South Florida Injury Attorneys Blog
Every driver’s worst nightmare is the sudden encounter of a wild animal on the road. From deer darting across highways to alligators basking near waterways, car accidents caused by wildlife can be terrifying and result in serious injuries or even fatalities.
If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation in Florida, it’s crucial to understand your options for compensation. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of car accidents caused by wildlife and explore how victims can seek justice for their damages. So buckle up and let’s navigate through the complexities together!
Explanation of car accidents caused by wildlife
Car accidents caused by wildlife can be unexpected and frightening experiences for drivers. While we often associate car crashes with human error or mechanical failures, encounters with animals on the road present their own set of challenges. From deer darting across highways to bears meandering onto rural roads, these incidents can lead to serious damage and injuries.
One frequent culprit is the white-tailed deer. Known for their agility and tendency to cross roads at dusk or dawn, deer can suddenly appear on roadways, leading to dangerous situations for motorists. Another frequent encounter involves feral hogs, which can weigh hundreds of pounds and cause significant damage upon impact.
Smaller animals such as raccoons, opossums, and squirrels also contribute to car accidents. While they may not pose as much physical danger as larger mammals like deer or hogs, hitting these smaller creatures can still result in vehicle damage or loss of control.
Factors contributing to wildlife-related car accidents
When it comes to wildlife-related car accidents in Florida, several factors can contribute to these unfortunate incidents. Understanding these factors is crucial for both drivers and authorities to implement effective preventive measures.
One significant factor is the time of day. Many wildlife species are more active during dawn and dusk, which coincides with peak traffic hours. This increased activity puts them at higher risk of crossing roads and colliding with vehicles.
Another contributing factor is the location of the accident-prone areas. Certain regions in Florida have a higher population density of specific wildlife species, such as deer or alligators, increasing the likelihood of collisions. Additionally, proximity to natural habitats like forests or wetlands also increases the chances of encountering wildlife on the roads.
Comparative Negligence Laws
Comparative negligence laws play a crucial role in determining liability and compensation for car accidents caused by wildlife in Florida. These laws take into account the actions and responsibilities of both the driver and the wildlife involved in the accident.
In cases where comparative negligence is applicable, fault may be allocated to both parties involved. This means that even if a driver hits a wild animal on the road, they could still be held partially responsible for not taking proper precautions or driving at an excessive speed.
The percentage of fault assigned to each party can directly impact the amount of compensation that victims are entitled to receive. For example, if it is determined that a driver was 20% at fault for not slowing down when approaching an area known for wildlife crossings, their compensation may be reduced by 20%.
Seeking Compensation for Damages
When it comes to seeking compensation for damages after a car accident caused by wildlife in Florida, there are various options available. Car accident victims may be entitled to recover monetary damages for their injuries, property damage, and other losses.
One option is to pursue an insurance claim with your own insurance company. In Florida, drivers are required to carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage which can help cover medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault in the accident. Additionally, if you have collision or comprehensive coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, it may provide compensation for vehicle repairs or replacement.
Another option is to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the party responsible for the wildlife-related car accident. This could include the owner of the property where the accident occurred if they failed to properly maintain fences or warning signs that could have prevented wildlife from entering the roadway.
Types of Damages Available to Car Accident Victims
Car accidents caused by wildlife can result in significant damages for the victims involved. When it comes to seeking compensation, car accident victims have various types of damages that they may be entitled to.
There are economic damages which refer to the financial losses incurred as a result of the accident. This includes medical expenses such as hospital bills, doctor visits, medication costs, and rehabilitation fees. It also covers property damage to the vehicle and any personal belongings that were damaged or destroyed in the collision.
Non-economic damages are awarded for intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and mental anguish. These damages seek to compensate individuals for their physical and emotional hardships endured due to the accident.
Steps to Take After a Wildlife-Related Car Accident
Ensuring safety at the accident scene is crucial after a wildlife-related car accident. First and foremost, it’s important to move your vehicle off the road if possible, in order to prevent further accidents or traffic congestion. However, be cautious of any injured animals and do not attempt to approach them.
Contact law enforcement as soon as possible and report the incident. They will assist with documenting the accident and may also dispatch an animal control officer if necessary. It’s essential to gather as much information about the incident as you can, including photos or videos of the scene, damage to your vehicle, and any visible injuries.
Seeking medical attention is vital after any car accident, including those involving wildlife collisions. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries may not manifest until later on. A medical professional can evaluate your condition thoroughly and provide documentation that will be useful for insurance claims or potential legal action.
Prevention and Mitigation Strategies
When it comes to wildlife-related car accidents, prevention is key. By taking a few simple precautions, you can greatly reduce the risk of encountering these potentially dangerous situations.
One important strategy is to always be alert while driving, especially in areas known for wildlife activity. Keep an eye out for signs indicating animal crossings and adjust your speed accordingly. Remember that animals are most active during dawn and dusk, so exercise extra caution during these times.
Another effective prevention method is to use your high beams at night when driving through rural or wooded areas. This can help you spot animals on the road from a greater distance and give you more time to react safely.
Reach Out To an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer Serving Coral Springs
If you’ve been involved in a car accident caused by wildlife in Florida, it’s important to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation. The damages resulting from these accidents can be devastating both physically and financially. That’s why it’s crucial to reach out to an experienced car accident lawyer serving Coral Springs who can guide you through the legal process.
At Frankl Kominsky Injury Lawyers, we believe that every accident victim deserves justice. Our team of skilled attorneys is here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve. With years of experience handling car accident claims in Florida, we have the knowledge and expertise needed to build a strong case on your behalf.
So don’t hesitate – contact Frankl Kominsky Injury Lawyers today at (561) 800-8000 or visit our website at fklegal.com to schedule your free consultation with one of our knowledgeable car accident lawyers serving Coral Springs. We are here for you every step of the way!