Have you been in a side-impact car accident in Daytona Beach? Dealing with the aftermath can be stressful and confusing.
But you don’t have to go through it alone. We are here to help.
At Joe Horrox Law, we understand your challenges after an accident. Whether it’s dealing with injuries, car repairs, or insurance claims, we’re here to guide you.
Our team takes pride in supporting our community as the go-to side-impact car accident lawyer in Daytona Beach. We’re committed to making this difficult time easier by offering our knowledge, support, and legal advice.
Trust us to fight for your rights and demand the compensation you deserve. With decades of experience defending accident victims, you can feel confident we will use aggressive, effective tactics to help you achieve the desired outcome.
What Is a Side-Impact Accident?
A side-impact accident, also known as a T-bone collision, occurs when a car’s side is hit by the front or rear of another vehicle. These accidents often occur at intersections, parking lots, or when a car is making a turn.
Unlike front-end accidents, the sides of a vehicle offer less protection, which can lead to more severe injuries for the passengers. Recognizing how serious these crashes can be, we focus on providing comprehensive support to victims.
Common Causes of Side-Impact Collisions
Side-impact collisions can result from various factors, which can have life-altering consequences for the parties involved.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Failure to Yield at intersections remains a predominant cause. A driver’s neglect to observe traffic controls can abruptly bring vehicles into a dangerous encounter.
- Distracted Driving is another critical contributor, reflecting moments when a driver’s diverted attention from the road leads to an unforeseen side collision.
- High-speed driving exacerbates the scenario. Speeding significantly increases the severity of the injuries and damages incurred.
- Adverse Weather Conditions, such as heavy rain or dense fog, dramatically decrease visibility, making it challenging for drivers to maneuver safely, escalating the probability of side-impact accidents.
Injuries Commonly Seen in Side Impact Car Accidents
Side-impact car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening.
- Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries are among the most common, occurring when the force of the impact causes a sudden jerk of the neck and body.
- Bone Fractures are also frequent, with the ribs, arms, and legs being particularly vulnerable due to their proximity to the sides of the vehicle.
- More severe impacts may lead to Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), which can range from mild concussions to serious brain damage, drastically altering the victim’s life.
- Internal Injuries to organs such as the lungs or spleen can be particularly dangerous, requiring immediate medical attention.
- Unfortunately, Spinal Cord Injuries may also occur, potentially resulting in temporary or permanent paralysis.
At Joe Horrox Law, we understand how these injuries can impact your health, livelihood, and future. Our team is committed to advocating for victims of side-impact accidents, ensuring they receive the comprehensive medical care and compensation they deserve.
Understanding Florida’s Car Accident Laws
Navigating a car accident claim in Florida can be complex due to its distinct legal landscape. The laws that impact claims in the state include:
No-Fault Insurance System
Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning that each driver’s insurance covers their losses after an accident, regardless of who caused the crash. This system necessitates that all drivers carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which can affect how damages are recovered.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Requirements
Under Florida law, PIP coverage is mandatory and must provide at least $10,000 in medical benefits and $5,000 in death benefits. This coverage is designed to pay for medical expenses and lost wages, irrespective of fault.
Property Damage Liability (PDL)
Florida law also requires drivers to carry PDL insurance, with a minimum limit of $10,000. This coverage pays for the damage that the policyholder or someone driving the policyholder’s vehicle causes to another person’s property.
Pure Comparative Negligence Rule
Florida follows the pure comparative negligence rule for cases where both parties are found to be at fault. This rule allows the court to assign a percentage of fault to each party, reducing the claimant’s compensation accordingly. For example, if a claimant is found to be 20% at fault, their compensation will be reduced by 20%.
Statute of Limitations
There is a four-year statute of limitations for car accidents in Florida for filing a lawsuit for property damage and personal injuries. However, for wrongful death claims, the limit is two years from the date of the individual’s death.
Threshold for Suing
Due to the no-fault system, Florida law restricts when an individual can sue for personal injuries. A lawsuit is permissible only if the injuries meet specific criteria, such as significant and permanent loss of a vital bodily function, substantial and permanent scarring or disfigurement, or death.
Understanding these laws is crucial for anyone involved in a car accident in Florida. They impact how claims are filed and what compensation may be available. Victims of side-impact collisions facing the complex process of navigating their claims can benefit significantly from the legal guidance and support of experienced attorneys.
Contact Us for Assistance with a Side-Impact Car Accident Claim
If you were involved in a side-impact collision caused by someone else’s negligence, our attorneys can help you protect your rights. Call us for a free consultation to discuss your case and take the first step towards recovery.