The Florida Department of Transportation reports that in 2007, vehicle accidents caused approximately 212,000 injuries resulting in 3,221 deaths. Car crashes are the most common form of vehicle accidents on the Florida highways and one of the leading causes of personal injuries in the country. A car accident can be devastating to both you and your family, causing not only severe physical and emotional harm, but financial hardship as well. According to the National Safety Council, depending on the severity of injury, the average cost of car accident injury ranges from $24,400 to $62,500. These figures include medical bills, lost wages due to missed time from work, loss of future earnings, and repair costs. Can you afford to be hurt in a car accident?
The Florida car accident attorneys of Hogan & Chapman can offer crucial advice if you’ve been injured in a car wreck. We have more than 20 years of experience in dealing with personal injury cases, including automobile accidents. We understand the life changes and hardships following a car crash injury. Through use of extensive, professional resources, we can determine who is liable for damages and how best to proceed with your case. While we work hard collecting evidence and preparing your case for court, we always have time to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
Injuries sustained from car crashes can be life altering. Broken bones, neck and head injuries, and severe cuts are very common. Victims can also suffer from spine and brain injuries, memory loss, and permanent disability.
Most car accidents are caused by careless or negligent driving. Below are some of the main causes of Florida car accidents.
* Speeding
* Drunk driving
* Improper turning / failure to signal
* Careless or illegal passing
* Driving while drowsy
* Tailgating
* Distractions like cell phones, radio, etc.
While bad weather and roadway hazards contribute to a number of accidents, driver error and negligence are the highest contributing factors. Improperly maintained or poor manufacturing can also lead to injury or death. Problems with wheels and brakes are the main cause of defect-related accidents.
After a car accident, life gets hectic. You will have many important decisions to make concerning family, healthcare, and your future. You may be approached by insurance companies wanting you to give statements, fill out forms, and possibly accept financial settlements which are often far too small for your needs. The best course of action to protect your rights is to consult a lawyer before committing to anything with the insurance companies.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle or truck accident, you need the financial resources to take care of your family. There is no reason to suffer with debilitating injuries that resulted from another person’s carelessness.
Crowded and congested roadways lead to accidents, and in Florida in 2005, there were more than 450 fatal motorcycle accidents, and 60 involving tractor trailers.
Motorcycle accidents have increased exponentially in Florida in the past seven years. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that in the three years following Florida’s decision to repeal its mandatory helmet law in 2000 that there were 933 motorcyclists killed. The number of Florida motorcycle deaths increased 81 percent, an increase from the 515 bikers killed from 1997 to 1999. In a 2006 update, NHTSA reported that motorcycle rider fatalities have increased for the seventh year in a row.
Tractor trailer accidents result in thousands of catastrophic injuries and deaths in the United States every year. Tractor trailers, 18-wheelers, big rigs, fire engines, semi trucks, and other large commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of greater than 10,000 pounds account for the majority of accidents, deaths and injuries on the nation’s roadways.
Have you been injured in a trucking accident?
If you have been injured in an accident involving a tractor trailer and need a skilled trucking accident lawyer, please contact Hogan & Chapman, P.L. for a free, no-obligation, and confidential consultation. At Hogan & Chapman, P.L., we believe our system of justice works best when skilled attorneys that have the resources to fully prepare and try a case represent both sides. Please complete our online contact form or call us at 1-561-650-0055
