering your out-of-pocket losses. An experienced Nevada personal injury lawyer can consult with you to evaluate these categories of damages individually.