Despite state laws, many drivers choose to get behind the wheel of a car or truck without having the necessary insurance coverage. When these drivers cause accidents, victims may need to turn to their own insurance company for compensation through an uninsured motorist claim.

If you suffered injuries in an accident that an uninsured driver caused, you must retain experienced legal counsel as soon as possible. Your car accident lawyer in Tampa can file an uninsured motorist claim on your behalf, negotiate with insurance company representatives, and pursue the compensation you deserve for your losses.

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How do Uninsured Drivers Cause Accidents?

Uninsured motorist accidents often occur due to driver negligence, including careless behaviors that increase the risk of collisions. Negligence means failing to exercise reasonable care while behind the wheel of a motor vehicle, and this lack of care can manifest in various ways on the road.

• One common form of negligence is distracted driving. Uninsured drivers, like others, may use their phones, eat, drink, or engage in other distractions while driving. When drivers are not fully focused on the road, their reaction times are slower, and they are more likely to miss important signals or hazards, leading to accidents. A split-second distraction can be sufficient to cause a serious collision.

• Another example of negligence is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impaired drivers have reduced coordination, slower reaction times, and poor judgment. Uninsured drivers who are impaired are particularly dangerous because they are less likely to have the financial means to cover the damages and injuries they cause. This irresponsibility puts everyone on the road at greater risk.

• Speeding is another negligent behavior that uninsured drivers often exhibit. Speeding significantly reduces the time a driver has to react to unexpected situations and increases the severity of any accidents. Uninsured drivers may speed due to a lack of fear over financial repercussions – since they already aren’t complying with insurance laws. This reckless disregard for speed limits can easily lead to preventable accidents.

• Failing to obey traffic signals and signs is also a form of negligence. Running red lights, ignoring stop signs, and not yielding the right-of-way are dangerous behaviors that can cause serious accidents. Uninsured drivers may engage in these behaviors because they are trying to evade detection by law enforcement or because they are simply not conscientious about following traffic laws.

• Poor vehicle maintenance can also be a sign of driver negligence. Due to cost concerns, uninsured drivers may also skip essential maintenance tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake checks. A poorly maintained vehicle is more likely to experience mechanical failures that can lead to accidents. For instance, worn-out brakes may fail to stop the car in time, causing a rear-end collision.

How to Legally Prove an Uninsured Motorist Claim

Proving the elements of an uninsured motorist claim involves gathering evidence and presenting it in a compelling manner to demonstrate that the uninsured driver was at fault for the accident and that the claimant is entitled to compensation. A car accident lawyer must establish several key elements to successfully pursue an uninsured motorist claim.

Firstly, it’s essential to prove that the other driver involved in the accident was indeed uninsured. This typically involves obtaining a police report documenting the accident and confirming the other driver’s lack of insurance coverage. Additionally, witness statements or photographic evidence of the accident scene may help corroborate this.

Second, the claimant must demonstrate that the uninsured driver was negligent and liable for the accident. Claimants and their attorneys might accomplish this by providing evidence of the other driver’s actions or omissions contributing to the collision, such as speeding, running a red light, or driving while distracted. Eyewitness testimony, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction reports can all be valuable pieces of evidence in proving negligence.

Next, it’s necessary to establish the extent of the claimant’s damages resulting from the accident. This includes both economic damages, such as medical expenses, property damage, and lost income, as well as non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Medical records, repair estimates, and documentation of missed work can all help quantify the claimant’s losses.

In addition to proving the uninsured driver’s liability and the claimant’s damages, it may also be necessary to demonstrate that the claimant has complied with the terms of their own insurance policy. This can involve providing proof of timely notification to the insurance company, cooperating with their investigation, and adhering to any other policy requirements.

Finally, adhering to the procedural and evidentiary rules governing uninsured or underinsured motorist claims in the relevant jurisdiction is important. This may include filing the claim within the statute of limitations, following proper court procedures, and presenting admissible evidence to support the claim.

An experienced car accident attorney in your area can gather the necessary documents and pursue an uninsured motorist claim with the appropriate insurance company on your behalf.

Types of Compensation Available in Uninsured Motorist Claims

Victims of accidents involving uninsured motorists often face significant challenges, but they can still seek various types of compensation through an uninsured motorist claim or lawsuit. In these scenarios, an accident victim’s uninsured motorist coverage can supply the necessary monetary damages. These benefits should cover the financial, physical, and emotional losses the victim incurred due to the accident.

• First, victims can claim medical expenses. These include the cost of emergency room care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any other medical treatments necessary for recovery. Future medical expenses can also be included if ongoing treatment is needed.

• Victims may also recover compensation for their lost income. If the accident caused the victim to miss work, they can seek compensation for income lost during recovery. This also extends to future earning potential if the injuries result in a long-term or permanent disability that affects the victim’s ability to work.

• Pain and suffering is another significant type of compensation. This covers the physical pain and emotional distress that the victim endures as a result of the accident. Emotional distress may include depression, anxiety, and other mental health complications that arise due to the accident-related trauma.

• Victims can also claim property damage. This includes the repair or replacement costs of the vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.

• In some cases, victims may be eligible for loss of consortium. This type of compensation goes to spouses or family members who suffer due to the victim’s injuries, such as loss of companionship or support.

• Additionally, some victims may receive punitive damages. These are less common and punish the at-fault driver for particularly reckless, intentional, or malicious behavior, serving as a deterrent against such conduct in the future.

Navigating the legal and insurance systems can be complicated. Consequently, victims should consult an experienced car accident attorney to ensure they receive full compensation for their losses.

Litigating an Uninsured Motorist Claim in Court

Litigating an uninsured motorist claim through the court system involves several steps to resolve the dispute and obtain compensation for the victim’s injuries and losses. Those steps include all of the following:

• Pre-Filing Investigation – Before filing a lawsuit, the victim’s attorney thoroughly investigates the circumstances surrounding the accident and the uninsured driver’s liability. This may involve gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and documentation of the victim’s damages.

• Filing the Complaint—The litigation process begins with filing a complaint in the appropriate court. The complaint outlines the victim’s claims against the uninsured driver, alleges negligence, and seeks compensation for the victim’s losses.

• Service of Process – Once the complaint is filed, it must be served on the uninsured driver, notifying them of the lawsuit and allowing them to respond. This is typically accomplished with a process server or via certified mail, and the uninsured driver must file a formal response within a specified time frame.

• Discovery – Discovery is the process of exchanging information and evidence relevant to the case. This may include written interrogatories, requests for documents, and depositions of witnesses and parties involved in the accident. Discovery allows each side to gather the facts and prepare their arguments for trial.

• Pretrial Motions – The parties may file various pretrial motions to address procedural issues or legal arguments before trial. These motions may include motions to dismiss, motions for summary judgment, or motions to exclude certain evidence from trial.

• Ongoing Settlement Negotiations—Throughout litigation, the accident victim’s lawyer and the insurance company may continue settlement negotiations. They may also use alternative dispute resolution (ADR) mechanisms, such as mediation, to potentially resolve the case out of court.

• Trial – If the case does not settle during pretrial negotiations or mediation, it proceeds to trial. At trial, both parties present their evidence and arguments to a judge or jury, who will determine liability and damages based upon the facts of the case and the applicable law.

• Judgment and Appeal – After the trial, the court will issue a judgment determining the outcome of the case. If either party is dissatisfied with the judgment, they may have the right to appeal to a higher court to review the decision.

An experienced car accident lawyer in your area can handle every step of the litigation process for you. Additionally, your attorney can represent you during all legal proceedings, including depositions and trial, and aggressively advocate for your rights and interests.

Throughout the litigation process, your car accident lawyer can answer all your questions and help you make intelligent and informed decisions.

Call an Experienced Car Accident Attorney Near You Today

Many people assume they are facing serious financial stress when an uninsured driver hits them. Fortunately, many accident victims can recover compensation for their losses, even without another driver’s liability coverage. You have legal options available if you suffered injuries in a collision due to an uninsured driver’s negligence, but knowing these options and how to pursue them can be challenging.

An experienced personal injury attorney in your area can go over your options with you, handle the legal components of your case, and work to maximize the compensation you receive for your accident-related losses. You must start the process by scheduling a free consultation with a car accident attorney today. Case evaluations are free.

If someone else caused a car accident in Florida that injured you, you might need a settlement to cover your medical bills, lost income, and more. It’s tough to say precisely how much to expect from a car accident settlement.

The amount you could recover depends on your unique situation. The good news is, you don’t have to figure this out alone. A car accident lawyer can help you understand the value of your claim and fight for the maximum amount you deserve.

An experienced car accident lawyer is familiar with car accident settlements and skilled at negotiating with the insurance company. They will factor in your economic losses like medical costs and lost wages, and noneconomic damages like pain and suffering.

Don’t try to handle your car accident claim on your own. Contact a personal injury lawyer with experience handling car accidents today to find out how much compensation you’re entitled to.

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Compensation Available from a Car Accident Settlement

Each car accident case is unique, so the compensation you can claim will vary depending on the circumstances. There is no cookie-cutter typical car accident settlement. The compensation you can claim will vary depending on the circumstances.

However, many car accident victims include the following compensable losses in their settlements:

Economic Damages

• Medical Expenses: These are the costs you incur for medical care related to your injuries from the accident. This includes immediate treatments, like emergency room visits, as well as ongoing care, such as physical therapy. You can claim compensation for both past medical bills and the projected costs of medical care you will likely need.
• Lost Income: If your injuries prevent you from working, you could claim money for income losses. This includes the money you would have earned from the time of the accident until you can return to work. If your injuries are severe enough to affect your ability to work in the future, you could also claim lost earning capacity.
• Property Damage Costs: This compensation covers repairing or replacing your vehicle and any personal items that sustained damage in the accident. If you had valuable items inside your vehicle, you could also include these losses.

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and Suffering: This is compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you suffer due to the accident. This loss is more challenging to quantify than medical bills, but it’s just as important. Pain and suffering compensation varies based on the severity of your injuries and how they affect your daily life after the accident.
• Loss of Quality of Life: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying daily activities and hobbies that were a part of your life before the accident, you could seek compensation for lost quality of life. This category acknowledges that not all injuries are physical and that quality of life matters.
• Loss of Consortium: This type of compensation addresses the losses of the spouse of someone who suffers harm in an accident. It compensates loved ones for the losses of companionship, support, and relationship quality due to crash injuries.

Types of Insurance Claims You Could File After a Car Accident

Understanding the different types of insurance coverage is useful when dealing with the aftermath of a car accident. Each of the following types of insurance serves a distinct purpose and offers specific benefits that can provide financial relief in various scenarios.

The Other Driver’s Liability Insurance

Liability insurance covers other people’s injuries, medical bills, and property damage costs when the policyholder is responsible for the accident.

In many states, the liability insurance of a driver liable for an accident will pay for the accident victim’s losses, assuming the at-fault driver has coverage. If so, you will file a claim against the at-fault party’s policy to seek compensation.

Many states require all drivers to carry specific minimum liability coverage amounts, so it’s an essential source of compensation for many crash victims.

However, some states do not require drivers to carry any liability insurance, so you should speak to a lawyer as soon as possible after a crash to determine your options for seeking compensation.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Medical Payments (MedPay) Insurance

Personal injury protection (PIP) and medical payments (MedPay) are optional coverages that kick in when policyholders incur accident-related medical expenses. They both provide no-fault insurance coverage, which means they pay for a policyholder’s medical bills regardless of fault for an accident.

While these types of insurance are similar, PIP is slightly more robust than MedPay. In addition to medical bills, it can also compensate for income losses if your crash injuries prevent you from working. In some cases, it can even cover your deductibles for other types of insurance. However, only a few states require PIP while others make it optional, and you cannot even buy it in others.

Uninsured Motorist (UM) or Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Insurance

Uninsured motorist or UM coverage is for scenarios where the at-fault driver has no insurance. UM coverage also pays for hit-and-run accidents where the at-fault driver flees the scene.

On the other hand, underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is applicable when the other driver has insurance but not enough to cover all of your accident-related costs. In that case, UIM coverage would kick in.

Some states require drivers to purchase UM or UIM insurance, but many don’t. Always check your auto insurance policy as soon as possible after an accident to determine whether this type of coverage is available to you. It can provide significant relief when you can’t rely on the other driver’s insurance policy for compensation.

Health Insurance

Some health insurance plans cover medical costs arising from car accident injuries. Your health insurance might cover your immediate and ongoing medical treatment if you’re in an accident. Usually, however, a person must exhaust all other coverage sources before using health insurance benefits after a car accident.

Furthermore, if your health insurance pays for your treatment, the insurer might seek reimbursement from you if you later receive a settlement from another insurance policy. This is because of the health insurance company’s right to subrogation, which is the ability to recoup what they have paid from the at-fault party.

Types of No-Fault Insurance Coverage

Collision and comprehensive insurance are types of no-fault coverage that pay for vehicle damage after an accident. Collision insurance is specifically for repairs to a policyholder’s vehicle in the event of an accident with another vehicle. It may also reimburse a policyholder for the value of their vehicle if it is a complete loss due to the accident.

Collision insurance will allow you to repair your car without depending on another person’s insurance policy, which might be unavailable or insufficient in certain situations.

On the other hand, comprehensive insurance covers unexpected non-collision incidents that damage your vehicle. Examples include theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. After such events, you can file a claim against your comprehensive insurance to cover the costs of vehicle repairs.

How Long Will It Take to Receive My Settlement?

The time it takes to receive a settlement after a car accident can vary considerably. It often depends on the complexity of the case, who is at fault, and the extent of the injuries.

If the fault is apparent and your injuries are relatively minor, a settlement could arrive quickly, sometimes within a few weeks. However, if the wreck causes serious injuries or there is a dispute over who is at fault, it could take much longer.

Negotiations with insurance companies often prolong the process. Insurance adjusters review all available details after an accident, which can take time, especially if they challenge the claim. Litigation can add even more time. If you file a car accident lawsuit, resolving your claim could take months or even years.

Each party’s willingness to cooperate also affects the timeline for your settlement. If everyone cooperates and agrees on the settlement, a resolution may come about more quickly. However, protracted negotiations will likely extend the timeline if either side disagrees with the determination of fault or the settlement amount.

In general, you can expect to wait a few months to a year for most settlements to conclude. Remember that every case is different. Your attorney can provide the best estimate based on the specifics of your case.

Instead of a speedy settlement, allow your lawyer to address every aspect of your case so you receive a fair payout rather than accepting a low-ball offer.

How Do I Claim the Money After I Settle?

After you reach a settlement for a car accident, you generally have two options to collect your money: a lump sum payment or a structured settlement.

With a lump sum payment, you receive all your money at once. This is the more straightforward option. Once you sign the agreement and the insurance company processes it, they issue a check for the appropriate amount. You get the full settlement quickly, which is helpful if you have immediate expenses.

A structured settlement is different. Instead of getting all your money at once, you receive it in a series of payments over time. You can set up these payments to come monthly, yearly, or at other specified intervals. Many people like this method because it provides a steady income stream and possible tax benefits.

To start collecting your settlement money, you sign the agreement from the insurance company. Then, the insurer will process the payment according to the terms you both accepted.

For lump sum payments, the check usually arrives within a few weeks. For structured settlements, you will start receiving the payments per your schedule. This could be almost immediately or set for a future date.

Your personal injury lawyer will guide you through every step of this process to ensure the insurance company follows through on your settlement agreement. They will also review the settlement terms carefully before you agree to anything to ensure the deal will meet your ongoing and future needs.

Car Accident FAQ

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident?
After a car accident, ensure everyone’s safety, call emergency services, and report the accident to the police. Obtain an accident report and seek medical attention, even if you have only minor car accident injuries.

2. How do I know if I need a car accident lawyer?
If you’ve sustained personal injuries, such as a neck injury, or if the accident involved significant property damage, it’s wise to consult an experienced personal injury lawyer. They can help you navigate the complexities of car accident cases and ensure you receive a fair settlement.

3. Can I handle a minor car accident claim on my own?
For minor car accidents with no injuries and minimal damage, you might handle the claim independently. However, if there are personal injuries or disputes about fault or damages, consulting a law firm can be beneficial to protect your interests.

4. What types of compensation can I receive after a car accident?
Compensation can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. An experienced personal injury lawyer will help you pursue a fair settlement for all your losses.

5. How long do I have to file a claim after a car accident?
The time limit to file a claim, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state. It’s essential to contact a law firm promptly to ensure you meet all deadlines and preserve your right to compensation.

6. What if the other driver’s insurance company offers me a settlement?
Before accepting any offer, consult with a personal injury lawyer. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. An experienced lawyer will evaluate the offer and negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement.

7. How can a lawyer help me with a rear-end car accident?
A lawyer can assist in gathering evidence, proving fault, and documenting your injuries. They will handle communications with insurance companies and work towards obtaining the compensation you deserve for your rear-end car accident.

8. What kind of personal injuries qualify for a car accident claim?
Common personal injuries in car accident cases include whiplash, neck injuries, broken bones, and head trauma. Even seemingly minor injuries can have long-term impacts, making it crucial to seek legal advice.

9. Why is it important to have an accident report?
An accident report provides a detailed account of the incident, including involved parties, witnesses, and contributing factors. It is a critical piece of evidence in establishing fault and supporting your claim.

10. How do I choose the right car accident lawyer?
Look for a law firm with a strong track record in personal injury law, particularly car accident cases. An experienced personal injury lawyer should offer a free consultation, work on a contingency fee basis, and have positive client reviews.

Contact Boohoff Law for Your Car Accident Claim

Notify your insurance company after an auto accident, but don’t try to negotiate before calling an experienced car accident lawyer. Our legal team will put their resources to work for you. We will work to secure the car accident compensation you deserve to make you whole again.

Rear-end accidents in Tampa usually happen when other drivers speed or fail to watch the road attentively.

If you suffered injuries in a recent rear-end accident, you need to consult a knowledgeable Tampa car accident lawyer right away. Your lawyer can promptly obtain a copy of the police report, investigate your accident circumstances, and file the appropriate insurance claim on your behalf.

In some instances, your attorney can file a third-party claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company and pursue litigation in the state court system.

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Common Injuries in a Tampa Rear-end Accident

In Tampa, rear-end accidents can result in various injuries, some of which are common and can have significant effects on those involved.

One of the most common injuries in these accidents is whiplash.

Whiplash occurs when a driver or passenger’s head suddenly jerks backward and then forward, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments. This can lead to stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.

Another frequent injury is soft tissue damage. This includes injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments throughout the body – often resulting from the sudden force of the collision. Soft tissue injuries can cause pain, swelling, and bruising, and they may take time to heal properly.

Head injuries are also a concern in rear-end accidents. Even though vehicles are equipped with safety features like airbags and seat belts, the force of impact can still cause the accident victim’s head to strike against the headrest or other surfaces inside the car.

This can result in concussions, contusions, or more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which can have long-term effects on cognitive functioning and overall health.

Back injuries are prevalent as well. The force of a rear-end collision may compress the accident victim’s spine or cause herniated discs, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, and even weakness in the back and limbs. In severe cases, back injuries can require surgery and may lead to chronic pain and disability.

Fractures are another potential outcome of rear-end accidents, especially in high-speed collisions. Fractures can occur in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis, and they often require medical intervention such as casting or surgery to heal correctly.

In addition to physical injuries, rear-end accidents may cause emotional trauma. The suddenness and violence of the collision can leave lasting psychological effects, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which may require therapy or counseling to address.

After a rear-end accident, seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries seem minor at first. Some injuries, like whiplash or soft tissue damage, may not appear until hours or even days after the accident.

By seeking medical care, individuals can ensure that any injuries are properly diagnosed and treated, and they can also document their injuries for potential legal claims or insurance purposes. Meanwhile, an experienced Tampa car accident lawyer can handle the legal aspects of the personal injury claim.

Applicable Insurance Coverage After a Rear-end Accident in Tampa

After a rear-end accident in Tampa, different types of insurance coverage can come into play to help cover the costs of injuries and damages.

One essential coverage is Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which Florida requires. PIP coverage pays for medical expenses and lost income, regardless of fault for the accident, up to your policy limits.

PIP coverage typically includes benefits like medical expenses, which can cover the cost of doctor’s visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and other necessary treatments related to injuries sustained in an accident. It also includes lost income coverage, which reimburses accident victims for a portion of their lost income if injuries prevent them from working.

In addition to PIP coverage, third-party insurance coverage may come into play after a rear-end accident.

In certain cases, injured accident victims may be eligible to file a third-party claim under the at-fault driver’s insurance policy for various types of compensation, including pain and suffering, mental anguish, and emotional distress.

Car accident victims in Florida can file a third-party claim if they suffer a threshold injury, such as a permanent injury, severe scarring or disfigurement, or loss of a major bodily function.

Another type of insurance coverage that may be relevant after a rear-end accident is uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage protects victims if they suffer an injury in an accident where the at-fault driver does not have insurance coverage at all – or does not have enough insurance in place to adequately cover the damages.

If the at-fault driver in your rear-end accident case is uninsured or underinsured, your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help pay for your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.

Available Third-party Damages after a Tampa Rear-End Accident

After a rear-end accident in Tampa, various third-party damages may be available to those involved. These damages are meant to compensate individuals for the losses they suffered as a direct result of their accident.

To recover third-party damages, the injured accident victim must establish that the at-fault driver was negligent in some way (such as by violating one or more traffic laws) and that, as a result, the accident and injuries occurred.

One common type of third-party damage is property damage. This includes the cost of repairing or replacing vehicles damaged in the accident. If your car was rear-ended in Tampa, the at-fault driver’s insurance may cover the cost of repairs to your vehicle or provide compensation for its total loss.

Another type of third-party damage is medical expenses. This includes the cost of medical treatment for injuries sustained in the accident. If you suffered an injury in a rear-end collision in Tampa, the at-fault driver’s insurance may cover the cost of doctor’s visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and other necessary treatments related to your injuries.

Lost income is also a common form of third-party damage. If you were unable to work due to injuries sustained in a rear-end accident in Tampa, you may be entitled to compensation for the income you lost during your recovery period. This can help alleviate the financial burden of being unable to work while you recover from your injuries.

Pain and suffering is another type of third-party damage that may be available after a rear-end accident in Tampa. This includes compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering you experience as a result of your injuries.

Pain and suffering damages are often more challenging to quantify than economic damages like medical expenses and lost income, but they are intended to compensate you for the non-economic effect of the accident on your life.

In addition to these damages, you may recover third-party damages.

For example, if the rear-end accident in Tampa resulted in a permanent disability or disfigurement, you may recover compensation for the long-term effect on your quality of life. Similarly, if the accident resulted in the death of a loved one, you may recover compensation for wrongful death damages, including funeral expenses, loss of income, and loss of companionship.

Understanding the types of third-party damages available after a rear-end accident in Tampa can be essential for ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your losses. Document all of your damages carefully and consult an attorney to understand your rights and options for pursuing a successful third-party claim.

Car Accident Litigation in Tampa

Car accident litigation in Tampa involves several steps to resolve disputes and determine liability for damages.

• The first step in car accident litigation is filing a complaint. This is a legal document that outlines the details of the accident, including who was involved, what happened, and the damages suffered. The complaint is filed with the court and served on the at-fault driver, who then has a certain amount of time to respond.
• After the complaint is filed, the next step is the discovery process. During discovery, both parties exchange information and evidence related to the accident. This may include witness statements, police reports, medical records, and photographs of the accident scene. Discovery allows each side to gather the necessary evidence to support their case and prepare for trial.
• Once discovery is complete, the parties may attempt to resolve the case through negotiation or mediation. Negotiation involves discussions between the parties and their attorneys to reach a settlement agreement. Mediation involves a neutral third party, known as a mediator, who helps facilitate discussions and find a resolution that is acceptable to both parties. If a settlement is reached, the case can be resolved without going to trial.
• If negotiations or mediation are unsuccessful, the case will proceed to trial. During trial, both parties present their evidence and arguments to a judge and/or jury, who will then determine liability for the accident and the amount of damages to be awarded. The trial process may involve witness testimony, expert testimony, and cross-examination of witnesses.
• After the trial, the judge or jury will issue a verdict. If the verdict is in favor of the accident victim, then the at-fault party (through their insurance company) may be ordered to pay damages to compensate the victim for their losses.

If either party dislikes the verdict, they may appeal the decision to a higher court. An appeal involves reviewing the trial court’s decision and arguing that errors were made that affected the outcome of the case. The appellate court will review the evidence and legal arguments presented and may uphold, reverse, or modify the lower court’s decision.

Overall, car accident litigation in Tampa can be a complex and lengthy process. It requires careful preparation, gathering of evidence, and legal experience to navigate successfully.

An experienced Tampa car accident lawyer can determine your eligibility for filing a third-party claim or lawsuit and handle every step of the process for you.

Speak With a Tampa Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you recently suffered injuries in a Tampa car crash that a negligent driver caused, you may be entitled to recover various types of damages.

A skilled Tampa personal injury attorney can discuss the circumstances of your accident with you and take the appropriate steps on your behalf.

If the insurance company refuses to offer you the fair compensation you deserve for your losses, your attorney can explore various litigation options and work to secure the recovery you deserve.

When someone causes an accident in a car they don’t own, they may share liability. However, the vehicle owner’s insurance provider often bears primary responsibility for covering victims’ accident-related losses. If the car owner’s insurance does not provide adequate coverage for your losses, you may then seek compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance policy.

Insurance rules and laws vary by state. A Seattle car accident lawyer will determine who owes you compensation for medical costs, professional damages, and other accident-related harm.

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Liability for Car Accidents Varies Case-by-Case

Some key considerations when determining if the car owner or driver bears financial responsibility include:

• Whether the car owner gave permission to the at-fault driver to drive their vehicle
• Whether a vehicle-related defect caused the accident (or whether the collision happened because of driver error or another hazard)
• The insurance status of both the car owner and at-fault driver
• The amount of insurance coverage provided by the owner’s and driver’s auto policies
• Whether the car owner was negligent in allowing the driver to use their vehicle

Your attorney will strive to secure fair compensation for your accident-related damages, whether from the driver, vehicle owner, or elsewhere.

Your State’s Insurance Laws Will Govern Your Claim(s)

The state where your car accident happened will govern financial liability.

In Florida, for example, every insured motorist generally seeks compensation from their insurer. Florida is one of the handful of no-fault insurance states where one’s own insurer generally covers some degree of medical costs and property damage, regardless of who causes the collision.

When you hire a car accident lawyer in any state, they will know:

• The insurance rules specific to that state
• What to do if your accident involves an out-of-state motorist
• What to do if your own insurance does not cover your accident-related losses
• How to assess financial liability when the at-fault driver is not the car owner
• Every other insurance-related rule, law, and strategy that is relevant to your case

An experienced attorney will bring a wealth of knowledge to your case. This knowledge may be particularly valuable due to the complicated nature of your accident.

Options for Seeking Compensation After a Car Accident

There are several possible ways to secure compensation after your accident, including:

• Filing a claim with your auto insurance provider
• Filing a claim with the insurer representing the vehicle’s owner
• Filing a claim with the insurer representing the at-fault driver
• Filing a lawsuit against any parties with legal responsibility for your accident-related damages

Car accidents that cause injuries often cost more than the limits of a single auto policy provide for. This may mean your case involves multiple insurance claims and potentially a lawsuit.

Allow your lawyer to develop your case strategy. Their legal knowledge, insurance knowledge, and experience with similar cases will allow them to identify the right course(s) of action for you.

What to Do After Your Car Accident

Chaotic may understate the post-accident experience. You may suffer physical pain, need to sort out financial liability for your accident, and face countless other challenges after the collision, such as contacting your employer. Let a lawyer help you.

Your greatest priorities after your car accident:

1. Finding an experienced lawyer to guide your case: You can find a car accident lawyer whose priority is securing your financial recovery. They will protect you and provide clear advice to guide you through the case ahead.
2. Seeking all the medical care you need: You must get medical attention for injuries and symptoms you experience after your accident. You can be in danger if you do not get a comprehensive physical exam. You may also seek mental health treatment if you are suffering psychologically or emotionally because of the accident.

Florida Statutes § 95.11 generally requires car accident lawyers in Florida to file cases within two years of the accident. Similar statutes exist in most other states. For this reason, it is critical that you not wait any longer to hire your attorney.

If you miss the filing deadline for your case or lose important evidence because you waited to hire a lawyer, the financial consequences of your delay can be significant.

More Tips to Follow After a Car Accident

After your accident, hiring a lawyer and finding a capable doctor are the major priorities.

You should also:

• Keep any medical bills, medical images, and other injury-related documentation
• Maintain a written record of pain, mental health difficulties, and other challenges you face because of your car accident
• Refrain from speaking directly with insurance companies (refer them to your lawyer)
• Lean on advice from your lawyer and doctor

If you have any questions, are unsure how to proceed, or have concerns, speak with your lawyer. They should provide their phone number so you can contact them at any time.

Your Lawyer Will Seek Fair Compensation for All Accident-Related Damages

Your attorney will fight tirelessly for the financial recovery you are entitled to. While each case is unique, car accident victims often experience:

Unexpected Medical Expenses

Medical expenses are always a burden. They can be even more burdensome when they are unexpected (as is the case when car accidents happen).

Your attorney will demand that liable parties cover the cost of:

• Ambulance transport
• Emergency medical services
• Hospitalization
• Medications
• Surgeries
• Medical imaging
• Doctor visits, including specialist appointments
• Cosmetic procedures for scarring and other disfigurement

Every car accident victim has a different injury profile and medical needs. Your attorney will work closely with your doctors to document your medical care and include healthcare costs in your case.

Professional Interruptions (and Related Damages)

If injuries from your car accident interfere with your professional life, your attorney will value your professional damages.

Such damages may include:

• Lost income
• Diminished earning capacity
• Lost chances for performance bonuses
• Ineligibility for promotions

You may risk losing your job, career, and benefits if your injuries are serious. Car accident lawyers can consult employers and economists to help document clients’ professional damages.

Property Expenses

Auto accidents almost always cause property costs, which can include:

• Vehicle repair costs
• The cost of a new vehicle (when a car is totaled)
• The cost of replacing personal items like clothing, cell phones, and items inside the vehicle when the accident happened
• The cost of temporary transportation

Your lawyer will contact your mechanic and any other insightful parties to calculate your property expenses.

Mental Health Treatment Costs

Car accident victims who need medication, therapy, or other mental health treatment can pursue compensation for their care-related expenses. Your lawyer will evaluate your treatment costs and include them in your claim or lawsuit.

Pain and Suffering

Your accident may cause unseen harm, much of which may qualify as pain and suffering.

Your pain and suffering may include:

• Pain from your injuries
• Neurological issues
• Personality and mood changes
• Memory issues
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Lost quality of life

Some accident victims face substantial changes they find immensely distressing. Civil courts use damages known as pain and suffering to compensate victims for such harm.

Steps Your Car Accident Lawyer Will Take to Secure Your Financial Recovery

Your legal team will personalize a case strategy built around your accident-related damages. They will fulfill every step of this strategy, checking in periodically while you recover.

You should expect your car accident lawyer to:

Gather Evidence from Your Accident

Evidence can go a long way toward winning a car accident case.

Your attorney will immediately pursue any evidence that benefits your case, which may include:

• Eyewitness testimony detailing how and why the car accident happened
• Video of the accident captured on security cameras, traffic cameras, or other sources
• Any police report detailing facts about the collision
• Photographs of damaged vehicles and other accident-related scenes
• Statements from those involved in the accident

Car accident lawyers have the infrastructure to obtain evidence right away. Your attorney and their investigators will gather all relevant evidence while it is available, but you must hire your legal team before they can do this.

Establish Liability for Your Damages

Your lawyer will determine liability for your accident-related damages based on all the facts about your accident.

Potential defendants in car accident cases include:

• Drivers
• Motor vehicle manufacturers
• Employers whose employees cause a crash
• Municipalities (which are generally responsible for dangerous road conditions)
• Pedestrians who trigger an accident

Your attorney will identify who is liable for your accident. In their case, your lawyer will explain why those parties are liable. They will align all relevant evidence to show why their determination of liability is accurate.

Calculate the Financial Cost of Your Damages

All of your economic and non-economic damages have a specific monetary value. Your lawyer will calculate that value. Once they are certain of your accident-related damages, your attorney will be ready to negotiate a settlement.

Secure Documentation of Your Damages

Your case will include documentation of your accident-related damages, which may include:

• CT scans, X-rays, MRIs, and any other images of your injuries
• Your doctors’ diagnoses of your injuries
• Bills for accident-related medical care
• Invoices for the repair of your vehicle and replacement of other damaged property
• Diagnosis of conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD
• Any other evidence of your economic and non-economic damages

If liable parties dispute any of your damages, this documentation will back up your lawyer’s claims.

Negotiate a Settlement on Your Behalf

Car accident victims may get compensation from insurance companies or directly from liable parties. Your attorney will relentlessly pursue a fair settlement, which is how most civil cases conclude.

File Any Necessary Lawsuit for You

Those liable for car accident victims’ damages do not always extend a fair settlement. When this happens, the accident victim’s lawyer can file a lawsuit.

Once your lawyer files a lawsuit, liable parties will have to consider whether they’re willing to risk losing in court. Your attorney can continue negotiating a settlement after filing the suit, and liable parties may finally meet their settlement demands.

Complete a Trial, if Necessary

Your attorney can take your case to court, if necessary. Though the majority of car accident cases settle, your attorney should prepare your case for trial. If liable parties never meet their settlement demands, they will be ready to fight for you in court.

Never Wait Any Longer to Hire Your Car Accident Attorney

Remember that your car accident case will have a strict deadline if you require litigation. Don’t wait to hire your lawyer, as you can face catastrophic financial consequences if you miss the filing deadline.

Consultations are free, so you risk nothing by having a skilled personal injury attorney evaluate your best options and legal rights today.

If a car hits you from behind, the motorist who hit you is likely liable for your accident-related damages. You should seek the compensation you deserve by hiring a car accident lawyer to lead your case. You should also seek medical attention as soon as possible, as this will protect your health and benefit your case.

You may be facing a long road to recovery, and you should do everything you can to promote your healing. Hiring a car accident attorney will spare you from the stress and physical demands of your case and can be a key step in recovering as quickly as possible.

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Let a Lawyer Communicate with Insurers After Your Accident

Dealing with insurance companies is a vital part of the post-accident process.

You should consider hiring a lawyer to oversee your insurance claim because:

• Insurance companies may use bad-faith tactics during your claim, and your lawyer will ensure such tactics do not sink your claim.
• You may need to give recorded statements to insurers, and the slightest slip-up can cost you compensation.
• Your health needs to be the priority after your accident, and dealing with insurers may distract from your recovery.

An experienced car accident lawyer will have dealt with insurers many times. They may be familiar with the specific insurers involved in your case and can handle your claim in an efficient, professional manner.

Essential Steps to Take After Your Car Accident

Now that you know what not to do after your accident, consider the steps you should take after the rear-end collision.

You should:

• Get treatment for all accident-related injuries: You should never wait to see a doctor after an auto accident. You may have physical injuries that require immediate care. You also need to document your injuries in advance of an insurance claim or lawsuit. Seeing a qualified doctor can protect both you and your case.
• Find a lawyer worthy of leading your case: Hiring an experienced car accident attorney should be at the top of your priority list after your collision. The sooner you hire your lawyer, the sooner you can focus on your health without facing the stress of your case.
• Follow your doctors’ and lawyers’ advice: Having qualified doctors and a proven lawyer takes the thought out of your case. Simply follow these individuals’ advice, and you may recover both physically and financially.

If you do your due diligence in finding the right attorney, they will fight for (and possibly secure) the entire financial recovery you are entitled to.

How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You

The cost of a car accident can reach six or seven figures, or even more, depending on the severity of the victim’s injuries. You should obtain every dollar you deserve, and your lawyer will do that for you.

Your car accident lawyer will oversee the insurance process and any necessary lawsuit. A lawyer’s duties in motorcycle accident cases include:

Finding the Cause of the Accident

Though rear-end accidents often happen because of driver negligence, other possibilities exist.

Your lawyer will investigate the collision and secure any evidence that helps prove fault, which may include:

• The police report
• Eyewitness accounts of the accident
• Your account of the accident
• Video footage of the collision
• Photographs of the accident scene

Your attorney will bring together all useful evidence to present a convincing case for fault.

Identifying Liable Parties

Those responsible for a rear-end accident can include:

• The motorist who struck your vehicle in the rear
• The manufacturer of a defective vehicle or vehicle component
• A municipality responsible for dangerous roads
• An employer whose employee struck your vehicle

If any party’s actions contributed to your rear-end collision, your attorney will document their negligence.

Documenting and Calculating the Client’s Damages

Your legal team will identify how your rear-end car accident has harmed you.

They will secure documentation of your damages, including:

• Your account of pain and suffering
• A mental health expert’s diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other types of pain and suffering
• Medical bills
• Invoices for vehicle repairs or the purchase of a new vehicle
• Past income records that show the cost of your lost income

Your attorney will also gather any medical records and images detailing your injuries.

Negotiating with Auto Insurance Companies

Most car accident victims receive compensation through a settlement. Your lawyer will represent you in negotiations with insurers.

Even though an insurance company may know it owes you money, you may face:

• An unjust denial of your claim
• An accusation that you caused the rear-end accident
• Undervaluation of your accident-related losses
• One or more lowball settlement offers
• Contentious settlement negotiations

Insurance companies sometimes handle rear-end accident cases transparently. However, insurers sometimes place their own financial welfare over the accident victim’s.

Whether insurers handle your claim in good faith or not, your lawyer will demand the settlement you deserve.

Filing a Lawsuit on the Client’s Behalf (If They Choose To)

When insurers and other liable parties won’t pay a rear-end accident victim fairly, the victim’s lawyer can file a lawsuit. If your case reaches an impasse where a lawsuit is on the table, your lawyer will discuss it with you.

As the accident victim, you have the power to accept a settlement or let your lawyer pursue a lawsuit. Your attorney will provide honest advice but ultimately defer to you.

Completing a Trial, if Necessary

If you have your lawyer lead a lawsuit and your case goes to trial, your attorney will:

• Explain what lies ahead
• Accompany you to any depositions
• Organize all case-related materials for court
• Make opening and closing arguments
• Question witnesses
• Present and critique evidence
• Oversee every other detail of your court case

While trials generally take longer than settling, the financial reward of a trial can be significant. Your lawyer can advise if going to trial is right for you.

Can I Handle My Own Rear-End Accident Case?

If you don’t hire a qualified car accident lawyer:

• Case demands may overwhelm you: Insurance claims and lawsuits can be rigorous obligations. Between traveling to case-related sites, dealing with insurers, and preparing your case, you may become overwhelmed by the demands of securing a financial recovery.
• You may struggle to fund a successful case: The strength of your case may depend on the financial resources invested in it. A law firm can invest heavily in cases because of their existing resources. Left to pay for your own case, you may struggle to pay for case-related resources like expert testimony.
• Find yourself at the mercy of insurers: When you deal directly with insurers, you face a host of risks. You might make a verbal error that indicates you were at fault for the accident. You might also accept a settlement that proves to be less than you deserve. With a lawyer, you won’t have to deal with insurers.
• Fail to obtain the amount of compensation you deserve: If you do not present a strong case and negotiate effectively, you may not secure the amount of money you deserve from insurers. Such a failure can cause long-term harm to your financial security and quality of life.
• Compromise your health: If you do not focus primarily on your recovery after the accident, your health may suffer. By allowing an attorney to handle your case, you may have more time to rest and seek the treatment you need.

You can avoid all of these risks by hiring a car accident lawyer.

Your Attorney Will Demand Fair Compensation for Your Damages

Your legal team will band together to secure all of the money you deserve.

Your lawyer will consider both economic and non-economic damages, which may include:

• Medical costs, including emergency transport, emergency care, medical imaging, surgery, hospital services, and all other accident-related medical care
• Pain and suffering, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sleep problems, lost quality of life, scarring and disfigurement, and physical pain
• Property costs, which include the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and securing temporary transportation
• Professional damages, including lost income, diminished earning power, lost bonus opportunities, and any other professional harm

If a loved one dies because of injuries suffered in a rear-end collision, an attorney will seek justice for you. When you suffer harm because of another person’s negligence, turn to an experienced car accident lawyer for help.

Can I Afford the Cost of Hiring a Lawyer?

Yes, you can afford a car accident attorney. In general, injury attorneys see the financial stress that clients often face, so they offer a fee structure that works for all parties.

When you hire a car accident lawyer, you:

• Don’t pay any upfront fees or costs to the law firm
• Get total financial support from the firm, which will cover expert fees, filing costs, and other expenses
• Agree that they will receive a percentage of any financial recovery they secure

If the law firm negotiates a settlement or wins a jury award, it will receive fair payment for its services. If the law firm does not obtain the compensation you deserve, it will not charge fees for its services.

This is a no-win, no-fee arrangement that motivates your law firm to obtain all of the compensation you deserve.

Do I Need to Hire My Lawyer Right Away

You should hire your car accident lawyer as soon as possible because:

Your Case Comes with a Strict Filing Deadline

State laws require victims of rear-end accidents to file personal injury lawsuits within a certain period of time. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations, and it is a deadline you cannot miss if your case requires litigation.

If you hire your lawyer as soon as possible, you should avoid missing the filing deadline for your case.

You Must Claim Important Evidence as Soon as Possible

Some forms of evidence can’t wait. Video footage and eyewitness testimony may not be available if you wait to collect them. Because your attorney will be the one gathering evidence, you should hire them as soon as possible so they can secure all important evidence.

Insurance Companies May Be Actively Contacting You

Accident victims almost always interact with insurers. If you hire a lawyer, though, your attorney will deal with insurers.

More specifically, your lawyer will:

• Make any statements the insurance companies require
• Ensure your account of the accident is thorough and complete
• Prevent insurers from pressuring you to accept a lowball settlement
• Pressure the insurance company to move forward with your claim in an efficient manner

The slightest error can compromise your insurance claim. Retain your attorney as soon as possible so they can take control of the claims process.

There Is No Reason to Wait Before Hiring Your Attorney

There is simply no reason to wait before hiring a car accident lawyer. So long as you do your homework to identify a capable attorney, you should not wait to hire your attorney.

There are no financial barriers to hiring a car accident lawyer. You can also complete free consultations as you identify the right law firm to handle your case. Look for a personal injury law firm in Seattle with relevant case results and positive client reviews. Start this process as soon as possible knowing there are time-sensitive aspects of your case.

In today’s busy and hurried world, getting enough sleep may seem unattainable. However, drowsy driving can cause reduced reaction time and impaired judgment, placing other drivers at risk for serious harm. If you’ve been seriously injured by someone who was drowsy driving, contact a car accident lawyer who can help you explore your options. While each case is different, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How Driver Fatigue Causes Accidents

Too many drivers underestimate how much a lack of a good night’s sleep affects their ability to drive safely. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drowsy driving is the cause of about 91,000 motor vehicle crashes each year. Drowsy driving-related crashes result in about 50,000 injuries annually. Roughly 795 are fatal crashes.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, drivers who go a full 24 hours without sufficient sleep are as impaired as drunk drivers with a 0.10% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level. With a legal limit of 0.08% in most states, this indicates the very real danger of a long drive with no rest. Driver fatigue and sleep deprivation can cause car accidents in the following ways:

• High speeds: Drifting off to sleep can occur at any speed. However, when a driver falls asleep while driving at a high speed, a resulting car accident can result in serious injuries or death.
• Delayed reaction time: Drivers who fall asleep behind the wheel cannot brake or swerve to avoid objects in front of them.
• Swerving: Drifting off behind the wheel and into another lane places drivers at risk for a head-on collision.
• Overcorrecting: Other drivers may use their horns to alert and awaken a sleeping driver. Startled awake, the driver may then overcorrect or jerk the wheel in reaction to the noise. On a busy highway, sudden movements like this can result in a multi-car crash.

Not all drivers who experience fatigue actually fall asleep behind the wheel. Driving while drowsy places drivers at twice the risk of making performance errors than non-drowsy drivers, even if they stay awake. All it takes to change your life forever is a fatigued driver crashing into you on the road, as you cross the street, or while riding your bicycle.

Common Injuries Caused by Driver Fatigue

Everyone needs sleep to function. When a fatigued driver ignores their body’s need for rest, their collision with you can result in serious injuries. The average vehicle weighs approximately 4,000 pounds, and in a collision, the force of that weight transfers into your car and body. Here are just a few of the common injuries victims suffer when a tired driver crashes into them:

Broken bones

Broken bones are painful and can make performing simple tasks impossible while they heal. A violent crash can result in more than one broken bone, sometimes requiring multiple surgeries and extensive physical therapy. The recovery process is slow and may involve casts or other medical devices to limit your mobility.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

A bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or a penetrating head injury, can result in a traumatic brain injury. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that a TBI can range from mild to severe. The more severe the injury, the worse the impact on basic functions, including:

• Cognitive function: Thinking and memory.
• Motor function: Coordination and balance.
• Sensation: Hearing, vision, taste, and touch.
• Behavior and emotions: Anger and depression.

A loved one with a severe TBI may never again be the person you once knew. Their need for personal and medical care can cost thousands, if not millions, of dollars over their lifetime.

Spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injuries can be especially devastating for victims and their families. Spinal cord injuries are categorized as either complete or incomplete. With a complete injury, there is no movement or sensation below the point of injury. Patients with an incomplete injury experience some sensation and limited movement below the point of injury. The result is generally some form of paralysis, often making a power chair, home modifications, and special transportation essential. Replacing medical equipment, accessible vehicles, and power chairs throughout someone’s lifetime is costly. The estimated cost of a spinal cord injury is in the millions of dollars.

Internal injuries

Even if you feel fine immediately following an accident, accept medical attention. Internal injuries such as internal bleeding or organ damage aren’t easy to detect right away. Only a trained medical professional and hospital tests can determine if you have internal injuries. Never underestimate the impact of a violent collision on your body; seek medical attention right away after a car accident.

Burns

A drowsy truck driver hauling flammable liquids can place you at risk of serious burns. If the cargo tank spills during a rollover or other type of collision, the possibility of fire or an explosion is very real. Burn injuries typically require treatment at a burn center. Depending upon the severity of your burn, you may require plastic surgery and skin grafts. Burn injuries can also result in emotional and psychological trauma due to scarring and limited mobility. Joining a support group can help you recover with the support of other burn victims. A drowsy or fatigued driver can change your life forever. You or your passengers may experience one or more of these serious injuries. The lasting impacts may affect your career and your relationships.

The inability to return to a job you love or to participate in activities you once enjoyed can lead to depression. Drivers who don’t care about the safety of those with whom they share the road are negligent. If you’ve experienced a serious, life-changing accident because of another driver’s choice to get on the road fatigued, discuss your case with a personal injury attorney.

Drivers Most at Risk for Driving Drowsy

Anyone who operates a motor vehicle is at risk for a drowsy-driving crash. Sleep is essential for our daily lives, and a lack of rest is downright dangerous. A few examples of drivers most at risk for falling asleep behind the wheel include:

Commercial drivers – Drivers of commercial vehicles, including tractor-trailers, buses, and tow trucks, often spend long hours on the road. The lack of opportunity to move around and the monotony of the road can lead to driver fatigue. Government regulations limit how many hours a truck driver can drive at one time. Mandatory rest periods only help if the driver can sleep during time off the road. While the average person requires seven to eight hours of sleep per night to function fully, most truck drivers average less than five hours per night.

Drivers who work a night shift – Adjusting to different work schedules can interrupt a person’s normal sleep habits. For drivers who have difficulty sleeping during the day, the end of a night shift generally leaves them exhausted. A commute home can turn deadly if a driver drifts off to sleep and into the opposite lane.

Drivers with undiagnosed or untreated sleep disorders – Many drivers get behind the wheel unaware they have an undiagnosed sleep disorder. Problems such as obstructive sleep apnea, insomnia, and narcolepsy impede healthy sleep and increase the risk of daytime sleepiness.

Narcolepsy – This sleep disorder is especially dangerous due to so-called “sleep attacks,” which cause people to fall asleep quickly during routine tasks. People with narcolepsy have a hard time staying awake during the day whether or not they get adequate sleep at night.

Drivers taking medications that make them sleepy – Certain prescription medications and over-the-counter medications, including some sleep medicine, come with warning labels about driving while taking the medication. Many drivers ignore these warnings, thinking a cup of coffee can help them to stay alert. Risking a drive to the store or work while drowsy from medication is reckless behavior.

Drunk drivers – Along with impairing a driver’s ability to operate their vehicle, alcohol also magnifies the effects of drowsiness. A drowsy, drunk driver is even more impaired and can easily fall asleep, increasing the risk that they will cause a crash.

Any driver who chooses to delay rest for any reason is a danger behind the wheel. No amount of caffeine, loud music, or fresh air can keep a drowsy driver awake or alert enough to be safe behind the wheel.

Drowsy Driving Is Dangerous

Everyone gets tired at some point during the day. When a driver knows they are driving drowsy but chooses to get behind the wheel anyway, that’s reckless behavior. Trying to trick themselves into staying awake while trying to pay attention to the road is an extremely bad idea since the body can only fight sleep for so long.

When a driver does fall asleep at the wheel, they rarely remember what happened. For this reason, law enforcement often has a difficult time listing fatigue as an accident’s primary cause. Unless the driver admits to feeling drowsy before the crash, chances are fatigue won’t make it into the accident report.

The true number of accidents involving drowsy and fatigued drivers may never be known. A study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates that 328,000 drowsy driving crashes occur each year— more than three times the police-reported number. The study also found that 109,000 of those crashes resulted in injury and more than 6,000 resulted in fatalities. Researchers associated with the study estimate that fatalities from drowsy driving crashes are 350 percent greater than reported.

The CDC recently shared a survey of approximately 150,000 adults in 19 states and the District of Columbia, which found the following:

• 4 percent admitted to having fallen asleep while behind the wheel at least once in the past 30 days.
• Individuals who slept less than 6 hours a day or individuals who snored were more likely to report falling asleep at the wheel.

New technologies aim to reduce accidents caused by driver fatigue. A drowsiness alert system gauges how many times a driver departs from the center of their lane over a period of time. The system uses a variety of warning signs to alert drivers, including seat vibrations, audio alerts, and dashboard visuals to remind you to take a break. Until this new technology is available in all vehicles, tired drivers remain a risk to others.

How a Car Accident Attorney Can Help

A drowsy driver can crash into you at any time—when you are walking, riding a bicycle or motorcycle, or driving to work. Your injuries can cause you and your loved ones physical, emotional, and financial stress. A car accident lawyer can help.

The personal injury attorneys at Boohoff Law offer a free case evaluation. Upon reviewing relevant evidence, our experienced auto accident attorney can describe your best options for moving forward.

A Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You Fight the Insurance Company

Representatives from insurance companies may offer you a settlement soon after the accident. An offer from your insurance company may seem like a lot of money, but it is most likely less than you deserve. Insurance companies look out for themselves and not for victims. Ensure that you can attend to your future medical needs by not speaking with insurance representatives yourself and contacting an attorney instead.

Your lawyer will take charge of acquiring all relevant evidence to support your personal injury claim, such as medical records, police reports, and witness statements. Placing your case in the capable hands of an auto accident lawyer can reduce the stress of a car accident claim. Personal injury lawyers are trained to conduct negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf so that you can concentrate on your health.

The Representation You Deserve

Don’t settle for less than you deserve. If you’ve been seriously injured due to no fault of your own and you want justice, consider securing the services of a personal injury attorney adept at handling car accident claims. Having the right legal representation on your side can make all the difference for your financial future.

If you or a family member has been injured in a car accident with a drowsy driver, time is of the essence. The sooner you schedule a free evaluation with a car accident attorney, the better for your case. Contact one of our experienced car accident lawyers today.

Call (877) 999-9999 or email Boohoff Law today – available 24/7