If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident in Fort Lauderdale, FL, you may have questions about your rights and what steps to take next. While you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses, the insurance companies won’t make it easy. Workman Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers can help.
Our Fort Lauderdale distracted driving accident lawyers have 22 years of combined experience and have won over $30 million for our clients. If you hire us, we’ll work hard to maximize your claim while you focus on your recovery. Contact our team or call (954) 361-3997 today for a free consultation.
How Workman Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Distracted Driving Accident in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Florida has “no-fault” car insurance rules, but that doesn’t mean you’re always limited to your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. Depending on the facts of your case, you might be able to file a claim against the responsible party for substantially more than what PIP can provide.
An experienced Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyer with our team can assist you from start to finish. We know how local laws, courts, and procedures work inside and out; we’ll use that knowledge to benefit your case at every turn. More specifically, we’ll be able to:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence
- Handle communication with insurance companies
- Hire expert witnesses along the way as needed
- Negotiate for a fair settlement
- Represent you in court if necessary
Having an attorney on your side can reduce stress and increase your chances of a successful outcome. At Workman Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers, we’re committed to fighting for the rights of accident victims in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Contact us today to schedule a free case review.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving happens when a driver’s attention is taken away from the road. This can include:
- Texting or using a cellphone
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting the radio or GPS
- Talking to passengers
- Daydreaming or losing focus
Even a few seconds of distraction can cause a serious accident. For example, sending a text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed. Distracted driving endangers not only the driver but also passengers, pedestrians, and other road users.
What Are Florida’s Distracted Driving Laws?
Florida has laws in place to combat distracted driving. Under the Florida Ban on Texting While Driving Law, texting while driving is a primary offense, meaning police can pull drivers over if they are caught texting. Additionally, drivers cannot use handheld devices in school zones or construction zones.
Violating these laws can result in fines, points on a driver’s license, and increased insurance rates. These penalties are meant to deter distracted driving and make the roads safer for everyone. However, distracted driving accidents still happen, and victims have the right to hold negligent drivers accountable.
How Common Are Distracted Driving Accidents in Florida?
Distracted driving is a major problem in Florida. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), there were over 56,000 distracted driving crashes in one recent year alone. These accidents resulted in thousands of injuries and hundreds of deaths. In Fort Lauderdale, where traffic congestion is common, the risks are even higher.
Many of these accidents could have been prevented if drivers had stayed focused on the road. Education and enforcement of distracted driving laws are critical in reducing these numbers. If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident, it’s important to know your legal options.
What Should I Do After a Fort Lauderdale Distracted Driving Accident?
If you are involved in a distracted driving accident, follow these steps to protect yourself:
- Call 911: Report the accident and request medical help if anyone is injured.
- Document the Scene: Take pictures of the vehicles, injuries, and any evidence of distraction, like a cell phone in the other driver’s hand.
- Exchange Information: Get the names, contact details, and insurance information of all parties involved.
- Speak to Witnesses: If there are witnesses, ask for their statements and contact information.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away.
- Contact an Attorney: A lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process.
Taking these steps can strengthen your case and improve your chances of getting fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Distracted Driving Accident in Fort Lauderdale?
Yes, you may be entitled to compensation if you were injured in a distracted driving accident caused by someone else’s negligence. This compensation can cover both your economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical expenses: Hospital bills, physical therapy, medications, and future medical care.
- Lost wages: If you’re unable to work due to your injuries.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
- Property damage: Costs to repair or replace your vehicle.
To recover compensation, you’ll need to prove that the other driver was distracted and that their actions caused the accident. An experienced car accident lawyer can gather evidence, such as phone records, eyewitness testimony, and traffic camera footage, to build a strong case.
Call Our Fort Lauderdale Distracted Driving Accident Attorneys for Help
If you’ve been injured in a distracted driving accident in Fort Lauderdale, FL, don’t face the legal process alone. At Workman Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers, we have the experience and resources to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact our Fort Lauderdale distracted driving accident attorneys today for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.
