Author: rhinoadmin

Determining Fault in a 3 Car Accident: The Ultimate Guide

Have you or a loved one recently been involved in a 3 car accident? Are you curious to learn how it’s determined which one of you will be held liable for the repairs? If so, then you need to learn all that you can about determining fault after a car accident with 3 vehicles.

Doing so can keep you well-informed throughout the process. You will learn the steps that you need to take—whether you think you’re at fault or not—to give yourself peace of mind.

See below for an in-depth guide highlighting the several things that you need to know when you are involved in a 3 car accident.

What Is a Chain Reaction Crash?

At its simplest definition, a chain reaction crash is any car crash or accident that involves more than two vehicles making contact with one another. However, even when there are multiple cars involved, there is often one driver that’s determined to be at fault for the accident.

So how do we sort this out? It depends on the situation. Generally, a chain reaction crash starts with two cars that hit each other. That collision leads to other cars getting involved in the accident after the initial crash occurs.

For example, let’s say there was a 3-car accident on the highway. The driver in car 1 doesn’t check his/her blind spot before merging over into the other lane—without using their turn signal. Causing car 2 to hit the bumper to bumper. Car 3, who is driving behind them at 65 miles per hour, slams on his brakes but still makes contact with both cars.

This is one example of a chain reaction crash. In this example, car 1 would likely be deemed the at-fault driver. Granted, most chain reaction crashes aren’t as easy to sort out. Oftentimes, there isn’t one clear-cut person at fault.

Possible 3 Car Accident Situations

There are many different ways in which a 3 car accident can occur. If you’ve been involved in one, view the list below to see if one applies to your situation. And what that might entail for you moving forward.

1. Malfunctioning Vehicle

This might be the cloudiest of all 3 car accidents. As the name would imply, this 3 car accident occurs when a vehicle malfunction is what led to the accident.

As an example, Driver 1’s vehicle gave out on him while driving. That causes Driver 2 to hit him and then Driver 3 to follow.

In this instance, the manufacturer of the car part is at fault. All three parties—and their car accident lawyer—will likely pursue legal action against the manufacturer to get compensated for their losses.

2. Phantom Car at Fault

Even if you feel that the at-fault driver in your 3 car accident has no option but to claim fault, don’t be so sure. It isn’t rare for an at-fault driver to pass the blame off to a fourth car.

This is what’s referred to as a “phantom car”. One that may have been at fault for the accident, but drove off without a scratch on them.

For example, if Driver 1 had a phantom car cut him off, he would’ve had to slam on his breaks. Which led to Driver 2 hitting him, then Driver 3 getting involved as well.

3. Rear Car At Fault

In this case, the “rear car” refers to the first car that made contact with the vehicle in the front of the chain reaction accident.

So if Driver 1 is hit in the back by Driver 2, who is then hit in the back by Driver 3, Driver 2 would be considered the “rear car”. There might also be a situation in which Driver 3 hits the back of Driver 2, which pushes their momentum forward to hit Driver 1 in front of them.

In these cases, the rear car is almost always considered to be at fault. However, there might always be the negligence of the other drivers that are to blame for the accident as well. This brings us to the last one…

4. Negligent Driving

Driver 2 or the “rear car” listed above, shouldn’t be held liable if Driver 1’s negligence led to the crash.

A common example of this is if Driver 1 was texting and driving. They could slam on their breaks just enough to cause Driver 2 to hit their bumper. Which then causes the chain reaction.

If this is your situation, then you and your car accident attorney need to compile evidence that proves another driver’s negligence was the root cause of the entire crash.

Hire a Trusted Car Accident Attorney

Regardless of the situation, you’re in with the crash, you need to find a trusted car accident attorney to represent you. This can give you the legal edge you need.

You can bet that the other two parties will lawyer up. So, to go through this process without one would be to sabotage your case.

The car accident attorney can use their resources and network to build evidence. As well as, prove the negligence of one of the other drivers. They can also provide direction on how much compensation you’re entitled to and take over communications during the settlement stage.

Find Legal Representation for Your 3 Car Accident Today

Now that you have seen an in-depth description of how the fault might be determined in your 3 car accident case, be sure to find the right lawyer to represent you.

Be sure to read this article for more information on how to become a better driver and minimize your risk of being involved in an accident.

To get started, please visit this page to schedule a free video consultation with our firm and we will be happy to assist you further.

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.

What Is Considered Careless Driving?

Every year in Florida there are more than 400,000 car accidents. Many of these are careless driving antics.

As a driver, you must drive responsibly and courteously. When you’re behind the wheel of a car, you could cause an accident simply through carelessness. If you’re caught out driving in this fashion, you could receive a careless driving ticket.

If you have received a careless driving ticket, you may be wondering what the next step should be.

In this article, we’ll talk about careless driving in Florida and what you can do to defend yourself if you have a ticket.

What Is Careless Driving?

In Florida law, careless driving is defined as anyone not operating a vehicle on the roads in a careful and prudent manner.

The law states that you need to pay attention to the width, grade, curve, corners, and other traffic on the road. You must not endanger anyone else’s life, nor cause injury or damage to any person’s property.

To be clear though, no injury or harm needs to come to anyone and no damage needs to have occurred for the charge to be given.

How Much Is a Careless Driving Ticket?

Careless driving is a moving violation.

If you get caught and charged with it you can expect to receive a fine of up to $500 as well as any court costs if you are adjudicated guilty. Adjudication is a term that is used in place of ‘convicted’ on a non-criminal case.

The minimum fine that you can expect to receive for careless driving is $160.

How Many Points Is Careless Driving?

In addition to having a fine, you will also get points on your license.

You can expect to receive four points on your driver’s license if you are adjudicated guilty. In some cases, you can have the number of points you receive reduced if you are willing to take a driver education course.

Drivers who have had points applied to their license can expect to see an increase in the cost of their automobile insurance.

Careless Driving vs Reckless Driving

So what is the difference between careless driving and reckless driving?

Careless driving is not a criminal offense, whereas reckless driving is. Reckless driving is defined as driving a vehicle with a disregard for other people’s safety.

Some examples of reckless driving include:

• Drag racing on a public road
• Distracted driving
• Driving under the influence of drink or drugs
• Failure to yield to pedestrians or anyone that has the right of way
• Swerving through traffic in a dangerous way
• Running red lights and stop signs without any regard for the safety of others

The penalties for reckless driving could be up to 90 days in jail, and a fine of up to $500. If a person is convicted more than once, the penalties become steeper.

The fines could be up to $1,000 and a person may go to jail for up to six months.

In the event that a person’s reckless driving causes serious injury or death, they will face a fine of $5,000 and up to five years in prison.

Defending a Careless Driving Ticket

A careless driving charge is reliant on the opinion of the officer making the accusation. A person may face these charges when their driving was not actually a danger to other people.

Another reason that someone may face a careless driving ticket is if they were swerving to avoid a dangerous situation.

There may be times when a driver needs to make a decision that makes it look as though they were not driving with due care and attention when in reality they were trying to stop something bad from occurring.

Other defenses for careless driving tickets include:

• If you were wrongly accused as you were not the person who was driving
• You hit another vehicle, however, you were driving in a way that was careful and prudent
• If you hit another vehicle because of bad weather
• You hit another vehicle because another vehicle crashed into the back of yours
• There was a defect in your vehicle which caused you to drive in a way that looked like you were being careless
• Your mechanic failed to maintain your vehicle which caused an operating error that made it look as though you were driving carelessly

Regardless of the reason for the careless driving, a person being charged will be based on the opinion of the officer. This means that the case can be challenged and won with the right defense.

Challenging Your Careless Driving Ticket

If you get a careless driving ticket, you should challenge it. The first thing that you will need to do is to hire an experienced traffic defense lawyer.

Having a lawyer on your side that understands the specifics of the traffic laws and who has represented numerous clients in similar situations to yourself will put you in good stead for winning your case.

Hire an Experienced Lawyer

Careless driving is when you are driving without due care and attention.

Getting a careless driving ticket doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll end up with a $500 fine and four points on your driver’s license. It is possible that with the right defense you can have your ticket overturned.

Have you had a careless driving ticket? Rhino Lawyers are here to help you. Get in touch today to find out how we can help you.

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 844.329.3491.

INJURED IN A CAR ACCIDENT? HERE’S WHAT TO DO NEXT.

Over 10 million car accidents occur each year. Anytime you get inside a car and head out on the roads, you take the risk of being involved in one and getting injured in a car accident.

If you recently had a car accident and now have injuries, you might wonder what you should do. Car accident injuries can impact many parts of your life, and the best thing you can do afterward is to seek legal help.

If you need advice after being injured in a car accident, continue reading to learn the steps you should take.

Report the Accident

The very first thing that should occur after a car accident is a call to the police. If you aren’t able to do this, someone else on the accident scene will. This phone call serves several roles.

First, it produces a report of what occurred at the accident scene. The police will record the time, date, and location of the incident. They will also include the names of everyone involved and the witnesses.

The police report also states the testimony of those at the scene. If you can tell the police what happened, you should. Other parties involved will also state what they saw and remember.

The second purpose of the police report is proof of fault. The police report should include all the evidence from the scene and should state who caused the accident. It should also state the reason the accident occurred.

To settle your case later on, you will need this report. You can pick up a copy from the local police department within a few days after the collision.

The third purpose of calling the police is to seek medical help. Anyone involved in the accident might choose to go to the hospital for treatment right after the accident occurs.

Seek Medical Help Immediately

If you’re wondering what to do if injured in a car accident, it’s vital to know that you should seek medical help immediately. When the police arrive on the scene and ask you if you want medical help, agree to it.

The police will call an ambulance, and they will transport you to the closest hospital. Going to the hospital afterward is essential as it documents your initial injuries from the collision.

If you don’t seek immediate medical help, it might create challenges in your case. Therefore, always seek help even if you feel fine. It’s normal not to feel any pain directly after a collision, as your body might be full of adrenaline.

The injuries, pain, and health problems can show up days later, though. If you wait to seek help, it is harder to connect the injuries to the accident.

Continue All Medical Treatment

As you can see from the statistics above, anyone who drives or rides in a car has a high chance of being injured in a car accident. In fact, around 150 Americans die each year from traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which may occur from car accidents.

A TBI can impact a person for the rest of their life, but you might not know you have an injury like this until weeks or months later. To ensure that you receive all the medical care you need, you must continue seeking treatment as long as necessary.

To get the most out of your case, it’s essential to seek medical treatment until you feel completely normal or reach maximum medical improvement (MMI). MMI is a point when you cannot get any better.

Reaching MMI helps you fight for compensation to cover all the damages you experienced from the accident. If you have questions about this, ask your attorney.

Keep a Journal and Log

Another vital thing you should do after getting injured from a car accident is to keep a journal and log. You can use these things to record information about your health after the accident.

You can use the log to record time spent traveling to and from doctor visits or therapy. Also, use it to record the miles driven to these visits. If you seek help from a counselor after the accident, you can also record these visits in the log.

Keeping a journal is another wise decision, and most attorneys recommend doing this after an accident. A journal lets you write about the ways the accident affected you.

Whenever you have thoughts about the accident, you can record them in your journal. You can write about the nightmares you have if this is an issue. You can write about your insomnia if you experience this problem.

The purpose of a journal is to prove the damages, harm, and problems you suffer as a result of the accident. You should list all the feelings and impacts you notice from the accident in this book.

You can give the book to your lawyer to serve as proof. When used in car accident cases, a journal is often an excellent form of evidence to provide.

Find an Experienced Attorney

After getting injured in a car accident, you must also start looking for an experienced accident attorney. You’ll need a lawyer for help settling your case, and you can even request a free case review from most law firms.

A personal injury lawyer can review all the evidence and details from your case to determine how you should proceed. If you have plenty of facts and evidence, you will probably win your case.

One of the goals your attorney will have is to collect the highest settlement amount possible. To do this, the lawyer will prepare the case and work on it. Next, he or she will calculate the value and request this amount from the court during the case.

Injured in a Car Accident? We Can Help

When a person gets injured in a car accident, they will need legal help. We are a law firm that focuses on helping car accident victims.

If you are in the Tampa area and would like advice, contact us. We would love to hear your case and offer the help you need.

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 844.329.3491.

7 TIPS TO REDUCE THE RISK OF A MOTORCYCLE CRASH

Are you worried about having a motorcycle crash?

The chance of a fatal motorcycle accident isn’t as slim as you might think. Each year, there are around 5,000 motorcycle fatalities. But, you may not know that there are things you can do to reduce the risk of an accident happening to you.

Read on for these seven tips on motorcycle crash prevention to keep you safe on the road.

1. Wear a Helmet and the Right Gear

For most, this might seem like an obvious tip to follow. Most of you may already do it. But for other riders, some don’t wear a helmet or protective gear to keep themselves safe.

But, if you’re not wearing a helmet, the risk of death or serious injury in a motorcycle accident increases. They reduce the risk of fatality by 37% and serious head injury by 69%!

Wearing the right protective gear on your body also reduces the risk of serious injuries. Biking leathers and pads help keep your skin protected against skids and burns. A reflective jacket also lets other drivers spot you with ease. Don’t compromise on safety gear; it could save your life.

2. Pay Attention to Your Speed

The faster your speed, the less reaction time you have to other drivers, debris, and hazards on the road. For example, speeding could make it harder to see a turn that’s coming up. As a result, you could go into it too fast.

In moments like that, it’s easy to panic and put the brakes on hard. As a result, this could throw you off the bike, and the momentum could send you flying into oncoming traffic.

Or, if you try to ride through the corner still, you could turn too sharply. The bike then could slide out from under you, skidding you across the road beneath it.

To stay safe, don’t go faster than a speed that lets you judge the direction of a road. Always give yourself enough reaction time to counter any unsuspected and sudden hazards. You can’t always know if there is a slippery spot or a pothole in the road. And the weather can change from calm to dangerous in an instant.

3. Keep Blind Spots in Mind

Out of all the vehicles on the road, motorcycles are the smallest legal ones. In general, this means they can be harder to spot. But this is especially the case when you factor in that other, larger vehicles have blind spots.

Always be alert to the fact you’re entering a blind spot for another vehicle. If you can, it’s a good idea to avoid these blind spots altogether.

You should also try to avoid passing in high-traffic areas and on curvy, bending roads. Otherwise, you may find yourself in need of a motorcycle accident lawyer.

4. Watch for High Traffic Areas and Opening Doors

It’s not always possible to stay out of high-traffic areas on your motorcycle, and you shouldn’t have to. But, it’s useful when planning a trip on weekends and major holidays to consider your route.

Know which roads will be busy, and when. It might be better to adjust your route to avoid those busy roads if you can. Or you can plan around a time that sees less traffic volume.

Also, be aware of areas where there is a high volume of parking on the roadside. When you’re driving past, be aware of these parked cars.

A big cause of a motorcycle accident today happens when a driver or passenger in a parked car opens their door. They don’t see the approaching motorcycle, and the rider crashes into the open door.

5. At Intersections Check Behind You

Another big cause of motorcycle accidents is getting rear-ended by cars at intersections. This is especially the case when they stop to let animals go across in front of them or stop for crosswalks.

It’s good practice in these instances to pull to the side of the lane. Give your brake lights a few flashes too to alert those behind you.

Once stopped, always keep an eye behind you for cars coming up on you. Keep your bike in gear so that if a car doesn’t look like it’ll stop in time, you can pull away to avoid an accident.

6. Learn to Handle Common Hazards on the Road

At some point, you’re likely going to come across hazards on the road. From train crossings and ice to potholes and rubber from a blown tire.

You need to make sure you know how to get through or around these hazards without causing an accident. There are braking and maneuvering techniques for these that you need to know.

It’s a good idea to go on a motorcycle course that specializes in hazards. It will teach you these techniques and give much-needed practice to keep you safe on the road.

7. Keep on Top of Motorcycle Maintenance

The key to keeping any vehicle as safe as possible is making sure it’s well-maintained. This goes for motorcycles too.

Keeping on top of your motorcycle maintenance reduces the risk of it breaking down. It could be the difference between causing an accident or avoiding one. Remember, after a motorcycle accident, all parties will investigate the cause. This will help determine liability.

So, make sure you get a regular check on your brakes and avoid tire tread wear. Also, keep your mirrors and windshield clear without any obstructions.

Preventing a Motorcycle Crash Made Simple

So, there you have it! Now that you know these seven tips, you’re on your way to staying safe and preventing a motorcycle accident.

Watch your speed, and always be aware of your surroundings. You can’t afford distractions on the road, no matter what vehicle you’re driving.

Learn how to handle road hazards, and don’t take risks or put yourself in a sticky situation. And if you do get yourself into an accident, make sure you hire a motorcycle accident attorney right away.

If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident recently and need help, contact us today. At RHINO Lawyers, we’ve got the experience to help with all your accident legal needs.

CONTACT A TAMPA MOTORCYCLE CRASH ATTORNEY

In short, after a motorcycle 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 844.329.3491.

WHEN IS IT TIME TO HIRE A WRONGFUL DEATH LAWYER?

If you’ve lost a loved one due to another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to bring about a wrongful death claim. The law around wrongful deaths is complicated. It varies from state to state, and each case is unique. That’s why many choose to hire an experienced wrongful death lawyer to help guide them through the process and likely outcomes.

We got our team to answer the most common queries around wrongful death lawsuits, from what they are to when you should hire a lawyer.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

Wrongful death is when a fatality occurs as a result of an injury or accident that should not have happened. This can be a result of negligence or carelessness, as well as a range of other aggravating factors.

Wrongful death law varies from state to state. Though many are similar in the sense of claimants and damages permitted. In this article, we’ll be referring to the Florida Wrongful Death Act.

As with any legal claim, the article of law is used to bring the claim to court where it will be heard in front of a jury. Lawyers will present both sides of the case to the jury, who will consider the facts and ultimately rule on whether the claim is valid or not. The jury will also determine the appropriate amount of damages, both economic and non-economic.

Wrongful Death Causes

There’s no exhaustive list of causes of wrongful death. It applies to any situation that puts the victim at serious risk of harm or death needlessly.

The CDC cites unintentional injuries as the third leading cause of death in the US. While not all of these will be wrongful deaths, many may be. The most common types of accidents in wrongful death claims are:

• Car accidents
• Boating accidents
• Workplace accidents
• Falls
• Drowning
• Medical malpractice
• Defective products
• Poisoning
• Criminal activity

Determining the cause of death is one of the first steps needed to file a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death attorney can help you investigate who and what caused the death of a loved one. This helps identify the correct defendant in a wrongful death claim.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

The Florida Wrongful Death Act states the following parties have the right to file a wrongful death claim:

• A spouse
• Children
• Parents
• Blood relatives are wholly dependent on the deceased
• Adoptive siblings are wholly dependent on the deceased

It’s not quite as simple as this, though. The act says the only party who may file a claim must be a personal representative of the deceased’s estate. In this sense, though all of the parties above have the right to file a wrongful death claim, who is actually able to file the claim will vary depending on the deceased’s will.

If the deceased hasn’t named a representative within their Will or has no Will, the courts will assign one during the probate process. This is most often the surviving spouse.

This representative may file the claim on behalf of all eligible survivors. Multiple claims are not allowed. Survivors are expected to determine the allocation of any settlement or damages won among themselves.

Wrongful Death Damages

The Act outlines the damages that may be available to claimants as a result of a wrongful death claim. Each survivor can recover a monetary value that is equivalent to the deceased’s lost support. This will be determined by the relationship between the survivor and the deceased.

A surviving spouse may additionally be entitled to claim for loss of companionship, protection, and suffering. Surviving children who are minors may additionally be entitled to claim for loss of parental instruction and guidance, as well as pain and suffering. Overall, damages may be claimed for the following:

• Medical expenses
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of income
• Lost wages
• Loss of consortium
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of companionship
• Loss of parental instruction and guidance

It’s impossible to give even a vague estimate on damage figures. This is because this will vary from case to case. The best person who can advise you on this is an experienced wrongful death lawyer who knows your case.

When to Hire a Lawyer?

As a general rule of thumb, you should hire a wrongful death lawyer as early as possible. Most reputable law firms will offer a free initial consultation to gather the facts and ensure you have a case.

Having a wrongful death lawyer hired early will help you navigate your claim. It will also help you avoid any potential pitfalls, such as interactions with the defendant that may later be used in court. Not to mention removing much of the stress of dealing with legal matters from the family to allow them to grieve in peace.

It’s also worth noting that there is a two-year statute of limitations on wrongful death claims. This means if the claim is not filed before this, no surviving beneficiaries would be entitled to make a claim.

You aren’t legally required to hire a wrongful death lawyer, but due to the complicated nature of the claim, it is advisable to. Your wrongful death lawyer will be responsible for a range of matters, including investigating and establishing liability. This involves understanding legal faults and knowledge of a range of applicable state laws.

Wrongful Death Lawyers Near Me

If you’re based in Tampa, Florida, or the surrounding area, RHINO Lawyers can help you. We have experienced wrongful death lawyers who will be able to advise you on your specific situation and case. Simply get in touch today for a free case review or free video consultation.

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 844.329.3491.

7 THINGS TO DO AFTER GETTING A RECKLESS DRIVING CHARGE

Surprisingly, it doesn’t take a lot to be charged with reckless driving. You may not even realize how far over the speed limit you are until you’re pulled over.

But then, bam. Here’s the ticket. And that little piece of paper that signifies you received a reckless driving charge can impact your life for years to come.

If you are charged with reckless driving and aren’t sure what to do next, keep reading. Here are the 7 things you must do after getting a reckless driving charge.

1. Stay Calm

We get it – no one wants a ticket, especially one that has the ability to escalate into more serious charges. You might feel like giving the police officer a piece of your mind, and who could blame you?

However, if you want to avoid further trouble, you must remain calm. The police officer may have to show up in court to testify against you. Wouldn’t you rather leave him with the impression that you are respectful and polite?

Not to mention, there are different degrees of reckless driving charges in Florida, with some being more serious and carrying harsher penalties. Don’t give the officer an excuse to increase your charge.

2. Slow Down

Sounds obvious, right? But you should drive more carefully, not just to avoid getting a second charge, but also to avoid making your first charge even worse.

Reckless driving charges in Florida can escalate all the way into a felony. If you catch a second ticket while still awaiting your court appearance for the first, it could stay on your record permanently.

Felonies can prevent you from getting a job or an apartment and can significantly impact your life. It’s not worth the risk for a few extra miles per hour.

3. Educate Yourself

Take time to read up on Florida’s reckless driving laws. It’s never a bad idea to learn more about the situation you’re in. You’ll also be aware of where to draw the line the next time you feel like speeding up.

If you know anyone who has also received the same charge, call them up. Ask them about their experience and what they would do differently if they could go back. You may learn something that could improve your situation.

4. Research and Hire a Lawyer

Because this charge can escalate, you can’t afford not to have a lawyer. But you should always do your research first.

There are lawyers, such as our team at RHINO Lawyers, who focus on traffic law and reckless driving charges. Our lawyers have years of experience working with this type of charge, so we’ve seen it all. We can handle your case with skill.

Any reputable firm (including RHINO Lawyers) will offer a free consultation to determine whether your case is a good fit. You want an attorney who is a hundred percent sure they want to take your case before an engagement letter is signed.

5. Listen To Your Lawyer

If you’ve done your research and hired a good attorney, you should remember you are paying them to tell you what to do to get the best outcome. They’ve done this before, and they know how you should act.

Even if you don’t want to do something, listen to your lawyer. Get a new suit, take driving classes, volunteer – whatever it is, they are telling you to do it for a reason, even if it isn’t immediately clear to you.

The legal system is a confusing, tangled web. You’ll have an easier time if you listen to the professional at your side.

6. The Hearing: Be Serious, Have Evidence

Your lawyer will prep you for the finer points of the hearing, but it’s important to remember to take it seriously. They should communicate what you do with your appearance, expressions, and body language.

Getting charged with something where someone could have ended up injured or dead, and acting nonchalant about it, is an easy way to annoy the judge. The judge has the power to sanction you or increase your punishment, so it’s better to try to stay on their good side.

At the hearing, both sides can present evidence. The officer who gave you the ticket may testify. There may be other witnesses if other people were involved, such as in an accident.

If you had anyone else in the car with you, you may want to call them to testify as well. If you have a dashcam or are able to ask a nearby home or business for their security camera footage, that’s even better.

Because you’ve educated yourself about your charges, you may even be able to dispute parts of the officer’s testimony or parts of the charge itself. It will ultimately be up to your lawyer to pursue that, but make sure to pay attention. See if you notice any discrepancies in how the prosecution portrays what happened.

7. Learn From This Experience

Your punishment can range from a fine to a short time in jail, to a full felony charge with significant prison time. But whatever happens, you should accept your penalty with grace and carry it out with your head held high.

Afterward, think about what you can take from this experience. It’s unrealistic to think that you will never speed again while driving, but maybe you’ll be more careful in the future.

If You Have a Reckless Driving Charge in Florida

If you’ve received a reckless driving ticket recently, don’t delay in reaching out for help. The longer you wait, the less time you have to prepare for your court appearance.

Our team at RHINO Lawyers works collaboratively on each case. We’re always learning from each other so that we can provide the best possible outcome for each and every client.

Reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation about your reckless driving charge. You’ll be glad you did.

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 844.329.3491.

IMPORTANT STEPS TO TAKE AFTER A TRUCK ACCIDENT

Truck accidents are, unfortunately, a significant cause of death in the world. In the U.S. alone, 74 percent of all fatal passenger-vehicle accidents involve large trucks. When it comes to accidents, trucks have different rules from other vehicles, and they face more rigid standards.

Trucking companies and truck drivers carry a higher burden of responsibility, given the trucks’ sheer size and weight. Most often, trucks leave a devastating wake of catastrophic damages, injuries, and fatalities. The question is, what steps should you take once involved in a truck accident?

Start By Calling the Authorities and Getting Medical Help

If you’re in any position to do so, the first thing you should do is call the police to report the accident and get medical help. It is incredibly important for you and all other parties involved to get medical attention as soon as possible, regardless of how minor your injuries may be. Assess the situation and move to safety, and if you’re in a position to walk, check how everyone else is doing.

Depending on your injuries’ severity, you can try to carry out first aid such as bandaging wounds to control bleeding before medical services arrive. If you suffered grave injuries and are unable to move, try as much as you can to call for help so that others can save you as well.

If your injuries are not severe, move your vehicle from the road or turn on the hazard lights to warn other drivers of the scene. This will help avoid traffic or another accident, after which you should wait for the authorities to arrive. However, only move the car for safety purposes; otherwise, it’s always best to leave the accident scene as it is for thorough investigations.

Document the Scene

You mustn’t leave a trucking accident scene. In most states, this is considered a crime because it constitutes a hit and run accident. If you’re not severely injured and are in a position to walk, it’s of utmost importance for you to gather and exchange vital information with all the parties involved in the accident. This will help the police and your truck accident attorney deal with the insurance company or the lawsuit.

There may be witnesses that saw everything that happened. You need to take down their information because they may be able to help in a legal proceeding. The information you collect should include the involved parties’ names, contact information, vehicle information such as make and model, and their license plate numbers.

Take Photos and Video Evidence

In the world we live in, technology allows us to take photos, video, and audio evidence of any situation, which is one of the best times to do that. If you can access your smartphone or any mobile device with the capabilities to take photos or videos of the crash scene. Do it immediately because it will provide the strongest evidence you can capture.

The best things about photos and videos are that they don’t change, unlike witnesses that tend to forget information as days go by. Photos will capture everything and everyone involved, while video and audio will show what everyone was saying then.

This will give you great leverage if you need to sue anyone for negligence. You need to take snapshots of the entire truck accident. Go from significant landmarks, skid marks, intersections, and all vehicles involved to tell the story of what happened.

If the accident happens during the night, audio and video recordings will be the best form of evidence. It’s important for you to record your own account of what happened. Then record conversations you and the other parties or witnesses have during that time. Keep your recording safe and avail them to your truck accident lawyer if there’s a need to move on with legal action.

Avoid Making Any Statement About the Truck Accident

You must avoid making statements about the accident, like saying it was your fault. It’s possible that a witness saw a different driver texting while driving or running a red light. Maybe there was a malfunctioning spotlight.

Even if you feel as if you did something wrong and you have some responsibility, say nothing. You need to discuss the issue with your truck accident lawyer before telling anyone else.

It’s also vital to make sure you are calmer and away from the accident scene. This way, you can make a statement from a strong place and not that of vulnerability.

Call a Truck Accident Lawyer

As a truck driver, it’s a given that either party will go to court to demand compensation. You need to have a professional truck accident attorney protecting your rights and offering your legal assistance. This could be the beginning of a long legal process, and the other parties may come armed with their own professional truck accident lawyer.

You need to launch a compensation claim with the insurance company and your employer, as they are required to offer you protection. Look for a competent truck accident lawyer in your area as soon as possible to investigate the scene of the accident.

They will get a fresh account of the events from the witnesses before they start forgetting the intricate details. Specifically, hire a truck accident lawyer as they know all truck accident laws and a track record of similar cases.

The best thing about having a professional truck accident attorney is that they will gather all the necessary evidence. They’ll interview the witnesses and documents all the information needed to prove who was at fault.

This is more important if you were too injured to go through the process of collecting information and documenting the accident scene. Additionally, the truck accident lawyer will negotiate with insurance companies during the settlement. They will also go to court to make sure you receive a fair trial.

Handling a Truck Accident

If you are involved in a truck accident, the most important thing is to ensure you stay at the scene until the police arrive. Get medical attention, and hire a professional work accident lawyer immediately. Your company may be able to help with hiring a lawyer and may be able to offer you protection.

Still, if you need a professional attorney to assist you, please get in touch with us today, and we’ll be more than glad to assist 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 844.329.3491.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON CAUSES OF ACCIDENTS?

In the United States alone, there are over 6 million car accidents each year. There are a variety of causes of car accidents that are responsible for the wreckage that millions of motorists must face each year. Familiarizing yourself with the most common causes of car accidents can help you prepare to be safer while you’re on the road.

If you’re interested in road safety or are simply just curious about car accidents, you’ve come to the right place. Check out our breakdown of the most common causes of car accidents and tips to avoid them.

Driver Related Accidents

To better understand the top causes of car accidents, we can first break the causes down into two different categories. The first category we’ll focus on is driver-related accidents. These accidents are specifically due to the fault of the driver of the vehicle.

Distracted Driving

When it comes to car crashes caused by distracted driving, the margin of error is very high. Distracted driving can come in many forms and varies on person to person basis.

One of the most common types of distracted driving is texting or cellphone usage while driving. In the United States, distracted driving killed over 2,000 people in 2018 alone. While distracted driving is common for all age groups. It is a major leading cause of car crashes for younger generations.

As mentioned previously, distracted driving can take many forms that aren’t just related to texting. Other activities that lead to distracted driving could include taking your eyes off the road, eating, reaching in the back seat, and much more.

Driving While Under the Influence

It’s no secret that drunk driving is a major issue across the globe. In fact, a DUI or driving under the influence is one of the most common traffic violations across the United States. Drunk driving not only affects the driver but everyone else on the road as well.

Driving while under the influence of drugs is also a major offense that is not to be taken lightly. While some states have legalized the use of marijuana for medical and recreational purposes, driving while under the influence is still illegal and a major offense.

Sleeping

We’ve all been on long car rides where we’ve started to get a bit tired while driving. Falling asleep while driving affects a major portion of the population, whether on long car rides or simply driving home from work.

Even being fatigued but not falling completely asleep is still dangerous when driving. Being a tired driver can significantly lower your reaction times and the ability to make quick decisions and obey traffic laws.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving can include everything from crossing a double yellow line to aggressively cutting someone off in traffic. No matter your reason for reckless driving, the act can clearly cause significant risk for yourself and other drivers around you.

Not Obeying Redlights and Stop Signs

Redlights and stop signs are put in place for a reason. A major cause of car accidents across the globe is the ignoring of traffic signals and laws. Whether you’re in a hurry to get to work or you don’t look both ways before turning at a stop sign, not obeying these rules can have serious and even life-threatening effects.

Speeding

Speeding is one of the most common offenses that many people encounter throughout their driving career. You probably know someone who has gotten a speeding ticket before. Perhaps you yourself have even encountered this first hand. While speeding itself isn’t always the cause of car accidents, the effects speeding can have on your ability to maintain control of your vehicle can be a major cause of crashes.

Speeding vehicles tend to have slower reaction times and can even be harder to control on the road. In the event of a car accident, the car’s speed can severely affect the injuries sustained by the driver and passengers.

Non-Driver Related Accidents

Non-driver-related accidents are accidents that happen due to reasons that are outside of the drivers’ control. While these types of accidents are less common, they still make up a portion of accidents.

Weather Conditions

If you’ve driven through the rain or snow before, you know how scary driving in difficult weather conditions can be. If your vehicle is not meant for colder weather, driving through the snow can be tough to manage.

Even if you’re an experienced driver, weather can be highly unpredictable and lead to hazardous conditions on the road. Many weather conditions can make vehicles more hazardous if they aren’t properly maintained or prepared for winter weather.

Road Conditions

Sometimes the roads themselves can be the problem when it comes to car crashes. Potholes and other unsafe road hazards have been known to lead to car crashes and dangerous conditions. Issues such as road construction, downed powerlines, potholes, and many more are leading causes of car crashes due to hazardous road conditions.

Vehicle Defects

While not as common as the other causes on this list, vehicle defects are still a major force to be reckoned with. The manufacturer might recall your vehicle due to hazardous materials or mechanisms that can lead to crashes. Or, unsafe conditions if your vehicle were to be in an accident.

Vehicle defects can also be caused by the lack of maintenance of your vehicle. When ensuring the safety of your vehicle on the road, performing regular tune-ups and checks on your car is an absolute must.

Preventing the Causes of Car Accidents

When it comes to preventing the causes of car accidents, there are several things you can do to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Being aware of your well-being and surroundings is an absolute must every time you get on the road.

If you’re looking to become a safer driver, one of the best things you can do is to stay informed and know what to look out for. If you should ever find yourself in trouble, know what resources are available to 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 844.329.3491.

HOW IS FAULT DETERMINED IN A CAR ACCIDENT?

There is an average of six million car accidents every year in the United States. The sad truth is that car accidents happen all the time on all kinds of streets to all kinds of drivers. But by knowing the answer to “how is fault determined in a car accident?”, you can be more prepared for any issues that arise should you end up in a car accident.

Are you interested in learning more? If you are, then keep on reading and we’ll take you through everything you need to know about determining fault in a car accident.

How Police Determine Who Is at Fault in a Car Accident

After a car accident is reported to the police, the police officers will be responsible for preparing a police report about what took place. A police officer will interview all of the drivers involved as well as any witnesses about the car accident. They’ll ask a variety of questions meant to put together an accurate retelling of what transpired.

After the police officer has decided that they have enough information, they’ll submit their report to their department. That report might contain a statement about who was at fault for the car accident based on the officer’s judgment.

However, there are many police reports that don’t include a determination of fault. It’s also worth pointing out that even if a police report states who was responsible for the auto accident. That doesn’t automatically mean that person is going to be held legally responsible for damages.

Sometimes, an officer will issue a traffic citation during their investigation. This citation can be used as evidence that the driver was negligent in a later lawsuit.

How Insurance Companies Determine Who Is at Fault in a Car Accident

After filing a claim with an insurance company, the company will assign the claim to an adjuster. That person will oversee the investigation into the incident. As well as, the settlement of the insurance claim.

Usually, there’s more than one adjustor involved in this process. That’s because each driver’s insurance company is going to want to choose an adjustor to look into the auto accident.

Adjustors research the auto accident, look at medical records, talk with witnesses, and examine damage to the vehicles. They will also verify the insurance policy details of the drivers involved.

In the end, the adjustor will determine who was at fault in the accident. Sometimes, they’ll even assign a percentage of fault to each driver.

From there, the insurance companies will apportion the costs of the auto accident based on that percentage. They will also compensate the drivers involved according to the terms of their insurance policies.

Usually, an insurance company will determine fault based on the legal definition of negligence in the state where the accident took place. A person who is negligent fails to exercise the amount of caution that a reasonable person would under those same circumstances.

For example, if a driver runs a red light. And, hits a car that was legally passing through an intersection. Then they will likely find that driver negligent and at fault for the accident.

How Courts Determine Who Is at Fault in a Car Accident

If you were to file a lawsuit after getting into an auto accident, a court is going to decide who was at fault. They will accomplish this by considering if the defendant was negligent.

In order to decide your case, a court is going to consider arguments from the parties’ lawyers. They’ll also look at various pieces of evidence presented by those lawyers. This evidence can include testimony from:

• doctors
• accident reconstruction professionals
• police officers who investigated the accident
• people who witnessed the accident
• drivers involved in the car accident

Either a jury or a judge will determine whether the other driver was negligent. They’ll also decide if the defendant has to pay you money in order to compensate you for damages.

It’s worth noting that police reports and determinations made by insurance companies won’t control the outcome of a court case. For one thing, they might prevent certain evidence from being introduced during trial, such as police reports. Also, different rules govern the legal determination of responsibility for a car accident.

You should also remember that evidence of a traffic citation or violation can persuade a court that the violating party was negligent and at fault for the accident. This is a concept known as negligence per se and it can be quite useful to your case if you were injured by a driver who violated traffic rules.

The Importance of Knowing How To Determined Fault

A car accident can be a traumatizing, confusing, and overwhelming experience. Dealing with insurance companies, police officers, and the possibility of a lawsuit can be scary and difficult. After an injury from a car accident, you could worry about whether or not you were at fault. Luckily, an experienced car accident attorney can help you.

However, a reliable attorney can do more than provide you with useful legal advice. They can also make sure that your rights are protected, and that you don’t give statements the other side can use against you. As well as, that you receive the compensation that you deserve.

Hopefully, after reading the above article, you now have a better idea of how they determine fault in a car accident. And, how different parties can come to different conclusions.

Were you recently in a car accident and looking for help? If so, then contact us today and see what we can do 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.

5 QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE HIRING A CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

Have you recently been involved in a car accident and are unsure of the proper process for hiring a lawyer? Do you find it overwhelming to figure out how to find the right lawyer for your case? If so, then you need a few questions to ask as you search for a car accident attorney.

Doing so can help you find the right fit for your case. Rather than going through the entire process, uncertain of whether you made the right choice, you can have confidence in your lawyer, which is so important.

See below for several questions that you can ask to find the right attorney to represent you in your case.

1. Do You FOCUS ON Car Accidents?

This is a critical question to start things off. Too many people make the mistake of hiring a lawyer who focuses on other areas because they’re a close connection or a family member.

Doing so can sabotage your case. Since they’ll be going up against someone who knows the processes for your local car accident court like the back of their hand.

Here’s a common misconception that people make: they think that personal injury is an all-inclusive area of law. It’s not. There are many different aspects to personal injury, such as slip and falls, workers’ compensation, medical malpractice, and so much more.

Whenever you reach out to a trusted car accident attorney, be sure to ask if they focus on car accident cases. Have them tell you a story or two about the clients that they’ve represented in car accident cases.

Better yet, what does their experience tell them about your case? Should you pursue legal action? What’s the best route to take? What would they recommend you do if you were to hire them for your car accident case?

2. What Are Your Thoughts on My Case?

When you initially meet with the car accident lawyer, you’ll want to get a feel for how they perceive your case. This is when you can gauge whether or not they’re the right ones for you to hire.

Lay out as many details as you wish about the car accident and what occurred. After telling the story, be sure to ask some questions to see what their thoughts are about your case moving forward.

How long do they think the timeline would take if you pursued compensation? Off the top, what do they think are the strong parts of your case? What do they think could work against you? Do they foresee the case going to trial or getting settled beforehand?

Lastly, what amount of compensation would they have you go after? How did they come up with that number? It’s always in your best interest to understand your attorney’s way of thinking. This will help communication come naturally and easily.

Too often, a lawyer will actually back out of the case because they and their client aren’t seeing eye to eye. By asking these questions before hiring them, you’ll avoid that problem altogether.

3. What Are Your Fees?

So many people are hesitant to ask about pricing, but it’s an important conversation to have. You want to make sure the attorney you hire is compensated well, but still charges you a fair rate for their experience.

Simply throw the question out there from the get-go. What are their fees, and how much should you expect them to charge for my services? Most lawyers charge on an hourly basis, so you’ll be able to keep track of the amount you can expect to pay.

Remember, the pricing can fluctuate depending on the lawyer’s experience level and the severity of your case, as well as a number of other factors.

Have them give you an estimate of what you can expect to pay after all of the fees (court and lawyer) are added. That way, you can start saving up to pay them off or apply for a pre-settlement loan to pay them off while you await the outcome of your case.

4. What Are the Next Steps if I Hire You?

A big reason that you need an experienced lawyer is for the guidance that they can offer you throughout this process. They can tell you how to handle the case moving forward.

Your lawyer will also take over the reins for communication with the opposition in mediation and help you compile evidence to strengthen your case.

Whenever you ask this question, they should give you a better understanding of the next steps you can expect. Understandably, they might not reveal their entire plan until you officially hire them.

5. How Would You Keep Me in the Loop?

You should never have to be in the dark on your own case. The attorney that you hire should always keep you in the loop with where they’re at and what you can expect.

Ask them how they plan to offer you updates on your case. What’s the best way(s) for you to reach out to them? Are they going to oversee every aspect of your case or delegate to other people at their firm?

Be sure you have an understanding of what events they’ll attend. For example, are they going to be there for all your court appearances? Negotiation meetings?

Find the Perfect Car Accident Attorney for Your Case

Now that you have seen what questions you need to ask while you look around for the right car accident attorney, it’s time to start your search!

Be sure to read this article to get a few driving safety tips you can use while traveling for the holidays, wherever you may be headed.

For more inquiries, please feel free to reach out via our contact us page, and we will be happy to assist you further.

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 844.329.3491.