Have you been injured or has one of your loved ones been killed due to negligent driving in Florida? If so, you should contact an auto attorney in Florida as soon as possible. Sadly, many drivers in our state do not understand that driving a car is a privilege and not a right.
When operating a motor vehicle, a driver owes a legal duty to other drivers on the road, their passengers, and pedestrians. It is thus your responsibility to drive the vehicle in a reasonably safe manner at all times.
When a driver fails to safely operate their vehicle and acts in a negligent manner, the Florida Statute 316.1925 defines that action as reckless driving.
If you are a victim of a car accident, we understand your pain and suffering. That is why we will be using this article to educate you on who an auto attorney is, the type of cases they handle, the common causes of Florida auto accidents, and why you need an auto attorney.
What Is an Auto Attorney?
An auto attorney specializes in handling lawsuits and other legal issues that arise from a car accident. As a car accident victim, it is in your best interest to seek the services of an auto attorney. By doing so, you will be able to recover compensation for any caused damages that were sustained in the accident.
Auto attorneys can provide a wide range of legal services. For starters, auto attorneys can help their clients collect evidence, depose witnesses, and obtain medical or police reports related to the case and then present key evidence throughout settlement negotiations.
The majority of an auto attorney’s work entails communicating and negotiating with insurance companies on behalf of their clients. Insurance companies are notoriously difficult to deal with without the help of an injury attorney. As a result, they will go to any length in hopes of avoiding paying the accident victim’s claim. Auto attorneys are aware of this and will be able to determine what specific policy provisions apply to their client as well as their legal rights based on their case.
Lastly, auto attorneys know how to effectively calculate the cost of your injuries. They will label your losses as part of the settlement for compensation and make sure that your suffering is accounted for.
What Kind of Cases Can Auto Attorneys Handle?
Depending on which party they represent, an auto attorney must either prove that the defendant was negligent in causing the accident or declare a defense against the plaintiff's claim to reduce or eliminate the defendant's obligation to pay for the plaintiff's damages. An auto attorney can also assist an accident victim in seeking compensation for property damages caused by the at-fault party.
Common Causes of Auto Accidents in Florida
Distracted Driving
- Despite Florida’s prohibition on texting and driving, distracted driving remains a major problem on our state roads. Many drivers continue to engage in activities that can divert their attention away from the road. Most people are unaware of how dangerous distracted driving can be until it is too late and serious damages have occurred.
Drunk Driving
- Similarly, every driver should be fully aware of the life-threatening nature that can arise from driving under the influence.
- "Driving under the influence" is abbreviated as DUI. If a person is driving within the state while under the influence of alcoholic beverages, or controlled substances, the person is guilty of the offense.
o Officers consider a DUI when the blood alcohol level is 0.08% or higher.
Aggressive Driving
- Nobody likes traffic, and we all seem to be in a hurry these days. Although traffic can be frustrating, some drivers allow their frustration and impatience to manifest in aggressive driving. Tailgating, weaving through traffic, or attempting to intimidate other drivers into moving out of the way are examples of such behaviors.
- When you see an aggressive driver, get out of the way as soon as you can. An auto attorney will assist you in holding the at-fault party accountable for their reckless behavior.
Violating Traffic Laws
- The Florida Traffic Code is
lengthy and contains numerous rules that must be learned to obtain a
driver’s license. A responsible driver must always avoid doing the
following:
- Speeding,
- Running traffic or stop signs,
- Failing to yield,
- Driving without a license.
Defective Auto Parts
- When a driver loses control of their vehicle, both
their lives and the safety of others on the road will be in jeopardy as
well. However, many drivers can lose control of their vehicles because of
a malfunctioning car part. Brakes, tires, steering systems, airbags, and
other components may be included in this unfortunate situation.
- When a defective auto part causes a crash, the manufacturer and seller of the part should be held accountable. However, without the help of an experienced auto attorney, obtaining compensation from a corporation will be far more complex in comparison to a routine injury case against a civilian. Legal representation is crucial especially when you go against those car companies.
Road Hazards
- Unless the road is privately
owned, state and local government agencies are generally responsible for
its upkeep and repair. Generally speaking, motor vehicles can spin out of
control and collide with other vehicles if you hit a pothole or other
hazards present on unkempt roads.
- In this case, the agency
responsible for the road’s neglect should be held accountable. Florida law
has detailed specific procedures for any type of legal claim against the
state government. As a result you will need an auto-collision lawyer who
has handled similar cases before.
Should You Hire an Auto Attorney for Help?
For those who have been in a car accident, an
auto attorney can be a valuable resource. In these circumstances, legal
representation will offer you the following services:
- Auto attorneys will assist car accident victims file their lawsuit.
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Deliver you the compensation you’re entitled to.
A car accident lawyer will calculate the value of your damages and determine whether you are eligible to receive additional remedies from the accident.
As a result, your accident lawyer will help you
understand and protect your legal rights. This is because injury
attorneys will make sure that you receive the best possible monetary
settlement.
A Florida Auto Attorney is Only a Phone Call Away!
Having the right Florida auto attorney on your side can make all the difference in your financial recovery. Receiving compensation for your medical bills and other losses can help you focus on your physical recovery while also relieving financial stress.
It is critical to determine if you have been a victim of automobile negligence because you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and property damage. Contact an auto attorney in Florida today.