James Frazier | | Wrong-Way Accident
Florida Wrong-Way Accident Lawyer

Understanding Fault in Wrong-Way Car Accidents in Florida

Wrong-way car accidents, though relatively rare, often result in severe injuries. Determining fault in such accidents is crucial, as the driver traveling the wrong way is typically held legally responsible. In Florida, even with no-fault car accident laws, fault can still be significant, allowing injured victims to pursue compensation from the at-fault driver.

If you or a loved one were injured in a wrong-way accident in Florida, consulting a Florida wrong-way accident lawyer can be instrumental in holding the responsible party accountable. The attorneys at Paul | Knopf | Bigger offer expert legal guidance to help you navigate the complexities of these cases. Call (800) 434-4327 for a free consultation.

Florida Wrong-Way Crashes

Determining Fault in Florida Wrong-Way Crashes

Fault determination in a wrong-way crash involves several parties, including:

  • Police Officers: Responding officers gather initial evidence and determine preliminary fault.
  • Insurance Companies: Insurers conduct their investigations, especially in fault-based claims.
  • Legal Representatives: Your lawyer will investigate to establish negligence and fault.

Wrong-way accidents typically involve clear evidence showing a driver:

  • Entered a highway or street in the wrong direction.
  • Drove against traffic on a one-way road.
  • Crossed over a centerline or median.

Key evidence includes witness statements, video footage, physical evidence, accident reconstruction reports, and scene surveys.

The Role of a Florida Wrong Way Accident Lawyer

Navigating Florida’s complex car insurance laws can be daunting. A skilled lawyer can:

  • Investigate the Accident: Gathering and analyzing evidence to build a strong case.
  • Negotiate Settlements: Engaging with insurance companies to secure fair compensation.
  • Litigate if Necessary: Taking the case to court to ensure justice is served.

A lawyer will handle all legal aspects, allowing you to focus on recovery. They can help you seek compensation for:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Medical expenses (current and future)
  • Ongoing care and support
  • Lost income and benefits
  • Diminished earning capacity

Injury Severity in Wrong-Way Car Accidents

Wrong-way car accidents often lead to significant injuries. According to the National Traffic Safety Board (NTSB), these accidents, while accounting for a small percentage of crashes, result in more severe injuries compared to other types of collisions. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports:

  • 115 fatal injuries in 2020
  • 245 incapacitating injuries
  • 409 non-incapacitating injuries
  • 595 possible injuries
  • 1,846 incidents with no known injuries at the scene

Given the severity of injuries, victims often qualify to pursue a fault-based claim or file a lawsuit against the wrong-way driver, despite Florida’s no-fault insurance laws.

A Leading Cause of Wrong-Way Accidents

Drunk Driving: A Leading Cause of Wrong-Way Accidents

Drunk driving is a predominant cause of wrong-way accidents. The NTSB reports that approximately 60% of wrong-way crashes involve an impaired driver. Evidence of intoxication can significantly strengthen a civil case against the at-fault driver. Criminal charges may also be filed against the wrong-way driver, but these do not impact the victim’s civil case.

Free Consultations for Wrong-Way Accident Victims

At Paul | Knopf | Bigger, we offer free consultations for car accident victims in Florida. Our team will review your case, discuss your injuries, and explain your rights and options. We manage every aspect of your case, from filing claims to court representation, so that you can focus on your recovery.

Our goal is to help you secure compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other losses. Contact us at (800) 434-4327 or online to start your journey towards justice and recovery.

Causes and Trends of Wrong-Way Accidents in Florida

According to a study from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV), in 2015, 1,500 wrong-way accidents were recorded, leading to numerous injuries. The trends show:

  • Normal Driver Condition: 51% of wrong-way crashes involved drivers noted as ‘normal’ on citations.
  • Impairment: 21% involved drivers under the influence of medication, alcohol, or drugs.
  • Fatigue: 3% involved drivers who were asleep or fatigued.

These statistics have remained consistent over the years, highlighting the persistent risk of wrong-way accidents.

Compensation for Wrong-Way Accident Victims

In Florida, personal injury law allows victims to seek compensatory damages, which include:

  • Medical Expenses: Covering treatment costs resulting from the accident.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensating for physical and emotional distress.
  • Lost Earnings: Reimbursement for lost income due to the inability to work.
  • Loss of Consortium: Compensation for lost companionship and support.

While some damages have a clear monetary value, others, like emotional suffering, require careful estimation.

Paul | Knopf | Bigger - Florida Injury Attorneys

Paul | Knopf | Bigger – Your Right to Compensation

If you’ve been injured in a wrong-way accident, you deserve compensation for your injuries and suffering. The experienced attorneys at Paul | Knopf | Bigger represent Florida accident victims, holding negligent parties accountable. Contact us for a free case review at (800) 434-4327 or online. We offer multilingual services to cater to a diverse clientele.

Choosing a Florida wrong-way accident lawyer ensures that your case is handled with expertise and dedication, helping you achieve the best possible outcome.

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