Search 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.
It is standard practice for insurance adjusters to begin negotiations by first offering a very low settlement amount — or, sometimes, denying liability altogether. With this tactic, the adjuster is trying to find out whether you understand what your claim is worth and to see if you are so impatient to get some money that you will take any amount. When a first offer is made, your response should depend on whether it is a reasonable offer but too low or whether it is so low that it is just a tactic to see if you know what you are doing. If the offer is reasonable, you can immediately make a counteroffer that is a little bit lower than your demand letter amount. That shows the adjuster that you, too, are being reasonable and are willing to compromise. A little more bargaining should quickly get you to a final settlement amount you both think is fair. In these negotiations, don’t bother to go over all the facts again. Just emphasize the strongest points in your favor — for example, that the insured was completely at fault.
Never be embarrassed to tell your doctors about all of your complaints. The value of your claim is due in large measure to the doctor’s diagnosis and treatment. The doctor can only treat what he observes of what you tell him. The doctor’s records will only be as complete as information that he receives. Keep track of all prescriptions and medicines taken, preferably saving all bottles or containers of medicine. Provide your attorney with receipts for all medications, both over the counter and prescription medications as well as any other items purchased such as crutches, canes, neck braces, splints and bandages.
Even if you believe you weren’t hurt badly, go to the emergency room or see a doctor as soon as possible after an injury accident. You may have internal injuries, a concussion, or soft tissue damage (like whiplash) that you aren’t even aware of. This helps ensure that you get the treatment you need as quickly as possible. If you wait to seek medical treatment, the insurance company may try to say you weren’t seriously injured. Your medical records will play a crucial role in your claim and help you negotiate the best possible settlement.
You’ve been hurt in an accident. You’re missing work. You’re in a lot of pain. You’re being harassed by insurance companies. When you are injured by someone’s mistakes, Florida law equips us to help you recover for your pain and suffering, lost wages, medical bills and other expenses from the accident. We know all the tricks that insurance companies play to keep from paying what you are owed. We used to work for them and we were good at it. Here at Bengal Law: Florida Accidents Lawyers & Personal Injury Attorneys, we use all that experience to help you get fair compensation for your suffering. We’re here to help. Find additional information at https://bengallaw.com/.
When you’re hurt, it’s easy to want a check in your hands as soon as possible. Sometimes, accepting the first offer you receive can prevent you from maximizing your compensation. To get the best recovery in your case, you have to let the other side believe that you’re willing to go the distance. This can mean rejecting the first, second or even third offer. It’s important to work with an attorney for an expert opinion about whether to accept or decline a settlement offer.