Our Fort Lauderdale Single Vehicle Lawyer Outlines Your Legal Options
Being involved in a single vehicle accident can be scary for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is that it may seem like you do not have a source of financial recovery. However, drivers and passengers injured in single vehicle accidents will be entitled to compensation in many cases, and many victims will be able to fully recover their losses with the help of an experienced Fort Lauderdale single vehicle accident lawyer.
When Can Drivers Seek Financial Compensation for Single Vehicle Car Accidents?
Drivers can recover financial compensation for single vehicle accidents in a variety of different circumstances. For example, the following are all situations in which compensation may be available:
- Being Run Off of the Road by Another Driver – Even if you were not involved in a direct collision, if another driver ran you off of the road, then that driver (or his or her insurance company) could still be deemed legally at fault for your accident.
- Crashing Due to an Encounter with a Reckless Cyclist or Pedestrian – Similarly, if you swerved in order to avoid a reckless bicyclist or pedestrian, then he or she could be liable for your injuries.
- Crashing or Being Injured Due to a Vehicle Defect – If your brakes or steering failed, or if any other issue with your vehicle caused you to crash, then you could have a claim against your vehicle’s manufacturer. The same could be true if you were injured as the result of a vehicle defect (i.e. your airbag failed to deploy).
- Crashing Due to an Issue with the Road – Issues with the road are common factors in single vehicle accidents. If your tires slipped on gravel, you suddenly encountered an unmarked construction zone or any other issue with the road caused you to crash, then the local road authority or a government contractor could be liable.
Also, keep in mind that you should be able to file a personal injury protection (PIP) claim regardless of the cause of your accident. PIP provides no-fault coverage, and it is mandatory under Florida law.
When Can Passengers Seek Financial Compensation?
Generally speaking, passengers have the same legal rights as drivers following single vehicle accidents in Florida. This includes the right to file for PIP coverage if you have it. However, passengers have another important option as well: If the driver of the vehicle in which you were riding was negligent, you may be able to file a claim with his or her insurance company. While this may not seem like something you want to do if you were riding with a friend or family member, this is what auto insurance is for, and your friend or loved one would almost certainly want you to take advantage of the coverage that he or she has available.
Schedule a Free Initial Consultation with the Maus Law Firm
Were you seriously injured in a single vehicle accident in Fort Lauderdale? If so, Fort Lauderdale car accident attorney Joseph Maus would be happy to speak with you about your legal rights. To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation at your convenience, please call 855-999-5297 or tell us how to reach you online now.