In the United States alone, more than 37,000 people die in road crashes each year. Another 2.35 million are injured or permanently disabled. These tragic accidents are often caused by negligent or reckless drivers, pushing victims to contact a Tampa car accident lawyer for representation.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an automobile accident caused by another person, you should contact Tampa car accident lawyer to file a personal injury lawsuit. This lawsuit will seek financial compensation to cover medical bills and expenses incurred from the injury.
After an accident occurs, it’s essential to contact an experienced Tampa car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Your attorney can guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit, in addition to obtaining police reports, speaking to witnesses, and communicating with insurance companies.
At Dennis A. Lopez & Associates, our team of Tampa auto accident lawyers has more than 30 years of experience in personal injury cases – and a proven track record of success. Call our office at (813) 223-1977 for a free consultation.
Causes of Florida Car Accidents
While many crashes are the result of genuine mistakes, there are other causes of automobile accidents that are less forgivable, including:
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- Distracted Driving
- Speeding
- Drunk Driving
- Reckless Driving
- Ignoring Red Lights
- Ignoring Stop Signs
- Wrong-Way Driving
- Tailgating
- Drowsy Driving
- Road Rage
If you were injured in an accident caused by one of these poor decisions, a Tampa car accident lawyer can assist you in fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Distracted Driving in Florida
In 2015, more than 3,000 lives were taken by distracted drivers in the United States. The NHTSA estimates 660,000 drivers use electronic devices while driving on a daily basis. In the state of Florida, distracted driving is an ongoing problem. Between 2013 and 2016, the number of automobile accidents in the state rose by 11 percent. The number of distracted driving crashes, however, rose by 44 percent.
Under current state law, texting while driving is not a primary offense. This means police officers cannot pull offenders over immediately, leaving the hands of those who could stop accidents tied. In the early months of 2018, representatives in Florida promised to get tough on texting, introducing a bill that would change current law. The bill was met with intense criticism. Even after a revision addressing common concerns, the discussion was tabled.
Steps to Take After a Tampa Car Accident
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- Step 1: Never leave the scene of an accident. Even if you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run, wait until first responders arrive.
- Step 2: Before assessing property damage, make sure everyone is okay. This includes those injured in other vehicles. Get immediate medical attention for anyone with serious injuries. Do not, under any circumstances, move someone who is unconscious or suffering from neck or back discomfort unless you have no choice.
- Step 3: Assuming yourself, another person, or your vehicle has suffered significant damage, call the police. When officers respond, obtain their names and badge numbers. You should also ask that a police report is filed.
- Step 4: Exchange information with other drivers involved in the accident. You’ll need names, phone numbers, addresses, license plate numbers, drivers’ license numbers, and insurance information. Consider getting the names, numbers, and addresses of passengers, who may serve as witnesses in the future.
- Step 5: Take photographs of damage to yourself, your vehicle, and other vehicles involved in the accident. These photos could help your insurance company determine the compensation required for repairs. They can also serve as proof in court.
- Step 6: Keep track of any medical treatment you receive. Write down the names and office numbers of all medical professionals and document the medications you receive. Request copies of reports and bills. All of this information will help a Tampa car accident lawyer outline your medical expenses.
- Step 7: Be wary of accepting a settlement offer from an insurance company before speaking with an experienced attorney. Some injuries take weeks, or months, to fully reveal themselves. It’s important to ensure that you’ll be compensated for all of your injuries and medical expenses before settling your case.
- Step 8: Consider contacting a Tampa car accident attorney for assistance in filing a personal injury lawsuit or negotiating a settlement with involved parties.
Contact a Tampa Car Accident Lawyer for Representation
In the state of Florida, you have four years to file a claim after being injured in an automobile accident. If you allow this window to close, you’ll never receive compensation for your injuries.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a careless accident caused by a negligent or reckless driver, contact our Tampa car accident lawyer at Dennis A. Lopez & Associates by calling (813) 223-1977. Our attorneys will assist you in filing a lawsuit, collecting essential information, and obtaining the compensation you deserve.