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Interstate-75 is a major roadway that links northern Michigan with the Hialeah-Miami border. It runs through Florida for 471 miles, and according to the Florida Department of Transportation, it sees over 38,000 vehicles every day.
Florida’s stretch of the I-75 has been criticized for dangerous road conditions and reckless drivers, contributing to thousands of road accidents every year. Florida saw over 400,000 accidents in 2018, many of which occurred on the I-75, as well as the I-95 and I-4—causing many people to suffer serious injury and even wrongful death.
If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident in Florida, then you need help from a law firm that is dedicated to getting you the compensation you deserve. At The Law Place, we have a team of highly dedicated personal injury lawyers who will help to guide you through the legal process so that you can focus on your recovery. Contact us today on (941) 444-4444 for a free consultation with a road accident lawyer.
Causes of Road Traffic Accidents on Florida I-75
I-75 accidents are far more frequent then they should be. With the growing population and the increasing number of tourists passing through and visiting Florida, the I-75 has become notorious for congestion.
Congestion and drivers who are unfamiliar with the roads can lead to distracted driving, aggressive driving, and irresponsible maneuvers. I-75 accidents can lead to severe injury and even wrongful death.
There are several reasons why accidents occur on the I-75, including reckless driving, defective car parts, and poor road conditions and design.
Common causes of aI-75 accidents include:
- Failing to follow traffic safety laws.
- Speeding.
- Distracted driving (e.g., looking at a phone while driving).
- Driver fatigue.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Improperly loaded trucks.
- Faulty road design.
- Defective car or truck parts.
- Blown tires.
What to Do If You’ve Been in an Accident On Florida I-75
If you or a loved one has been in an I-75 accident, your first priority should be to remove yourself and any passengers to somewhere safe. Step away from the car and make sure everyone is out of the way from any other vehicles traveling on the highway.
Next, assess yourself and others for injury, you may require medical assistance. Even if the injuries initially appear minor, it is crucial to seek medical help as soon as possible.
Thirdly, in accordance with Florida Statute 316.062, if there has been injury or substantial property damage you should call the police to the scene so they can investigate the cause of the accident and file a report. This could be vital in your claim.
Once you are safe and have contacted the police, gather your own information from the accident. This includes taking photos of any motor vehicle that was involved and the scene of the crash. You may want to take pictures of road conditions or signs that could have contributed to the incident.
Finally, make sure you take down the vehicle and driver information of anyone involved in the crash, including registration number, insurance details, and the name and contact information of the other drivers. If there are any witnesses, then get their names and contact information as well.
Do not give a statement to any insurance company before speaking to car accident lawyers at a reputable law firm, such as The Law Place. Insurance companies can use what you say to them against you if you are not careful. We are open 24 hours a day, so that you can arrange a free consultation when you need it most.
How Long Do You Have to Seek Medical Attention for Your Injuries?
If you do not receive medical attention at the scene, then you should see a doctor as soon as possible. A minor injury can worsen if they are not adequately treated. This is especially true of head and back injuries. According to Florida Statute 627.736, in order to claim that the accident caused your injury, you must seek medical attention within 14 days. However, the sooner, the better so that your personal injury lawyer is better able to fight for your right to compensation.
Florida I-75 Car Accidents Liability
After an I-75 accident, one of the most important steps is determining liability – who was at-fault for the accident? Your car accident attorney can assist you in judging who was liable for your accident.
In accordance with Florida Statute 627.7407, Florida is a no-fault state, which means that all drivers should initially approach their own insurance company for compensation, regardless of who was at fault.
Florida Statute 627.736 also requires all drivers to carry a minimum Personal Injury Protection (PIP) of $10,000. However, if your insurance coverage is insufficient to cover your damages, then you can file a lawsuit.
Car accidents occur for many reasons. However, most of the time, they happen because a driver is behaving negligently. For example, they could be looking at their phone, speeding, or driving under the influence.
According to Florida Statute 768.81, Florida law operates under a comparative negligence system, which means that anyone can be found liable, up to the percentage of their fault. For example, one driver could have been looking at their phone, and the other could have been speeding, and so they could share in the fault. This affects how much you can claim in a lawsuit. For example, if you are awarded $20,000 for your pain and suffering, but you were found to be 25% at fault for the accident, then the amount you receive would be reduced by 25%, and you would receive $15,000.
If a car accident occurs because of poor road conditions or faulty design, then you may be able to hold the state liable. On the other hand, if the accident occurred because of defective car parts, you may be able to claim from the car manufacturer.
Car accident lawyers can help you determine the cause of the accident and who has liability. Speak to a law firm as soon as possible so that they can help you to compile the proper evidence. Call The Law Place today for a free consultation.
When Can You Sue in a Car Accident?
According to Florida Statue 95.11, Florida’s statute of limitations is four years to make a negligence claim after a car accident. However, the sooner, the better as you will be better able to collect evidence and speak to witnesses. The statute of limitations stands for accidents on the I-75 or any other road in Florida.
Should I Contact a Lawyer After a Car Accident?
If you have been injured involved in an I-75 accident or on any road in Florida, then you should speak to a car accident attorney as soon as possible. They will be able to assist you in gathering the right evidence and helping you prepare a statement for your insurance. This will ensure that your rights are protected so that you can claim compensation for any injuries caused by the accident.
Whoever you are up against, whether it be the state, your car insurance, a car manufacturer, a trucking company, or an individual driver, their goal will likely be to pay out as little as possible. The other party is likely to have car accident lawyers on their side, therefore you must level the playing field.
You need help from a law firm with dedication, skill, and drive. At The Law Place, we have over 70 years of combined experience in Florida law. We understand how complicated dealing with personal injury can be. We want you to be able to focus on your recovery and have confidence that your law firm takes your needs as their priority.
Contact us today on (941) 444-4444 for a free consultation.
