Car accidents are going to happen, unfortunately. Whether it’s with a truck, car, or even a cyclist, accidents are inevitable for many of us at some point, especially in the state of Florida. Despite being a no-fault state, Florida still allows plaintiffs to file liability claims in the event that one party is deemed culpably negligent. Having an understanding of this is critical to knowing when liability becomes an issue for you.
With a better understanding of the different types of car accident liability claims, you’ll know when you’re likely to be sued or when it may be time to sue someone else for rightful compensation. Not only can you be more aware of what to avoid, but also, you can understand the importance of having a car accident lawyer on retainer in Fort Lauderdale.
Claims Categories
If it can be proven that another party involved in your accident was culpably negligent, you may be entitled to compensation for your accident claim. Here are just a few of the different categories you should be aware of, regardless of what side of the accident you happen to find yourself on:
Property Damage
- Vehicle Damage: A critical aspect of any accident, serious or minor, is the damages that are sustained. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a multiple-car pile-up, damage is documented in terms of the estimated dollar amount. A law enforcement officer, particularly the primary officer on a scene, will document the estimated damage to your vehicle in addition to those of the other drivers involved. While your insurance company will cover any damage, if it can be proven that another party was liable due to negligence, you may be entitled to additional amounts of compensation for property damage done at the hands of another party.
- Miscellaneous Property: Cars are more than personal vehicles today. They’re becoming our mobile offices. Laptops, cell phones, and other electronics are commonly damaged in accidents. Aside from accounting for the damage to your vehicle, a liability claim can also account for the damage done to your personal property.
Determining Liability
- Manufacturers: If a car is knowingly made with defective parts or if poor vetting procedures took place, a car-maker could easily be found culpably negligent in the event of a serious accident.
- Drivers: Drivers are frequently culpably negligent, whether it’s knowingly operating a motor vehicle while being intoxicated or driving recklessly and far above posted speed limits; these drivers can easily face civil claims in addition to criminal charges.
Whether you’re accused of being liable for an accident, or you’ve fallen victim to a negligent driver, it’s essential to have an experienced car accident attorney on your team.
Choose the Experienced Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Attorneys
Car accidents can be stressful and painful, but hiring a car accident lawyer doesn’t have to be. At Salpeter Gitkin, LLP, we are experienced and dedicated Florida car accident attorneys with decades of combined experience. We specialize in a number of different motor vehicle accident practice areas, and we can help represent you when you need it the most.
Let us fight on your behalf and help you get the legal counsel, compensation, or representation you deserve. For a personalized free case review and evaluation, call us 24/7 at (954) 467-8622 or complete our online contact form.
