Steps to Take if a Reckless Driver Hits You in Florida
Car accidents happen more often than most of us would like to acknowledge. They take place so frequently, though, that car accidents are the leading cause of death in the United States. They result in tens of thousands of deaths and many more injuries every year. They are also costly. Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicated that deaths from fatal car accidents came with a $470 billion bill when calculating medical costs and the additional costs associated with the loss of lives.
There are several causes of car accidents, but ultimately, the majority of car accidents and their resulting damages could have been prevented from happening. The fact remains that most car accidents are caused by the errors of at least one driver or more than one. Driver errors may be failing to follow the rules of the road, driving while intoxicated, distracted driving, and more. Every single one of these examples illustrates poor driving behavior. Reckless driving is avoidable, and all it takes is a commitment on the part of a driver to follow the rules and be concerned for their own safety and that of others to reduce the number of car accidents reported each year.
If a reckless driver hit you and caused your car accident and injuries, you may feel devastated. However, you might be able to file an injury claim and secure the financial compensation that you are owed. Depending on the case facts, you might be entitled to a substantial monetary award. In some rare instances, your case may also warrant additional compensation in the form of punitive damages. Call the Tampa car accident attorneys at Fulgencio Law today to learn more.
What to Do After a Reckless Driver Caused Your Florida Car Accident
Documenting the accident scene in great detail is imperative after an accident with a reckless driver. All information that you can collect can show that the other driver was negligent and their irresponsible behavior is why the accident took place. Take pictures of all vehicles involved, the environment where the accident happened, skid marks on the road, the traffic signals, and any other pertinent visible evidence that may support your claim. Talk to witnesses and politely ask them if they would give you their contact information.
It can be helpful to obtain phone records in situations where you know or believe that the other driver was using their phone or texting when the accident happened. An attorney can help you take the steps necessary to secure additional evidence that will strengthen your claim and increase the chances of obtaining the highest possible amount of financial compensation from it. This would potentially include the need for punitive damages if the reckless driver’s actions were particularly egregious.
Call Fulgencio Law Today
Reckless drivers are a hazard on the road and can cause catastrophic damage to others when their actions lead to an accident.
If you were injured by a reckless driver, call a Tampa car accident attorney at Fulgencio Law at (813) 463-0123. During a free consultation, an attorney can review and evaluate your case.