When we share the road with other drivers, we expect them to operate their cars with reasonable care to keep everyone safe. If you’ve driven on a street or highway in Miami, you have encountered a careless driver. They are the ones that follow the car in front of them too closely, drive too fast when the weather is bad, or exceed the posted speed limit. In some cases, drivers that are talking on a cellphone, texting, fiddling around with the radio station, or snacking in the car may fall under careless driving. Distractions and negligence can lead to car accidents where people get hurt.
Under Florida Statute §316.1925, drivers are expected to operate their vehicle in a “careful and prudent manner, having regard for the width, grade, curves, corners, traffic, and all other attendant circumstances, so as not to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person.” While a careless driving incident is considered to be a civil offense, the damage that a careless driver can cause can be extensive. They may hit another car, pedestrian, or bicycle resulting in serious injuries to everyone involved. Injuries may include broken bones, deep cuts, neck or back injuries, or trauma to the head.
Expensive medical treatment and procedures may be necessary. Not only are injured victims dealing with emotional and physical pain during their recovery, but they are also hit with high medical bills. The financial stress brought about by a car accident causes may influence an accident victim to settle as quickly as possible, this may not be in their best interest. Injuries may not heal as expected and may require more treatment, physical rehabilitation, and recovery time than originally anticipated. If you settle early, you may lose out on getting the full monetary damages that you need to pay for your bills. Reaching out to a Fort Myers car crash lawyer can help to ensure that you receive the maximum settlement available. Personal injury attorneys can evaluate your case and estimate the damages you may be entitled to. If you were injured by a careless driver and want to learn what legal options are available to you, call the Fort Myers car accident lawyers at Wolfson & Leon. We provide a free consultation and you never pay a fee unless we settle your case. Call us today at 239-777-9954.
Are Careless Drivers and Reckless Drivers the Same?Careless and reckless are terms commonly used to describe a driver’s actions. While both describe a driver who is not operating a vehicle in a responsible fashion, the terms have distinct meanings. A careless driver may not be driving with reasonable care for those around them. These are considered civil citations which may be given if an accident is caused by a driver running a stop sign, rear-ending a parked car, or making a dangerous left-hand turn across oncoming traffic.
On the other hand, a reckless driver is operating their car with a willful disregard for the safety of those around them. Reckless driving is a criminal offense. A driver may be considered reckless if they were drag-racing down the street, travelling at an excessive speed on the highway, or driving dangerously due to a road rage incident.
Wolfson & Leon works with injured car crash victims. They can help to evaluate if the accident was the result of a careless or reckless driver. Our Fort Myers personal injury lawyers handle a variety of car accident scenarios including;
Since 1963, Wolfson & Leon has defended the rights of injured victims. We help our clients to understand the legal options that are available, file a claim on their behalf, and represent their rights when negotiating a settlement. With offices located in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Fort Myers, we represent clients throughout Florida. We are available to assist injured clients in Fort Myers Beach, Lehigh Acres, North Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, Marco Island, Golden Gate, Estero, Bonita Springs, Sanibel, Captiva and Immokalee. If you were injured in a car accident and are struggling to pay your medical bills, contact us today for a free case evaluation. Call Wolfson & Leon today at 239-777-9954.
FAQWhat is the Difference Between a Careless Driver and a Reckless Driver?
Careless driving is a moving violation, whereas reckless driving is a criminal offense. According to Florida law, drivers must operate their vehicles in a “careful and prudent manner” to make sure that those who share the roadways are safe. When a driver fails to do so, they may be negligent if they cause an accident. A driver might be found to be careless if they didn’t check their blind spots or use a turn signal when changing lanes. If the driver operated their car with wanton or willful disregard for others on the road, they are considered reckless. Drag racing, running a red light or operating a vehicle while under the influence are considered reckless acts. If you have been seriously injured by the act of a careless or reckless driver, you should consult a Fort Myers personal injury lawyer to find out what rights you have to monetary damages.
What Should I Do If I Was Injured In A Careless Driving Car Crash In Fort Myers?
When you’ve been hurt in a careless driving car crash, take steps to document the accident. Write down any contact and insurance information of the other driver, as well as any information for any witnesses. Ask for copies of any police reports that were filed. Take as many pictures of the accident scene as you can. Even if your injuries don’t appear to be serious, you should still seek medical attention as soon as possible. To protect your interests, you should speak with a car accident injury attorney. There may be complexities to your case that a personal injury lawyer can guide you through.
How Do I Find A Good Careless Driving Car Accident Lawyer In Fort Myers?
There are plenty of careless driving car accident lawyers around – so how do you find the best one for you? Do your research. Use the internet to learn about the attorney and read client reviews. Look at their experience and background when you’ve narrowed down your search, schedule free consultations with prospective firms to learn more about them. Ask if you’ll be communicating directly with the attorney or with their staff. Find out how they intend to build your case, how long you can expect the process to take, and if the firm has the financial resources to bring in experts if needed. If a settlement can’t be reached with the other driver’s insurance company, will the lawyer defend your rights in court? You should feel confident that the Fort Myers careless driving car crash lawyer you choose is responsive and handles your case with care.