Every driver in Fort Lauderdale has a duty to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly. Unfortunately, not all motorists adhere to this duty. Many people choose to drive aggressively because they feel rushed or become angry after an interaction with another motorist. Aggressive driving tactics include speeding, rapid lane changes, and tailgating other vehicles.
Sometimes, aggressive driving results in devastating motor vehicle accidents. The crashes frequently occur at high speed, which increases the chances of a serious injury. These accidents can cause more than just physical injuries. According to the Mayo Clinic, a severe accident could also result in post-traumatic stress disorder. The cost of addressing these injuries can be steep—both in time and money.
If you have suffered injuries in an accident with an aggressive driver, you could be entitled to financial compensation. You can let a Fort Lauderdale aggressive driving accident lawyer review your case and advise you on your right to recovery. Call Ben Crump Law, PLLC, at (844) 730-0233 to discuss your case for free with a team member.
Aggressive Behavior Behind the Wheel
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) describes aggressive driving as a series of moving violations that endangers other drivers or their property. While aggressive driving typically involves speeding, that will not always be the case. Any sequence of traffic violations that increases the risk of a crash can qualify. Some other common examples of aggressive driving behavior include:
- Tailgating
- Changing lanes without signaling
- Driving on the shoulder
- Chasing other motorists
- Failing to yield to pedestrians
- Running stop signs or red lights
- Failing to yield to emergency vehicles
- Accelerating through a yellow light
- Boxing in another driver to intimidate them
- Stopping short
- Accelerating and decelerating erratically
- Preventing other motorists from merging into traffic
In addition to these traffic violations, aggressive driving often includes various gestures indicating a motorist’s anger or impatience. Examples include honking, yelling, flashing lights, or making obscene gestures. If this behavior pattern occurred before an accident that resulted in your injury, you could have a viable claim for damages against the aggressive driver.
For a free legal consultation with a aggressive driving accidents lawyer serving Fort Lauderdale, call (844) 730-0233
Dealing with an Aggressive Driver
In many cases, an aggressive driver only becomes more erratic following a collision. It is important that you protect yourself and your legal rights in that situation. The steps you take immediately following an accident with an aggressive driver can keep you safe and protect your ability to pursue legal action in the future:
- If you feel threatened, contact law enforcement immediately.
- Inform the other driver that you have called the police if they approach your vehicle.
- Remain in the car with the doors locked until the police arrive.
- Avoid arguing with the aggressive driver or discussing the accident in any way.
- Remain calm until the police arrive.
- Give a statement to the police to record your side of the story.
- Request a copy of the completed accident report to ensure it reflects what happened.
If you intend to pursue an injury claim following an accident with an aggressive driver, remember that you either must exhaust your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits or have suffered significant and permanent injuries, as described in Florida Statutes § 627.737. A Fort Lauderdale aggressive driving accident lawyer can determine your eligibility for filing a personal injury lawsuit. Call Ben Crump Law, PLLC, today to get started with a free case review with a team member.
Fort Lauderdale Aggressive Driving Accident Lawyer Near Me (844) 730-0233
Damages You Could Recover
You could recover an array of financial compensation based on your injuries and other losses. It is impossible to predict the exact award you might receive, but an attorney could provide a thoughtful estimate of your damages. The amount of your recovery will depend on the specific nature of your losses.
Medical Bills
The cost of treating an injury stemming from an accident can become quite expensive. In addition to an ambulance ride and emergency medical care, you could also face expenses for hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation. A successful injury claim could recoup the cost of those treatments.
Pain and Suffering
You could also recover damages based on your physical pain and emotional suffering. These damages are subjective, given that no two individuals experience pain the same way. Typically, these damages will increase in proportion to the cost of your medical treatment.
Lost Wages
If you missed out on a paycheck while recovering from your injuries, you could be entitled to lost wages compensation. What’s more, if you have diminished earning power in the future due to your injuries, you could recover damages for future lost wages.
Property Damage
Not all financial compensation relates to bodily injuries. Collisions with aggressive drivers usually result in property damage as well. You have the right to seek compensation for the cost of repairing or replacing your damaged vehicle.
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Resolving a Claim Against an Aggressive Driver
In general, you have two ways to obtain financial compensation from an aggressive driver: resolving a claim through a negotiated settlement or getting a verdict at trial.
Many injury claims end in a mutual settlement. The insurance company that covers the aggressive driver will often accept liability and negotiate a settlement amount that all sides can agree upon.
While settlements are common, some cases will go to trial. This result might happen when the at-fault driver lacks insurance or simply refuses to accept liability. A successful trial result will lead to a monetary judgment in your favor.
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You May Be Entitled to Compensation Following an Aggressive Driving Accident
The aftermath of an accident with an aggressive driver can be confusing and frustrating. These accidents can feel avoidable, which only adds to the stress of a long and costly recovery.
If you sustained injuries due to an aggressive driver, a Fort Lauderdale aggressive driving accident lawyer could protect your legal rights should you incur hefty financial damages. By considering a personal injury claim, you could put yourself in a position to recover financial compensation. Call Ben Crump Law, PLLC, at (844) 730-0233 today to speak with a team member.
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