What Florida Drivers Need to Know about Parking Lot Crashes

What Florida Drivers Need to Know about Parking Lot Crashes

by Auto AccidentsParking Lot Accidents

 

When we think about car accidents, we often imagine high-speed collisions on busy highways or city streets. However, parking lot crashes, though rarely high-speed, are surprisingly common among Florida Drivers. While they may not always result in devastating injuries, these accidents can still lead to costly repairs, increased insurance premiums, and, in more severe cases, serious or even fatal injuries—especially when pedestrians are involved.

Why Are Parking Lot Accidents So Common?

Parking lots might seem like safe havens compared to the chaos of the road, but they present their own unique set of hazards. The combination of numerous vehicles, varying traffic patterns, and a high number of pedestrians creates a perfect storm for accidents. Whether it’s a crowded shopping mall during the holidays or a busy office parking lot during rush hour, these spaces demand extra caution from drivers.

 

 

Common Types of Parking Lot Accidents

Understanding the most frequent types of parking lot accidents can help drivers be more vigilant. Here are the five most common scenarios:

  1. Two Drivers Backing Into Each Other: This typically occurs when both cars are reversing out of parking spaces simultaneously. Without proper visibility and communication, these drivers can easily collide.
  2. A Driver Pulling Forward Into Traffic: When a driver pulls forward out of a parking space into an oncoming lane, they may collide with a vehicle already in motion. The oncoming car often strikes the front or side of the car exiting the space.
  3. A Driver Backing Into Oncoming Traffic: In this scenario, a driver reverses out of a parking space without ensuring the coast is clear, leading to a collision with an oncoming vehicle.
  4. Two Cars Fighting for the Same Space: With limited parking spots, especially in busy areas, it’s not uncommon for two drivers to aim for the same space simultaneously, leading to a crash.
  5. Rear-End Collisions at Stop Signs: Even in parking lots, stop signs must be observed. Accidents can happen when a car stops at a sign or exit, and the vehicle behind fails to stop in time, causing a rear-end collision.

What Florida Drivers Need to Know about Parking Lot Crashes 1 Parking Lot Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

Determining Fault in Florida Parking Lot Crashes

Determining who is at fault in a parking lot accident can be more complex than it seems, particularly because Florida is a no-fault state. However, when an accident results in significant injuries that exceed Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, establishing fault becomes crucial.

Here’s a breakdown of fault in the five common types of parking lot accidents:

  1. Two Drivers Backing Into Each Other: In this situation, both drivers typically share fault since neither has the right of way, and both are responsible for ensuring the path is clear before reversing. However, if one driver can prove the other was negligent, they may be able to shift some or all of the blame.
  2. A Driver Pulling Forward Into Traffic: The driver in the traffic lane generally has the right of way, so the driver pulling out of a space will likely be held responsible for the accident.
  3. A Driver Backing Into Oncoming Traffic: Similar to the previous scenario, the oncoming vehicle has the right of way. The driver reversing out of a space is expected to yield to oncoming traffic, making them primarily at fault.
  4. Two Cars Fighting for the Same Space: In this case, fault is often shared, but the driver making a turn into oncoming traffic (typically the one turning left) is more likely to be held responsible. However, exceptions can occur, such as if the car turning right made an overly wide turn.
  5. Rear-End Collisions at Stop Signs: Rear-end collisions usually place fault on the driver who failed to stop in time, regardless of the specific circumstances.

What Florida Drivers Need to Know about Parking Lot Crashes 2 Parking Lot Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

What to Do After a Parking Lot Accident

Given the relatively minor nature of most parking lot crashes, police reports are rarely filed. This makes it essential for those involved to know the proper steps to take immediately after an accident.

1. Gather Information: Always exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Additionally, collect contact details from any witnesses, as their testimony could be crucial in proving negligence.

2. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to all vehicles involved, the positioning of the cars, and any relevant traffic signs or signals.

3. Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to seek medical evaluation to ensure there are no hidden issues. This is also vital for documenting your injuries if you need to pursue a claim.

4. Contact a Florida Personal Injury Attorney: If you’ve been involved in a parking lot crash and are concerned about recovering damages for your vehicle or personal injuries, consulting with a skilled personal injury attorney is crucial. An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of Florida’s no-fault insurance laws and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Prevention: The Best Strategy

Ultimately, most parking lot accidents are preventable. By staying alert, giving yourself plenty of time to react, anticipating unpredictable pedestrian behavior, and keeping a safe distance from other vehicles, you can significantly reduce the risk of being involved in a parking lot accident.

 

 

 

flood-related-car-accident-lawyers-fort-lauderdale_0000s_0002_342702507_756979926105758_4386594846660498758_n

What are your Flood-Related Car Accident Legal Rights?

by Auto AccidentsDistracted DrivingDriverless VehiclesParking Lot AccidentsPersonal Injury ClaimsRental Car AccidentsRide Sharing AccidentsTruck AccidentsUber Accidents

Flooding can be a dangerous situation for drivers. Even a few inches of water can make it difficult to control your car, and deeper water can cause your car to stall or even float away.

If you find yourself driving through floodwaters, it’s important to take precautions to stay safe.

1. Take the situation seriously.

Floodwaters can be deceptive. Just a few inches of water can make it difficult to control your car, and even deeper water may not look as deep as it actually is. It’s important to take flood warnings and advisories seriously and avoid driving through flooded areas if possible.

2. Stay calm.

If you find yourself driving through floodwaters, it’s important to stay calm. Panicking will only make the situation worse. Take a deep breath and focus on driving safely.

3. Respect barricades.

If you see barricades or other barriers in a flooded area, don’t drive around them. They’re there for a reason: to keep you safe.

What are your Flood-Related Car Accident Legal Rights? 3 Parking Lot Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

4. Be cautious around standing water.

Even if the water looks shallow, it’s important to be cautious around standing water. You never know what might be hidden beneath the surface, such as potholes, sharp objects, or downed power lines.

5. Know your car’s limitations.

Not all cars are created equal when it comes to driving through floodwaters. If you have a low-riding car, it’s best to avoid driving through flooded areas altogether.

6. If you must drive through water, do so slowly and carefully.

If you must drive through water, do so slowly and carefully. Don’t accelerate or brake suddenly, and avoid making sharp turns. If your car starts to hydroplane, take your foot off the gas and steer in the direction of the skid.

What are your Flood-Related Car Accident Legal Rights? 4 Parking Lot Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

7. If your car stalls, get out and get to safety.

If your car stalls in floodwaters, don’t try to restart it. Get out of the car and get to safety as quickly as possible. If you can’t get out of the car, call for help.

8. Get your car checked out after driving through floodwaters.

Even if your car doesn’t stall, it’s important to get it checked out by a mechanic after driving through floodwaters. Water can damage your car’s engine, transmission, and electrical system.

9. Get an attorney.

An attorney can help you understand your legal rights. After a flood related car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, property damage, and lost wages. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and ensure that you receive the full amount of compensation you deserve.

Insurance companies are often more willing to settle with an attorney than with an individual. An attorney can help you negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance companies. If you are unable to reach a settlement with the insurance companies, you may need to file a lawsuit. An attorney can represent you in court and fight for your rights.

By following these tips, you can help keep yourself safe if you find yourself driving through floodwaters. Contact the experienced flood related car accident attorneys at South Florida Injury Law Firm. We can provide valuable legal guidance and support after a flood-related car accident. We can also help you understand your legal rights and options, and work to ensure that you receive the compensation and justice you deserve.

miami broward spring break 2023 accident attorney

Car Accidents During Spring Break in South Florida

by Auto AccidentsChildren Injuries & AccidentsDUI AccidentsMotorcycle AccidentsMulti Car AccidentsParking Lot AccidentsPersonal InjuryPersonal Injury ClaimsPersonal Injury Protection (PIP)Ride Sharing AccidentsUber AccidentsVacation Injuries

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 5 Parking Lot 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 6 Parking Lot 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 7 Parking Lot 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 8 Parking Lot 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.

southfloridainjurylawfirm car accident attorneys at law_0000_woman-driving-a-car-2022-01-19-00-03-52-utc

Car Accidents in South Florida: How to Find the Right Attorney

by Auto AccidentsDistracted DrivingDriverless VehiclesParking Lot AccidentsPersonal Injury ClaimsRental Car AccidentsRide Sharing AccidentsTruck AccidentsUber Accidents

South Florida is known for its heavy traffic and busy roads, which can unfortunately lead to a high number of car accidents. There are a number of reasons why accidents occur, including:

  • Heavy traffic: South Florida is known for its busy roads, which can lead to congestion and long commutes. Many do not pay attention as well in heavy traffic, creating avoidable accidents.
  • Inclement weather: South Florida is prone to hurricanes and heavy rain, which can make driving conditions treacherous. Wet streets and limited visibility can easily cause a wreck.
  • Distracted drivers: With the increased use of cell phones and other electronic devices while driving, distracted driving has become a major concern on the roads and responsible for a number of accidents throughout Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties each year.
  • Aggressive drivers: Some drivers in South Florida are known for their aggressive driving habits, which can increase the risk of accidents.
  • Poor road conditions: Some roads in South Florida may be in poor condition, with potholes, construction, or debris that can be dangerous for drivers.
traffic accidents in miami dade county

It’s important to be aware of these potential hazards when driving in South Florida and to take appropriate safety precautions such as wearing a seatbelt, obeying traffic laws, and avoiding distractions while driving to prevent being an accident statistic.

According to data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, in 2021, there were over 400,000 car accidents in Florida, which resulted in over 250,000 injuries and over 3,000 deaths.

car accident in broward county

If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident, it’s important to have the right legal representation on your side. But with so many car accident attorneys to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start.

First and foremost, you want to make sure that the attorney you choose has experience handling car accident cases. Ask about the attorney’s track record in terms of settlements and trial verdicts, and look for testimonials or reviews from past clients.

Secondly, it’s important to find an attorney who is a good fit for you and your case. Some attorneys may specialize in specific types of accidents, such as truck accidents or motorcycle accidents, while others may have experience handling cases involving serious injuries or wrongful death.

Car Accidents in South Florida: How to Find the Right Attorney 9 Parking Lot Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

Another important consideration is the attorney’s fee structure. Some attorneys may work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they win your case. Others may charge an hourly rate or a flat fee. Make sure you understand the attorney’s fee structure and are comfortable with it before moving forward.

Finally, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation with the attorney to discuss your case and get a sense of their communication style and approach.

If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident in South Florida, it’s important to take the time to find the right attorney for your case. By doing your research and being selective, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome.

Construction cranes of high-rise residential buildings in the big city, view of the evening sky

Crane Accidents and Construction Injuries

by Children Injuries & AccidentsConstruction AccidentsHurricane Property DamageInsurance ClaimsParking Lot AccidentsPersonal InjuryPersonal Injury ClaimsPersonal Injury Law SuitPersonal Injury LawyerPremises LiabilityProperty DamageWork Related InjuriesWorkers CompWrongful Death

Crane Accidents and Construction Injuries 10 Parking Lot Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

 

Imagine sleeping soundly in bed and then a loud crashing crane comes through your roof.
It was a scene that happened this week in North Miami Beach, where a crane that was being used to repair a seawall slid off a barge and struck the roof of a condominium building.

“I was very lucky because that crane was in front of my apartment two days ago.” said by C. Spetsiotas, a resident of the condo.

 

Eight units of the building are now off-limits while structural engineers assess the safety of the building. The U.S. Coast Guard is also investigating, along with OSHA

Crane accidents have happened in the past, with unfortunately worse outcomes. In Hallandale Beach, a 27 year old was killed when a crane toppled over.  One man died and two others were left injured in Hollywood when the scaffolding collapsed.

 

Causes of Construction Accidents

 

Florida construction sites are littered with hazards at every turn. To execute dangerous tasks that these projects require, heavy construction equipment and tools are used, many of which are performed at great heights and under extremely hazardous conditions.

Although federal and state laws that require employers to maintain a safe workplace, some do not. There are instances where contractors take shortcuts to turnaround projects faster and reduce expenses, posing a risk to people who work on the sites and the local pedestrians.

 

Some common causes of construction accidents include:

 

  • Cranes, ladders and fixtures falling from buildings and walls
  • Toxic substance exposure
  • Defective construction and tool equipment
  • Improper use of equipment
  • Improper or insufficient training
  • Misuse of tools and other equipment
  • Poor safety precautions and oversight

 

 

Construction Site Safety and Your Rights

Crane Accidents and Construction Injuries 12 Parking Lot Accidents South Florida Injury Law Firm

Safety measures on construction sites are supposed to be followed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards.  There are clear standards for cranes, crane operations, crane training, fall protection, scaffolding, ladders, hazard communication, machinery, and many other aspects of a construction site project and operations. A party’s failure to abide by OSHA standards may be evidence of negligence if that failure caused an accident.

If you or someone you know have suffered any construction related injuries, or others that are not listed, compensation may be awarded and should contact our experienced Florida construction accident lawyers at South Florida Injury Law Firm today to discuss your legal options with our Free Case Review

Also, you may be entitled to recover more money than a workers’ compensation claim alone could provide. You may also have claims for medical bills, pain and suffering, permanent limitations and past and future lost earnings.

Because of the numerous contractors, subcontractors and other parties often involved in construction sites, it can be difficult to determine exactly who should be held responsible for your injuries or the death of a loved one.

 

 

 

Types of Available Compensation

 

Workers’ Compensation
Almost every employer is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. These benefits can help an injured worker cover medical expenses and lost wages and are available to a worker regardless of the circumstances surrounding an accident that causes injury.

 

Personal Injury
Although a worker cannot file an injury lawsuit against their employer, it may be possible to file a claim against a third party whose negligent actions led to your injury. A personal injury claim is also available to non-workers who are injured on a construction site.

 

Product Liability
If a defective product caused your injuries, it may be possible to bring a claim against the manufacturer, retailer or wholesaler of that product.

 

Wrongful Death
If you have lost a loved one in a construction accident, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for your loss.

 

 

Construction Related Accident and Injury Help

 

With decades of experience handling these types of complex cases, our South Florida Injury Law Firm construction accident lawyers have the skills and the resources needed to conduct a thorough investigation. You can rely on us to put your interests first and will work to help you recover the maximum compensation you are entitled.

 

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.