What Traffic Violations Are Considered Criminal Offenses?
Whether it’s a traffic issue or any other part of life, we all want to keep our noses clean and stay out of trouble with the law. But if you see the flash of blue lights in your rearview mirror, you might wonder if you’ve committed a criminal offense.
There is a difference between going a few miles over the speed limit and committing a serious traffic violation. We’re going to shine a light on exactly what traffic violations are actually crimes.
Read on to find out what traffic violations are actually criminal offenses.
Traffic Violations: What’s the Law?
A traffic violation is any unlawful activity that occurs while you are operating a motor vehicle. Generally, each state has its own laws for this, so there are no federal traffic crimes as such. Federal agents do not usually have the authority to issue traffic tickets but can call the police to do so.
Many states categorize traffic violations in three ways:
- civil infractions
- misdemeanors
- felonies
It’s important to note that the police will take other factors into account when classifying the offense. This includes your prior convictions and the level of damage to people or property.
Traffic Infraction
A traffic infraction can also be known as a violation or a civil infraction. Although the action is against the law, it is not a crime.
This could include:
- failing to stop at a stop sign
- failing to signal
- not wearing a seat belt
- speeding (usually 5-10mph over the limit)
- red light violations
So rest assured, if you got a couple of speeding tickets for going 5 miles over the limit, you are not a criminal. You have not committed traffic crimes. You will almost certainly however get demerit points on your license and a fine.
Traffic infractions are often broken down into two further groups – moving and nonmoving violations. Moving violations are usually the more serious as there is greater risk involved.
Criminal Traffic Offenses: Misdemeanors and Felonies
Infractions are not punishable by jail time. A traffic offense that is punishable by imprisonment is usually considered to be a criminal offense. There are two types of criminal offenses – misdemeanor and felony.
As the name suggests, a traffic misdemeanor is a violation of traffic law. Many offenses can be either misdemeanors or felonies. The difference is usually the risk of harm to others that the violation causes.
For example, an infraction like speeding may become a misdemeanor. This happens in certain states if the driver exceeds the speed limit by an excessive amount. Serious speeding can be a traffic felony. In this case, it could become reckless driving.
Examples of traffic violations that are misdemeanors include:
- DUI – driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- driving while suspended
- hit-and-run
- vehicular homicide
- reckless driving
- expired registration
Some of these could become traffic felonies if certain aggravating factors are present. These include:
- being a repeat offender
- causing damage to property or people
- causing death
Repeat offenders face stiffer penalties in all states for the same offenses.
What Is a Habitual Traffic Offender?
Many states charge repeat offenders as habitual traffic offenders (HTOs). Each state has its own criteria for what qualifies as such. If you receive a certain number of convictions within a set period, you can face losing your license, hefty fines, and jail time.
If this is likely to happen to you, take legal advice. Get on board with driver improvement programs to get as far away from this as possible.
How States Handle Traffic Violations
For example, in the State of New York, a first DUI (known as a DWI – driving while intoxicated) may be a misdemeanor or a felony. This depends on aggravating factors. For your first offense, you could face a mandatory fine of $1,000-$2,500 and a maximum of 1 year in jail.
If you face a second aggravated DWI, you could face a mandatory fine of $1,000-$5,000 and up to 4 years in jail. A third could get you 7 years in jail, and a mandatory fine of up to $10,000.
Other states handle a first DUI differently. They may impose a fine, and send you to mandatory alcohol addiction classes. However, other states have a zero-tolerance approach to driving while under the influence.
Each state will have its own way of classifying and handling traffic violations. The one thing they all have in common? Obey traffic laws, drive carefully, and you’ll never have anything to worry about.
How Traffic Violations Are Handled
The majority of minor traffic infractions result in a ticket from a police officer on the spot. But if you are charged with one of the major traffic violations we have discussed, the process is different.
Depending on this situation, the officer may arrest you. After charging you at the station, you will then appear in court to face the charges against you.
If you ever get into a car accident, whatever has happened, do not leave the scene. This in itself can become a serious traffic crime.
Appearing in Court
Whenever you receive a traffic ticket, you will be summoned to appear in court. Usually, you will have to pay a fine.
In more serious misdemeanor and felony cases, you may be facing a heavy fine, suspended license, probation, and possibly jail time. You will also now have a criminal record, which can affect your future job prospects.
You will need to hire a lawyer with proven experience in this type of case. An experienced lawyer can argue your case and help to get possible fines reduced or jail terms reduced to probation.
Without proper legal support, you are more likely to face severe consequences.
Traffic Violations? Find the Right Lawyer
Facing court for traffic violations is a scary business. If you ever find yourself in that situation, you need a crack legal team on your side to fight your case.
En RHINO Lawyers, your case is our passion. We focus on auto accident law. We will fight to get the best possible outcome for your individual situation.
Contáctenos hoy for a free case review.
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. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at (844) RHINO-77.
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Is the Car Company Liable if the Airbags Do Not Deploy?
A car accident can be a terrifying experience for everyone involved. If you’re in an accident and the airbags don’t deploy, this is extremely dangerous.
When car manufacturers equip cars with airbags, they expect them to work when needed most. The airbags should protect passengers during car accidents.
Unfortunately, car companies sometimes fail to meet their responsibility of equipping cars with reliable airbags.
But the question is; is the car company liable if the airbags don’t deploy? Read on to understand how a car accident attorney can help determine who’s responsible for your defective airbags.
How Do Airbags Work?
During a collision, the impact triggers sensors if there’s a dangerous amount of pressure on the car seat. In response, an airbag system activates within milliseconds.
A carefully folded airbag rapidly inflates to cushion or prevent injury. This includes hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, window, or seatbelt during a crash.
An airbag deploys at speeds as high as 200 mph. That’s about the same speed a professional boxer hits another person. The bags deflate once they sense that a driver or passenger has moved away from them.
Why Would Airbags Sometimes Fail to Deploy?
Airbags have two separate phases. The supplemental restraint system includes sensors that detect when a collision has occurred. Then there’s an impact protection phase in which the airbag inflates.
The impact protection phase can be disrupted if the sensor thinks the vehicle is in free fall. This is possible in a rollover accident instead of in a crash.
Airbags should not deploy during sudden braking or swerving either. These abrupt movements could result in injuries caused by the bag rather than colliding with something else inside or outside of the car.
Airbag Defects and Malfunctions That Can Cause Injury
Airbags can be defective or designed poorly in several ways. All of which could lead to injuries when they don’t deploy properly.
Here are a few examples of car manufacturer defects that can result in defective airbag deployment:
Defective Computer Relay
A computer relay is an electrical device used to control car parts such as car locks, headlights, and horns. The car’s computer relay controls the car’s electronic diagnostic system included in the airbags.
A defective computer relay may cause the car’s check engine light to illuminate even though there’s no problem with the vehicle. When this occurs, it can prevent an airbag from deploying when a car accident occurs.
Defective Airbag Sensors
For car airbags to inflate during accidents, they need sensors that detect car collisions and deploy the airbag. If defective airbag sensors don’t detect car impacts or deploy when needed, they can cause serious injuries.
Accidental Deployment of Airbags
If your vehicle hits a large pothole or a curb, its airbag might inflate suddenly, causing injuries. As such, the driver might lose control, causing a collision that might cause severe injuries.
Delayed Airbag Deployment
Late airbag deployment can cause serious injuries. A bent steering wheel or marks on the dashboard from the car occupant are indicators that the airbag deployed late.
Injuries occurring from late deployment are more severe than those where the airbag didn’t get deployed at all.
Airbags Deploy Aggressively
The primary goal of airbags is to minimize injuries when a collision occurs at high speeds. However, it’s more likely to cause injuries when deployed at low-speed car crashes.
Aggressive airbags are dangerous for adults with small stature and small kids.
Not every car manufacturer defect results in car accident injuries. Yet, if a car company’s defective car part caused your injury, you may be entitled to compensation.
What Damages Can You Collect When Airbags Fail to Deploy During a Car Collision?
Depending on the case and other circumstances, compensation for injuries resulting from faulty airbag systems could include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages if it’s determined that negligence caused the airbags not to deploy.
It’s worth noting that this could apply if a car company were aware of a defect. Yet, it did nothing about it for a long time.
What Type of Injuries Occur When Airbags Do Not Inflate?
Airbag failure can result in serious injuries or death anytime the system doesn’t work as intended. They’re designed to prevent injuries caused by being close to something hard, like a steering wheel or dashboard.
If they can’t deploy properly, drivers might hit the steering wheel with enough force to cause head and neck injuries. Airbags can also cause injuries when they inflate too quickly without proper warning.
Car accident injuries resulting from car parts not working correctly can be fatal. Common car injury injuries include:
- Brain damage
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paraplegia or quadriplegia requiring lifelong medical care and assistance
- Blindness resulting in disability with no way to work and pay for medical bills
- Broken bones were sustained because the body hit something inside the car at high speed.
Car companies should compensate you for these damages. This is because their products failed to protect car occupants or didn’t work as they were supposed to.
Holding the Car Manufacturer Liability for Defective Airbags
In case of an accident and the airbags fail to protect the car occupants, the car manufacturer or other parties may be responsible for car accident liability.
It’s every car manufacturer’s responsibility to ensure that the airbags function at optimal levels.
A car company may be responsible for airbag injuries because of the following:
- Defects coming from poor designs that expose the airbags to failure
- A change in specifications while manufacturing
- Failure to test the reliability and safety of the airbag components
- Use of low-quality materials
- Failure to provide enough instructions on how to use the airbags safely and their risks
- The defective design of the car’s components makes it difficult for the airbags to deploy
- Poor quality control during installation
- Airbag software control defects
- Poor calibration of the airbag system
Extensive investigations on what caused the airbag failure must be done to determine the responsible party.
Get the Best Car Accident Injury Lawyer Now
Did you get involved in a serious car accident that caused severe injuries due to an airbag malfunction? Engaging a reputable car accident lawyer can help you investigate and determine the responsible parties for the failure.
Here at RHINO Lawyers, we’ll evaluate your case and help you get the much-deserved compensation for faulty airbags. Call us now to get started.
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 equipo de lesiones personales 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.RHINO.77.
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What Happens to Your Body in a Rollover Accident?
Being involved in a rollover accident can be a serious matter. Car accident injuries can have detrimental impacts on your health. In the U.S. alone, there were over 36,000 vehicle deaths due to car crashes in 2019!
You need to know what happens to your body in a rollover car accident. Keep reading to learn what takes place with this kind of event.
What Is a Rollover Accident?
A rollover car accident is what you might envision. Your car flips once, even several times, depending on your speed and the terrain.
With these car accident injuries, you are at the mercy of the elements around you. It may also depend on the vehicle you drive and where the impact gets the most attention. When you have a rollover accident, your body goes wherever the car travels.
Severe Car Accident Injuries
When you have a rollover accident, your body can sustain serious injuries. Since you get tossed around, it can cause spinal damage, broken bones, and even severe head trauma.
Spinal injuries can get caused by fractures or joint compression injuries. Many people get spinal cord problems, and those can cause paralysis or severe pain.
As your car rolls over, your head could hit the window, steering wheel, or other vehicle parts. That could result in concussions or skull fractures. Some people never get a full recovery from head injuries.
Some head injuries produce neurological problems. You may experience issues with speech, sensitivity to light, and headaches. For some people, neurological injuries change their personality and mood.
Some drivers or passengers may choose not to wear a seatbelt, and they can get thrown from the car. In some instances, the vehicle can land on top of them. Other times, it may cause terrible physical injuries that take years to heal.
You can get pinned into your car after a rollover accident. The vehicle frame can get bent, and the impact can cause parts to get crushed under all the pressure.
Some people become disabled due to rollover accidents. The car accident injuries sustained won’t allow them to work their regular jobs.
Less Severe Rollover Injuries
A frequent result of a rollover car accident is a broken bone. Your body moves in different directions at a fast rate of speed. It is easy to get shoved against the car door or dashboard.
In a rollover car accident, you cannot control anything. A seatbelt may hold you in place, but you have no way of stopping the car. Some people can get out with minor scrapes and cuts, but that is not always the case.
Even cuts and bruises can get semi-severe. Some lacerations need hundreds of stitches to fix the wound. Bruising can make it difficult to impossible to walk even short distances.
Emotional Injuries Affect the Body
After a rollover accident, some people live with mental and emotional struggles. These can affect your body as well. Many people who get anxious and depressed after a rollover car accident will have body pain.
Depression can cause joint pain, back pain, and even trouble sleeping. These body issues can manifest themselves after experiencing car accident injuries. In some cases, it can lead to problems working and living a regular life.
In a rollover accident, it is easy to come out of it with scars. Some people get so embarrassed by the change in their appearance that it makes them afraid to be in public.
Car accident injuries can also leave people with recurring pain. That changes their quality of life and sometimes they can’t enjoy the same things they did before.
Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
When people are in a rollover accident, they may not think about getting a car accident attorney. That could be because they have insurance and feel it’ll take care of them. It may also be because they don’t know they can.
Many people get into a rollover accident because they are avoiding another vehicle. If that happens, a settlement may get offered by the other party’s insurance company.
It is critical not to settle before you call a car accident attorney. The best lawyer will negotiate your case for you. A car accident lawyer will have experience in the amount of compensation you can get.
After a rollover accident, you could get called by the other party when you’re still recovering. That is no time to try to figure out how much money you may need. You won’t be in the state of mind to sort out all the details.
Also, you may need more compensation than you realize. Medical bills can keep rolling in long into the future. Depending on your injuries, you may need medical care for the rest of your life after a rollover accident.
The best lawyer will not let an insurance company force you into a fast decision. You will have someone to lean on to help you make critical decisions throughout the process.
Help After Rollover Car Accident
After a rollover accident, things can happen fast. Insurance companies want to settle for little to nothing. Bills will come in that you may not be able to pay.
If you’ve had a rollover car accident, you need an experienced attorney to help you with the process. It can be a difficult task to sort through medical costs while trying to heal from your injuries. RHINO Lawyers will handle everything else, so you can focus on getting better.
We settle most cases within 9-12 months, so you don’t have to wait around for years to get the money you need. We take the stress away but leave you in control. Contact us today, and let us plan a strategy that works for you!
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 equipo de lesiones personales 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.RHINO.77.
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Can Your Lawyer Request Dashcam Footage of Your Car Crash?
You are driving along, complying with all the laws when suddenly BOOM! Out of nowhere, you feel the impact of a collision. What do you do now to prove your innocence? It is always advisable to take as many photos of the accident scene, the position of vehicles, and anything else pertinent to the accident scene as quickly as possible. If you have a dashcam running at the time of the incident, what do you do with the dashcam footage?
What if you notice the other driver or witnesses have a dashcam in their vehicle? In that case, you may be wondering, can I request dashcam footage from another driver?
Let’s take a look at the use of dashcam footage in car accident cases. We will explore whether or not your lawyer can put in a request to obtain video footage beneficial to your case.
Advantages of Dashcam Footage
Florida does allow the use of dashcam footage as evidence in a car accident. If you are running a dashcam in your vehicle and are in an accident, you can download dashcam footage. Provide this evidence to your auto accident attorney in support of your case.
Florida does not allow the dashcam footage to be the deciding factor in a case. It does provide a tremendous amount of visual support to your position, especially in front of a jury.
Florida Dashcam Requirements
To be admissible in court, the Florida statutes require that any dashcam footage meet the following standards:
- The recording must show through clear and convincing footage that is relative to the facts about the incident
- The person admitting the video evidence must swear under oath to the authenticity of the recording
While this may seem restrictive, your accident attorney will be familiar with the process to verify its authenticity. If you suffer personal injuries as a result of the accident, dashcam footage will help show the other driver’s negligence.
Opposing counsel will likely object to the admission of any video footage that supports your position. If they are able to show that the video was in any way altered or tampered with it may be thrown out of court. If you are providing footage from your dashcam, it is important you do not do anything to the video at all when you download it.
Florida Dashcam Laws
Florida statutes specify that it is illegal to have any poster, sign, or other non-transparent items on your windshield, side windows, or back windshield that impair the driver’s clear view of the roadway. The law is vague regarding what qualifies as an obstruction. Whether or not an officer considers a windshield-mounted dashcam an obstruction may vary.
The other problem is if a judge determines your dashcam to be illegally mounted. They may not allow you to upload dashcam footage as evidence they consider illegally made.
Florida also has a law regarding electronic surveillance that may make it a felony to record someone speaking without their consent. If you have passengers in your vehicle that are not aware you are recording their vocal statements, your footage may be inadmissible under the law.
Your auto accident attorney will be able to answer your questions and determine whether the dashcam footage you have will help or hinder your case.
Can Police Take Your Dashcam?
If police are having a hard time determining fault in an accident, they may seize your dashcam as evidence following an accident. However, if this occurs and you believe you are at fault in the accident, contact an accident defense attorney immediately.
If you notice any witnesses or the other driver in an accident has a dashcam, you may want to mention this to the officer. The police responding to the scene may find it appropriate to seize that person’s dashcam to use as evidence in the accident. If this happens, make sure you advise your own traffic attorney about the video so they may request copies.
Security Camera Footage
If your accident happens in an area where businesses or homes may have outside security cameras, it is possible the accident is on their recordings. This is why it is important to consult with a traffic accident attorney as quickly as possible following your accident. Companies often have their recordings on a loop, which means they are not kept for long and are soon deleted or recorded over.
These types of recordings are the equivalent of having witness testimony. They are not from either of the parties involved and are unbiased evidence.
Can My Lawyer Request Dashcam Footage?
The short answer is yes, any traffic accident attorney will be able to obtain any video footage of your automotive crash. When obtaining video from an accident, your attorney will use all possible resources:
- Witnesses may be reluctant to submit video recordings from their cell phones, however
- If a witness or other driver has a dash cams in their vehicle mentioning it to officers on the scene may allow them to seize the device as evidence
- Video may be obtainable from traffic cameras and red light cameras
- Dashboard cameras provide excellent evidence of what driver is negligent in an accident
- Surveillance cameras from nearby businesses or residential homes may contain accident footage
- Doorbell security cameras record all activity within a specific range and may record your accident
Your accident lawyer will know how to go about requesting any video evidence available from any or all of the above sources.
Your Attorney Can Use Dashcam Footage
The answer to whether or not your lawyer can request or use dashcam footage from your accident is yes. They will know whether that video is beneficial to your case. They will also know how to counter any objections opposing council makes attempting to have your footage ruled inadmissible.
If you are the victim of a car, semi-truck, or motorcycle accident we can help. Call us at 844.RHINO.77 to schedule an appointment. We are available 24/7 and offer free video consultations.
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 equipo de lesiones personales 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.RHINO.77.
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Should You Hire a Lawyer to Help Fight Your Traffic Ticket?
Getting a traffic ticket is not a delightful experience at all. But after getting one, there is no going back. You must take the bull by the horns.
While many people pay the ticket and move on, you may want to hire a lawyer to help contest and fight your traffic ticket.
Do you know more than 41 million drivers get a speeding ticket annually in the US? While getting a traffic ticket is not a felony or misdemeanor, it can have some serious and far-reaching consequences. For instance, you may have to pay hefty fines, temporarily lose your license, or shoot up your insurance cost.
Do you feel upset and stressed after getting a traffic ticket that you didn’t deserve? A reputable traffic ticket lawyer is invaluable to get the ticket dismissed.
But, do you know not every attorney can help? Yes, every ticket defense attorney is unique, and finding the most suitable one for you is imperative. The wrong choice will only add salt to the injury.
Maybe you are wondering if you really need an attorney in your sitch. Keep reading to know the reasons to hire a traffic ticket attorney.
They Know How to Get You Out of It
A well-established attorney has already dealt with multiple traffic ticket cases and knows the right way to get their clients out of it.
A lawyer can easily find a mistake in the traffic ticket or know how to prove that you didn’t commit any traffic offense. If they find a mistake or error on the ticket, then be sure the ticket will be dismissed.
However, if you are fighting alone to have the ticket dismissed, you can miss such errors. Also, you don’t know the right steps to navigate through the process. This means you may end up wasting your time and finally pay for the ticket.
To be assured you can get out of the ticket, finding an experienced attorney is necessary.
Traffic Attorney Knows Your Rights
Do you know the rights and privileges you have as a driver in your state? Well, a lawyer is adept in traffic laws and can easily manipulate this to get your ticket reduced or dismissed.
An experienced attorney also knows how to represent you before a judge and fight for your rights. You will have peace of mind knowing an attorney with a full understanding of the law represents your best interests.
They Are Less Expensive Than You Think
Most people think of paying boatloads of money when they hear of hiring an attorney. It might be true in some cases, but not when fighting for a traffic ticket. A traffic attorney is not too expensive for you; if they were, they wouldn’t exist.
The main intent of hiring an attorney is to have your traffic dismissed or reduced, right? Then why would you hire an attorney whose fees are higher than the fines on the ticket? Most of these attorneys charge reasonable and affordable rates for their clients.
Remember, handling a ticket will take the lawyer much less time than when handling a felony. This implies that an attorney can handle multiple cases simultaneously and doesn’t have to be expensive.
You don’t have to break the bank while hiring an attorney to fight your traffic ticket; find one today.
They Can Get Your Traffic Ticket Reduced
Let’s be honest. What if you deserved the ticket, but you are charged hefty fines? Do you still have to pay them?
While you have to take responsibility for the traffic offense, you don’t have to pay the entire fine. A trusted traffic attorney can help you to get the ticket reduced.
A good lawyer has pro skills in negotiating on behalf of their clients to reduce the fines drastically. They have in-depth knowledge in the matter and know what to use to convince the judge to reduce the fines. Can you achieve this on your own without any legal background in traffic offenses?
Regardless of your situation, the best traffic lawyers can help you out.
Experience Lawyers Intimidate Prosecutors
You’ve probably heard of the saying, “when the big brothers show up, bullies calm down.” That is what happens when you hire an experienced traffic ticket lawyer to represent you.
When representing yourself, the prosecutor is not scared at all. Furthermore, they already know you can’t push so hard and will push you to the wall or make you accept the charges. Representing yourself is likely to get you severe penalties or pay higher fines.
When a reputable traffic lawyer represents you, the prosecutor knows they can’t bully you. The lawyer has worked with them already and knows the tips and tricks to have the traffic ticket stand. The attorney can easily help you pay reduced fines or, better, walk away scot-free.
Traffic Attorney Will Represent You in Trial
If you are going to contest your traffic ticket, you will need to appear in court at least twice. However, with the right attorney, you don’t have to go to court at all. You won’t have to cancel all your schedules to appear in court since your attorney will do that on your behalf.
They have spent numerous hours in the courtroom and possess extensive knowledge of what to focus on during the trial. You will thus carry on with your daily activities and have a professional take care of your traffic ticket.
Hire a Lawyer to Fight Your Traffic Ticket
Getting a traffic ticket doesn’t imply that you are bound to pay. A skilled traffic lawyer can get the ticket reduced or dismissed altogether. While you may think you are guilty, having your ticket reduced or dismissed won’t hurt.
Above are some of the reasons to hire a traffic lawyer.
Are you looking for a traffic lawyer in Florida? At RHINO Lawyers, we’ve got you covered. We are committed to forming a lasting relationship with every client, and with our years of experience, we can help you get a favorable legal outcome.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
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. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at (844) RHINO-77.
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How to Cope With Post-Traumatic Stress After an Accident
Physical injuries may bring acute, short-term pain after an auto accident. But post-traumatic stress can cause unseen, ongoing pain for a long time after. In fact, car accidents have been the leading cause of post-traumatic stress disorder since the end of the Vietnam War!
Have you or a loved one experienced post-traumatic stress after an accident? And, are you wondering what the symptoms of post-traumatic stress are?
So, let’s take a closer look at this common condition, and how you can cope with post-traumatic stress after a car accident.
What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder. In fact, it can be triggered by any number of stressful or frightening events.
It’s common in people who have been involved in serious car crashes and can affect different people in different ways. It is thought to affect about 1 in 3 people who experience severe trauma.
Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
After a traumatic event, a sufferer may begin to relive the traumatic event. This can take the form of nightmares or flashbacks.
The sufferer may even feel as though the event is recurring, due to hallucinations or illusions. They may find it distressing to go somewhere or near something that brings back traumatic memories.
It can lead to sleeping difficulties, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and feelings of guilt. As time goes on, dealing with the symptoms may make everyday life more difficult.
Avoidance symptoms may include developing a driving phobia, looking for reasons not to drive, or feeling anxious as a passenger in a car.
Hyperarousal symptoms include feeling very on edge. You may be very easily startled and get angry or stressed more easily than before.
For the majority of people, these symptoms will improve in time, especially after seeking medical help. A small minority develops a long-standing chronic post-traumatic stress disorder.
How to Cope with Post-Traumatic Stress
If you are showing signs of post-traumatic stress, it’s important to seek medical help as early as possible.
Post-traumatic stress is a complex disorder that needs to be managed through a variety of strategies. These include psychotherapy, medications, and lifestyle changes.
Psychotherapy for PTSD
Psychotherapy can be helpful to help you to cope with the symptoms of post-traumatic stress. It has three goals:
- Help you to cope with your symptoms
- Help you to improve or overcome your symptoms
- Improve your self-esteem
Your doctor may recommend a form of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) to help to reduce or overcome your symptoms. This could include exposure therapy, cognitive restructuring, and stress inoculation training.
Medication
For many people, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder go hand in hand. It can be difficult for doctors to know which condition you are dealing with, as there is an overlap in symptoms.
As with depression, PTSD can respond well to medications. Your doctor may prescribe selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for a period of time. Allow your brain to access more serotonin, which can lift your mood.
They are an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress and other anxiety disorders. Your doctor may prescribe them along with psychotherapy to help you to cope with your symptoms.
Education and Lifestyle
It is said that knowledge is power. The more that you learn about post-traumatic stress disorder, the better able you will be to understand it. This will help you to identify your symptom triggers and manage your symptoms more effectively.
Talk to your family and friends about what you are going through. Having their encouragement and support can be very helpful, and can help you to deal with feelings of isolation you may experience.
Living a healthy lifestyle is also a big help. Make sure that you eat a balanced diet and get plenty of rest. Make time for regular exercise.
PTSD Support Groups
It’s important to remember that you are not alone. Others are going through the same thing and are finding ways to cope. Accessing help from a specialist support group can be a source of strength.
There are both online and community support groups available to help you.
Post-Traumatic Stress After a Car Accident – How Lawyers Can Help
Post-traumatic stress after a car accident can have a devastating impact on some people’s lives. It can impact your ability to hold down a job and provide for yourself and your family. You may also find that medical bills are mounting up.
Post-traumatic stress after an auto accident is just as real as a physical injury, such as a broken bone. The legal term for this is ‘pain and suffering’.
What Is Pain and Suffering?
In legal terminology, pain and suffering refer to physical and emotional discomfort. These are non-economic damages. This means you may not have necessarily lost monetarily, but you have lost a measure of enjoyment in life.
You may be able to claim compensation for the emotional suffering you have experienced. If your post-traumatic stress has also resulted in lost wages, you may be due compensation for these as well.
It’s important to consult with an experienced car accident and injury lawyer as soon as possible after your car accident. Tell them the symptoms of post-traumatic stress that you are experiencing.
They will advise you on what evidence they need to gather to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Speak to Tampa Car Accident and Injury Lawyers Today!
Post-traumatic stress is real, and it is causing suffering to thousands of Americans today. It can cause difficulties in all aspects of daily life. You may need extensive medical treatment to regain enjoyment in life.
If you’re suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder due to a car accident, talk to an exceptional auto accident lawyer.
En RHINO Lawyers, we fight your corner. We help our clients get the best possible settlements, so they can focus on healing.
Click here to schedule a free video consultation with us today!
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 equipo de lesiones personales 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.RHINO.77.
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Broken Bones From Auto Accidents and What to Do Next
Sticks and stones may break your bones, so it’s no surprise that cars can. 178 million bones broke in 2018.
One common reason was car accidents. Cars are massive and bulky objects that can shatter a bone at low speeds. Broken bones are painful, and many people don’t know what to do with theirs.
What occurs when a bone breaks? What are some other injuries and complications that a person can sustain? How can someone receive treatment, and what can an individual do to receive compensation?
Answer these questions and you can prevent a broken bone from breaking the bank. Here is your quick guide.
The Essentials of Broken Bones
A broken bone occurs when more pressure is applied to a bone than it can stand. The pressure can occur all at once, or it can occur over a period of time.
Any bone can break after a car accident. Most people experience a broken bone in the foot or hand because they use their limbs to brace for impact. Other people experience a broken orbital bone when they hit their head against the steering wheel.
A bone can break inside the skin without the skin breaking. This is often the case with a broken rib.
Symptoms of a broken bone include intense pain, numbness, and limited mobility. Someone who fractures a bone in their hand or foot may notice that their limb is misshapen.
Many people wonder about a fracture vs. broken bone. A fracture is a clinical term used to refer to a broken bone. There is no difference between the two terms.
Related Injuries
Nearly all broken bones do not occur in isolation. Many people experience bruises around the area of their fracture. Bruises involve small amounts of blood that pool beneath the skin, and they are not major injuries.
Many people also cut themselves. Some cuts are minor, while other cuts are deep into the skin. A deep cut requires treatment because it can lead to an infection.
An individual may experience internal bleeding. Blood may pool inside a cavity or into an organ. A doctor should treat this immediately.
The muscles around the fracture may tear, or a nearby joint may become dislocated. Muscle tears are painful, but they are not medical emergencies. Dislocated joints are emergencies, and a doctor should reposition the damaged joint.
If someone hits their head, they may break a bone and sustain a concussion. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that can affect the injured person’s health in many ways. It can prove devastating if the individual does not get treatment.
Complications
A fracture in and of itself is incapacitating. A person should avoid applying pressure or using the fractured area for some time. If they break a bone in their hand or foot, they may be unable to use it for weeks.
A fracture can result in compartment syndrome. This occurs when the pressure in the muscles around a broken bone builds, cutting off blood flow. Doctors must restore the blood flow through the injured bone and surrounding tissue.
Bones can heal themselves to an extent. But they may not join together properly. The bone may become shorter, or it may twist inside the body.
Treatment and Recovery
A person who sustains a bone fracture after an accident should remain calm. They should move only if there is not an adequate supply of air. Any motion can cause the heart to beat faster, increasing the rate of blood loss.
If they have not called 911, they should do so. They should then wait and ask for an emergency responder to help them.
Treatment for a fractured bone depends on the situation. An open fracture requires a procedure to close the skin. Doctors will monitor the person for infection, and they may need to stay in the hospital overnight.
A closed fracture may require an X-ray. Once the image is developed, doctors can align the broken pieces of bone with each other. They can hold the pieces in place with a plaster or splint and monitor the healing process.
Surgeons perform surgical procedures on rare occasions. An older person who sustains a hip fracture may receive surgery so they can have more mobility in their hip.
Once doctors release a person from the hospital, they should go home and rest. It may take several weeks for someone to recover from a broken bone. They should remain patient and focus on their recovery.
Legal Options
A person should contact Florida car accident lawyers as soon as possible after a car accident. It is okay for someone to wait until they are out of the hospital.
They should schedule a meeting with a lawyer and discuss what happened. Lawyers can launch their own investigation of accidents. But a person can help them out by handing over relevant medical records and giving a statement.
Most juries regard a broken bone from a car accident to be a serious injury. This means that they are willing to look at claims for compensation positively, and payouts can be substantial for people with complications. Individuals should look at civil lawsuits in addition to insurance compensation.
Let the Law Work for You
Broken bones can be devastating injuries. Bones can shatter inside limbs or deep within the body.
Even if the skin does not break, a broken bone is a significant problem. Internal bleeding, infections, or dislocated joints can occur. Someone can develop compartment syndrome, losing blood supply through the injured area.
Doctors can treat broken bones through splints and minor surgeries. Most injured people will heal with the passage of time.
But getting compensation can help you cover all of your medical costs. RHINO Lawyers serves the entire state of Florida. Contact us today.
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 equipo de lesiones personales 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.RHINO.77.
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The Most Common and Significant Skin Injuries From Auto Accidents
Car accidents kill the skin. Car accidents lead to 3.4 million visits to the emergency room every year. Most people go to the ER with skin injuries.
Many people assume that skin injuries are insignificant. Some of them can be minor. But any skin injury can lead to complications, so you should know the different types of skin injuries.
What exactly is a bruise? What should you do after you sustain a cut or abrasion? What are the most significant skin injuries, and what does skin injury recovery require?
Answer these questions and you can get the help you need after a skin injury. Here is your quick guide.
Bruising
The skin contains thousands of small blood vessels. A strike on the skin can cause these vessels to break, even if the skin itself does not break.
This can lead to a bruise. The skin becomes discolored because the leaking blood pools against the surface of the skin. A person may feel pain on their bruise, especially when applying pressure against it.
A bruise may be painful, but it is rarely a sign of an advanced problem. A person should seek medical treatment if their bruising does not alleviate after several days. They may have a problem with their blood such as hemophilia.
A black eye is a type of bruise that occurs around the eye. Someone who hits their head on the steering wheel or dashboard can receive one. Anyone who injures their head should get a doctor because they may have bleeding inside their brain.
Road Burn
A road burn or road rash is a friction injury to the skin. It occurs more often in motorcycle accidents when a rider falls off of their motorcycle.
When they scrape or roll against a road, the outer layer of their skin may fall off. This can cause bruising, but the skin may break and bleed.
A road burn is akin to a scrape or paper cut. It may be painful, but it is not a serious injury.
In rare cases, it can lead to an infection, especially if the person injured themselves on glass. An individual should look at their skin for discoloration or swelling.
Someone in a car or bus may experience seatbelt burn. This is a friction injury that their tight seatbelt creates.
It is similar to road burn, though most cases of seatbelt burn do not involve broken skin. A person may experience a significant bruise with pain, but they may not have other side effects. They can give themselves a skin injury ointment to heal the skin.
Minor Cuts
Cuts can occur when an object breaks through the skin. A blunt injury can cause a cut if the skin is dry and breaks open after the collision.
A person may experience a minor amount of bleeding. They may have a bruise around their cut, and they may feel a sharp pain.
Most people can respond to their own minor cuts. They should apply pressure over the cut until bleeding stops or slows.
They should then rub a disinfectant gel or fluid in the area around the cut. Once the gel or fluid dries, they can put a bandage over the entire cut. They can add a piece of gauze if the injury is large.
Major Cuts
A major cut is any cut that measures more than one-quarter of an inch. This measurement can be the length or depth of the cut.
A long yet shallow cut can result in an infection. A piece of dirt can also get under the skin and cause complications such as swelling. A deep cut can cause damage to organs and internal bleeding, which can be fatal.
A person should respond to a significant cut by applying pressure over the injury. If the cut is on their arm or leg, they can apply a tourniquet over their wound. Wrapping a tight belt or cord over the injury will limit the blood flow through the area.
They should remain still as much as possible. Moving around will cause the heart to pump, which can make bleeding worse. Cuts can accompany common spinal injuries from car accidents, and moving can make both injuries worse.
Avulsion
An avulsion is one of the most significant skin injuries from car accidents. It occurs when a piece of skin is torn off during the accident. This may be due to friction, a cut, or a bone fracture.
Any part of the skin can develop an avulsion. Some people experience an avulsion on one or both of their ears, especially after a collision along the side of their vehicle. The ear itself may become severed, which requires surgery.
The eyelid can also have an avulsion. Surgeons can repair eyelid avulsions at most hospitals. A person will be unable to work while their skin heals.
Degloving occurs when a large amount of skin is torn off from the underlying tissue. This removes the blood supply to the tissue, and it can cause significant bleeding.
Degloving is a medical emergency. An injured person should immediately go to the hospital.
Get Help for All Skin Injuries
Skin injuries can cut deep. A bruise involves burst blood vessels immediately beneath the skin. Most bruises heal on their own.
Most road burns and minor cuts do not lead to complications. But a person can get an ointment in order to keep their skin moist.
Major cuts require medical intervention. An individual should try to control the rate of their bleeding. An avulsion is a medical emergency, especially if a large amount of skin is missing.
Once you get medical help, you should get legal help. Abogado RHINOs serves Florida residents. Contact us today.
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 equipo de lesiones personales 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.RHINO.77.
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What You Should Know About the Average Semi Truck Accident Settlement
Have you or someone you loved recently been involved in an accident with a semi-truck? Are you curious about the average semi-truck accident settlement you can get for your case?
Each year, about 130,000 people are injured in semi-truck collisions. If you have received injuries because of an accident with a semi-truck, you need to read this article. We will go over important information about semi-truck collisions and who you can contact to help with your lawsuit.
Causes of Semi-Truck Accidents
There are many reasons why semi-truck accidents happen, and the most common one is when a truck driver becomes too exhausted to focus. Naturally, truck drivers drive for long hours, which can lead to them becoming too tired to make the right decisions.
Another cause of semi-truck accidents is road conditions. Snow and rain can make the road slick. This weather can also reduce visibility, making it harder to see what is ahead of them.
Steps After a Semi-Truck Accident
Semi-truck accidents can be terrifying and traumatizing, so it is crucial to make sure that you move to safety if you can do so. Once you are in a safe location, call the local authorities and wait for them to arrive. If you need medical attention, mention that there are injuries involved so the dispatcher can send emergency medical services.
The officer will be able to create an accident report about what happened. They will also be able to collect the information from the other driver. If you can, try to obtain the information from the driver so you can have a copy.
It is good to copy the information because the police report may not be ready for weeks. Try to collect as much information as you can. Take photos of the damage and try to take pictures of the plate information from the semi-truck.
Semi Truck Accident Compensation
Just like any auto accident, you are eligible to receive compensation for your medical bills. Semi-truck accident damages tend to be larger than the average car accident, so you could receive a lot more compensation.
Other damages you are entitled to are:
- Rehabilitation
- Emotional trauma
- Vehicle damages
- Loss of consortium
- Pain and suffering
It is important to note that every accident is different, and there may be other damages you could claim. If you want to know more about what else you could receive compensation for, you may want to speak with a truck accident lawyer.
Common Semi-Truck Injuries
The most common injuries associated with semi-truck accidents are head and traumatic brain injuries. The different types of traumatic brain injuries are concussions and blunt head trauma.
Other semi-truck accident injuries are:
- Neck injuries
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Spinal injuries
- Cuts
- Other internal injuries
The main reason the injuries associated with semi-truck accidents are so severe is because of the size and weight of these trucks. Not only are these trucks heavy, but they also sit higher than the average-sized passenger vehicle.
Average Semi Truck Accident Settlement
There is no straight answer for what the average semi-truck accident settlement is. There have been cases where people received around $185,000 while others received a $650,000 settlement.
The amount of money that you can receive compensation depends on:
- Who is responsible for the accident
- The kind of damage incurred
- What injuries you received
It may be best for you to reach out to a semi-truck accident lawyer, as stated earlier. Your attorney can tell you what to expect and how much they believe your case is worth.
What Is a Reasonable Settlement?
It may be easy to accept whatever settlement the truck driver’s insurance company offers, but that may not be a good idea. You probably want to get over the accident and focus on your healing, but you could be leaving money on the table.
If you received an injury that could alter your quality of life, you could expect to receive a higher settlement.
If you didn’t receive a severe injury, then you could expect a lower settlement. Regardless of the severity of your injury and the accident, it is always best to consult with a professional.
When Will I Get My Settlement?
Unfortunately, there is no set time when you will receive your settlement. Some negotiations need to take place before the responsible party makes payments. Once the insurance company bears responsibility, it must make payment within twenty days.
Should I Hire a Semi Truck Attorney?
Semi-truck accidents are a lot more complicated than regular auto collisions because more parties are involved, not just the driver. Most semi-truck companies have their agents and their commercial insurance policies, which can be complicated to navigate.
When trying to go at the process alone, you might find yourself in a loop of phone calls routing you to the right person. You may even endure a lot of hang-ups and unanswered questions.
When you partner with a semi-truck accident law firm, they will be able to handle the entire process for you. They are also more knowledgeable about how to file a lawsuit and get these insurance companies to pay you what you deserve.
Semi-truck Accident Lawsuit Help
After you get into an accident with a semi-truck, the only thing you should be worried about is your healing. When you partner with a reputable semi-truck accident attorney, they will make sure you focus on recovering while they fight on your behalf.
If you or someone you know needs immediate help with their semi-truck accident claim, contact us now. We will do our best to fight to get you more than the average semi-truck accident settlement.
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 equipo de lesiones personales 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.RHINO.77.
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Received a Traffic Ticket? What You Need to Do Right Now
Have you recently received a traffic ticket and are unsure of how to proceed? Do you want to see if there is a way to avoid the points that will be added to your driver’s license? If so, then you need to learn all that you can about getting help with a traffic ticket.
Doing so can help you minimize the damage. Rather than adding points to your license, you can hire a Florida traffic ticket defense attorney. They can help you avoid the court date and points.
See below for an in-depth guide on what you should do after you’ve received a traffic ticket for speeding. Or any other violation.
1. Be Respectful and Cooperative
Whenever you’re pulled over by a law enforcement official, the single worst thing that you can do is show an attitude or be intentionally uncooperative. Doing so might result in something far worse than a speeding ticket.
Truth be told, those officers are human, just like you. They might take it easy on someone respectful and honest after being pulled over.
Just to clarify, being polite won’t guarantee that you get out of a ticket. Some situations might force their hand, such as catching you going 15 mph over the speed limit. By the way, speeding has been proven to slowly damage your car.
When you’re pulled over, get to the side of the road safely, put your car in park, turn the car off, and then place your hands on the steering wheel. Answer the officer’s questions without pigeonholing yourself or admitting that you were guilty.
Stay as relaxed as possible. If the police officer does hand you a traffic ticket, simply accept it, thank them, and then wait for them to give you the “ok” to drive away.
You’ll still have plenty of time to fight the traffic ticket you were given, but that comes later after you’ve hired an attorney. When on the scene, act respectfully even if you don’t feel that you deserved a speeding ticket. Fighting it will just make matters worse.
2. Know the Typical Process for Traffic Tickets
After you’ve received your traffic ticket, there are two routes that you can choose: either fight the traffic ticket or pay for it. We would strongly advise against doing the latter, but let’s take a look at what you can expect if you did just decide to pay for the ticket.
First, you will be assigned a court date, which the police officer will assign to you when they initially-hand you the traffic ticket. If you’re planning on paying for the ticket, then you won’t have to appear for the court date, just pay the ticket and move on.
There are certain situations in which you will have to appear in court for a traffic ticket, such as if you were accused of reckless driving.
Paying the ticket is essentially admitting guilt to the traffic violation. As a result, you will have points added to your driver’s license. When your car insurance provider finds out, they will raise your car insurance premiums, thus causing you more money month to month.
3. Reach Out to a Trusted Traffic Ticket Defense Attorney
Now that we’ve seen what would happen if you simply rolled over and paid the traffic ticket you were given. Now let’s look at the other end of the spectrum. What if you decided to fight the ticket?
First, you would want to start by finding a trusted traffic ticket defense attorney. Just to clarify, you can reach out to an attorney regardless of whether you feel you were guilty or not.
Upon reaching out to the traffic ticket defense attorney, you’ll be able to relay what happened in as much detail as you can. Once you’re finished, they can offer their services to you and help you make the ticket disappear.
Granted, not all ticket traffic defense lawyers are created equally, so be sure to hire us at RHINO Lawyers. We have a reputation that trumps all others; we’ve helped thousands of drivers dismiss their traffic tickets and vow to do the same for you.
We’re so confident in our abilities that we offer a promise. We’ll get you out of your court date and have no points added to your driver’s license or we’ll give you your money back*.
*Speeding 29+ MPH ineligible. Court costs additional if any.
What If You Don’t Take Either Action?
There are some out there that decide they won’t take either route. They won’t pay the ticket, but they decide not to hire a traffic ticket lawyer either. What would happen if you went down that path?
Nothing good. If you don’t pay your traffic ticket, then the court can take several actions. They can have your driver’s license suspended and they will likely charge you more fines for the tardiness. Plus, they may even issue a warrant out for your arrest.
Make sure to hire a traffic ticket lawyer who can get that ticket dismissed. That way, when insurance providers look at your driving record, it will appear as if nothing ever happened.
Get Help With Traffic Ticket: Hire a Traffic Ticket Defense Lawyer Today
Now that you have seen an in-depth guide on what you need to do after you have received a traffic ticket in the state of Florida. Be sure to use this information to your advantage.
Take the time to read this article for more information on the five strategies you can use to get out of a traffic ticket. To get started, please reach out to us by phone at 844-744-6677. And we will be happy to assist you further.
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. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at (844) RHINO-77.
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