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COMMON AUTO ACCIDENT INJURIES

First of all, auto accident victims can suffer a variety of injuries. Yet, most accident victims receive one or more of these six common auto accident injuries.

In fact, these common auto accident injuries result from different circumstances of the crash. For instance, the injuries caused in the accident usually fit within these categories:

• Impact – As for impact injuries, these occur when a part of a person’s body hits part of the interior of the vehicle. Or, when a motorcyclist hits part of their surrounding environment.
• Penetrating – Typically consist of scrapes and lacerations.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Notably, after an auto accident, most people sustain soft tissue injuries. Thus, making it the most common auto accident injury. Specifically, a soft tissue injury refers to an injury to the body’s connective tissue. For example,

• muscles
• ligaments
• tendons

As a matter of fact, whiplash 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.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Consequently, a serious auto accident can result in spinal cord injuries. Thus, causing the victim paralysis or a life-altering disability. But sometimes they get lucky. And, herniated disks so the damage is not as catastrophic.

Although, these injuries are not always recognizable like head injuries. So, it is important to see a doctor after an accident. Because they can check and review your injuries thoroughly.

Head and Brain Injuries

Additionally, auto accidents can result in a head or brain injury. As a result, of the collision, your head hits a window, steering wheel, or another 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.

Scrapes and Lacerations

Furthermore, in a collision, you could sustain scrapes and lacerations. Usually, loose items like cell phones, purses, and grocery bags become projectiles. Thus, causing these injuries. Notably, some of the more serious cuts will leave you with scarring that can last forever.

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. Thus, auto accident victims are often left with long-lasting pain. Yet, the more serious car, truck, and motorcycle accidents could lead to the amputation of the injured limb.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Even though, most auto accidents result in physical injury, you could also suffer psychological injuries. Particularly, you could suffer Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Thus, making your daily routines upsetting and hopeless. Although, others experience depression and anxiety from the accident.

In all honesty, if you struggle with any psychological injuries after an accident you should get professional help. Because therapy can give you the support needed to heal.

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. As 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.

STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS AUTO ACCIDENT CLAIMS

To start with, Florida limits the amount of time allowing you to pursue compensation with its statute of limitations. So, if a negligent party injures you or a loved one in an auto accident you need to protect your rights. Particularly, you need to know which statute of limitations applies to your case.

In all honesty, this will allow you to take the correct steps in recovering damages. Hence, you will need an auto accident attorney. Because a Tampa auto accident attorney understands the laws. And, they can prepare your claim in a timely manner, so you don’t get burned by the statute of limitations.

Defining Statutes of Limitations

Thus, Cornell Law School defines statutes of limitations as any law that prohibits claims after a given time limit. In addition, these limitations vary from state to state. As well as, they exist in both civil actions and criminal offenses. In fact, Florida has statutes of limitations for several different laws.

So that, statutes of limitations protect the legal rights of all parties. As a matter of fact, in auto accident cases it helps to preserve evidence and witness testimony. Because over time the quality of evidence and witness testimonies deteriorate. With this in mind, it is important to have a car accident lawyer review your case as soon as possible.

Florida Auto Accident Deadlines

In many cases, Florida law allows accident victims 4-YEARS to file a civil lawsuit after the date they were injured in an auto accident. Many people believe that they are only allowed 14-DAYS to preserve their claim—THIS IS SIMPLY NOT TRUE. PLEASE KNOW YOUR RIGHTS.

Auto, Truck & Motorcycle Accident Statute of Limitations

About, the statute of limitations of car, motorcycle, and trucking accident victims.  Consequently, have 4-years from the day of the accident to file a suit. Additionally, if you wait for 4-years to file a court will refuse to hear your case. Unless your case has circumstances that justify them granting an exception.

Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations

As for, the statute of limitations for wrongful death the surviving members of the family only have 2-years to file a lawsuit. In fact, this time limit applies to all forms of accidental deaths. Including, deaths from fatal automobile, motorcycle, and trucking accidents. So, you lose a loved one due to a negligent driver talk to an attorney who understands Florida’s wrongful death laws.

Auto Accident Statutes of Limitation Extensions

Despite, Florida law having deadlines for filing a lawsuit after an accident there are exceptions. For example, here are the most common exceptions the court makes for extending the statute of limitations:

• Defendant Availability in a Claim – Considering, when you file a lawsuit they serve the negligent party papers. So, if they leave the state the court will pause the time limit until they return to the state. Likewise, if the negligent party goes into hiding.
• False Identity of Negligent Driver – Also, if the negligent party gives a false identity the court will extend the limitations. So that, they can find the person.
• Catastrophic Injuries – Actually, Florida law will allow the victim 7-years from the date of the accident. But, only if they suffer catastrophic injuries that prevent them from filing.
• Delayed Discovery – Incidentally, injuries can take days or weeks to show up. So, the statute of limitations doesn’t begin until they identify the injuries. For example, a traumatic brain injury (TBI) symptoms take weeks or months to show.
• Injured Dependents – For instance, minors will need a guardian or caregiver to file a personal injury lawsuit for them. As well as, a mentally challenged individual. In fact, the court will sometimes extend the statute of limitations until the minor turns 18. Similarly, the court will extend the limitations for mentally challenged individuals. Particularly, until someone can file a lawsuit for them.

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.

ECONOMIC AND NON-ECONOMIC DAMAGES

To begin with, even the safest drivers can get in an auto accident. And, if you suffer injuries in an accident it is best to know your rights to compensation. So, there are two forms of basic compensation, economic and non-economic damages.

Incidentally, a personal injury case could involve both economic and non-economic damages. Especially, when trying to determine the total amount of damages from the accident. At any rate, for additional info on compensation eligibility, contact a Tampa auto accident attorney.

Economic Damages

First, economic damages compensate the injured for tangible expenses after a car crash. In fact, economic damages can reimburse you for any out of pocket expenses from the accident. Not to mention, they also include the following:

• Lost wages
• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost business opportunities
• Cost to repair or replace damaged property

Typically, most of the damages awarded in personal injury claims come from medical expenses. Furthermore, these cases usually require an expert witness to testify. Particularly, with wrongful death cases. Because they can help prove economic damages. As well as, they help with proving liability.

Unfortunately, each personal injury case is different. Thus, some cases can’t receive compensation for economic damages. Because in some cases the victim shares fault in the accident, due to comparative negligence.

Non-Economic Damages

Next, you can receive non-economic damages. Subsequently, with non-economic damages, you cannot measure compensation from tangible expenses. Instead, they include damages for non-monetary losses. For example, non-economic damages include the following:

• Pain and suffering (emotional and physical)
• Emotional distress
• Loss of consortium (companionship)
• Permanent disfigurement
• Damaged reputation
• Depression

Regrettably, these losses are more difficult to prove. Nonetheless, do not ignore these losses. Additionally, the driver’s PIP insurance could limit your compensation. Because Florida does not require drivers to carry additional insurance. So, the policy will limit recovering losses for non-economic damages.

Punitive Damages

Although economic and non-economic damages are more common, you could receive punitive damages in a personal injury case. But, not all auto injury settlements will include punitive damages. Additionally, judges award punitive damages to punish the gross negligence of the defendant. Some punitive damages awarded are:

• Court reporter fees
• Costs of exhibits
• Reproduction fee
• Fees charged by legal experts
• Miscellaneous expenses

Currently, the state of Florida does not limit compensatory damages compensation. Yet, there are limits to punitive damages to keep damages from becoming excessive. Punitive damages may not exceed three times the amount of compensatory damages awarded. Or, $500,000 whichever is greater.

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.

SUBROGATION AND INJURY SETTLEMENTS

First of all, the legal system has many obscure terms. But most people don’t hear these terms unless they study law. Or, they find themselves in a legal situation that requires them to know the term. Unfortunately, one of these terms is Subrogation.

In fact, if you file a personal injury claim you might hear this term. Either, while dealing with the other driver’s insurance company or yours. In either case, here is what you should know about subrogation and your personal injury settlement.

Defining Subrogation

Specifically, Merriam-Webster says subrogation is “the assumption by a third party (such as a second creditor or an insurance company) of another’s legal right to collect a debt or damages.” In other words, it is when insurance attempts to collect reimbursement from the at-fault party or insurance company. But only if they paid benefits to the injured person during an injury claim.

Understanding Subrogation

First, the subrogation process is somewhat confusing. Yet, it is a fundamental component of a personal injury claim. Moreover, insurance companies in Florida have the right to subrogate the at-fault driver’s insurance and the driver. So, the insurance carrier or the UM insurer can recover the money they paid because of the at-fault driver.

For example, say the other driver does not have enough coverage to pay damages. Then, you can use your uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) coverage to cover some of the expenses. Eventually, your claim settles with the other driver. Given that, the case settled the UM/UIM insurer can now pursue subrogation.

More importantly, Florida law states the UM/UIM insurer can’t recover more than they paid to you. As well as, it doesn’t allow you to “double-dip” or receive damages twice from the at-fault party. Yet, it does allow you to recover any deductibles you paid to your insurers.

Who Has Rights To Subrogation?

Incidentally, your insurance company and UM/UIM insurer are not the only parties allowed to pursue subrogation. In fact, subrogation allows other entities a legal claim against settlement money from the at-fault party. For example, these entities include:

• Medicaid
• Medicare
• Health Insurance Companies
• Workers’ compensation
• Veterans Administration

Additionally, most state assistance programs can legally pursue reimbursement with a subrogation claim. Because all the different parties allowed subrogation these claims can become complicated quickly. So, if suffered injuries in a car crash talk to a Tampa auto accident attorney.

UM Insurer Waiver

Actually, your insurance or UM/UIM insurer can choose to waive their right to subrogation. As a matter of fact, the at-fault driver usually requests the waiver when they want a quick settlement. Yet, it is important to note the insurance company has 30 days to waive its right to subrogation or keep it. So, if they waive their right you can finalize your settlement. But if they don’t waive their right you could recover your deductible.

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.

MINOR ACCIDENTS AND INSURANCE COMPANIES

To start with, virtually all insurance companies say you need to report all accidents. Yet, some people think with a minor accident like a fender bender they do not need to. And, they may try to work things out amongst themselves.

Yet, this is not a good idea. Because even minor injuries can worsen over time. Plus, in some cases, injuries take days or weeks to manifest. So, you need to report all accidents, or you could regret it later.

Thus, you should take the same steps after a minor accident as you would with a major accident. Which includes letting the insurance company know about the accident. As well as, protecting your rights and wellbeing. And, if you need help through this process contact an auto accident attorney.

WHY Report a Minor Accident

First, reporting a minor accident and filing a claim is completely different. Specifically, when you report a crash you only notify your insurance an accident occurred. And, if you file a claim you want to receive coverage for injuries or damage to property. So, it is important to report a crash in a timely manner. For example, here are three reasons you should report the accident.

• Insurance Agreement – As a matter of fact, an insurance agreement is a contract between you and the insurance company. Thus, you must follow all terms contained within the agreement. So, if you don’t follow these terms, they can deny coverage of your claim.
• Vehicle Repairs – Additionally, when it comes to getting your car repaired you could file with other driver’s insurance. But they could dispute your claim causing a delay in getting your vehicle fixed. So, in cases like this, you need to use your insurance policy. Though, if you did not report the accident in a timely manner, they can deny coverage.
• Making a Claim – Even though, the other driver has insurance or says they have insurance you need to report the crash to your insurance company. As you might learn they do not have sufficient coverage, or worse a canceled policy. So, if you reported the accident to your insurance company you can file a claim. And, if you have underinsured or uninsured insurance coverage you can use this coverage.

When To Report the Accident

Next, you will not need to call your insurance company from the accident site. But you should call and let them know about the accident in a timely manner. Especially, because some policies state a specific timeframe around reporting accidents. In fact, many policies state you need to report the accident within 72 hours.

Incidentally, you may not be able to meet this timeframe. For instance, you suffered serious injuries or became incapacitated. Either way, you will still need to notify your insurance company, just contact them as soon as you can.

What to Do After a Minor Accident

Finally, you should protect yourself after an auto accident. As a matter of fact, most people don’t know what to do after an accident. Thus, these tips can help anyone involved in an auto accident.

• Stop and Check for Injuries – In all honesty, you should never leave an accident. Because they will charge you with a crime. Instead, check yourself and passengers for injuries. Then, check on the other driver if possible. But, if you have injuries call 911 and don’t move.
• Get to Safety – Next, if your car is drivable move it the side of the road out of traffic. Additionally, if you cannot drive the car, put on your hazard signals and you move to the side of the road.
• Call the Police – Always call the police when in an auto accident. They will file an accident report. More importantly, you will need this report when you file your claim.
• Exchange Information – Even though 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, and the officer’s name with a badge number. Also, try to document any details that may help when you file your claim.
• Take Pictures – Additionally, take pictures of the accident scene. Include photos of the damage to each car, the license plate of the other driver, and traffic signs.
• Report to Insurance Company – As I have said, it is important to report a crash as soon as possible. Besides, reporting the accident keeps you from breaking the terms of your policy. Not to mention, you need to let them know so you can use your MedPay coverage. Because MedPay requires you to submit all medical bills through the insurance company.
• Contact an Auto Accident Attorney – Actually, it is a good idea to consult with an attorney after an accident. Because an auto accident attorney can use their knowledge of relevant laws to help protect your rights. As well as, handling all the paperwork and filing deadlines. Thus, allowing you to focus on recovering and getting your life back to normal.

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.

DISTRACTED DRIVING A DEADLY MIX

To begin with, most people associate distracted driving with using a cell phone. While using a cell phone while driving is common. Especially, texting while driving. However, using a cell phone is not the only form of distracted driving.

In fact, the NHTSA says distracted driving is anything that takes your attention away from driving. For this reason, it could include many activities. So, here is a list of other activities considered distracted driving.

• Talking on cell phone
• Texting
• Eating and/or drinking
• Using a GPS
• Updating social media sites or apps
• Checking email
• Using a phone’s camera or video app
• Reading
• Grooming
• Rubbernecking
• Attending to children or pets
• Adjusting the radio or music
• Talking to other passengers

Manual Distractions While Driving

First, manual distractions while driving involve taking one or both hands off the steering wheel. And, almost every distracted driver will take at least one hand off the wheel. But this makes it difficult to properly steer. And, nearly impossible to make an emergency maneuver. Furthermore, this dangerous distraction could cause you to veer off the road or into oncoming traffic.

Visual Distractions

Actually, visual distractions are the most common with drivers. To tell the truth, this makes sense. Because taking your eyes off the road is an action that takes your attention away from driving. For example, a visual impairment could include these actions texting, looking at billboards, grooming, and more.

With this in mind, these distractions hinder a driver’s ability to consistently evaluate their surroundings. Which is important for every driver’s safety. As well as, for the safety of other vehicles on the road. Moreover, the CDC states a person texting will take their eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds. Which at 55 miles per hour the person could travel the length of a football field.

Cognitive Distractions

Finally, we have cognitive distractions. Unfortunately, these are less straightforward than the other types. Because these distractions cause the driver’s mind to wander. Such as, when a driver talks to another person, daydreaming and listening to the radio.

Furthermore, cognitive distractions are deceiving. Considering, the driver has a full view of the road. Although, the driver loses concentration on the road and has a higher chance of an accident. Due to the fact, they are not able to think fast and react to potential hazards.

Distracted Driving Crashes

Incidentally, a car accident caused by distracted driving could have a tragic ending for the people involved. In fact, NHTSA said in 2017, distracted driving claimed 3,166 lives. However, these accidents are not limited to only car accidents. For one thing, our Tampa auto accident attorneys see a variety of these cases including:

• Motorcycle Accidents – Granted, it is a bad idea to take your eyes off the road and hands off the handlebars while riding a motorcycle. Consequently, riders could have a distracted driver hit them and cause serious injuries or death.
• Truck Accidents – For one thing, with many truck drivers working long hours driving their minds can wander. As well as, most drivers use navigation systems like Waze, Google Maps, and Garmin which can also distract them from the road.
• Pedestrian Accidents – While, a distracted driver could hit a pedestrian in a crosswalk. Additionally, they could hit a person exiting a car. Or, swerve off the road and strike a person on the sidewalk.
• Drunk or Impaired Drivers – Actually, when you add drugs or alcohol to these distractive action’s things get extremely dangerous. Because impaired drivers already have slower reactions to things happening around them.
• Bicycle Accidents – Similarly, bicyclists face the same risk of injury or death as a pedestrian. Because they don’t have the same protection an automobile provides. In addition, cyclists have all the for distractive driving as a motorist.
• Uber or Lyft Driver and Passenger Accidents – Likewise, it goes for Uber and Lyft drivers. Considering, they drive long hours like truck drivers they face the same risks from navigation systems and daydreaming.

Preventing Distracted Driving

Finally, we should use education to prevent distracted driving. So, new drivers learn and current drives learn the activities that cause distracted driving. Because, many of these activities consist of more than one distracting activity, like texting and adjusting the radio. So, here are the top ways for everyone to avoid distractions on the road.

• Turn your cell phone off, put it on “do not disturb”, or airplane mode.
• Consume food and drinks before driving.
• Program your GPS before pulling out of the driveway or pull over to a safe place to park and program.

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.

DON’T HANDLE CAR ACCIDENTS ALONE

To start with, you do not need to hire an attorney after a car accident that was not your fault. However, if the accident damages your car and you receive injuries it is a good idea. Since an auto accident attorney can help you recover damages and avoid liability for the accident.

Additionally, an auto accident attorney can use their knowledge of relevant laws to help protect your rights. As well as, handling all the paperwork and filing deadlines. Thus, allowing you to focus on recovering and getting your life back to normal.

WHY Speak to a car accident attorney

First, when you hire a lawyer, they will gather the evidence needed 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.

A Lawyer HELPS calculate damages

Secondly, the average person doesn’t have the experience with calculating eligible compensation from an accident. But, an accident attorney does. In fact, they will review all the circumstances of the accident. Then, they will use that information to file for numerous damages. For example:

• Future Medical Expenses – A lawyer will anticipate future expenses you will incur from your injuries.
• Lost Wages – Money you did not make due to missing work while recovering from your injury.
• Reduced Earning Capacity – Your injuries limit your ability to work. Either on a short-term or long-term basis.
• Pain and Suffering – Injuries that affect your quality of life and your very essence.
• Punitive Damages – You could receive these if you can prove the at-fault driver was malicious or reckless.

filing lawsuit and negotIating settlement

Incidentally, after an accident, the at-fault driver is responsible for damages. But, their insurance will only pay up to the limits of the policy. Thus, you would need to pursue the driver individually for compensation.

Actually, this is why you need an attorney helping you with your case. Specifically, they will calculate your damages from the accident. Then your attorney pursues the at-fault person outside of court trying to negotiate a settlement before filing a lawsuit.

CONTACT A TAMPA CAR 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.

ACCIDENT VICTIMS MAKE MISTAKES

To begin with, dealing with the aftermath of an automobile accident is stressful. Considering, the cost of treatments, missing work, and long doctor appointments. Unfortunately, these accident victims make mistakes during treatments and doctors’ visits that hurt their case.

In fact, many times an innocent mistake has a huge impact on the personal injury case. Particularly, these mistakes can make so you are unable to prove your case. So, you end up not receiving fair compensation for your injuries. With this in mind, here are some common mistakes to avoid making during treatments.

Victim Waits To Get Medical Attention

First, as an auto accident victim in Florida, you have the responsibility of proving you suffered injuries. Regardless, if you think you the pain will go away. In all honesty, this is a bad idea. Due to the fact, both insurance companies and juries see the waiting for treatment as not severe enough for compensation.

Though, we understand the hope for minor injuries and avoiding a doctor. But, you should have all accident injuries checked. Thus, don’t ignore the pain no matter the severity. So, go to the hospital or see a doctor that specializes in auto injuries as soon as possible.

Accident Victim Misses Appointments

Next, missing or being late to appointments can ruin your case. Since the insurance company and jury will get to review your medical records. Thus, when you miss or show up late for an appointment the doctor notates this in your file. Unfortunately, insurance companies and juries view you as not injured or not committed to getting better.

By the same token, no showing or showing up late to appoints will aggravate the doctor. Besides, this is disrespectful. And, an angry doctor does not make a good witness. While understand missing some appointments. In the event that, you will miss or be late to an appointment call the doctor immediately to let them know or reschedule. Also, make sure the doctor’s office documents it in your file.

Concealing Your Past Medical History

Before treatment, your doctor will ask about your past medical history. More importantly, you need to answer all questions honestly. Because your doctor will use your medical history when diagnosing and treating you. In addition, incomplete information will affect the treatment you receive.

Not to mention, it will only hurt your case. In fact, when doctors don’t have all the information the insurance company and the jury will reject their medical opinion. Furthermore, the insurance company will review your medical history. So, they can get an idea of your health before the accident. Thus, trying to conceal anything will only work against you.

Telling Your Doctor About the Case

Namely, your doctor needs to concentrate on treating your injuries. Hence, they will need to know about the accident and where you hurt. But, your doctor does not need to know you filed a lawsuit. Overall, making the mistake of sharing this information is unnecessary and will hurt your case.

Admittedly, most doctors want to avoid involvement in a lawsuit. Thus, talking about your case with your doctor could cause them to not want to treat you. As well as, they might not reach important conclusions about your injuries. In addition, your doctor will likely note the conversation in your file. And, the insurance company will try to use it to shine a bad light on you.

Not Completing Your Treatment

Even though, your pain is subsiding don’t end your treatment before healing completely. So, ending your treatment before medical release will hurt your case. Because, when you stop treatment early the insurance company and jury assume the treatment healed you.

By the same token, large gaps in treatment suggest the same thing. As well as, it gives the impression you healed and suffered a new injury. However, it is understandable to miss a treatment. Still, it’s better to avoid any gaps in treatment. Although, if you can’t avoid missing a session, contact the doctor and document the reason.

As I have said, with an injury it is always best to seek medical care until completely healed. Or, your doctor says there is nothing more they can do to help your injury.

Failing to Cooperate with Depression or Anxiety Treatments

Whereas, the accident causes pain by injuring your body. Subsequently, those injuries can lead to anxiety or depression. Unfortunately, this is all too common in accident victims. Yet, you can’t overcome these psychological conditions without treatment.

Thus, it is important to report these symptoms to your doctor. Otherwise, your doctor can’t prescribe treatment and it won’t appear in your file. Additionally, making the mistake of not seeking treatment for your injury-related depression or anxiety the insurance company and jury will not compensate for it.

Accident Victims Discounting Pain

After, starting treatments many people feel like whiners or complainers if they talk about their pain during each visit. So, some will try to tough it out and not let the doctor know about the pain. However, failing to have your pain documented is a huge mistake. Because the doctor needs to know this information to properly treat your injuries.

As a matter of fact, one of the best ways to document your pain is to keep a daily journal. Then, your doctor could use it to help document your chart with your day-to-day pain. Yet, if you don’t report your pain or limitations, they will not make it into your file. As a result, the insurance company and jury will not believe you are in pain. Nor, will the court accept your testimony about your pain.

Failure to Keep Medical File

Finally, besides documenting your pain from the accident, you should keep your own medical file. In fact, it is important to track every medical provider that treats your injury. Including, the tracking of work restrictions, doctors’ orders, and treatment referrals. All in all, tracking this information is helpful to your case and attorney. So, not maintaining a file is a huge oversight on your part.

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.

SPRING CYCLING AVOID INJURIES

To begin with, Florida pretty much has good cycling weather year-round. However, the temperatures have risen. So, cyclists from all over North America are descending on Florida streets. Unfortunately, that means a rise in bike-car and bike-truck accidents. Typically, the cyclists are on the losing end.

Secondly, cyclists share the same rights and responsibilities as other motorists on the road. But, negligent motorists or careless drivers can cause serious injury to a cyclist. Granted, bicyclists can receive damages for medical bills, lost income and, property damage. As well as, for pain and suffering. Yet, if you are partially responsible the amount received in damages gets reduced.

Causes of Bike-Car Accidents

Notably, in 2019 the FLHSMV reported 6,628 bike-car accidents. In addition, 142 of these cycling crashes resulted in a fatality. Considering, how susceptible cyclists are to injury it is important to know some of the main causes of bike-car accidents. So, here are some dangers cyclists face.

• Failure to yield when entering the road – When entering a roadway, the law requires all motorists to yield to on-coming traffic. In fact, that includes yielding to bicyclists.
• Passing without safe distance – All motorists must leave 3 feet around a cyclist when passing. It’s the law.
• Right turn crashes – These collisions occur when a motorist fails to use their turn signal, or they make a sudden turn crossing the cyclists’ path.
• Road Hazards – Things like road debris, potholes, and cracks in the pavement pose a danger to bicyclists. Because they can cause a cyclist to lose control of the bike.

Avoid Injuries Cycling Safety

In all honesty, cyclists often suffer catastrophic injuries when involved in a collision with a car or truck. Therefore, to avoid a crash or injury cyclists can take certain precautions. So, here are some safety tips for cyclists to follow:

• Always wear a properly fitted helmet and securely fasten the strap.
• Stay visible. Wear bright colors when riding or wear something that reflects light (reflective shoes, reflective tape, etc.)
• Pay attention. Do not wear headphones so that you can hear the traffic and pedestrians around you. Never text and ride.
• Ride in the same direction as traffic and stay as far to the right as possible. Use bike lanes whenever you can.
• Obey all traffic laws, including signs, signals, and lane markings, when riding on the roadway. If crossing a roadway upon or along a crosswalk, abide by pedestrian crossing guidelines.
• If riding between the hours of sunset and sunrise, Florida Law requires the use of a headlight lamp which exhibits a white light visible for 500 feet. Also, it requires the rear of the bike equipped with a taillight lamp and reflector visible for 600 feet.

Motorists Safety Reminders

Although, bicycle safety is important for both the cyclist and motorist. FLHSMV (Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles) states motorists must pay special attention when driving around cyclists. So, here are some safety tips for motorists to follow:

• Drivers MUST give bicyclists a minimum of three feet of clearance when driving alongside or passing them. It’s the law.
• When turning, yield to any bicyclist in the bike lane and make your turn behind the cyclist.
• Avoid using high beam headlights when you see a bicyclist approaching.
• Before opening a car door, check for bicyclists who may be approaching from behind.

Liability in A Bike-Car Accident

Regarding, injuries from a bike-car or bike-truck accident, you can sue the responsible party for damages. Not to mention, as a victim Florida states you have 4 years from the date of the accident to file the claim. More importantly, you can recover damages from the at-fault party if you can prove liability.

At any rate, you as a cyclist have the same legal rights and duties as motorists in Florida. Yet, many drivers do not use care when sharing the road. For example, a distracted driver may not see you cycling and could collide with you.

Then, you can assert your personal injury claim under negligence. Due to the fact, they failed to use reasonable care. Thus, holding the at-fault party liable for injuries caused by the accident.

Damages and Compensation in a Cycling Accident

Furthermore, victims of a bike accident can recover damages. As a matter of fact, you can receive compensation for current medical bills and future medical bills. As well as, for loss of income, and property damage. Also, family members of a person that dies from the accident can recover damages through a wrongful death claim.

So, if you are in a bike-car or bike-truck accident, you could receive compensation. Hence, our Tampa auto accident lawyers will review your case. Then, we will work to protect your legal rights so you can get the outcome you deserve.

CONTACT A TAMPA BIKE-AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

In short, after a bike-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.

TRUCK ROLLOVER ACCIDENT

Large truck rollover accidents are the worst kind of truck accidents. Considering, for these accidents to occur the large truck must flip over while moving. Unfortunately, this type of accident is all too common on the roadways.

In fact, large trucks are prone to rollover accidents. This is due to their high center of gravity making them top-heavy. But these accidents are preventable. Knowing the common causes will help you to be proactive and decrease the amount of truck rollover accidents.

Common Causes of Trucking Rollovers

Incidentally, truck rollover accidents can occur because of many factors. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), over 78% of them involve driver error. However, driver error is not the only cause. Some of the common causes of truck rollovers include:

• Speeding – Higher speeds while turning or going around a curve could cause the trailer load to shift. This gives the truck more potential for a rollover accident.
• Careless/Reckless Driving – This includes drivers who are sleep-deprived, under the influence, and inexperienced with driving large trucks.
• Improperly Loaded Trailer – Causes rollovers when the shifts in transit. Commonly, due to not properly securing the cargo or unevenly distributing the weight of the cargo.
• Wind – Large truck trailers are tall and long making them susceptible to high winds. Drivers should avoid driving during high wind advisories.
• Improper Maintenance – Not maintaining the proper tire pressure and damage to the suspension can cause the truck to tip. Especially, when driving around sharp curves, uneven road surfaces, and steep downhill grades.

TIPS to Avoid a Trucking Rollover Accident

Even though, you cannot prevent truck driver error or weather conditions. While sharing the roads and highways with large trucks you can take precautions to avoid a rollover crash with a large truck.

• Drive Slower – When driving do not zip around or try to get the truck driver to drive faster. The higher speeds can contribute to many different accidents including rollovers. So, slow down and try to be patient. Even if it means you add a few minutes to your drive.
• Avoid Truck Blind Spots – Remember in order for the truck driver to see you, you must be visible in the truck’s mirror. Staying out of the blind spot can prevent the truck driver from trying to change lanes into you or an overreaction when the driver notices you in the lane. Keeping you, the truck driver, and other motorists safer.
• Don’t Pass Next to a Sharp Drop – Always focus on passing safely. Avoid passing on the side a steep drop and make sure you stay in your lane.
• Allow Truck Drivers Room to Turn – When a driver truck does not have enough room to turn it increases factors that can lead to rollover accidents. So, don’t follow too closely and allow plenty of room for them to turn.
• Pay Attention to Truck Cargo – While you can’t see the cargo in an enclosed trailer, you can see cargo on a flatbed. They secured cargo on flatbeds with straps. Unfortunately, the straps can loosen during the drive causing the cargo to shift. If you notice the cargo moving around don’t drive beside the truck. Try to signal the driver to make them aware of the issue.

CONTACT A TAMPA ATTORNEY

After a trucking accident, you may not know your rights. Don’t struggle through the process alone. Our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

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.