News

UNSAFE ROADS CAUSING CAR ACCIDENTS

First of all, statistically negligent drivers cause most car accidents. But, did you know unsafe roads can also lead to a car accident? In fact, these crashes are most notably after severe weather. So, if you suspect unsafe road conditions contributed to your accident, we can help.

Driving Hazards that Make Unsafe Road Conditions

Next, Florida residents know severe storms occur almost daily during the summer months. Not to mention, the weather we get from hurricane season. As a result, these storms produce a variety of unsafe road conditions. Thus, the following are some of the most common hazards.

• Slippery Roads
• Tree limbs and leaves
• Potholes
• Debris in the road
• Sinkholes
• Deteriorated shoulders

While each of these hazards is avoidable in some instances. Unfortunately, not all drives are lucky when they encounter one of these conditions. In fact, the unlucky one can lose control of the vehicle and even crash into another car.

Legal Options for Unsafe Road Accidents

Lastly, anyone injured in an auto accident due to unsafe road conditions can receive compensation. Despite, having protection from most lawsuits, you can sue a government agency. Actually, the Federal Tort Claims Act allows for these claims. Especially, when an injury occurs due to unsafe roads.

But, not every accident from an unsafe road condition constitutes a lawsuit. For this reason, it becomes the burden of the plaintiff to provide proof of neglect. Furthermore, to hold them responsible they need to know about the issue. Plus, they would need time to assess and fix the problem.

For example, if you drive your vehicle during or after a hurricane. And, during this drive, you have an accident due to debris in the road. In this case, you cannot blame them as you took the risk of going out during these extreme conditions. And, they have not had enough time to assess the roads.

Either way, you should always speak to an auto accident attorney after an accident so they can review your case.

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.

Read More

CHALLENGES OF SCHOOL BUS ACCIDENT CLAIMS

To begin with, school bus involved accidents are rare. In fact, car accidents are 70 times more likely according to the NHTSA. Yet, these accidents can still occur.  And, receiving compensation for your child’s injury can be more complex. Because the school district brings new challenges to school bus accident claims.

Difference Between School Bus and Car Accident Claims

First, a school bus and car accident claims have many differences. Actually, these two accidents even call for a distinct approach when filing a claim. Even though, they both typically involve a negligent driver. And, that is a key component in auto accident cases.

Consequently, a school bus accident involves the school system. Which is part of and run by the local government. Because the accident involves a government body you must follow special procedures to file a claim. Besides, the school district has sovereign immunity that protects them from most lawsuits.

Who is Liable for the School Bus ACCIDENT?

So, who is liable for your child’s injuries in a school bus accident? Specifically, you would file a claim against the negligent or at-fault individual. Because every accident is different, the person who caused the accident can vary. For instance, the accident could have resulted due to one of the following parties.

• School bus driver
• Manufacturer of the bus or bus parts
• Another motorist
• A private transportation company
• Your school district/local government

As a matter of fact, some cases have more than one party responsible. In that case, a personal injury attorney can help you seek damages from all parties.

Filling An Accident Claim Against the School System

Finally, even though sovereign immunity will protect the school district from most lawsuits. It does not protect them all lawsuits. In fact, Florida law will allow an accident victim to pursue damages. Provided the school district employee’s negligence the caused their injury. So, if your child gets injured in a school bus accident contact an auto accident attorney to help you through the complexities of this type of case.

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.

Read More

HOW TO AVOID BACK-TO-SCHOOL ACCIDENTS

As summer break comes to an end the back-to-school season starts. Although back-to-school can be an exciting time for kids and parents, it brings the risk of back-to-school accidents. As a matter of fact, we can all do our part to avoid back-to-school accidents. So, we put together some safety tips for students and parents to follow as school gets back into session.

Back-to-School Bus Rider Safety

First, riding the bus to school is one of the safest alternatives to parents dropping kids off at school. In fact, they designed school buses with safety in mind. Yet, school bus accidents can still happen. So, here are some safety tips to help keep your child safe as they go back-to-school.

• Make sure they give themselves enough time to get to the bus stop.
• Stay alert. So, they can see and hear cars on the road.
• Don’t stand on the edge of the road. Try to stay at least 5 steps from the edge or curb.
• If they need to cross the road always wait for the bus driver to signify it is safe to cross. Even if the bus driver says it is safe, look both ways before crossing.
• Never try to board the bus while it is moving. Always wait for the bus to stop and open the doors indicating it is safe to board.
• The same goes for exiting the bus. They should not get out of their seat to exit until the has stopped.
• While on the bus sit facing forward and don’t hang anything out the window.

Parents and Carpool Driver Safety

Next, if you drive your student or take part in a carpool to get them to school then this is for you. Because drivers need to stay alert and use extra caution in school zones and around school buses. So, here are some tips to help you avoid a back-to-school accident.

• First and foremost, adhere to the speed limit.
• Follow your child’s schools drop off procedures.
• Watch for kids crossing the street and try to make eye contact with them.
• Slow down when approaching a school bus.
• If the bus is flashing red lights stop! In fact, you should stop about 20 feet from the bus.
• Never ever pass a stopped school bus that is allowing kids to get on or off the bus.

Teen Drivers Back-to-School Safety Tips

Finally, we must not forget about the teenage driver. Since car accidents are one of the leading causes of death for teens. Preparation like this is very important. For this reason, we put together some safety precautions to review with your teen.

• Buckle up and do not start driving until everyone in the car has a seatbelt on.
• Put your cell phone away and do not use it while driving.
• Drive the speed limit.
• Limit the number of passengers to help reduce distractions.
• If it is raining turn on your headlights and drive with extra caution.

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.

Read More

ARE BACK SEAT PASSENGERS SAFE

To begin with, most people think they would be safer in the back seat during a front-end collision. But, are back seat passengers safe? Actually, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), back seat passengers are not safer.

In all honesty, the back seat is not is completely unsafe. But, that technology has increased the safety of the front seat passengers. So, here is what you need to know about the safety of your passengers during an auto accident.

Front Seat Technology in New Cars

First, car manufacturers constantly add new safety features to vehicles. Usually, they add these features to increase safety in the event of a frontal collision. In fact, these features help to keep the driver and front-seat passenger firmly in their seats. Thus, reducing the chances of getting tossed around the car during impact. For example, most new vehicles include the following safety features.

• Improved seat belts with crash tensioners and force limiters
• Passive airbags (both front and side)
• Electronic stability control
• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking

Back Seats Don’t Have the Same Protection

Next, your passengers in the back seat of your car are not completely unsafe in an accident. Actually, newer cars have added side airbags and side-impact zones. But, when it comes to a front-end crash the rear seat belts lack crash tensioners and force limiters. As well as, the back seat passenger does not have front airbags.

While back seat passengers have some protection, the lack of those features put them at higher risk of injury or death in a front-end collision. Luckily, researchers and automakers have recognized this issue. And, continue to investigate new technology to improve the safety of back seat passengers.

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.

Read More

PASSENGERS’ RIGHTS IN AN AUTO ACCIDENT

To start with, with most auto accidents you hear about the drivers of the cars involved. And, you want to know how the law compensated the injured driver. But, what about passengers? Particularly, passengers’ rights in an auto accident.

Additionally, under Florida law who is responsible for a passenger’s injuries? Regardless, who the at-fault party is in the accident a passenger should know their rights. So, we put together some information every passenger in Florida should know to help protect their rights after an auto accident.

Basic Steps Even Passengers Should Take After An Accident

First, every driver and passenger needs to know what to do after an accident. Granted, most passengers don’t know all their rights or how to protect them after an accident. So, we put together 7 tips to help you in the event of a car accident:

• Get to safety – This will prevent more damage from occurring.
• Contact the police – It is important to make sure there is a police report. Because you will need this report when you file your claim.
• Exchange Information – Even if they do not have insurance, you will need their contact and vehicle details. Furthermore, you should get the contact information from any witnesses.
• Document the Details – You will need to write down both driver’s vehicle information, time, and location of the accident. As well as, the officer’s name with a badge number. Also, try to document any details that may help when you file your claim.
• Take Pictures – You should take pictures of the accident scene. Include photos of the damage to each car, the license plate of both drivers, and traffic signs.
• Seek medical attention – Often, injuries are not immediately apparent. Don’t wait, seek medical attention at your local emergency room, or by seeing your family physician right away.
• Get Legal Help – Most importantly, consult with an auto accident lawyer.

Who’s Insurance Covers You as a Passenger?

Admittedly, Florida is a no-fault state. Thus, as a car owner, Florida requires you to have PIP (personal injury protection) insurance. In fact, Florida Statute 627.736 states, your PIP coverage will cover injuries up to the policy limit. So, that does not mean as a passenger you are not covered. Luckily, passengers have options when injured in an accident.

• Your PIP Policy – First, Florida law says passengers that have a PIP policy must use it first when injured in an accident.
• A Family Member In Your Household’s Policy – Second, passengers without a PIP policy can use the insurance policy of a household family member. As long as they were not involved in the same accident.
• The Driver’s Policy – Third, a passenger that does not have access to their own or household members’ PIP policy can receive coverage. In fact, you can use the policy of the driver you were riding with.

What if you as a passenger have serious injuries?

Additionally, as a passenger injured in an accident your injuries might exceed the benefits of the PIP policy. In this case, the Florida no-fault rules won’t apply. So, you can make a claim against the at-fault driver. Although, we recommend having an auto accident attorney to review your case. Because they can advise you of all your options.

Passengers Cannot Double Dip

Finally, as a passenger, you may have access to more than one PIP policy for coverage. But, you can only recover damages once. And, what this means is that if you have $4,000 in damages, you can only recover that amount once. So, if your insurance does not cover the full amount of your damages, you can file a claim against the other driver or the vehicle owner. Thus, allowing you to recover the rest of your damages.

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.

Read More

WORK-RELATED CAR ACCIDENTS

To start with, car accidents happen every day in Florida. Unfortunately, some car accidents happen to individuals while working. Thus, making these instances work-related car accidents for those unfortunate people.

Under these circumstances, Workers Compensation becomes your “primary” insurance, not your insurance. Thus, covering medical bills and lost wages. But, what about recovering damages from your personal injury? Like, any other auto accident you need to consult with an auto accident attorney. Because they can advise all the options you have available.

Work-Related Car Accident Injury Recovery Limits

First, you are eligible for Workers Compensation after a work-related car accident. Regardless of fault. Unfortunately, you cannot use your PIP (personal injury protection) benefits with these car accidents. Nor, can you recover damages from Workers Compensation.

Even though, Florida’s Workers Compensation doesn’t allow you to recover damages it pays your medical bills. And, it will pay 2/3 of lost wages while you are out of work. Despite, getting your medical bills paid. Still, these benefits restrict the injured employee from receiving full compensation.

How to handle a work-related car accident

Next, we have good news for individuals involved in work-related car accidents caused by another driver. While you can’t recover damages from your Workers Compensation benefits. Yet, you can recover damages from the party that caused the accident. Be that as it may, here are a couple of facts you should know about.

• You cannot sue your employer.
• Workers Compensation has the right to “subrogation” or reimbursement. Thus, allowing them to recover the benefits they paid.

Additionally, your Workers Compensation carrier will file a claim against the negligent party if you don’t. Because they want to recover benefits paid due to the accident.

What to do after an accident

Finally, knowing what to do after an accident is the first step in getting you through the tragic event. Even though each accident is different there are basics steps you can take to protect your rights. So, we put together 7 tips to help you in the event of a car accident:

• Get to safety – This will prevent more damage from occurring.
• Contact the police – It is important to make sure there is a police report. Because you will need this report when you file your claim.
• Exchange Information – Even if they do not have insurance, you will need their contact and vehicle details. Furthermore, you should get the contact information from any witnesses.
• Document the Details – You will need to write down the other driver’s vehicle information, time, and location of the accident. As well as, the officer’s name with a badge number. Also, try to document any details that may help when you file your claim.
• Take Pictures – You should take pictures of the accident scene. Include photos of the damage to each car, the license plate of the other driver, and traffic signs.
• Seek medical attention – Often, injuries are not immediately apparent. Don’t wait, seek medical attention at your local emergency room, or by seeing your family physician right away.
• Get Legal Help – Most importantly, consult with an auto accident lawyer.

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.

Read More

ARE MOTOR SCOOTERS SAFE?

To begin with, the increasing popularity of two-wheel vehicles has riders questioning their safety. Though, you have many options like motorcycles, motor scooters, and bicycles to choose from. While many people choose motorcycles for commuting because of their speed. Yet, others prefer motor scooters for their size. But, are motor scooters safe?

What is a Motor Scooter?

Notably, a motor scooter is a vehicle with two wheels created to transport a person. Yet, Florida statutes do not define motor scooters. So, Florida considers it a motorcycle. Thus, subject to the same laws as a motorcycle. Although, most motor scooters have a 50cc engine, so Florida law does not require a motorcycle endorsement to operate on the road.

Definitions

• Motor Scooter – In short, it is a two-wheeled vehicle created to transport a person on the road.
• Motorized Scooter – Similar, to a motor scooter but it does not have a seat and is not permitted on roads.
• Mobility Scooter – Typically, have three to four wheels and is also not permitted on the road.

Common Motor Scooter Accidents

As previously stated, motor scooters have to follow the rules of the road. But, like all two-wheeled vehicles, they are subject to the dangers associated with larger vehicles. Although like motorcycles, common motor scooter accidents are different. Because of their size and slower speeds. For instance, these are some of the common accidents that occur with motor scooters.

• Hit From Behind – First, unlike a bicycle, motor scooters are not allowed in the bike lane. Thus, forcing them to share the road with other motor vehicles. And, due to their slower speeds, oncoming drivers may not see them as they approach at higher speeds. As a result, rear-end collisions have become common with scooters.
• Losing Control – Second, the construction of scooters makes them unstable and difficult to maneuver. Because of their smaller wheels and high center of gravity.
• Opening Car Doors – Third, like bicycle riders, scooters often ride as far right as it is safe. So, they can allow faster traffic to pass easier. Yet, this makes them vulnerable to opening car doors.
• Getting Sideswiped – Fourth, as scooters travel in the right lane with normal traffic, it puts them at risk of getting hit by a car changing lanes. Because scooters are small and quieter than most vehicles on the road. Thus, making them easy to overlook at higher speeds.

Common Causes of Motor Scooter Accidents

Regarding, the causes of motor scooter accidents. Like, bicyclists ride as no one can see them, motor scooter riders need to ride as if other drivers cannot see them. Because this will help them drive more defensively. Considering, these are some of the common causes of scooter accidents:

• Visibility – They are not seen by other drivers.
• Right turn crashes – These collisions occur when a vehicle fails to use its turn signal. Or, they make a sudden turn crossing the scooter’s path.
• Mechanical – Occur when the scooter has a defect or is not well maintained.
• Drinking and Driving – Hit by a drunk driver.

Motor Scooter Injuries and Wrongful Death

Similarly, motorcyclists and scooter riders also lack the protection of steel frames. So, riders get exposed to the same dangers. Though falling off a scooter with the lower speeds are not as severe. But, collisions with an automobile can cause serious damage or death. In fact, some common injuries include:

• Road Rash or Scrapes
• Cuts and Gashes
• Broken Bones
• Soft Tissue Damage
• Internal Injuries
• Neck and Shoulder Injuries
• Back and Spinal Cord Damage
• Head or Traumatic Brain Injuries

Unfortunately, not all motor scooter accidents end with someone walking away. Or, even with a trip to the hospital. To tell the truth, some can’t walk away from the accident leaving families wondering what to do. For this reason, we recommend if you lost a loved one due to a negligent driver to contact an attorney.

Scooter Rider Safety Tips

Even though, scooter riders face similar risks motorcyclists and bicyclists face. Still, there are some differences. For one thing, motorcyclists can keep up with traffic. And, bicyclists usually have a designated bike lane to separate them from traffic. So, we have put together some tips to help keep motor scooter riders safer while on the road.

• Don’t ride on heavily traveled roads.
• Avoid roads with high-speed limits.
• Refrain from lane-splitting. Especially, since it is illegal in Florida.
• Watch for opening car doors.
• Try not to ride in wet weather.
• Always wear a helmet.
• Increase visibility with brightly colored clothes.
• Never drink and drive.
• Keep up with regular maintenance.

Basic Florida Scooter Laws

Finally, all motor scooter riders must follow the rules on the road. But, to keep up with the increased amount of scooter riders on Florida roads lawmakers have initiated some new laws. So, before you buy or jump on your scooter and go for a ride you should know and understand these rules.

• All riders need to be 16 years old or older. As well as, have a valid driver’s license.
• Florida law does not require riders to have scooter insurance.
• Follow all traffic laws and ride on the road.
• Obey all traffic control devices like traffic lights and stop signs.
• If you are over the age of 16 and don’t exceed 30 mph the law does not require a helmet.
• Stay off of sidewalks, bike paths, state highways, and interstates.
• Not allowed to ride alongside cars/trucks or between lanes.
• You must ride as far right as is it safe. Unless you are avoiding road hazards or turning left.

CONTACT A TAMPA MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

In short, after a motorcycle 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.

Read More

DISTRACTED DRIVING IS A VACATION NIGHTMARE

To start with, as we progress through this age of technology, distracted driving has become an increasing threat to our roadways. Not to mention, it becomes even more dangerous when you are on unfamiliar roads. In fact, for many people traveling this summer, distracted driving is a vacation nightmare.

Unfortunately, often distracted driving accidents have a tragic ending for the people involved. Moreover, NHTSA said distracted driving claimed 3,166 lives in 2017. Yet, these accidents are not limited to only automobile accidents. For one thing, our Tampa auto accident attorneys see a variety of these cases. Like, motorcycle, pedestrian, and bicycle accidents.

Thus, if your next vacation includes driving, you should prepare. Specifically, you should look up and acquaint yourself with local laws and roads. As this could help reduce the likelihood of potential distractions.

Vacationers Threatened By Distracted Driving

First, with millions of students out of school and families hitting the road for vacation, it makes summer “the most distracted time of the year.” Because with this surge of people driving comes an increase in distracted driving.

In all honesty, most drivers know they should not use their cell phones while driving. Yet, when on vacation, many forget. Especially, while driving on unfamiliar roads, using the GPS app on their phone for directions or sending a travel update to loved ones. In fact, these common acts make summer driving exceptionally dangerous.

So, don’t let distracted driving become a vacation nightmare for you this summer.

State to State Distracted Driving Conditions

Second, living in the U.S., you can experience a multitude of driving conditions and situations on a road trip. So, distractions while driving go beyond mobile devices and other electronics. For instance, depending on the state, distractions could come from nature or the stress of overly congested roads. Like, seeing large-horned rams driving through the mountains of Colorado or the extreme traffic of New York City.

As a result, it is important to be aware of the environment, local culture, and traffic conditions of the state you visit on vacation. Because everyday distractions worsen in an unfamiliar environment. So, drive smart on your vacation and reduce the amount of distractions while driving.

Tips For Avoiding An Accident While Traveling

Finally, while driving on a road trip is fun, it also increases your risk for a distracted driving car crash. So, don’t have your vacation ruined with a distracted driving accident. Instead, follow these tips to improve the safety of your trip.

• Pre-trip Inspection – First, take your car in to have it inspected. So, your mechanic can make sure your car is working properly. Like, the brakes, good tires, and the engine is running well.
• Know Your Route – Second, review the roads you will take on a map. As well as, check online for road closures, lodging, gas stations, and food.
• Choose a Navigator – Third, even if you use a GPS or phone app for navigation, pick someone in the car to be your eyes. As they can inform you of road changes and turns.
• Don’t Drive Tired – Fourth, make sure you get enough rest before leaving on your trip. Because drowsy driving is dangerous, too. Also, you should break up your driving to avoid drowsy driving throughout the trip.
• Roadside Emergency Kit – Fifth, don’t forget to pack a roadside emergency kit. Because breaking down in a remote area is stressful. So, having a basic kit will help keep you safe if an emergency happens.

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.

Read More

VALUE OF A PERSONAL INJURY CASE

To begin with, attorneys use many factors to determine the value of a personal injury case. In fact, these factors include both economic and non-economic damages. Like, the severity of the injury and other costs related to your auto accident injury. So, after an auto accident, it is common to wonder about compensation for your injuries.

Furthermore, the insurance company has its own formulas for determining the value of your personal injury claim. Thus, it is important to consult with an attorney. Because they know state laws. As well as, the important circumstances of your case to calculate the value for you. Our Tampa personal injury attorneys can review your case and provide an estimate for how much yours is worth.

Evaluating Your Personal Injury Damages

First, a personal injury attorney will review the amount of damages you incurred from the auto accident. Next, they will add an estimated dollar amount to the list of damages you suffered. For example, we listed some common damages used when evaluating a claim.

• Current and projected medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma
• Lost wages, both current and projected
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Damaged relationships
• Property damage

Even though a lawyer can calculate an estimate of your damages, it does not mean you will get that amount. Unfortunately, they will need to consider a lot more before finalizing a settlement value.

How Fault Affects The Value Of Your Claim

Second, the amount or level of fault affects the amount of compensation for your claim. In fact, depending on your state laws the amount of fault will reduce compensation a jury can award. So, when you share fault in the accident that caused your injuries it will reduce the value of your claim.

Thus, when your negligence or carelessness is a factor in the cause of the accident, your state law could lower the amount of damages received. Because each state is different, the amount they lower your compensation will depend on the state the accident occurred.

Negligence and Personal Injury Cases

Third, when your negligence or carelessness plays a role in the accident your state will follow one of three basic rules. Furthermore, these will reduce the amount of damages by the percentage of fault. Or, cut it entirely! With this in mind, we have listed a breakdown of the three negligence rules.

• Pure Comparative Negligence – As for, comparative negligence it lowers damages by the percentage of fault for the accident. By the way, Florida uses this rule to help determine the amount of damages.
• Modified Comparative Negligence – Similarly, modified comparative negligence reduces the amount of damages by the percentage of fault for the accident. But, when the fault is 50 percent or greater they do not allow you to collect damages. Also, percentage limits vary by state.
• Contributory Negligence – So, contributory negligence is the most strict rule of the three. As a matter of fact, any percentage of fault will prevent you from collecting damages.

Case Expenses

Finally, when calculating damages for your claim, your attorney will take into account the case expenses. For example, they may need to pay an expert witness. Or, pay to have the deposition testimony transcribed. Then your attorney will compare these costs with your estimated recovery to make sure the lawsuit has value.

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.

Read More

TEEN DRIVER SAFETY

To begin with, diving is a privilege for anyone, but especially for teens. And, with it comes a sense of freedom. But, as a parent, the safety of your teen is very important. Thus, it is important to prepare your child with basic teen driver safety. In fact, these driver safety tips are perfect for all levels of driving experience.

SAFETY TIPS FOR TEENS

First, it is difficult to protect your teen once they drive off in the car. So, we put these eight safety tips together to help you educate your teen on basic driver safety.

• Buckle Up – For one thing, wearing your seatbelt is the law! Furthermore, wearing your seatbelt increases your chances of surviving an auto accident by 50%.
• Obey The Speed Limit – Unfortunately, this is a big factor for teenagers. Consequently, not following the speed limit increases your chances of having an accident.
• Learn The Controls – Granted, this seems obvious. But, everyone should know how their car operates. For instance, knowing how to adjust your seatbelt and mirrors are vital for your safety.
• Your Cars Blind Spots – Incidentally, blind spot accidents are common with teen drivers. So, it is important to remember to check your mirrors and use your directional signal when changing lanes. As a matter of fact, you should do this even with a newer car equipped with warning indicators.
• Friendly Driving – Next, be courteous and friendly to other drivers. Because driving angry can lead to road rage or worse an accident.
• Use Your Signals – Always be predictable and indicate your intentions while driving. Additionally, you should watch for other drivers signaling a turn or lane change.
• Allow Room For Stopping – As, a good rule of thumb you should allow one car length for ten miles per hour of speed. Yet, this is not always possible due to traffic. In addition, you should never tailgate.
• Watch The Road – Above all, keep your eyes on the road. Specifically, put your cell phone down, don’t put on makeup, or eat while driving. Because distracted driving is dangerous.

LEADING CAUSE OF TEEN ACCIDENTS

In all honesty, next to distracted driving, speeding is one of the leading causes of teen accidents. In fact, the NHTSA states 32% of fatal teenage auto accidents were due to speeding. So, get involved and be a good role model for your teen driver. Because kids learn from their parent’s actions.

LAWS FOR TEEN DRIVERS

In addition, to the normal traffic laws, minors have other laws to follow to protect their right to drive. These laws also have penalties for teenage drivers that violate them.

• No Moving Violation Convictions – Minor’s that receive a moving violation while they have their learner’s permit will extend the time of the learner’s permit for a year from the conviction or till the age of 18.
• School Attendance – Not attending school could suspend their driving privilege or keep them from getting their license until they can provide proof, they have attended school for a minimum of 30 days in a row.
• Using Alcohol – Florida has a zero-tolerance policy. Drivers under 21 caught with a .02% or more will receive an automatic 6-month suspension of their license. If they get caught twice, they lose it for one year.
• 6+ points in 12 months – Your teen will have their license restricted to “business only” driving for a 12-month period or until the age of 18.
• Tobacco Possession Conviction – Minor’s convicted of tobacco possession will have their license revoked for a minimum of 30 days.

ADVICE FOR PARENTS OF TEEN DRIVERS

As for, parents with teen driving, we know your teen driver’s safety is a top priority. Thus, you may want to know what you can do to keep them safe on the road? For this reason, we put together some tips to help you.

• Open Communication – First, we recommend talking with your teen driver about safe driving and unsafe driving. Because speaking with them will help them understand the dangers associated with driving. But, this should not be a one-sided conversation. So, encourage your teen to ask questions and bring up concerns they have with driving.
• Create Rules – Second, set rules for your teen using the car. Like, no using a cell phone in the car and limiting the number of passengers they can have in the car. As this can reduce some of the common risky behaviors.
• Use an App – Luckily, with smartphones, we now have apps that can track your teens driving habits. Thus, your teen may drive safer if they know you are tracking how they drive.
• Zero Tolerance – Though, this should go without saying, DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE! Besides, underage drinking is illegal. So, is driving under the influence of alcohol. With this in mind, make it clear to your teen it is unacceptable, and you have zero tolerance.
• Lead by Example – As I stated before kids learn from their parent’s actions. Thus, it is important for you to set the example. So, don’t drive aggressively and obey the speed limit. And, always wear your seatbelt. Because they are always watching.
• Limit Night Driving – Finally, night driving poses all-new dangers for teen drivers. So, practice driving at night with them. As this will help build their skills and help them to be more aware while driving.

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.

Read More