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 car and truck accidents each 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. We are proud of our approach to the attorney-client relationship and will support you every step of the way.
At The Law Place, we have a team of highly dedicated Florida car accident lawyers who will help to guide you through the legal process so that you can focus on your recovery. Our practice areas cover Sarasota, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, and the surrounding areas.
Causes Of Road Traffic Accidents On Florida I-75
I-75 accidents are far more frequent than 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.
- Truck driver fatigue.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Improperly loaded trucks.
- Faulty road design.
- Defective car or truck parts.
- Motorcycle accidents caused by unsafe driving behavior.
- 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, then your initial steps can make a big impact on the outcome of your case.
Stay Safe
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 of any other vehicles traveling on the highway.
Assess Yourself And Others For Injury
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.
Call The Police
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.
Gather Information
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.
Seek Medical Attention
You should always seek a medical examination after an accident. This is for two important reasons. Firstly, your adrenaline may be masking serious injury, and a doctor will assess you and advise you on the best road to recovery. Secondly, your medical record is a crucial piece of evidence in your case, and the closer to the accident you seek medical attention, the better as it will be clear that your injuries were a result of the accident.
Call An Attorney
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.
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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.
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.
We’re Florida’s top litigation team with over 75 years of combined experience
Comparative Negligence Laws
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, 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.
From the initial call to updates on your case status, we are here to get you answers.
When Can You Sue In A Car Accident?
According to Florida Statute 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.
What Damages Can You Claim After An I 75 Accident?
Following an accident on the I-75, injuries tend to be severe. It is essential that victims of other drivers’ negligence are properly compensated for their losses. While money cannot make up for your suffering, it can ensure that you do not have to suffer financially as a result.
Medical Expenses
Medical bills for severe injury quickly mount up. If you make a successful personal injury claim, then you will be compensated for both your past medical experiences and the cost of future treatment.
Lost Wages
If you had to miss work, then this must be reflected in your settlement. An attorney will also make sure that if you are unable to return to work, your future earnings are also reflected in your settlement.
Non-Economic Losses
Not everything can be calculated as easily as medical bills. Your emotional distress, physical pain, and loss of enjoyment of life should all be compensated for. Your attorney will know how to evidence your non-economic losses and maximize the compensation you receive.
Punitive Damages
In accordance with Florida Statute 768.72, you might be eligible for punitive damages if the negligent party acted with gross negligence or purposeful misconduct. These are rare and can only be awarded by a judge.
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 Florida personal injury 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 fair 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.
Call The Law Place Today
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 its priority.
Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
