Motorists who break the law by speeding endanger not only their own lives but also those of other people around them. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding is a leading factor in crash injuries and accounted for 26 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities in 2017.
If you were hurt or lost a loved one in a traffic accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to claim personal injury compensation. You can file a claim whether you were the driver hit by a speeding motorist, a passenger, pedestrian, motorcyclist, or cyclist injured in the collision.
Contact the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine to determine if a Miami car accident lawyer from our team may be able to help you claim compensation for injuries ranging from minor whiplash to serious head injuries, or in the sad event of a loved one’s death.
We help our clients navigate the complex legal process by meeting their needs through responsive and practical legal solutions. Call us for a no-cost case review and benefit from our legal opinion without risk today.
The Consequences of Speeding
According to the National Motorists Association, there are more traffic tickets issued in Florida than any of the other states, and speeding makes up a large portion of these tickets. Not only is speeding breaking the law, but negligent motorists who speed also pose a threat to other road users due to:
- More risk of losing control of the vehicle
- Increased severity of the crash impact, resulting in more severe injuries
- Reduced effectiveness of safety features in a car such as airbags and bumpers
Victims of such collisions can sustain serious injuries that have far-reaching effects on a physical, emotional, and financial level, which can affect their ability to work and provide for their families. It also means they are likely facing mounting medical costs and other expenses incurred through no fault of their own.
If you were hit by a negligent driver who caused an accident by speeding, consider enlisting help from a Miami speeding lawyer during this difficult time. We may be able to help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Sources and Types of Compensation Available
As Florida follows the no-fault law, parties involved in a car accident will typically claim with their own auto insurance personal injury protection (PIP) policy, regardless of who is responsible for causing the collision.
We would urge anyone involved in a vehicle collision to be examined by their doctor. Not only is it good sense having your injuries diagnosed and treated, but they will also be documented, which can be crucial evidence in any subsequent legal action.
While PIP can simplify the claim process, there are restrictions. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), PIP will cover 80% of your medical costs up to the policy dollar amount limit. Many motorists opt only for the minimum auto insurance coverage, which carries just $10,000 in PIP benefits. This policy limit can be exhausted by medical costs pretty quickly, so where do you turn when your expenses exceed your policy limits?
Depending on your circumstances and the nature of your injuries, it may be necessary to file a third-party claim against the negligent driver if you need additional compensation to cover your medical bills and lost wages if you are unable to work for a period of time. Your Miami speeding attorney can review your case and determine the most suitable option for your situation.
Filing a lawsuit against an at-fault driver may enable you to receive compensation for more than medical bills and lost wages; if your injuries are severe, you could be entitled to financial awards in lieu of:
- Medical bills
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages
- Property loss
- Reduced future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
Each case is different and presents unique challenges; the claims process may seem confusing, especially when you are recovering from an accident. We can help you understand the compensation you could be entitled to, and work closely with you to plan an effective legal strategy to pursue damages. If you are unsure about how to proceed, contact the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine for guidance and support.
When it May Be Beneficial to Consult With a Legal Professional
The rules regarding no-fault insurance and other laws relating to negligence and liability can make the compensation process after a car accident in Florida complicated. The circumstances of the collision and the resulting injuries can add further complexity.
From our experience, there are certain situations in which it may be beneficial to seek legal representation, such as:
- You sustained severe injuries in the accident
- A loved one was killed by a driver who was speeding
- The at-fault driver was uninsured or underinsured
- There were multiple parties involved in the accident
- You need help collecting evidence to prove liability
- You are unsure about the value of your claim
- You have received a low settlement offer from an insurance company
- You need help negotiating a settlement with an insurance company
It is important that you are aware of specific laws that could prevent you from filing a claim. You generally have four years from the date of your injury to start a claim for compensation per the statute of limitations (Florida Statute § 95.11).
While this may seem a long time, seeking legal representation promptly enables your lawyer to collect and preserve the evidence necessary to build a robust case, especially if your injuries are severe and it is necessary to file a third-party suit against the driver responsible for causing them.
Legal Representation You Can Rely On For the Compensation You Deserve
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident by a negligent driver who was speeding, contact the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine. Whether you have received a low insurance offer, have exceeded the limits of your PIP coverage and have serious injuries, or are unsure about your legal options, a Miami speeding lawyer from our team may be able to help. Call us for a free case review today.
We Can Help.
