Proving Fault In A Naples Car Accident
With the amount of traffic Interstate 75 and U.S. Route 41 bring to our area, car accidents in Naples occur on an unfortunately frequent basis. Whether traveling on major highways or neighborhood streets, the reckless driving behavior of others could put you at risk.
When you get injured in a car accident, and the other driver is to blame, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. However, you can expect their insurer to try to deny or downplay your claim. Our Naples car accident lawyer explains your rights in this situation and how to prove the other party was at fault.
Gathering Evidence In Naples Car Accident Claims
Florida’s Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reports over 5,000 car accidents in Collier County happen yearly. Many of these are preventable and occur due to the reckless behavior of other drivers involved. Speeding, texting behind the wheel, running red lights, and driving impaired are among the common hazards that put all motorists at risk.
If you are involved in a crash and the other driver is to blame, report it immediately to law enforcement. At the scene and in the days after, gather evidence that can help in supporting your claim, such as:
- A copy of the police accident report;
- Photos or videos from the accident scene documenting vehicle damages and visible injuries;
- Names and contact information for witnesses;
- Medical records and statements from providers detailing your injuries and prognosis for recovery;
- Wage statements showing any lost income you suffered;
- Vehicle repair or replacement estimates.
Contact our Naples car accident lawyer before speaking to insurers or making any statements about the crash. We represent you in dealing with insurance companies and gather the additional evidence needed to file a successful claim.
Your Rights In Filing A Naples Car Accident Claim
Gathering evidence at the scene and in the weeks after helps document your case and increases your chances of getting compensation. Our experienced Naples car accident lawyer can gather additional information to negotiate with insurers, such as surveillance video from the scene and statements from accident reconstruction experts.
However, after investigating how your accident happened, it may turn out that you share a portion of the blame. While insurers can use this to deny a settlement, you still have rights under state laws:
- Florida operates under the legal system of comparative negligence;
- Even if you are partially at fault, you can still seek compensation under the Florida Statutes, provided the other driver is more to blame;
- However, any settlements are reduced by the degree to which you were responsible.
Discuss Your Options With Our Naples Car Accident Lawyer
Proving fault after a car accident in Naples is key in getting the compensation you need to recover. Cardinal Law, P.A. fights to get you the maximum amount you are entitled to, even if you were partially to blame for a crash. To discuss your options, contact our office. Request a consultation today with our Naples car accident lawyer.
Sources:
flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2020.pdf
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.81.html
