May 13, 2023
A Recent Upswing In Car Accidents
Although Fort Pierce, FL, has serene beauty and is affectionately known as Sunrise City, our car accident lawyer Fort Pierce, FL residents trust will share that it belies an alarming trend. The recent upswing in car accidents has raised safety concerns among local residents and prompted an urgent review of driving habits and roadway conditions. As Tuttle Larsen, P.A. shares, the alarming rate of these collisions is profoundly impactful to victims, families, and the community at large, one that may require legal action.
Fort Pierce, FL Collisions
A series of collisions, often resulting in severe injuries and, occasionally, tragic fatalities, have sent shockwaves through the community. Over the span of a few weeks, high-traffic areas such as Virginia Avenue and U.S. Highway 1 have seen a disproportionate increase in traffic incidents. Each event underscores a stark reality: the need for safe driving practices and an understanding of what steps to take following an accident.
Taking Proper Action After an Accident
Every citizen should be prepared for the worst while hoping for the best. The immediate aftermath of a car accident can be confusing and stressful. The following offers vital steps to take when navigating the legal landscape should you, unfortunately, find yourself involved in an automobile accident.
Step 1: Safety First and Immediate Response
Immediately after an accident, ensure that you and others are safe. If possible, move the vehicle to a safe location, away from oncoming traffic. Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured.
Step 2: Documentation
Documenting the incident for your insurance company and potential legal proceedings is crucial. Collect information, including the other party’s driver’s license number, insurance, and contact details. Take photographs of the accident scene, including the vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any injuries sustained.
Step 3: Notify the Authorities and Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to the police, even if it appears minor. This report can be valuable evidence if you decide to take legal action or if the other party does. Additionally, inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible.
Step 4: Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, some injuries may not be apparent until later. It’s prudent to get checked by a healthcare provider to ascertain any potential injuries and to have a record for your insurance claim or lawsuit.
Step 5: Consult with a Personal Injury Lawyer
Florida’s no-fault insurance laws can be confusing, and dealing with insurance companies can be stressful. Hiring a personal injury lawyer can help you navigate this complex process. They can advocate for you, deal with the insurance companies, gather evidence, and potentially negotiate a settlement or represent you in court if necessary.
Although prevention is always the best approach, accidents do happen. The Fort Pierce community should collectively address this recent surge in traffic accidents by adhering to traffic rules, driving responsibly, and promoting road safety awareness. A concerted effort from every citizen is required to make our roads safer and reduce these distressing incidents.
In the unfortunate event that you are involved in a car accident, understanding your legal rights and the steps to take is critical. You are not alone in this journey, and professionals are ready to assist you in your time of need.
Remember, the road to recovery may seem long, but taking the proper steps in the immediate aftermath of an accident can make the journey less daunting. And in the face of adversity, the Fort Pierce community’s resilience shines through, reaffirming our commitment to safety and each other.
While it’s essential to aim for safer roads, cities, and communities, accidents still can happen, and when they do, legal action may be necessary.
May 13, 2023
Understanding The Landscape Of Car Accidents
As our Palm Bay, FL car accident lawyer experiences first hand, Palm Beach is an idyllic and picturesque seaside community in the Sunshine State. It is known for its palm-lined streets, exquisite mansions, and pristine beaches. But beneath its beautiful veneer, Palm Beach also grapples with a less appealing reality – car accidents. Tuttle Larsen, P.A. will share that these unfortunate events disrupt lives, cause significant injuries, and in some cases, claim lives.
Palm Beach Car Accident Statistics
Florida, in general, is a hotspot for car accidents, and Palm Beach County is no exception. In 2022, Palm Beach County recorded a staggering number of 15,000+ car accidents, reflecting an upward trend compared to previous years. The increase is due, in part, to the area’s rapid growth and the concomitant rise in the number of drivers on the road.
Contributing Accident Factors
Several factors contribute to the high incidence of car accidents in Palm Beach, including:
Poor Weather Conditions
One of the primary factors is the infamous Florida weather. Florida’s frequent severe and unpredictable rainstorms create hazardous driving conditions. Reduced visibility and slippery roads often lead to accidents.
Impaired Driving
In addition to weather conditions, human factors are crucial in Palm Beach’s car accident statistics. Despite increased awareness and stringent laws, impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs remains a significant problem. Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reported that almost 30% of all fatalities in Palm Beach County were due to impaired driving in the past year.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is another major cause. With the proliferation of smartphones and digital devices, drivers often engage in texting, talking, or even web surfing while driving. Given the immense risk of a momentary distraction turning into a catastrophic event, it’s a worrying trend.
Road Infrastructure
The Palm Beach road infrastructure is also a contributing factor. Some parts of the county suffer from inadequate road maintenance, especially around the rapidly developing outskirts. Moreover, the high volume of tourist traffic, often unfamiliar with the local roadways, exacerbates the issue.
Taking Preventative Action
The local authorities have recognized these challenges and are addressing them. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office regularly runs awareness campaigns on the dangers of impaired and distracted driving. They also collaborate with the Florida Department of Transportation to improve road infrastructure and signage to enhance driver safety.
These steps have had some impact. There has been a notable decrease in DUI-related accidents in the past year. Also, initiatives like the ‘Hands-Free Florida Law,’ which prohibits handheld use of mobile devices while driving, are gaining traction.
Nevertheless, there is still a long way to go. For the residents of Palm Beach, understanding the reasons behind these accidents and making conscious efforts towards safer driving is the key to change. Furthermore, the local government needs to continually innovate and introduce more stringent policies that address this issue from multiple angles.
Facing an Accident?
If you are unfortunately involved in a car accident, remember that seeking medical attention should be your top priority, even if you think you’re not seriously hurt. Subtle injuries can manifest later and potentially cause long-term issues. After ensuring everyone’s safety, reporting the accident to law enforcement and documenting the event for insurance purposes is crucial.
Car accidents in Palm Beach, as in other parts of the country, are a harsh reality we must confront. However, through comprehensive awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement of driving laws, and proactive changes in individual driving habits, we can make the scenic drives in Palm Beach safer for everyone.
May 12, 2023
Unveiling the Tactics Hospitals and Insurance Companies Use to Avoid Compensation for Medical Malpractice Victims
Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Medical malpractice can cause many issues for you or your loved ones. When medical negligence occurs, victims have the right to seek compensation for their injuries and losses. However, hospitals and their insurance companies may employ various tactics to avoid paying victims or to minimize their payouts. It’s essential to be aware of these tactics and understand your rights as a victim of medical malpractice. Here are five common tactics that hospitals and insurance companies may use to avoid compensation:
Denial of Liability
One of the tactics hospitals and insurance companies may use is to deny liability for the medical malpractice. They may argue that the medical care provided was within the standard of care or that the harm suffered by the victim was not a direct result of the medical negligence. They can also claim a person’s injuries were due to a preexisting condition. This denial of liability can be intimidating and may deter victims from pursuing their claim. However, it’s important to remember that denial of liability does not necessarily mean that the claim is invalid. A skilled medical malpractice lawyer can investigate the facts, gather evidence, and challenge the denial of liability to seek justice for the victim.
Delay Tactics
Hospitals and insurance companies may also use delay tactics to prolong the process and discourage victims from pursuing their claim. A common example can include taking a long time to answer your calls. They may also delay scheduling depositions or hearings, or request repeated documentation or evidence. These delay tactics can be frustrating and exhausting for victims, and may even cause financial strain. However, it’s important for victims to persist and seek legal assistance to overcome these delays and ensure that their claim progresses in a timely manner.
Lowball Settlement Offers
Another tactic hospitals and insurance companies may use is to offer lowball settlement offers to victims. They may try to settle the claim for an amount that is significantly lower than the actual value of the injuries and losses suffered by the victim. Such offers can even sound promising, especially when dealing with financial burdens. However, it’s crucial for victims to be cautious and not accept such offers without consulting a medical malpractice lawyer. An experienced lawyer can assess the true value of the claim, negotiate with the insurance company, and fight for fair and just compensation on behalf of the victim.
Blaming the Victim
Hospitals and insurance companies may also resort to blaming the victim in an attempt to avoid compensation. They may argue that the victim’s own actions or medical history contributed to the harm suffered, or that the victim did not follow prescribed treatment plans or instructions. This tactic is aimed at shifting the blame away from the medical professionals and onto the victim, in an effort to minimize or deny compensation. Victims should be aware that even if they have made mistakes or have pre-existing conditions, it does not absolve the medical professionals from their duty to provide proper care. A medical malpractice lawyer can help should you or a loved one suffer from victim blaming.
Litigation and Appeals
In some cases, hospitals and insurance companies may choose to litigate the claim and appeal court decisions to prolong the process and discourage victims from pursuing their claim. This can be a complex and lengthy process, and victims may feel overwhelmed and discouraged. However, victims should not give up on their legal rights. An experienced medical malpractice lawyer can help you navigate the legal process.
Hospitals and insurance companies may employ various tactics to avoid paying victims of medical malpractice. Our friends at Ward & Ward Law Firm recommend working with a medical malpractice lawyer.
April 13, 2023
What You Should Know About Personal Injury
Experiencing a personal injury can be a challenging and overwhelming situation, which is why it’s often in your best interest to hire a Vero Beach, FL personal injury lawyer that you can rely on. With a dedicated lawyer, you can make your financial and legal decisions surrounding your personal injury with confidence. While a great lawyer, such as a lawyer at Tuttle Larsen, P.A., will make sure you understand each part of the process, it is important for you to self-educate and learn the key facts about the aftermath of a personal injury. Here are five crucial facts you should know.
Seeking Medical Attention is Vital
Following a personal injury, seeking immediate medical attention is paramount. Even if your injury seems minor, certain injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately and could worsen over time. Additionally, seeking medical care creates a record of your injury and its severity, which can be crucial for your personal injury claim. Prompt medical attention ensures proper diagnosis, treatment, and documentation of your injuries, strengthening your case and prioritizing your well-being.
Time Limitations Exist
Each jurisdiction has specific time limitations, known as statutes of limitations, within which you must file a personal injury claim. It is crucial to be aware of these time limitations as they vary depending on the type of injury, the jurisdiction, and other factors. Failing to file within the designated time frame may result in the loss of your right to seek compensation. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer soon after the accident can help determine the applicable statute of limitations and ensure that you take prompt action to protect your legal rights.
Insurance Companies May Not Have Your Best Interests:
When dealing with personal injury claims, it is important to remember that insurance companies are profit-driven entities. While their adjusters may seem friendly and helpful, their primary goal is to minimize the amount of compensation they have to pay. Insurance companies may attempt to undervalue your claim, delay the settlement process, or deny your claim altogether. Having an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side can help level the playing field, as they understand the tactics used by insurance companies and will advocate for your best interests.
Documenting Evidence is Essential
Gathering and preserving evidence is crucial to building a strong personal injury claim. Documenting the accident scene, taking photographs, collecting witness statements, and obtaining copies of medical records are all important steps to support your case. It is advisable to gather evidence as soon as possible after the incident while details are fresh in your mind and physical evidence is readily available. Your personal injury lawyer can guide you on the types of evidence needed and help ensure that nothing is overlooked or lost.
Financial Compensation May Extend Beyond Medical Expenses
One important fact about personal injury cases is that financial compensation may extend beyond medical expenses. While medical bills are a significant component, you may also be entitled to compensation for lost wages, future medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other damages. Understanding the full range of potential compensation is crucial in accurately valuing your claim and negotiating a fair settlement. An experienced personal injury lawyer will assess the impact of the injury on various aspects of your life and work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve.
April 13, 2023
Fatal Crash From Pickup Truck In Melbourne, FL
On May 9th on Wickham Road in Melbourne, FL, a woman was fatally struck by a pickup truck when she was crossing the road. It is a terrible tragedy to think about the fact that family and loved ones lost someone dear to them on this day. While the investigation is ongoing, an event like this is one of many reminders of how severe and life-changing car accidents can be. Most people in life will face a car accident because of just how common they are. But we still underestimate the fragility of our lives and just how hard it can actually be to recover from a terrible life event. Because the legal process can be so taxing on top of the emotional burdens you’re already facing, it’s usually in your best interest to hire an experienced Melbourne, FL car accident lawyer. You shouldn’t have to go through something like this in life alone. Navigating your case as a victim is incredibly stressful and overwhelming. You don’t know what small details actually matter and it’s hard to know which evidence and eye witnesses will be the most useful. A great lawyer, like a lawyer at Tuttle Larsen, P.A., wil work closely with you to make sure you are receiving the best care possible.
A car accident lawyer brings specialized legal guidance to your case. They possess a comprehensive understanding of personal injury law and are well-versed in the intricacies of car accident cases, including liability, negligence, and insurance laws. Their knowledge allows them to navigate the legal process, inform you of your rights, and assist you in making informed decisions.
Your rights and interests are safeguarded with a car accident lawyer by your side. Insurance companies often employ tactics to minimize payouts, leaving victims at a disadvantage. By acting as your advocate, a lawyer ensures that your rights are protected and fights for fair compensation on your behalf. They handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies, preventing you from being taken advantage of and maximizing your chances of a favorable settlement.
Car accident lawyers have the skills and resources to conduct a thorough investigation of your case. They gather essential evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to build a strong case. This evidence is crucial for proving liability and demonstrating the extent of your damages.Determining the true value of your damages can be challenging without professional assistance. A car accident lawyer accurately evaluates the full extent of your losses, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation needs. They ensure that you pursue fair compensation that adequately covers all present and future expenses.
By hiring a car accident lawyer, you can reduce stress and gain peace of mind. Handling the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially while trying to recover from injuries. Your lawyer takes care of all the paperwork, deadlines, and negotiations, allowing you to focus on your physical and emotional well-being. Don’t navigate this strenuous journey on your own. You deserve to focus on your normal day-to-day routine as soon as possible after a crash.
April 13, 2023
Fatal Crash On Florida’s Turnpike In Fort Pierce
On May 1st, there was a terrible fatal car crash on Florida’s Turnpike that night. It is assumed the four-vehicle crash was initiated when the first vehicle had a tire malfunction, causing it to swerve onto the grass median. Once on the grass median, the vehicle collided with the guardrail and then went airborne. As the vehicle entered the southbound land, it hit the second vehicle and then the third vehicle just after. Unfortunately, the driver of the third vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene.
The other victims were taken safely to the hospital with minor injuries. It is an insane tragedy to imagine that friends and family unexpectedly lost a loved one this day simply due to a tire malfunction. Extreme life events such as this one constantly remind us that each day is precious and that we need to be mindful of our surroundings. When you are the victim of a car accident, it is likely in your best interest to hire a Fort Pierce, FL car accident lawyer, such as a lawyer at Tuttle Larsen, P.A., in order to take the legal and financial burdens off of your shoulders. You are already facing so much emotional and physical damage and you shouldn’t have to navigate the aftermath alone.
Hiring an experienced car accident lawyer is essential when dealing with a vehicular collision. The complexities surrounding car accident cases, including insurance claims, liability determination, and potential legal disputes, require the guidance of a professional who understands the intricacies of personal injury law. They possess in-depth knowledge of the legal system and personal injury laws and are also well-versed in the relevant statutes, regulations, and legal precedents, allowing them to navigate through the complexities of your case effectively. Their knowledge ensures that your rights are protected, and they can provide sound legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
Furthermore, an experienced lawyer has a thorough understanding of insurance policies and practices. They can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, property damage, medical expenses, and lost wages. Insurance companies often employ tactics to minimize payouts, but a skilled attorney can counter these strategies and fight for your best interests.
Moreover, an experienced car accident lawyer possesses valuable investigative skills. They can gather evidence, interview witnesses, review accident reports, and consult with accident reconstruction experts if necessary. This comprehensive approach helps build a strong case on your behalf, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Seasoned car accident lawyer are skilled in negotiation and litigation, where they can engage in settlement discussions with the opposing party or their insurance representatives, striving for a fair and just resolution. If a settlement cannot be reached, they can adeptly represent you in court, presenting your case persuasively and advocating for the compensation you deserve. When you have a lawyer in your corner, you can put your mind at ease and focus on moving forward with your life. You want to be able to regain your self-identity and confidence after a tragic incident. A dedicated lawyer will provide you just that.
April 13, 2023
Truck Hauling Oil Overturns On I-95 In Palm Bay
On March 1st, 2023, a truck hauling oil unfortunately crashed on I-95 just after 5 a.m. While the cause of the crash isn’t publicly known, it’s important to note there was a dense fog on the interstate at this hour. Fortunately there were no fatalities in this particular accident and only a minimal amount of the truck’s oil was spilled. Ultimately the truck driver was transported to the hospital with minimal injuries. This is an example of a car accident that could have had much more severe results, and thankfully there was a fast recovery for the driver. It’s so easy to think that major life events like one cannot happen to us.
Anyone who has been in any severe car accident would unanimously agree there is no way they could have expected this was going to happen to them that day. That said, if you are a victim of a car accident, it is a shocking, overwhelming, and stressful process to handle and navigate. Even when you are able to become medically stable, you must then face the hurdles of emotionally understanding what has happened to you. During your rehabilitation after an accident, you deserve to put your full mental strength toward getting back into your day-to-day routine.
Because there are so many steps to handle throughout the legal procedure of a car accident, it may be in your best interest to hire an experienced Palm Bay, FL car accident lawyer that you can rely on. A reliable lawyer, such as a lawyer at Tuttle Larsen, P.A., will not only assist you in learning all of your legal options in front of you, but also actively and tirelessly fight for your rights in the aftermath. When you are working with the insurance company of the at-fault party, they simply do not have your best interests at hand. In other words, an insurance company will likely attempt to provide you the lowest form of compensation possible. If you don’t have skilled legal experience overseeing the negotiation, you may not even realize that you are being under-compensated.
As a victim, you should have the maximized compensation that will fully cover expenses such as medical bills, leave of absence from your employment, emotional damage, and much more. Another benefit of having a qualified lawyer in your corner is that you can have the confidence that the evidence and eye witnesses available will be closely examined. When you’re filing a car accident case, you don’t want to miss any small details that may actually play a big role in your compensation. It’s also important to work with a lawyer who has a track record of success with car accident cases – you should know that each accident is different from the next, but a good lawyer will be able to apply their previous experience to your case.
Overall, a dedicated lawyer will put your mind to rest for many different reasons. You shouldn’t have to deal with any unnecessary burdens especially after you have already been through a traumatizing event.
March 30, 2023
Accidents And Injuries On St. Patrick’s Day
Motor Vehicle Accidents
St. Patrick’s Day may be the day to wear green, but it’s also one of the biggest days for drunk driving accidents. If you’re involved in an accident with an intoxicated driver, you may be wondering what your rights for compensation are, as well as what you should do to preserve evidence.
Drunk driving accidents are often severe and the aftermath is time-consuming, so be prepared that it may take months to resolve your case. In addition to knowing this, there are several important steps you should take in the months following a drunk driving accident that we’ll discuss below.
Keep reading to find out what to do if you’re injured in a drunk driving accident this St. Patrick’s Day according to a personal injury lawyer from our friends at SL Chapman Trial Lawyers.
Steps to Take Following a Drunk Driving Accident
The steps you’ll take following a drunk driving accident aren’t that much different than the ones you’d take after any type of motor vehicle accident. Here’s a breakdown of the steps to take after a DUI accident:
Call 911
After checking on your passengers, call law enforcement to the scene. There are two reasons for doing this.
First and foremost, law enforcement can help clear the roadways and keep you and your passengers safe. Unfortunately, some motor vehicle accidents will force vehicles to the middle of the road, so cops can keep the area free from additional hazards.
Second, they will bring paramedics with them, who can tend to any injuries. Even if you feel fine, it’s recommended that you get checked out medically. Oftentimes, car accident injuries don’t present themselves right away, so seeking prompt medical care is key to keeping yourself in good shape.
The other reason why calling law enforcement to the scene is beneficial is because they will generate an accident report. This accident report will have critical information your personal injury lawyer needs, such as contact information of both drivers, the date and time of the accident, as well as witness statements, and the location of where it happened.
Oftentimes, insurance companies won’t approve a claim without an accident report, so getting one is one of the most critical steps to take after a drunk driving accident.
Take Photographs
Though it’s against the law for drunk drivers to flee the scene of an accident they caused, it doesn’t mean they won’t leave or attempt to leave. If you can, try to snap a photo of the drunk driver’s license plate or at the very least, the make and model of their vehicle so police can track them down, if necessary.
In addition to this, take photos of your vehicle, any injuries or bruises you have, nearby road signs, the layout of the road and/or intersection where the accident took place, and weather conditions.
All of these can help an accident reconstructionist determine how your DUI accident occurred. Usually, these accident reconstructionists are used as expert witnesses should your personal injury case go to trial.
Notify Your Insurance Carrier
Following the accident, you should contact your insurance carrier to notify them of what happened. The timeframe in which you have to do this varies on the insurance carrier, but you should be able to obtain this information from your policy.
When reporting a drunk driving accident, just stick to the facts. Don’t offer up your own interpretation of what you believe happened, as the insurance carrier can use this as justification for underpaying your claim. Remember, insurance companies are not on your side. Instead, they are only focused on their bottom line.
Cooperate With the Prosecution
Earlier, we mentioned that there may be additional steps involved in a drunk driving accident when compared to other types of motor vehicle crashes. This is one of them.
Since drunk driving is against the law, the individual who hit you will likely have to go to court to face additional charges related to the accident. While you don’t need to attend the drunk driver’s legal hearings, it’s recommended that, if applicable, you work with the prosecution to offer up any relevant information they can use in their case against them.
The moments after a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming. However, this guide can give you some insight into what steps you should take after a drunk driving accident if you’re injured in one, whether on St. Patrick’s Day or not.
March 30, 2023
Common Questions About Personal Injury
Personal Injury Lawyer
A Vero Beach, FL personal injury lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in helping people who have been injured in accidents or incidents caused by someone else’s negligence. When someone is injured due to the negligence of another party, they may be entitled to compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Hiring a personal injury lawyer, such as a lawyer at Tuttle Larsen, P.A., can be a smart choice for those seeking justice and fair compensation, but many people have questions about what to expect from a personal injury lawyer. In this article, we will explore some of the most common questions people have about personal injury lawyers.
What does a personal injury lawyer do?
A personal injury lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in representing individuals who have been injured in accidents caused by someone else’s negligence. They work to ensure that their clients receive fair compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident. Personal injury lawyers handle a variety of cases, including car accidents, slip and fall accidents, medical malpractice, and more.
Do I need a personal injury lawyer?
If you have been injured in an accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. While you can pursue a claim on your own, hiring a personal injury lawyer can significantly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation. Personal injury lawyers are trained to navigate the legal system and negotiate with insurance companies to get their clients the compensation they deserve.
How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they only get paid if their client receives compensation. Typically, the lawyer will take a percentage of the compensation as their fee. This percentage can vary, but it is typically around 33% of the total compensation. It is important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer before hiring them.
How long does it take to resolve a personal injury case?
The length of time it takes to resolve a personal injury case can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and the cooperation of the other party. In some cases, a settlement can be reached quickly, while in other cases, it may take several months or even years to reach a resolution. Your personal injury lawyer can provide you with an estimate of how long your case is likely to take.
What kind of compensation can I receive in a personal injury case?
The compensation you can receive in a personal injury case can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. Generally, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident. Your personal injury lawyer can help you determine what kind of compensation you may be entitled to.
Will I have to go to court?
Not all personal injury cases go to court. In fact, many cases are settled outside of court through negotiation and mediation. However, if a settlement cannot be reached, it may be necessary to take the case to court. Your personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and advise you on the best course of action.
March 30, 2023
Driver Flees Into Swamp After Car Wreck
Car Accident Lawyer
A car accident in Florida led to a peculiar situation in which a driver went to extreme measures to elude the scene of a car crash. Responding deputies state that a driver had attempted to hide in a swamp close by. The accident happened in the evening, around 8:30 p.m. (ET) near the city of Mulberry on April 10, 2023. Just south of Lakeland, a Nissan Sentra crossed the centerline on Highway 640 and struck a semi-truck. Polk County Sheriff Office deputies responded to the area and learned that the Sentra driver had panicked and tried to hide in a swap about a mile away. Zachary Brooks, 23 year old resident of Mulberry, allegedly fled the scene while removing most of what he was wearing at the time.
The driver ran from the scene without exchanging necessary information with the truck driver, such as first and last name, driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance details. The defendant was described as essentially scampering away while in his undergarments. Brooks was found by search dogs who were brought to the scene. Eventually, he was found hiding one mile away in a swamp. After deputies located him, Brooks was cooperative and complied with the arrest. He was treated for minor injuries. He is being charged with failing to maintain insurance, leaving the scene of an accident with injuries, and knowingly driving a vehicle while his license was revoked or suspended.
In the scenario described here, despite the silly behavior of the offending driver, it is important to realize that by fleeing the scene, it only made matters worse. The driver did not call 911 and left the truck driver unattended, who may have required medical attention for injuries of his own. It is never recommended to elude the scene of a crash, as it can cause an exacerbated situation to unfold and risks the lives of others. A Melbourne, FL car accident lawyer knows the extreme lengths people will go to try and avoid being at fault for a car accident. But the team at Tuttle Larsen, P.A. prioritizes victim’s rights and wellbeing. We understand the impacts that a car accident can have on the body and mind, and victims may be entitled to substantial compensation for what they have endured.
While your situation may not entail someone fleeing the area into a swap, you may have sustained physical injuries and significant property damage due to a reckless driver. If this is the case, then we suggest contacting a law firm that is experienced in handling car accidents. During your consultation, we will ask more details about the incident and how you were negatively affected. From there, you may choose to file an insurance claim and/or sue the driver directly for your losses. But each case is unique, so it will be difficult to know if your situation warrants legal action or not, that is, until you speak with a lawyer. If you have questions or concerns in the aftermath of a serious car wreck, contact us as soon as possible.