With congested traffic, speeding vehicles, and aggressive drivers, it’s no surprise that highway crashes are a common occurrence in West Palm Beach, Florida. These car accidents can lead to severe injuries and even death. Call Hollander Law Firm Accident Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced West Palm Beach car accident lawyers at (561) 556-7873.
Fortunately, help is available if you’re involved in an accident caused by someone else. Our legal team has over 28 years of experience helping personal injury victims recover full compensation for their damages. If you enlist our services, we’ll fight for your right to a fair financial recovery.
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How Our West Palm Beach Car Accident Attorneys Can Help You Obtain Compensation After a Highway Crash
A West Palm Beach personal injury lawyer can guide you through the process of seeking compensation and help you through your recovery. Let us help.
Here are some of the specific steps we will take after your highway crash in West Palm Beach, FL:
- We will collect evidence, such as police reports, photographs, and medical records, to support your case.
- We will negotiate with the insurance company for the best possible settlement for your damages and injuries.
- If the insurance company is not willing to offer a fair settlement, we will file a lawsuit if applicable.
- We will represent you in court and present your case to the judge and jury.
For help after a West Palm Beach highway accident, contact Hollander Law Firm Accident Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation.
How Common Are Highway Crashes in Palm Beach County, FL?
There are a significant number of car crashes in Palm Beach County, Florida each year.
In 2022, there were almost 25,000 crashes, which caused 15,250 injuries and 223 fatalities.
As of May 20, 2023, Palm Beach County has experienced 9,933 car accidents that injured 6,213 and killed 77. Many of these collisions occur on highways at high speeds.
What Causes Highway Crashes in West Palm Beach, FL?
By understanding the different factors that can lead to highway crashes, you can take the necessary steps to stay safe while driving. The following are some of the most common causes of highway car crashes:
Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or even changing radio stations can contribute to distracted driving, resulting in unexpected accidents.
Driving Under the Influence: Driving while impaired diminishes reaction time and decision-making abilities, making roads less safe for everyone.
Reckless Driving: Speeding, tailgating, and improper lane changes are just a few examples of what constitutes reckless driving. This can lead to accidents on the highway, causing serious injuries or fatalities.
Common Injuries Sustained in Highway Crashes in West Palm Beach, FL?
The most common types of injuries that result from highway car accidents include the following:
Whiplash: Whiplash occurs when the head is quickly thrust forward and then snapped back, causing neck pain, stiffness, and headaches. It is often difficult to diagnose and can take months to heal.
Head and Face Injuries: Injuries to the head and face are also common. Head injuries can range from mild to severe, causing anything from minor concussions to permanent brain damage. Facial injuries can range from cuts and bruises to broken bones.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal injuries are also common in highway car crashes. When the spine is subjected to a sudden impact, it can cause serious damage, including paralysis.
Internal Injuries: This can include damage to the organs and internal bleeding. These injuries can be particularly dangerous, as they may not be immediately apparent.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries are common in highway car crashes. These injuries can include muscle strains and ligament tears.
How Do I Obtain Compensation After a West Palm Beach, FL Highway Collision?
Florida is a no-fault state. If you’re involved in a car crash, you have to go through your own insurance company to seek compensation for your injuries and losses rather than filing a claim against the at-fault party. This can be both a blessing and a curse—on one hand, it simplifies the process, but on the other, it may limit the amount of compensation you’re able to receive.
However, if your injuries are severe enough, Florida law allows you to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. In these cases, you’ll need to gather evidence to prove the other party’s negligence in causing the car accident, which can sometimes involve a bit of work on the part of your attorney.
Florida law defines a “serious” injury as one that results in:
- Permanent injury
- Significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Significant and permanent loss of a bodily function
If any of these criteria apply to you, you may be eligible to take the at-fault party to court in pursuit of compensation for your damages.
Who Could Be Responsible for a Highway Crash in West Palm Beach, Florida?
Determining responsibility in highway car accidents is often complicated.
The following parties may be responsible:
- The at-fault driver: If a driver’s negligent or reckless action causes a crash, they are held responsible for the victim’s injuries and damages.
- Vehicle manufacturers: Faulty parts or the design of a vehicle can sometimes contribute to causing an accident. In such cases, manufacturers may be held liable.
- Government entities: In some instances, poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, or malfunctioning traffic signals can lead to highway crashes. Governmental bodies overseeing these might be accountable.
- Commercial carriers: Accidents involving commercial vehicles may also involve the carrier or company employing the driver.
Our West Palm Beach personal injury attorney will identify every party who shares responsibility for your highway crash.
Comparative Negligence in Florida
Florida car accidents are governed by comparative negligence. If a crash victim is partially at fault for the accident, they can still recover compensation, but it will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
However, you won’t be able to recover any damages if you were more than 50% at fault.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our West Palm Beach Car Wreck Lawyers
In the aftermath of a highway accident, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced personal injury lawyer. They will help you navigate the complex legal process, gather evidence, and determine the liability of the responsible parties. If you need help, contact Hollander Law Firm Accident Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
