miami broward spring break 2023 accident attorney

Car Accidents During Spring Break in South Florida

As personal injury attorneys in South Florida, we know that spring break can be a time of fun and relaxation for many people. Unfortunately, it can also be a time of increased risk on the roads, as more tourists and party-goers flock to the area.

According to a study conducted by the University of Miami, the 14 most popular spring break destinations, including South Florida, saw a 9.1% increase in auto accidents

Here, we’ll take a closer look at the issue of car accidents during spring break in South Florida and what you can do if you are involved in an accident.

Why Are Car Accidents More Common During Spring Break?

Spring break is a time when many college students and tourists come to South Florida to enjoy the warm weather and beach parties. While this can be a fun time, it also means that there are more people on the roads, and many of them may not be familiar with the area or local driving laws. This can lead to a higher risk of accidents, particularly if drivers are distracted, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or simply not paying attention to the road.

Car Accidents During Spring Break in South Florida 1 Multi Car Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

Common Causes of Car Accidents During Spring Break

At South Florida Injury Law Firm, we have seen firsthand the devastating consequences of car accidents during spring break. Here are some of the factors that can contribute to car accidents during this time of year:

Increased traffic

With more people on the roads during spring break, traffic can be heavier and more congested than usual. This can lead to more accidents, especially in areas where there are a lot of tourists and visitors who may be unfamiliar with the local roads.

Impaired driving

Unfortunately, spring break is also a time when many people engage in excessive drinking and drug use. This can lead to impaired driving, which is a leading cause of car accidents during this time of year.

Distracted driving

With so much to see and do during spring break, it’s easy to become distracted while driving. This can include texting or using social media, taking photos or videos, or even just looking at the sights and sounds around you.

Road construction

There is a number of ongoing road construction and maintenance being performed on major roads throughout South Florida and is also a common time for road construction projects to begin, which can lead to traffic disruptions and increased risk of accidents.

Car Accidents During Spring Break in South Florida 2 Multi Car Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

Driving under the influence

Many people come to South Florida to party, and unfortunately, this often leads to an increase in drunk driving accidents.

Speeding

With so many people on the roads, drivers may feel pressure to get to their destination quickly, which can lead to speeding and reckless driving.

Inexperienced drivers

Many tourists and college students may not be familiar with the area or local driving laws, which can lead to confusion and accidents.

Car Accidents During Spring Break in South Florida 3 Multi Car Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

What Should You Do If You’re Involved in an Accident During Spring Break?

If you are involved in a car accident during spring break in South Florida, it’s important to take the following steps:

Call the police

Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to call the police and have them document the accident. This can be important if you need to file a claim with your insurance company or if you need to pursue legal action.

Seek medical attention

Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention to make sure that you don’t have any hidden injuries. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away.

Gather evidence

Take photos of the accident scene, get contact information from any witnesses, and make note of any relevant details about the accident.

Exchange information

Be sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver involved in the accident.

Contact an attorney

If you’ve been injured in an accident during spring break, it’s important to contact a personal injury attorney who can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation for your injuries.

How Can You Stay Safe During Spring Break?

If you’re planning to visit South Florida for spring break, there are several things you can do to stay safe on the roads, including:

Avoid distracted driving

Put your phone away and avoid other distractions while driving.

Don’t drink and drive

If you plan to drink, make sure that you have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft.

Obey traffic laws

Follow the speed limit and other traffic laws to avoid accidents.

Be aware of your surroundings

Pay attention to other drivers and pedestrians on the roads, and be aware of any hazards or obstacles.

Car Accidents During Spring Break in South Florida 4 Multi Car Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

Spring break can be a fun and exciting time in South Florida, but it’s important to remember that the roads can be dangerous during this time. By following the tips outlined in this blog post and staying aware of your surroundings, you can help reduce your risk of being involved in a car accident. If you are injured in an accident during spring break, be sure to contact an experienced personal injury attorney.

At The South Florida Injury Law Firm, we have extensive experience helping clients who have been injured in car accidents during spring break. We understand the unique challenges that this time of year can present, and we are dedicated to helping our clients get the justice and compensation they deserve.

wilton manors accident

Deadly Car Accident at the Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade

It was early Saturday evening in Wilton Mantors when a white pickup truck struck two people just before the Stonewall Pride Parade was set to begin. The 2011 white Dodge Ram was the lead vehichle that had lined up with other floats when it accelerated and ran over two men standing by to take part in the parade around 7 p.m. on Wilton Drive near 16th Street.

 


The driver of the truck that plowed into the two victims was a 77-year-old man, who police say had physical ailments that prevented him from walking the parade route and because of it, was selected to be the lead vehicle of the parade. A DUI test showed no signs of impairment on the driver’s behalf.

wilton manors parade sceneFirst responders within the crowd quickly helped the two men who were hit, performing CPR. One of the victims was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital. The second victim is expected to survive.

 

“It was bad,” said Keith Witusik, a mechanic at the Fort Lauderdale Garden Center. “I was like, ‘Oh my God. I can’t believe this is happening.’”

Deadly Car Accident at the Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade 5 Multi Car Accidents South Florida Injury Law FirmFlorida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried, who was at the Stonewall Pride Parade event, along with U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Ted Deutch, confirmed the incident on Twitter and said the driver was in custody.

Wasserman Schultz said “I am deeply shaken and devastated that a life was lost and others seriously injured at tonight’s Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade. My staff, volunteers and I are, thankfully, safe. I want to thank our first responders for their heroic efforts as both police and emergency medical personnel stepped into action quickly. We’re praying for the victims and their loved ones as law enforcement investigates and I am providing them with whatever assistance I can. I am so heartbroken by what took place at this celebration. May the memory of the life lost be for a blessing.”

Deadly Car Accident at the Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Parade 6 Multi Car Accidents South Florida Injury Law FirmWilton Manors Vice Mayor Paul Rolli said Sunday that the early investigation shows it was an accident. It has been confirmed that the driver of the truck and the victims are all members of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus.

 

Those are a lot of unfair hurdles the survivor will have to overcome.

Car accidents victims are expected to take care of this process on top of the added stress of being injured, spending time in the hospital, and/or missing time from work. That’s simply not fair to car accident victims – and that’s why we are here to help you get through it together.

All car accidents are serious. Even minor collisions can lead to costly car repairs, medical treatment, and lingering injuries. Stress and financial costs associated with car accidents can quickly spiral out of control. Without proper representation, you may find yourself left holding the bag without anyone to help you.

 

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a car accident in South Florida, you will want the right law firm and attorneys that can maximize the amount of money you receive for the harms and losses you have suffered. The lawyers at The South Florida Injury Law Firm have exceptional experience in dealing with all types of automobile collisions, as well as an in-depth knowledge of Florida car insurance coverage and liability laws.

 

Conveniently located for residents of Boynton Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, West Palm Beach and South Florida, the Law Offices of The South Florida Injury Law Firm are in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. However, if you have the need, your Boynton Beach personal injury attorney can visit you in your home or, if necessary, in the hospital. To contact a Boca Raton injury lawyer with The South Florida Injury Law Firm you can call 954.764.7377 anytime 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Or fill out the convenient online form for a free case evaluation. Remember, the consultation is free and you will owe nothing until recovery of benefits is made.

You're in a Car Crash – What Florida Law Requires You to Do

Auto Accident in Plantation Leaves 2 Dead on Sunrise Boulevard

 

 

  • A deadly auto accident happened in Plantation Florida near 441 on NW 47th Avenue and Sunrise Boulevard.
  • Two people were killed in a sedan after being hit by an SUV.
  • The impact tore the sedan’s front and rear axles completely off.
  • Sunrise Boulevard  was completely reopened just before 1PM

 

 

According to initial reports by Plantation police, the Honda sedan was attempting to turn from the eastbound lanes on Sunrise Boulevard with the intention of either going north on 43rd Avenue or making a U-turn to go west on Sunrise Boulevard. Lanes of West Sunrise Boulevard in Plantation were closed in both directions shortly after 5 a.m. By 9:45 a.m., only the two left lanes had remained closed.

 

 

 

 

The Honda can be seen missing its entire front end and almost appears to be split in half. The Mercedes SUV sustained significant front end damage. The accident is still under investigation by Plantation police and fire departments and charges are reportedly pending related to the accident.

 

 

auto accident on sunrise boulevard

Every driver has a responsibility to drive in a cautious and courteous manner. With so many drivers sharing Florida roadways, no amount of defensive driving can protect you from the negligent and reckless behavior of another driver.

 

For many Floridians, it isn’t if you will be involved in a crash, but when.

 

If you find yourself in a car accident, there are a number of different things that you should probably do. Get yourself medical help. Take pictures and gather evidence. Call a lawyer. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and even confused following a car accident. Let alone the concerns surrounding medical bills, repair needed and whether or not you will be able to return to work.

 

In fact, we’ve written guides about what to do after a crash. However, you don’t have to do many of those things. If you wanted to, you could skip a lot of them.

 

Not all of them, though. There are some things that Florida law actually requires you to do if you are involved in a crash. Below, we’re going to go over what those are.

Stop at the scene of the auto accident

 

Hopefully, this goes without saying, but you cannot simply drive away after the car crash. You must first stop and fulfill the other duties detailed below first. Otherwise, it could be classified as a hit and run.

Hurt in a Florida Spring Break Car Crash? You Can Fight BackIf you leave a crash where someone else was injured, this is a third-degree felony, and you can face up to five years in prison or five years of probation, a $5,000 fine, and driver’s license revocation. If someone dies in the car crash, then it is a first-degree felony, with penalties of up to 30 years in prison, a $10,000 fine, and driver’s license revocation. There is a mandatory minimum prison sentence of two years if you were driving under the influence.

 

If it is only property that was damaged, then it is a second-degree misdemeanor, with penalties of up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.

 

Get help for anyone who has been injured

 

If the other person requires or requests medical treatment, you are obligated to provide “reasonable assistance.” This means things like transporting or making arrangements to transport the person to a doctor or hospital. Often, your best course of action is to call 9-1-1.

 

Move your car out of the way

 

If your car is blocking traffic, you are required to move your car or call for help, such as from a tow truck, if you are unable to do so.

 

Provide your name and address to the other driver

 

You must also show your driver’s license or permit and vehicle registration number if requested. In the situation where the other person is not able to receive that information, then you are required to report the crash.

 

Provide information to investigating police officers

 

You must share your driver’s license, vehicle registration, address, and other information. Don’t discuss fault at this point. Just answers questions honestly. You never know what the other driver may or may not have been doing.

 

Boca Raton Car Accident Attorneys

Report the accident in some cases

 

You are required to report the accident to the local police department, sheriff, or the Florida Highway Patrol if there are injuries, death, or damage over $500. You are also required to do so if either driver is intoxicated.

 

You don’t have to file a crash report if the investigating officer does so, but you should confirm that they actually did so. Also, your crash report should include up-to-date information about your car insurance.

 

Once you do these things, you can be on your way if you wish. However, you could be missing out if the other driver’s negligence caused the accident. This is something that’s not always easy to tell when you’re involved. The best way to know for sure is to reach out to a knowledgeable Florida car crash lawyer and talk to them about your case.

 

 

 

injury law firm james white car accident death patriots

Fatal Car Accident of Miami-Dade Police Capt. Tyrone White

On a Sunday afternoon in September, one car overturned and erupted in flames, the other was left badly damaged after a car accident at the intersection of Griffin Road and Southwest 118th Avenue in Cooper City.

 


Tyrone White, captain of the Miami-Dade Police Department, was killed in the automobile accident.
Tyrnoe White’s wife and the mother of James White, Lisa,  remains in the hospital.
The accident is actively being investigated by the Broward County Sheriff’s Office.

 


 

White is the father of New England Patriots running back and Fort Lauderdale native, James White, who had been told of the tragic accident only 90 minutes before Sunday’s night’s 35-30 loss against the Seattle Seahawks. He had been listed by the Patriots as inactive for the game due to personal reasons.

 

 

During NBC’s broadcast, sideline reporter Michelle Tafoya said Patriots owner Robert Kraft offered to fly White immediately to Miami, but White declined and elected to remain in Seattle.

White has played for the Patriots for seven years. He’s been a captain for the last three seasons.

The New England Patriots’ players dedicated their team’s 36-20 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders the following Sunday to running back James White

It’s an unfortunate reality that fatalities can be a result of an auto accident throughout South Florida every day. Circumstances behind them are sometimes preventable and consequences of carelessness, negligence or intoxication while behind the wheel. Intoxication is a leading cause of crashes and can end in devastating injuries or even death.

 

 


 

When someone is injured in a car accident, they can sue the at-fault driver for compensation for sustained injuries. If a fatality is involved, surviving family members can bring the lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

 


 

Wrongful Death Legal Rights

 

A wrongful death is one that is caused by another person’s or business’ criminal, intentional, reckless, or negligent actions. Every case has their own set of circumstances surrounding the case, and an attorney will need to analyze them to see whether you have a valid wrongful death claim.

In an auto accident, the driver might be responsible if they:

  • Proof of intoxication or under the influence of drugs
  • Engaged in distracted driving
  • Evidence of careless error, (example:  failing to look in their rearview mirror when passing or backing up)
  • Drove recklessly or aggressively, by speeding, swerving, or passing on the right

Additionally, a business can be held responsible in a wrongful death case. By example, a defective airbag, brakes or seatbelts malfunctioning might have been the root cause of death in the accident.

 


 

 If you lost a spouse, parent, child, or relative due to the negligence of another person or entity, you should talk to a lawyer immediately to learn more about your rights.

Also, surviving family members could be entitled to compensation for losses associated with the wrongful death case, including:

  • Loss of care
  • Loss of companionship
  • Lost wages and benefits that the deceased would have earned had they lived
  • Emotional grief

How to calculate these losses can be difficult. Lost wages and benefits are somewhat speculative, especially if your loved one was young. No one knows with confidence what jobs they would have worked and how much they would have made.

Regardless, an experienced and knowledgeable wrongful death auto accident attorney will be able to estimate these amounts with you.

 


 

 


Although difficult to talk about, the fact is that driving a car is dangerous.
Almost 3 million Americans find themselves in a hospital emergency rooms annually because of auto accident injuries. Much of the time, the damage is invisible at first glance.
About 50% of ER visits are due to trauma from a car accident.

 

If your loved one was killed in a car accident in Florida, you may be entitled to seek remedy in the form of a wrongful death lawsuit. This is a civil action that allows immediate family members to seek compensation from drivers who were careless, reckless, drunk, distracted, aggressive, tired or inexperienced and in turn caused a death.

An attorney will be able to uncover evidence of liability you would never be able to get to on your own, using legal tactics such as depositions, interrogatories, expert testimony, and more.
We will fight to get you the best possible compensation from the parties who are responsible. Call today for a free case review. We’ll look at all the facts of your case and let you know what options are available in your situation.

 

attorney fights for you

The Injury Law Firm Continues Fighting for You

Accidents haven’t stopped,
so we haven’t either.

We’re successfully navigating the ongoing pandemic by serving clients remotely and taking on your personal injury cases.

 


 

Communicating with Our Clients

As the pandemic has pushed law firms across the country to close down their offices, The South Florida Injury Law Firm has never stopped working. We know that you rely on us to provide professional legal services, which is why we made it a priority to use the right tools to help us work with our clients remotely.

 

 

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For immediate attention, our attorneys are always available to help by cell phone and text message. 

 


 

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Just as we’ve always done, our team is working with clients through email. 

 


 

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Our firm is able to offer help to potential clients by having virtual meetings through Zoom and enabling face-to-face communication. Video conferencing makes it more efficient to talk to not only clients but our staff too as we manage the law firm remotely. 

 


 

 

 

 

Serving South Florida

In Florida, Broward County tops the charts with the most auto accidents of any county. These accidents impact thousands of residents each year, but many victims aren’t sure what to do about their injuries or damaged property. Trying to get help from their car insurance company proves frustrating and they often accept wholly undervalued settlement offers.

 

 

The South Florida Injury Law Firm proudly serves Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties

 

 

Collecting Signatures

We’ve gone paperless! Given recent social distancing guidelines, we’re using the latest tech to help collect signatures safely and remotely. Do you think you have a case? Right now, we’re able to help you securely sign up from the comfort of your home using e-signature technology, Docusign. You won’t have to worry about showing up in person again.

 

 

 

connecting with south florida injury law

Online Presence

We’ve always believed in having a strong online presence to offer information to potential clients in any of their desired outlets.

 

Our website is easy to find and navigate so you can learn more about the legal services we offer, our attorneys, and results. You can also find all our contact information on our website and social media platforms. And if you think you have a case, you may fill out our convenient online form for a free case evaluation.

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You can also find all our contact information on our website and social media platforms.

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Let Us Handle Your Case Remotely

The South Florida Injury Law Firm continues fighting for you anytime, anywhere. Our attorneys are happy to speak with you by phone or video conference without having to worry about going out to another public place and risking exposure.

To contact an accident lawyer, you can call The South Florida Injury Law Firm anytime at (954) 488-JEFF – we’re available seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Complete our online form to get a free case evaluation. Remember, the consultation is completely free! That means you don’t owe us anything until we recover for you.

covid-19 coronavirus accidents

COVID-19 Auto Accidents in South Florida

COVID-19 has created a dramatic shift in all of our lives and even on our South Florida roadways. With residents holed up at home, working remotely and running fewer errands than ever, rush hour traffic has dipped considerably. Shuttered bars and restaurants has meant fewer drunk drivers on the roads and less auto accidents.

 

Those who must and do go out may be under the impression that the roads are safer due to this dip in traffic congestion we’ve seen throughout the state. They have evidence to support that belief too.

 

Florida drivers were involved in 9,469 crashes in June compared to 31,128 in 2019.

 

However true, that belief for many drivers contributes to the most serious and fatal auto accidents that can happen.

 


 

The Need For Speed

A recent report by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) stated that many drivers across the U.S. are pushing the needle to speeds greater than 100 mph. FHP have also reported drivers are traveling at speeds of 20-40 mph over the posted speed limit on average.

“Law enforcement officials have the same mission as health care providers — to save lives. If you must drive, buckle up, follow the posted speed limit and look out for pedestrians and bicyclists. Emergency rooms in many areas of the country are at capacity, and the last thing they need is additional strain from traffic crash victims,” said GHSA Executive Director Jonathan Adkins.

 


 

coronavirus south florida auto accidents

Caution Your Confidence

The roads may appear empty and safe for you to push the pedal a little further. Just a few MPH over the speed limit is no big deal, right?

Out of the 9,469 crashes in June, 54% were speed related and 37% of those were fatal.

 

Due to distracted driving, unsafe road conditions and a myriad of circumstances we’ve seen can happen here at The South Florida Injury Law Firm, we know the roads are never as safe as they may seem.

It’s difficult to foresee auto accidents, the injuries that can come from them and the lifelong effects they have. It can put even a bigger dent in finances that COVID-19 have already burdened so many with. It is even worse when you know somebody else through their negligence caused you suffering, and that’s why you need to fight hard to get compensated for your loss. Be cautious and remember these steps we’ve put together for you to be better prepared:

 


 

What to do at the scene of an auto accident during this time of COVID-19

  • Get medical attention for those who are injured.
  • Still Practice Safe Distance. Stay 6 feet away from the other driver.
  • If you are able to without discomfort, pay mind to and keep your mask on.
  • Get the name and the driver’s license of the driver of the car that caused the collision.
  • If the driver leaves, get the license plate number of the car. If this is not possible, at least get a description of the car including the make, model, color, and any descriptive information you can.
  • Call the police. If the car leaves, do not endanger yourself by following or chasing it. The police will do their best to track down the culprit.
  • Wait in a safe place for the arrival of the police.
  • If there are witnesses, try to get their names, contact information, and statements.
  • Take photos of the scene of the accident as well as of the damage to your car.

 

As soon as possible with auto accidents, make your own written statement about what happened. Include as many details as you can about how the accident occurred. Note exactly where the accident occurred, whether there were traffic lights or a stop sign, what you observed the other driver doing, and any other information that seems relevant.

 

If someone sustains a head wound, broken arm or puncture wound, the injuries are obviously serious, and medical assistance should be sought immediately. But many times, accidents result in aching or overall soreness. It can be tempting to shrug this soreness off, as the pain may even subside over the following days. Not seeking medical attention can be a major mistake.

 


 

Get an Attorney

When searching for the best personal injury lawyers in South Florida, or if you have experienced an auto accident or injury, be sure to check for experience, track record, and reviews from their past clients.

Our team have 100+ years of combined legal experience, so we’ve handled just about every kind of injury and accident case you can imagine. We also come from diverse legal backgrounds that help us when preparing for cases, counting a former public defender and a lawyer who worked for insurance companies and knows their tactics among our partners.

During this time, we urge you to be safe on the road and if you have been in an accident, know that you deserve to be compensated for your pain and suffering – and those responsible deserve to be held accountable for their actions. That was The South Florida Injury Law Firm’s goal when it was founded in South Florida in 1991, and it has remained the centerpiece of the firm’s mission ever since that time.

fault accident attorney

Auto Accident Liabilities: Finding Who Is At Fault

Accidents happen every day. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 6,452,000 police-reported accidents in one recent year. That’s an AVERAGE of over 17,000 accidents per day! Thankfully, a great deal of these are minor accidents. Regardless of the severity of the accident, there is one critical factor that all insurance companies will want to know:  Who is at fault?

 


Determining liability in a car accident—whether pursued through the insurance company’s claim process or through a personal injury lawsuit—will only be paid out if the injured plaintiff can prove negligence.
There are times when the blame is clear, such as in most rear-end accidents. However, there are other times when there is more than one individual at fault.

 


 

Here is a look at some common car accident scenarios and the process of evaluation that goes into determining fault.

 

  1. Left-turn Accidents

    Left-turn accidents occur when one vehicle is going straight through the intersection while another car is making a left turn and collides into the side of the straight-moving vehicle. Like rear-end accidents, liability is generally easy to determine. Left-turning vehicles have a lower priority in this scenario, meaning that—unless there is a green arrow—they must yield to those moving straight through the intersection. A study from the federal government discovered that the left-turning driver most often committed a critical error, such as “turning with an obstructed view,” “misjudgment of gap or speed,” “inadequate surveillance,” or “false assumption of the other driver’s intentions.”These are all errors that place liability for an accident at the hands of the left-turning driver.

    Are there ever cases where the other driver is at fault, though?

    Yes. While rare, the driver of the straight-moving car may incur some liability for an accident. One such circumstance is in the case of an accident in which the driver of the straight moving car was traveling at a speed far in excess of the speed limit, making it impossible for the turning driver to either see him or her in time or to calculate how much time he or she has to complete the turn.

  2. T-Bone Accidents

    In a collision where one vehicle rear-ends another, the driver of the trailing vehicle is at fault far more often than the leading vehicle. Lawyers will look for signs of distraction, speeding, and following too close on the part of the trailing driver, while also keeping in mind that the lead driver could share blame. Mechanical failure can also contribute to these accidents, so lawyers will pay attention to any signs of a defective part.

    Typically, in a T-bone accident, one vehicle comes flying through an intersection without stopping. The driver might miss the presence of a stop sign or fail to notice that a light turned red. Drunk driving or distracted driving can increase the risk of a T-bone accident. Usually, in these scenarios, you might assume the driver who struck the side door of a vehicle bears liability for the accident. However, you should ask several questions to help determine liability in this scenario.Auto Accident Liabilities: Finding Who Is At Fault 7 Multi Car Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

  3. Running The Light

    Which driver ran the light? In an intersection with a red light, consider which driver ignored traffic laws and came through the intersection without stopping for a red light. Usually, other drivers can easily confirm which driver ignored the light.Which driver ignored a stop sign? In an accident at an intersection with a stop sign, the driver responsible for the accident may have failed to stop for the stop sign or came through the intersection after another driver had already started progressing through the intersection.

    Were both drivers moving at the time of the accident?

    Sometimes, in a T-bone accident, one driver might strike another, stationary vehicle. Sometimes, a car might stall in the middle of the intersection or get stuck due to traffic. While drivers should try to avoid sitting in an intersection, sometimes, circumstances make it impossible to avoid it completely. If one vehicle had to stop, and another one strikes it in the side, the driver who moved after the other vehicle stopped bears liability for the accident.

  4. Head-on Collisions

    Perhaps one of the most deadly types of accidents is a head-on collision. Sometimes referred to as a frontal crash, this type of accident occurs when two vehicles strike one another while traveling in opposite directions. When the fronts of two vehicles collide, it is often at high speed.Survival may depend upon the stretch of road, the reaction time of one or both drivers, and the type of vehicles involved. With the front end of the car receiving the brunt of the impact, larger and heavier vehicles protect occupants better than smaller, lightweight cars.

    Consider the weights of the following vehicles and the force of the impact when they meet, head-on, at high speeds:
    Car (SUV): 3,778 pounds
    Pickup truck: 5,217 pounds
    Minivan: 4,485 pounds

  5. Single-Car Accidents

    Single-car accidents occur when a motorist loses control of a vehicle rolls over, drives off the road, or collides with a stationary object. On the surface, one might assume single-car accidents are always the fault of the driver. But that isn’t the case. Drivers in single-car accidents too-often blame themselves for a crash. In fact, as often as not, fault for single-car accidents lies elsewhere.To begin, even without a collision there can still be another motorist who causes a single-car accident. Take, for example, the common scenario in which a car swerves and crashes into a tree or road barrier in reaction to erratic driving by a second vehicle that goes unharmed. In that case, the driver of the second vehicle has fault, even though he wasn’t technically involved in the accident.

Similar to other scenarios above, automotive manufacturers and municipal road contractors may also have fault for single car accidents if their actions create unsafe conditions leading to a crash. Another party who could have fault for a single-vehicle accident is a drug manufacturer, if it markets a medication with dangerous side-effects without warning about them, leading a driver to fall asleep or to become disoriented behind the wheel.

 

 


What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident

The most important step immediately after a car accident is to seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, accept transport to the nearest hospital. Internal injuries are often invisible to the naked eye while causing serious harm to your organs. Only a medical professional can determine the true extent of your injuries.

Do provide as much information as you can to law enforcement. If possible, take pictures of the accident scene and if you are too injured to do so, ask a witness to take them for you. Collect the contact information for witnesses and most importantly, try to remain calm. Do not approach or talk to the other driver.

 


 

How a Florida Personal Injury Attorney Can Help You Fight Back

 

As we said at the outset, fault forms the core of the inquiry into who has legal liability for a car accident and the damage it inflicts on innocent victims. Accordingly, lawyers, insurance adjusters, judges, and juries focus a significant amount of effort on determining fault in car accident cases.

 

Finding fault means investigating facts in detail. An attorney representing a client injured in a car accident will usually try to collect as much evidence as possible about the accident, and then (sometimes with the help of forensic experts) will piece that evidence together to form a picture of whose actions led to the collision or accident. In performing this task, lawyers pursue the facts as far as they go until there is no longer a provable, reasonably foreseeable connection between someone’s actions and the accident and injuries.

The more time and information you can provide to your lawyer to do this work, the better your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve. Once fault has been determined, a personal injury attorney can help you file a personal injury lawsuit and fair compensation.

 

firm-attorneys-injuyr law

 

A skilled Florida personal injury attorney can ease your burden in dealing with all of this and help you fight to get the compensation you deserve. Reach out today for a free case review. We will look over the details of your situation and let you know what options are available to you.

 

 

When your life has been turned upside down due to another’s negligence and you are drowning in bills and struggling to recover, you want to make sure you work with the best law firm you can find.

 

What is the difference between a high-quality injury firm and one that will only do the bare minimum?

The people who work there. That is why The South Florida Injury Law Firm is made up of some of the most well-respected and successful injury attorneys around.

Our lawyers have more than 60 years of combined injury law experience, and they have handled just about every type of Florida injury case you can imagine. They are members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an elite group of attorneys who have helped settle injury cases worth more than a million dollars. They have been named to Florida Trend’s Legal Elite. They are recognized by the Florida Workers’ Advocates group.

Perhaps even more importantly, they have received glowing reviews from clients – and they get results.

car crash home miami dade gardens attorney law firm accident

Car Accidents At Home

Car Accidents At Home 8 Multi Car Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

Car accidents can happen anywhere. Especially where you least expect it. Parking lots, driveways, parking garages, and drive-thrus are well-known for accident scenes.
Even your own living room.

 

On Wednesday, August 21st, an accident involving two cars ended up crashing into a Miami Gardens home. One of the drivers was air lifted to a nearby hospital.

The resident, who was inside his home at the time of the crash, stated:

“This isn’t the first time something like this has happened”

 

He’s right.  In just the last few months of 2019, there have been multiple car accidents in South Florida that have also caused damages to a home. In March, a driver smashed into a house in North Lauderdale in the middle of the day.  Another driver was hospitalized in April after crashing into a house in Lauderhill. Another driver attempting to avoid a collision drove straight into a Miami home in May.

 

Unfortunately, these instances are becoming too common throughout Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. It’s important to pay attention while on the road and arm yourself with knowledge, whether you’re the driver or passenger in a car accident or inside a home and have sustained damage or injuries from a car collision.

Know Your Rights

 

Under Florida Law, you may be entitled to monetary damages if you have been injured through the negligence or recklessness of another person. Damages may include reimbursement or compensation for:

 

  • Past and future medical costs
  • Home damage liabilities
  • Pain, suffering, and inconvenience
  • Lost wages or economic opportunities
  • Funeral expenses
  • Grief and suffering

 

A Personal Injury Case Begins Before You Leave the Scene of a Crash

 

While the circumstances behind each of these accidents are different, one fact holds true for all—the time immediately following the crash can be stressful and confusing.

 

Here are the seven most important things to do if you are involved in a South Florida auto accident.

 

  • Remain at the scene.
    If an accident has occurred, it is essential for you to remain at the scene. It is your legal obligation to stop if you collide with anything, even if you do not think there is any damage.
  • Prioritize safety.
    Take steps to ensure the safety of you, your passengers, and other drivers. If your vehicle is causing a major traffic obstruction, move it out of the road to a safe location and turn on hazard lights. Check for injuries and determine if anyone needs major care.
  • Contact the police.
    Even if the accident is minor, call the police. When cops arrive at the scene of the accident, request that a police report be filed and get the names and badge numbers of the cops involved.
  • Document information.
    Document as much information about the accident as you can while limiting discussion of the incident with the other driver.
  • Report the incident to your insurance company.
    Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Many insurers have a policy that requires you to report the accident within a certain time frame in order for the incident to be covered.
  • Seek medical attention.
    Even if you do not notice any serious injuries at first, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. This is particularly true if you notice any pain or strange effects in the aftermath of an accident, but it’s not uncommon to begin feeling more pain a day or two after a car collision, and you don’t want to wait that long if you can help it.
  • Consult with an auto accident attorney.
    Even if your case seems straightforward, it’s highly advised to consult with a car crash lawyer after an accident. Working with an attorney can improve your odds of obtaining the maximum amount of compensation. If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will be ready to take your case to court.

 

Find out more on what do after a car accident in South Florida

 

Help protect your friends and family by giving them the one essential tool they need to drive safely—knowledge.

 

Get The Help You Need

 

If you’ve been hurt in a vehicle accident in a parking lot, drive-thru, parking garage or inside a home where an accident has occurred, you may be eligible for compensation for your injuries. The South Florida Auto Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers understand your needs and dedicated to helping their clients get the maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

 

Schedule a free consultation by calling (954) 488-JEFF (Fort Lauderdale), (954) 488-JEFF (Boca Raton & West Palm Beach), or 877-566-8759 (toll-free). You can also fill out this online form to set up your case evaluation. We’re a dedicated team of personal injury lawyers who work on a contingency basis and will take your calls at any time, on any day of the week.

Chain-Reaction Crashes in Florida: How Fault Is Determined

Chain-Reaction Crashes in Florida: How Fault Is Determined

Chain-Reaction Crashes in Florida: How Fault Is Determined

Car accidents can result in tens (if not hundreds) of thousands of dollars in medical bills, lost wages, and car repairs. How is it decided who will have to pay for these damages and bills?

In Florida, it usually starts with personal injury protection (PIP). If you experience damages that add up to less than $10,000, it doesn’t matter who caused the accident. Florida car insurance will cover that amount and you won’t have to bring your case to court.

Unfortunately, this is rarely the case in chain-reaction crashes. Damages can stay relatively low if only one or two cars are involved. However, when three or four cars are in a crash, there is little chance that that the bills will stay under $10,000.

So, how does Florida determine who is at fault for a chain-reaction crash? They look to see what negligent behavior caused the auto accident.

Negligent Driving Behavior in Florida

It only takes a second for a driver to commit a negligent behavior and put themselves (and others) in danger. What does “negligent behavior” mean in terms of driving, though?

Drivers have a duty to follow certain rules of the road and practice safe driving. If they neglect to stick by these rules, they could have to front the bill for a serious accident.

Negligent behaviors on the road include:

  • Speeding
  • Swerving in and out of lanes without using a turn signal or looking for other drivers
  • Driving on the wrong side of the road
  • Driving without lights on at night
  • Texting or talking on the phone while driving
  • Any form of distracted driving
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Not wearing a seatbelt
  • Driving a car that has not been inspected

This type of driving may also be called “reckless driving” or “careless driving.”

Negligent behavior only goes so far if it directly causes a car accident. Let’s see how this might play out in a case involving a chain-reaction crash.

Pretend you are Driver A. Driver B is behind you, and Driver C behind them.

Driver C rear-ends Driver B, causing them to rear-end you. The chain reaction crash racks up $150,000 worth of damage and medical bills combined for all three drivers.

In court, it turns out that Driver C was texting when they hit Driver B. Due to Driver C’s negligence, they will have to pay for all of the damages.

Of course, as any experienced Florida injury lawyer can tell you, it doesn’t always work out this way.

Comparative Negligence Could Prevent You from Getting Your Full Amount in Florida

Let’s stick to this example. If Driver C is the only negligent driver, then they will have to foot the bill and cover the damages.

However, what happens if Driver B rear-ended Driver A because they were also negligent? Does Driver C still have to cover their damages?

Not under Florida’s comparative negligence laws. If drivers file a lawsuit for damages, but partially contributed to those damages, they will only receive a portion of the compensation they asked for. For example, if a judge determines that Driver B and Driver C both equally contributed to the damages in the chain-reaction crash, they will most likely have to pay equal amounts of damages to the victims.

Collect All Information Before You Go to Court

South Florida Car Accident Attorneys

Florida’s comparative negligence laws often encourage drivers to point fingers at each other in a crash and try to spread the blame around.

If you are involved in a chain-reaction crash, prepare for this type of finger-pointing and collect as much information as you can to defend yourself. With the help of a personal injury lawyer, you can get the compensation you deserve for any type of Florida car crash.

 

About the Author:

Jeffrey Braxton is a trial lawyer in Fort Lauderdale who has devoted his career to the practice of personal injury law. As lead trial attorney for the South Florida Injury Law Firm, Jeff has litigated thousands of cases and is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an exclusive group of attorneys who have resolved cases in excess of one million dollars.