Motor vehicle crashes happen suddenly and can cause serious injuries to everyone involved. A single moment can change your life or the life of a loved one. Although accidents are rarely intentional, they can usually be attributed to reckless or careless drivers.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a collision that was not your fault, talk to a Sarasota car accident lawyer about your situation. You may be entitled to recover damages for your injuries, and a seasoned personal injury attorney from the Law Office of Joshua H. Rosen could provide guidance and support as you explore your legal options.
All drivers have a responsibility to drive safely and avoid collisions with others on the road. One of the most common causes of car accidents is unsafe driving, a broad term that includes many actions and inactions that could be considered unsafe.
Drivers must keep their eyes on the road, their hands on the wheel, and their minds focused on what is in front of them. Distracted driving—such as changing the radio station, talking to passengers, or texting on a cell phone—can significantly increase the likelihood of a crash. Distractions are one cause of car crashes that most drivers unintentionally encounter every time they get behind the wheel.
Traffic laws exist, in part, to encourage safe driving by establishing speed limits, right-of-way priorities, and stoplights to control the flow of vehicles. Failing to follow these rules—like speeding or running a red light—greatly increases the risk of causing an accident.
Cars are heavy and travel at high speeds, meaning that they hit with enough force to cause damage to the other vehicle and severe injuries to anyone inside. Injuries from a car wreck may include, but are not limited to:
Beyond physical harm, the emotional impact of a car accident is profound. Survivors often experience depression, difficulty sleeping, and a fear of getting into a car again.
These injuries could be severe and cost more than what your car insurance will cover. A dedicated attorney could help you file a personal injury lawsuit to recover from the full extent of your damages after a car crash in Sarasota.
Florida law requires drivers to carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage as part of their car insurance policies. This is intended to pay for medical bills, property damage, and other injuries from an accident—regardless of who was at fault. Unfortunately, some injuries are so severe that PIP is not enough to cover all the costs.
In this situation, the driver may be eligible to recover damages from the at-fault driver. Financial damages could be available to cover:
An accident survivor may also be able to recover non-financial damages for their emotional distress and pain and suffering.
Like other states, Florida has a strict time limit on when a claim must be filed, known as the statute of limitations. Previously, the limit was four years after the date of the accident, but the state recently lowered it to two years. Failing to file a claim within this window makes it extremely difficult to recover compensation.
Understanding the types of damages and the legal limitations is vital to a successful claim. A knowledgeable lawyer familiar with motor vehicle collisions could provide guidance on all legal options available to victims in Sarasota.
Unsafe drivers put everyone at risk of suffering serious injuries. If you were hurt in a crash that was not your fault, a Sarasota car accident lawyer could help you navigate your legal options.
Working with a trusted attorney improves your chances of recovering damages for your injuries. Call the Law Office of Joshua H. Rosen today and talk to a lawyer about your situation. Our legal team could provide the help you need.
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