Injured Due to Negligence? Call Plantation Car Accident Lawyer Nerina Smart
According to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV), there were 331,341 total vehicle accidents in the state of Florida in 2020. Of those accidents, 3,347 fatalities resulted, along with 212,535 injuries. In Broward County alone, there were 34,046 crashes, 235 fatalities, and 19,016 injuries. In 2015, the two most dangerous areas for car accidents in Broward County were:
- A 2.28 mile stretch of Sheridan Street, bordering Dania Beach and Hollywood
- A 9.09-mile portion of State Road 7, also known as US-441 near Melrose Park
According to Forbes, the average adult will file a claim for an automobile collision about once every 17.9 years. Not every car accident will be a serious one—some will be minor parking lot fender benders. About a third of all collisions are rear-ended collisions, speaking to the fact that we are a nation of distracted, tailgating drivers. We also tend to run into things—stationary objects like poles, trees, or parked cars. These accidents make up as many as 20 percent of all collisions. Having a car accident lawyer in your corner is always the best course of action since car accidents are so relatively common.
Some accidents will be much more serious, leaving drivers with severe, even life-threatening injuries. If you are involved in an accident caused by a negligent driver, you could greatly benefit from speaking to personal injury and car accident lawyer, Nerina Smart. The Law Offices of Nerina Smart, P.A. will work hard on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you need and deserve. You may be entitled to reimbursement for medical expenses and lost wages as well as compensation for lost future wages and pain and suffering.
FAQ: Should You Hire a Lawyer for Your Accident
An Overview of Types of Car Accidents and Causes of Car Accidents
There are many different types of car accidents, with the most common being rear-ended accidents. Rear-end collisions are almost always caused by a combination of inattention, distraction, and following too closely. Rear-end accidents often result in whiplash injuries.
Head-on collisions are virtually always the result of negligence, and often the result of impairment. Head-on collisions are the most likely type of car accident to cause grave injuries or death.
Intersection accidents are usually caused by careless driving—drivers that run red lights, are driving too fast, or are simply not paying attention. Side-impact car accidents are often known as “t-bone” accidents. This type of accident can also cause devastating injuries, as there is little protection on the side unless a car is equipped with side airbags. Rollover accidents are typically single-vehicle accidents. A driver may take a corner too fast, and the vehicle rolls over, potentially crushing the top of the vehicle. SUVs tend to have a higher center of gravity than cars, therefore, are more likely to roll over.
While the causes of car accidents are varied, driver distraction is likely to be the number one cause of car accidents. As a nation, we are multi-taskers, yet driving is one activity that requires your full attention. Talking on a cell phone, fiddling with the GPS, radio, or other car controls, texting, eating, talking to passengers, and turning around to see what the children are doing in the back seat are all forms of distracted driving—that can be lethal. Other causes of car accidents include driver fatigue, driver impairment, aggressive driving, careless driving, bad weather, road construction, and exceeding the speed limit.
What are the Most Common Injuries Following a Car Accident?
Soft tissue injuries are the most common type of car accident injuries, including bruising and contusions, whiplash, and neck and back injuries. Unfortunately, soft tissue injuries can be hard to diagnose, and even harder to prove, even though they can leave the victim with long-term pain. Head injuries are also very common. Head injuries can result in concussions, sometimes leaving the victim with chronic headaches, memory issues, vertigo, and cognitive issues.
Traumatic brain injuries are even more severe as they can change the way the brain processes emotions, handles information, and functions in general. A serious traumatic brain injury can result in lifelong problems.
Internal injuries and broken bones are other common car accident injuries, with more serious crush injuries leading to amputation. Very serious car accidents can cause spinal cord injuries, paraplegia, or quadriplegia. Like severe traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries can also cause a lifetime of medical issues.
FAQs Regarding Florida Car Accidents
When Should You Get a Car Accident Lawyer Following a Collision?
The answer to this question is, “The sooner, the better.” If you have anything more than very minor injuries, you should definitely consult a Plantation, FL car accident attorney. The sooner you have a car accident lawyer on board, the more likely they are able to help you achieve a positive outcome, negotiating a fair settlement on your behalf.
What Should You Do Following a Car Accident That Is Not Your Fault?
- Following a car accident, STOP. Never drive away from the scene of an accident no matter how minor it seems.
- If your vehicle creates a hazard where you stopped, then move it to a safe area such as the side of the road.
- Seek immediate medical attention for all occupants of your vehicle—even if you think you are not that badly injured. Many injuries manifest hours or even days after the accident.
- Exchange information with the other driver, and if you are physically able to, take photos at the scene of the accident, the vehicle damage, and the scene with your cell phone.
- If there were witnesses, obtain witness contact information.
- When you are home, call your insurance company and report the accident to open a claim
- Write down everything you can remember about the accident the same day if possible.
- Keep a file with all medical receipts
- Contact an experienced car accident lawyer immediately following the collision to protect your rights
How a Plantation, FL Car Accident Lawyer from The Law Offices of Nerina Smart, P.A. Can Help
Having a highly experienced car accident lawyer by your side can make a huge difference in the outcome of your Plantation, FL car accident. The Law Offices of Nerina Smart offer highly personalized service to each and every client. We are compassionate, experienced, knowledgeable, and bring the necessary skills to the table to help you obtain the best possible settlement. Contact The Law Offices of Nerina Smart, P.A. conveniently and centrally located in the heart of Broward County to serve the South Florida community today.