Orlando is a major hub for highway transportation, with Florida’s Turnpike and Interstate 4 traveling through the city and Interstates 95 and 75 to the east and west respectively. Considering the heavy traffic during the morning commute, through the day, and into evening rush hour, it is not surprising to learn that highway accidents occur with alarming frequency. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports that there are more than 31,500 collisions in Orange County annually, many of which take place on federal, state, and county highways.
Victims have rights under Florida law when a negligent driver causes a serious crash, regardless of what type of roadway. You may qualify to recover monetary damages for your losses, and our team at Payer Law can assist with the legal process. Please contact us to schedule a free consultation with an highway accident attorney who can provide details. An overview may also be helpful.
Severe Injuries are Common in Highway Collisions
Because these thoroughfares typically involve high speeds, highway crashes often result in catastrophic injuries. Victims may suffer from:
- Concussion, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and brain damage;
- Injuries to upper and lower extremities;
- Spinal cord injuries and back trauma;
- Amputation;
- Bone fractures;
- Dislocation to hip and shoulder ball-and-socket joints;
- Damage to internal organs; and
- Strains and sprains to muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Liability in a highway accident is based upon the legal concept of negligence, which requires you to prove that the at-fault motorist failed to drive safely. If this breach of duty was the direct cause of the crash, you may be entitled to compensation. Note that you will also need to be a designated beneficiary to pursue a wrongful death claim after losing a loved one in an auto collision.
Pursuing the At-Fault Driver for Compensation
Florida drivers are required to carry auto insurance to cover losses from a crash, including Personal Injury Protection (PIP); in some cases, you must file a first-party claim for damages under PIP. However, when your injuries are severe or someone close to you died in a highway accident, you can pursue compensation from the at-fault driver through his or her insurer. The Payer Law team will help you navigate the claims process and advocate on your behalf during settlement negotiations. Our Orlando highway accident lawyers will proceed to litigation as the next step to protect your interests if the company will not pay a fair amount. We will seek all available damages, including:
- Costs of medical treatment;
- Lost income;
- Pain and suffering;
- Scarring and disfigurement;
- Emotional distress; and
- Many more.
Get Legal Help from an Orlando Highway Accident Attorney
As you can see, numerous challenges can stand in the way of getting the compensation you deserve after a crash on any type of Florida road. To learn how the Payer Law will support your rights, please contact our Orlando, FL office at 407-307-2979 or go online to set up a complimentary case assessment. An Orlando highway accident lawyer can explain remedies after reviewing your situation.
