HOW TO AVOID AGGRESSIVE DRIVING BEHAVIORS
In all honesty, aggressive driving is a growing problem on our roads. Especially, as the roads become more and more congested with traffic. Due to this, most people have experienced an aggressive driver. Or, exhibited these aggressive behaviors ourselves. Whether these behaviors are due to traffic conditions, stress, or bad moods it has become one of the main causes of auto accidents.
But, we can change this and reduce the number of car accidents caused by aggressive driving. If, more people know the types of behaviors associated with this type of driving. As well as, knowing what to do when they encounter an aggressive driver, so the situation does not escalate.
Consequently, if you have an accident caused by an aggressive driver you need to talk to an auto accident attorney. Because they will help protect your rights and help get you compensation for injuries and vehicle damages.
Common Aggressive Driving Behaviors
First, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) describes aggressive driving as a combination of moving traffic offenses that endanger other people or property. But, any form of unsafe driving can constitute aggressive driving when it is deliberate or done will ill intent. For example here are some of the most common aggressive driving behaviors:
- Speeding – Or driving at excessive speeds is one of the most common aggressive driving behaviors. Whether frustrated by slow-moving traffic or running late. Speeding is never a good idea.
- Tailgating – Is an intimidation tactic some drivers use to get the car in front of them to speed up or move. But, not every driver tailgating is being aggressive. In some cases, the driver gets distracted or is not paying attention. So they do not notice what they are doing.
- Erratic Lane Changes and Passing – Admittedly, this is one of the most dangerous aggressive driving behaviors. Because it usually involves many aggressive behaviors. Like, speeding and tailgating.
- Ignoring Traffic Controls Devices – Notably, a traffic control device is any road sign, marking, or traffic light (e.g. speed limit sign, safety zone, etc). And, ignoring traffic control devices can result in a fatal crash.
How To Handle An Encounter With An Aggressive Driver
Next, most people have been angry while driving. Or, displayed an aggressive driving behavior at one time or another. While we can do things to calm ourselves and prevent an aggressive driving accident through our own behaviors. We cannot prevent the actions of another driver. But, we can take precautions to not escalate the situation. As well as, keep ourselves and passengers safe. So, here are a few tips to help handle an encounter with one of these drivers.
- Remain Calm – Do not react to their aggressive behavior. Because reacting will only intensify the situation.
- Move Over or Get Out of Their Way – If you can, slow down and let the driver pass or merge.
- Do Make Eye Contact – By ignoring them, not making eye contact or hand gestures you’re not engaging the driver. And, nonconfrontational actions will help de-escalate the situation.
- Document Their Description – In some cases, it will be necessary to report the aggressive driver to authorities. So, either have a passenger help. Or, get to a safe area and document the make, model, color, and license plate number of the car.
Do you need to report aggressive driving?
All in all, yes you should report any situation that makes you feel like your life is in danger. Even though, dealing with an aggressive driver is scary and stressful. Especially, when it seems the driver has singled you out. Granted, not every encounter with an aggressive driver will escalate to the point you feel your life is in danger.
Yet, when it does you need to get to a safe public area, not your home. And, keep the doors locked. Unfortunately, we do not know the mental state of these individuals. So, we do not know how dangerous this driver is. But, you know some basic step steps for handling these types of drivers. As a result, don’t hesitate to call and provide a detailed description to the authorities.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.
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5 DRIVING TIPS FOR FLORIDA VISITORS
So, you want to visit the Sunshine State. Whether you’re coming to see family, friends, or vacationing on the beach. If you intend on driving there are things you need to know before getting behind the wheel. Because no one wants to have their trip ruined by a traffic citation. While Florida has similar laws as the rest of the country here are 5 driving tips to help anyone visiting the state.
Click-it Or Ticket
First, driving tip while visiting Florida, buckle-up it’s the law. Besides, wearing a seatbelt saves lives. So, when you get into a vehicle put your seatbelt on and make sure passengers do the same. If you have a child or children in the car they will need an applicable child restraint to help keep them safe. With this in mind, if you don’t buckle up and you get pulled over you will receive a non-moving traffic violation.
Driving And Using A Cell Phone
Second, driving tip using a cell phone to make a call while driving is not illegal. Even though talking on the phone while driving is common it does make driving more dangerous. Yet, texting and driving are illegal in Florida. And, if you get pulled over for texting you will receive a noncriminal traffic violation for the first offense. But, a second offense will get you a moving violation. So, to be safe put your phone away when driving.
Florida’s Move Over Law
Third, driving tip while visiting Florida, most out of state visitors don’t know this but Florida has a “move over” law. And, this law requires drivers to safely move over a lane for stopped law enforcement and, emergency vehicles. As well as, for stopped sanitation trucks, utility service vehicles, and tow trucks. Now, the law has an exception. When you cannot change lanes you need to slow to a speed that is 20 mph less than the posted speed limit. But, if the posted speed limit is 20 mph or less you need to slow to 5 mph. Because violating this law puts lives at risk penalties are more serious adding fines, fees, and points to your license.
Right On Red
Fourth, driving tip Florida does allow drivers to turn right on red. But, per Florida law, the driver must come to a complete stop at the stop line before turning. As well as, they should not proceed until the crosswalk or intersection is clear. Granted, this does not apply at intersections that have a “no turn on red” sign.
Motorist and Cyclist Share Public Roads
Fifth, the Sunshine State generally has great weather for cycling year-round. Due to this, motorists and cyclists share most public roads. Even though, not every road has a designated bike lane. So, cyclists have to ride alongside the motorists driving. Also, cyclists share the same rights and responsibilities as motorists on the road. In other words, cyclists follow the same rules as a motorist. But, motorists get an extra rule, they must allow three feet when passing a cyclist.
CONTACT TAMPA TRAFFIC TICKET ATTORNEY
RHINO Lawyers can help and guide you through a system molded by law enforcement, judges, and lawyers for decades. Having won cases for our clients in similar circumstances, our criminal defense team knows what it takes to fight on your behalf.
Let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.
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SHOULD I SEE A DOCTOR AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT
First of all, one of the most frequently asked questions we get from car accident victims is, should I see a doctor? While some injuries are obvious after an accident because the victim goes to the hospital in an ambulance. Still, other injuries are not as obvious. So, don’t assume everything is good when you can’t see the injury. For this reason, you should always see a doctor after a car accident.
See a doctor, you might have hidden injuries
After, a car accident, many people walk away without feeling anything. Typically, this is due to how the body responds to a traumatic event. With this rush of adrenaline and endorphins, most people don’t realize their injuries. In fact, some injuries take hours or even weeks to feel the effects. Unlike, lacerations, some injuries stay hidden after an accident and worsen over time. For example, some of the common hidden injuries are:
- Whiplash – Which is one form of soft tissue damage. Because it results from a sudden stretch of the muscles and ligaments. Due to the high-energy movements caused by impact. Not to mention, these high-energy movements are responsible for spinal injuries.
- Neck and Back Injuries – These injuries can cause paralysis or life-altering disability. But sometimes they get lucky. And, herniated disks so the damage is not as catastrophic.
- Bone Fractures – Like, soft tissue damage, broken bones are very common in auto accident injuries. Admittedly, the severity and effect of broken bones differ from person to person. For example, hairline fractures may go unnoticed after an accident if you don’t get seen by a doctor.
- Head and Brain – As a result, the collision can cause a person to hit their head on an interior part of the car. Thus, causing scrapes, cuts, and bruises. Or, worse case a traumatic brain injury. Whereas, less severe crashes leave you with a concussion or skull fractures. In any case, all head injuries need a doctor’s evaluation right away following a car accident.
See a doctor as soon as possible – 14-day rule
In all honesty, seeing a doctor right away can help prevent any injuries. Not to mention, Florida law states you have 14-days to receive medical care to qualify for your PIP benefits. Additionally, make sure you see an approved healthcare provider. Like, the emergency room, urgent care, or a primary care doctor. Then your PIP benefits will cover you for:
- Medical Care
- Ambulance Transportation
- Surgical Services
- X-rays
- Dental Care
- Rehabilitative Services
Getting checked helps with gathering evidence for your claim
Whether you are making a claim with your insurance company or against the at-fault party, you need to prove your injuries came from the accident. And, this is where seeing a doctor like an emergency room doctor is important. Because they not only document where your injuries came from but also the extent of your injuries as well. In fact, an emergency room will perform diagnostic tests and X-rays. As well as, they will also give you an expert evaluation. Then you can use these detailed records to build your claim. Further proving your injuries came from the car accident.
Seeing a doctor will give you peace of mind
Additionally, seeing a doctor will give you peace of mind. Besides proving your injuries are from the accident, it also lets you know the severity of your injuries. Plus, seeing a doctor after the accident allows you to follow the rules of your PIP benefits. And, shows you are taking the proper steps to recover from the accident.
Waiting to see a doctor can hurt your case
Consequently, in Florida, you have the responsibility of proving you suffered injuries. Regardless, if you think the pain will go away. In all honesty, waiting to see a doctor is a bad idea. Due to the fact that both insurance companies and juries see waiting for treatment as bad. And, not severe enough for compensation.
Though, we understand the hope for minor injuries and avoiding a doctor. But, you should see a doctor to have all accident injuries checked. Therefore, don’t ignore the pain, no matter the severity. So, go to the hospital or see a doctor who specializes in auto injuries as soon as possible.
AVOID CAR ACCIDENT INJURIES
Granted, you can’t control or predict the actions of other drivers. Yet, as a driver, you have things you can do to help avoid car accident injuries. For instance, these can help reduce your chances of injury.
- Wear a Seatbelt – Specifically, you should always wear a seatbelt. Because it could save your life.
- Obey the Speed Limit – Actually, high speeds increase the severity of auto accidents.
- Vehicle Maintenance – Finally, keep up on your vehicle maintenance. Because a well-maintained car is less likely to have an accident from equipment failure.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.
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TIPS TO REDUCE PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS
To begin with, Halloween is exciting for both kids and adults alike. As it brings out their inner ghosts and goblins on a search for candy and fun. Even though many people have fun and enjoy Halloween it is actually one of the most dangerous days for pedestrians. In fact, according to an IIHS report pedestrian deaths have increased 53%. Nonetheless, with awareness and proper planning, we can reduce pedestrian accidents during Halloween.
So, this year help reduce the risks while driving and trick-or-treating with some safety advice from RHINO Lawyers.
Reduce Driver Pedestrian Accidents with these tips
First, driver safety is always encouraged throughout the year. But, with all life’s distractions, we sometimes forget. Which increases the risk of a pedestrian accident. Especially, on a day like Halloween with it’s increased pedestrian traffic. So, for everyone that plans on driving this Halloween here are some driver safety tips to help you avoid an accident with a pedestrian.
- Drive with headlights on. If you don’t have daytime running lights you will need to turn your headlights on. Because this will allow pedestrians and trick-or-treaters to easily see your vehicle. And, please don’t use your brights.
- As always don’t drive distracted. Now, we all know we should put our phones away while driving. But, we should avoid any activity that takes our attention away from the road or our hands off the steering wheel. Just wait until you have safely stopped.
- Don’t blast your music. When you turn your radio down it allows you to better hear things going on around you. Like someone yelling or another vehicle. Additionally, the lower volume can help you focus on the road.
- Slow Down. Considering, how excited kids get trick-or-treating on Halloween they don’t always look both ways before going to the next house. So, slowing down in residential areas will give you more time to react when someone darts into the road.
- Watch for stopped cars. If you see a car stopped, slow down and don’t pass. Because the car could be dropping off or picking up kids. So, if this happens look for anyone entering the road before proceeding past the stopped car.
- Do not drink and drive. The fact that we have more options available. If you plan on drinking, choose a sober driver, or use rideshares like Uber or Lyft.
Pedestrian and trick-or-treater safety tips
Finally, pedestrians and trick-or-treaters should take precautions to stay safe while out. So, whether you will be out trick-or-treating with your kids or walking to and from a party here are some tips to keep you safe.
- A responsible adult should always go with small children.
- Everyone should walk with a flashlight and try to stay on well-lit streets.
- If you have an older child, review their route, and make sure they have a cell phone for emergencies.
- Only go to homes with a porch light on and never enter a home or car for a treat.
- If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.
- Never cut across yards or use alleys.
- Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks.
- Never cross between parked cars or driveways.
Most importantly, notify law enforcement if you see any suspicious or unlawful activity. Everyone at RHINO Lawyers would like everyone to have a happy and safe Halloween.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.
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TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURIES AND AUTO ACCIDENTS
To start with, auto accidents are one of the leading causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Considering, the brain is one of the most important organs in the human body an injury can leave a lasting impact. In fact, it could leave individuals suffering physically and financially.
Thus, if you or someone you love sustained a head injury from an auto accident see a doctor immediately. After, contact an auto accident attorney to protect your rights. And, help you recover damages for your injuries.
What is a traumatic brain injury?
Generally, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is damage to the brain. Specifically, this occurs from sudden trauma to the head, resulting in contusions and swelling. Now, two types of TBI can result from an auto accident closed head, and open head injuries.
- Closed Head – These injuries happen when the brain slams against the interior surface of the skull.
- Open Head – As the name implies, open head injuries result from foreign material making contact with the brain due to a fractured or pierced skull.
Actually, traumatic brain injuries are unlike any other physical auto accident injury. Because brain injuries can also affect the victim cognitively and emotionally. Moreover, these injuries can be temporary or permanent, subtle, or catastrophic.
What are the common causes of TBI?
Regarding causes, traumatic brain injuries have a myriad of causes. Because of any sudden impact to the head could cause damage to the brain. Despite, the myriad of causes, the most common TBI causes include:
- Car Accidents
- Motorcycle Accidents
- Trucking Accidents
- Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents
- Slip and Fall Accidents
In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), motor vehicle accidents cause 20% of all TBI’s in the U.S. every year. Because even low-impact auto accidents can cause traumatic brain injuries in victims. Additionally, other TBI causes are assault and unintentional blunt trauma.
traumatic brain injury symptoms
So, how would someone know if they are suffering from a traumatic brain injury? As a result, of the injury, the brain swells against the skull causing a variety of physical and cognitive issues. Although, these symptoms may not present themselves right away. In some cases, it takes hours, days, or weeks for the symptoms to show.
Since each brain injury is different, a person can experience any of these symptoms. For example, the most common symptoms people experience are:
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Severe Headaches
- Convulsions and Seizures
- Loss of Consciousness
- Agitation or Mood Swings
- Blurred Vision
- Slurred Speech
- Loss of Coordination
As a matter of fact, if you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms following an auto accident get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible.
traumatic brain injury statute of limitation
Typically, victims injured in an auto accident have four years after the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Since some injuries like TBI’s are not immediately clear or detectable. Florida Statute Section 95.11, allows for exceptions. Like, the discovery rule. Which changes the statute of limitation from the date of the accident to the date they diagnose the injury.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.
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AUTO REPAIR AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT
Typically, after an auto accident, you’ll need to get your car repaired. But, will your insurance cover the auto repair after a car accident? In most cases, various factors come into play when trying to get your car repaired after a car accident. Like, what does Florida’s No-Fault Law cover? Or, you have extra coverage to help repair damages?
In any case, dealing with an auto accident is stressful. And, knowing the right steps to take is important. So, don’t handle a car accident alone, talk to an auto accident attorney. Because they can help guide you through the system. As well as, make sure you receive the compensation you deserve.
What Does No-fault Insurance Cover After An Accident?
As for a “no-fault” state, every driver must carry their own auto insurance. As a result, your insurance company will cover things like medical bills and lost wages regardless of fault. Yet, the coverage will only cover up to the limits of your policy. And, most policies go up to $10,000. As for your auto repairs, you would need a separate policy for coverage.
Collision Insurance And Auto Repairs
Considering, Florida’s minimum insurance requirements don’t include collision. Some Florida residents don’t carry this insurance. Yet, it could help cover your auto repairs despite who caused the accident. Now, collision insurance will cover your auto repairs after a crash like:
- Another driver crashes into you.
- You reverse into another car.
- You’re involved in a rollover accident.
- You collide with a pole, tree, building, pothole, or curb.
Usually, these policies have deductibles. And, you would need to pay it before the insurance company will cover the repair costs.
Comprehensive Insurance And Auto Repairs
Incidentally, most people confuse collision insurance and comprehensive insurance coverage. While each of these insurances protect your car, their protection is different. In fact, in the industry, they refer to it as OTC or other than collision. Instead, your comprehensive insurance will cover auto repairs for:
- Natural Disasters
- Vandalism
- Theft
- Impacts with Animals
- Falling Objects
- Broken/Shattered Windshield
- Fires or Explosions
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.
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NEW DRIVER ADVICE AND GENERAL RULES
First of all, diving is a privilege for anyone, but especially for those new drivers. And, with it comes to a sense of freedom for them. But, you can quickly lose that freedom by not driving safely or following the rules of the road. So, you don’t lose that new driver’s license we put together some new driver advice and general rules to help keep you on the road.
Advice for new drivers
If you are a new driver or learning to drive we don’t want you to lose this privilege. So, here is some advice to help you stay safe and keep your driver’s license.
New Drivers should Practice, Practice, Practice
Before you can get your driver’s license, you must prove you have completed the required hours of practice driving. Now, if you take a driving course like Drivers Ed your instructor will document these hours. But, if you don’t take the course you can practice with a parent and keep a log of your hours. Like, anything the more you practice the better you will get, so practice as much as possible.
Keep your hands on the wheel
Given that, to drive safely you must have control over your car. When you drive with lazy hands or both hands not on the steering wheel you diminish that control. So, it is important to keep both hands on the steering wheel. In fact, the proper positions to place your hands are either ten and two or nine and three.
All Drivers put your cell phone away
For one thing, texting and driving are illegal. Even though, using a cell phone to make a call while driving is common to see, it’s makes driving more dangerous. Because when you use your phone you do not give 100% of your attention to the road. And, the fewer distractions while driving the safer you and the people around you are.
Use your headlights
Next, use your headlights or the automatic headlight setting if your car has that feature. Besides, it makes you visible to other cars and pedestrians it’s the law to use your headlights from dusk to dawn. Also, you should always use your headlights when your windshield wipers are on.
Whether a new driver or experienced don’t drive aggressively
Consequently, aggressive driving can land you with a ticket, or worse an accident. So, don’t tailgate, speed, or zip in and out of lanes. And, if someone is tailgating you, let them pass. Do not block them from passing or slam on your brakes. As this behavior will only make your drive more dangerous. Not to mention, if you have an accident because of these actions you could share in the fault of the accident.
General rules for driving
Whether you are a new driver or experienced driver here are some basic rules of the road to keep you safe.
- Buckle-up it’s the law.
- Use the appropriate child safety seat for your young passengers.
- Pullover to the right side of the road for emergency vehicles and wait for them to pass.
- Don’t drink and drive. And, if you do drink, use a rideshare program or sober friend to get home.
- Typically, roundabouts allow for continuous moving at a slow speed. Although, as you approach a roundabout you should yield to the circulating traffic.
- You should pass on the left and drive in the right lane.
- When stopped at a stop sign always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and other traffic.
New Drivers and Speeding
Lastly, next to distracted driving, speeding is one of the leading causes of accidents with new drivers. Additionally, more drivers receive speeding tickets than any other traffic ticket. So, pay attention to the posted speed limit when you are driving.
And, driving the speed limit will help you avoid getting a speeding ticket. As well as, the increased insurance rates that follow. Alternatively, driving too slow and blocking traffic will also land you a ticket. Thus, to be safe drive within the speed limit and with the flow of traffic.
CONTACT TAMPA TRAFFIC TICKET ATTORNEY
RHINO Lawyers can help and guide you through a system molded by law enforcement, judges, and lawyers for decades. Having won cases for our clients in similar circumstances, our criminal defense team knows what it takes to fight on your behalf.
Let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.
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UNDERSTANDING BAD FAITH INSURANCE TACTICS
To begin with, drivers depend on their insurance company to provide impartial treatment and compensation for individuals injured in auto accidents. But, that does not always happen. Actually, some insurance companies will employ bad faith tactics to deny or reduce payments of claims.
Moreover, insurance companies have the responsibility to handle your claim in good faith. Thus, understanding these bad faith insurance tactics will help you keep them accountable.
What are Bad faith tactics?
First, bad faith tactics are generally characterized as dishonest practices to get out of paying a valid claim. So, here are some bad faith tactics you should look out for when you file a claim.
- Delaying Claims – Some insurance companies will delay processing a claim hoping the claimant will give up. For this reason, states have established deadlines for denying or accepting a claim.
- Failing to Complete Investigation – Admittedly, insurance companies should complete a personal inspection. And look at all evidence to confirm the policyholder’s claim.
- Lowballing – When the insurance company offers less money than a claim is worth.
- Unwillingness to Pay a Valid Claim – This is when insurers deny claims covered by their policies.
- Distorting Policy Language – So, some insurance companies will misrepresent the language of the policy or law. Then they will use it against the policyholder to deny a claim.
- Threats – Unfortunately, some insurers may use threatening statements. Or, imply harsh legal action against a claimant.
In all honesty, if you experience any of these tactics from an insurance company, you need to contact an auto accident attorney.
Bad faith Florida Laws
Finally, to help protect individuals from bad faith tactics Florida established statute 626.9541. Which prohibits insurance companies from the deceitful acts of the tactics listed above. Additionally, under statute 624.155 the state allows you to recover unpaid damages from the insurer that acted in bad faith.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.
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UM/UIM COVERAGE DO YOU HAVE ENOUGH?
To start with, driving in Florida can be a constant struggle. Because of the traffic, distractions, and amount of uninsured motorists on the roadways, car accidents happen all the time. So, do you have UM/UIM coverage to protect yourself from uninsured motorists? More importantly, do you have enough coverage? As this could be the single most important type of auto insurance you carry.
In reality, most people do not have enough coverage. And, even though a driver may be “at fault” it does not mean that they have insurance to cover your injuries. So, having enough UM/UIM coverage could make a difference in your ability to recover damages.
What is UM/UIM Coverage?
So, you might be wondering how is UM/UIM coverage different from my Bodily Injury coverage? Well, UM coverage will cover you for damages caused by another driver. And, UIM coverage will pay damages when the at-fault driver does not have enough coverage. Specifically, a UM/UIM policy will you to recover the following:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Non-economic damages like a permanent disability
UM Coverage Stacking
By the way, if you currently have or you’re considering UM/UIM coverage ask about stacking. Particularly, stacking allows you to stack coverage based on the number of cars covered on your policy. As an example, if you have a $30,000 UM/UIM policy and two cars on the policy, you stack the policy giving you $60,000 in coverage.
So, before you decline UM/UIM coverage do some research. And, make sure you are making the right choice in coverage to protect yourself. As well as, giving yourself the ability to handle any financial fallout from a car crash.
UM/UIM CLAIM IN NO-FAULT STATE
In a “no-fault” state your insurance company will cover things like medical bills and lost wages regardless of fault. However, they will only cover up to the limits of your coverage. As for your auto repairs, you would need separate collision coverage.
In this situation, you could use your health insurance for your medical bills. Then you could use your collision coverage for repairs needed for your vehicle. However, you will be responsible for the deductibles and you can forget about any lost wages.
As a result, it would be beneficial for all drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) motorist insurance. It’s a good way to counter an otherwise terrible situation. So, if a driver that doesn’t have insurance hits you, your UM insurance will cover you. Because of the reasonable cost of a policy, you should get as much as you can afford.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.
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INJURY CLAIMS AND LAWSUITS ARE NOT THE SAME
To begin with, you have the right to compensation when injured in an auto accident by a negligent driver. But, did you know you have two options? Particularly, you can file an auto injury claim or injury lawsuit. Although many people do not realize auto injury claims and injury lawsuits are not the same.
In fact, they have very different processes. Because of this how do you know what option is best for you? Well, that would depend on the severity of your injuries and the damages caused by the accident. So, to help take the path that is best for you we recommend speaking to an auto accident attorney.
Auto Injury Claims
Usually, filing an auto injury claim with an insurance company is the first step people take. Thus, it involves sending a formal request to the at-fault driver’s insurance company. And, depending on the situation you might need to file with your insurance or your employer’s insurance. Other options include filing with a homeowner, or a business owner’s insurance company.
Next, the insurance company will perform an investigation of the claim. Though it is important to remember the insurance company does not have your best interest in mind. So, do not speak to them without talking to an auto accident attorney first.
Auto Injury Lawsuits
Notably, auto injury lawsuits help accident victims recover compensation for their injuries. Although, most take this legal action because they could not agree on a settlement with the insurance company. So, this is where having an auto injury attorney is beneficial. Because they know the processes for filing the lawsuit on your behalf.
Now, this civil action against the at-fault driver is more complicated than filing a claim. But, it allows the victim to recover damages for injuries, loss of wages, and damaged property.
How An Auto Accident Attorney Can Help
Finally, whether you need to file a claim with the insurance company or civil suit against the at-fault driver, you should hire a lawyer. Because your attorney will investigate your claim and gather important evidence. And use it to support your claim. For example, they will get the police reports, statements from witnesses, and medical records. As well as, any information on your lost wages. Then, they will use this information to calculate the amount of compensation you deserve.
More importantly, an attorney will file a lawsuit on your behalf. Not to mention, they will use their knowledge to anticipate possible defenses. As a matter of fact, they will most likely be familiar with the opposing counsel’s strengths and weaknesses.
Furthermore, you should not talk to or negotiate with the insurance company without an attorney. In all honesty, insurance companies are for profit. And, they do not make money by paying damages. So, they will try to find a way to reduce or eliminate your compensation. An auto accident attorney can keep you from falling for their tricks.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.
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