Orange City Car Accident Attorneys

Let Our Firm Maximize Your Entitled Compensation

When life takes an unexpected turn on the sunny streets of Orange City, FL, and you find yourself involved in a car accident, you need a dedicated and experienced legal team to help you navigate the complexities of personal injury law. At Politis & Matovina, P.A., our mission is to provide unwavering support to those affected by car accidents, ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve. As your trusted Orange City car accident lawyers, we are committed to representing your interests, fighting for your rights, and achieving the best possible outcomes for you.

To learn more about your legal options, request a free case evaluation from our firm today by calling (386) 333-6613 or completing our online contact form.

What is Considered a Car Accident?

A car accident, also known as a traffic accident or motor vehicle accident, refers to a collision or incident involving one or more vehicles on the road. Car accidents can vary in severity, ranging from minor fender-benders to catastrophic collisions, and they can result in a wide range of consequences, from property damage to injuries or even fatalities.

Here are some of the most common causes of car accidents:

• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents. It occurs when a driver diverts their attention from the road to other activities, such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, adjusting the radio, or using in-car entertainment systems.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver's reaction time and the ability to stop in time to avoid a collision. Speeding is a major factor in many accidents, particularly those resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications, can impair a driver's judgment, coordination, and reaction time, leading to accidents. Impaired driving is illegal and highly dangerous.
• Reckless Driving: Reckless driving includes aggressive behaviors like tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and ignoring traffic laws. It endangers not only the reckless driver but also other road users.
• Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, ice, fog, and strong winds, can make road surfaces slippery and reduce visibility, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Disobeying traffic signals and stop signs can lead to intersection accidents, which are often severe due to the high speeds involved.
• Fatigue: Fatigued or drowsy drivers have reduced alertness and slower reaction times, making them more prone to accidents. Long hours of driving, especially without adequate rest breaks, can contribute to driver fatigue.
• Inexperienced Drivers: Inexperienced or young drivers may lack the skills and judgment needed to navigate complex traffic situations, leading to accidents.
• Poor Road Conditions: Roads in disrepair, potholes, inadequate signage, and poor road design can contribute to accidents. These factors may cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles.
• Mechanical Failures: Vehicle malfunctions, such as brake failures, tire blowouts, or engine problems, can lead to accidents if drivers are unable to control their vehicles.
• Tailgating: Following another vehicle too closely (tailgating) can result in rear-end collisions when the leading vehicle suddenly stops or slows down.
• Aggressive Driving: Aggressive behaviors like road rage, aggressive overtaking, and confrontation with other drivers can escalate into accidents.
• Drowsy Driving: Driving while tired or sleep-deprived can impair a driver's ability to stay alert and make quick decisions.
• Unsafe Lane Changes: Changing lanes without using signals, not checking blind spots, or failing to yield the right of way can lead to accidents, particularly on highways.

Who is Liable for a Car Accident?

Florida's no-fault accident laws are a set of regulations that determine how auto insurance claims are handled in the event of a car accident. Florida is one of several states that have a "no-fault" insurance system in place.

The term "no-fault" means that after a car accident, each party involved in the accident is supposed to seek compensation from their own insurance provider, regardless of who caused the accident. This system is designed to streamline the claims process, reduce legal disputes, and ensure that injured parties receive prompt medical care and financial support.

In Florida, all motor vehicle owners are required to have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage as part of their auto insurance policy. PIP coverage is intended to provide financial protection for policyholders and their immediate family members who are injured in car accidents, regardless of who was at fault. PIP coverage typically includes benefits such as medical expenses, lost wages, and funeral expenses.

PIP benefits are typically available for up to $10,000 in medical expenses and lost wages. These benefits are accessible regardless of who caused the accident. However, there are some limitations and restrictions on PIP benefits in Florida. For instance, PIP typically covers only 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost wages.

Under Florida's no-fault system, individuals who are injured in a car accident can only file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver under certain conditions. Florida law sets a threshold for filing a lawsuit based on the severity of injuries. You can typically sue the at-fault driver for non-economic damages (e.g., pain and suffering) only if you have suffered significant and permanent injuries, disfigurement, or death. This limitation on lawsuits is intended to reduce the number of personal injury lawsuits and promote out-of-court settlements.

Ready to Help You Today

At Politis & Matovina, P.A., we understand that being involved in a car accident can be a frightening experience. You may not know what to do or where to turn for help. You may not have the ability to work and make a living. Our firm can help you obtain the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life.

Contact us today at (386) 333-6613 to schedule a free consultation.