Your Attorney Today, Tomorrow, & For Life
Orlando Car Accident Attorney
Fighting for Clients Who've Been Injured in Naples, Fort Myers, Winter Haven & Davenport Auto Accidents
Accidents can happen, but sometimes they could have been avoided if drivers exercised appropriate responsibility on the road. If you or someone you love has been the victim of another driver’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation. Our Orlando car accident lawyer can help you work toward the settlement you need and deserve.
As seasoned professionals in car accident cases, we understand the complexities involved in these situations. Our team at Law Office of Modoline Altenor is equipped with the skills and resources to investigate each aspect of your accident thoroughly, making sure that all factors contributing to the incident are uncovered. We aim to build a strong foundation for your claim to pursue the just compensation you are entitled to.
The Law Office of Modoline Altenor serves people throughout Naples, Fort Myers, Winter Haven, and Davenport. Call (407) 378-1606 or reach out online today for a free consultation. Our Orlando car accident attorney can meet virtually for your convenience.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Orlando
Understanding the common causes of car accidents is essential in establishing liability and pursuing a successful claim.
Some of the most common causes may include:
- Distracted Driving: In an era dominated by smartphones, distractions on the road are rampant. Whether it’s texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car entertainment systems, distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents.
- Speeding: Exceeding speed limits not only increases the likelihood of accidents but also escalates the severity of injuries sustained in a collision.
- Reckless Driving: Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating, sudden lane changes, and disregarding traffic signals significantly contribute to accidents.
- Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses a severe risk to everyone on the road. Impaired drivers often lack the judgment and coordination needed to navigate safely.
- Weather Conditions: Unfavorable weather conditions, like heavy rain or fog, can make roads hazardous. Drivers must adjust their behavior to accommodate these challenges.
Common Injuries in Car Accidents
Some common injuries in car accidents may include:
- Whiplash: A sudden, forceful motion of the neck, commonly experienced in rear-end collisions.
- Broken Bones: The impact of a car collision can lead to fractures, affecting various parts of the body.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head injuries can have long-lasting consequences, and TBIs are a serious concern in high-impact accidents.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord may result in paralysis or other debilitating conditions.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Bruises, sprains, and strains are common soft tissue injuries that may not be immediately apparent but can cause lasting discomfort.
The physical and emotional toll these injuries can impose is significant, often requiring long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation. Understanding the severity and impact of these injuries plays a crucial role in determining the compensation needed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and lifestyle changes. We work closely with medical professionals to document injuries and substantiate your claim effectively.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Orlando
Taking the necessary steps immediately after an accident matters for your personal health, and it is often crucial to the success of subsequent legal proceedings with a car accident attorney in Orlando.
Presuming you are physically able, these are the appropriate steps to take after a car accident:
- Ensure Your Safety: Move your vehicle away from traffic to a safe area and activate your hazard lights. Check yourself and others involved for injuries. If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately.
- Contact the Authorities: The police will create an official accident report. This report is likely to be respected by a court as an unbiased source of evidence in future legal proceedings.
- Gather Information: Exchange contact and insurance details with other drivers. Get photos or videos of the accident scene. We may be able to use this evidence in building your case.
- Identify Witnesses: If there are witnesses present, collect their names and contact information. Their statements may support your case if necessary. Our office can follow up with them.
- Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries are not readily apparent. A doctor’s report in the immediate aftermath of the crash may prove vital for getting a settlement.
- Inform Your Insurance Company: Cooperate with any investigation, but be aware that their interests are not the same as yours. We can help protect your rights.
- Maintain Records: Keep a file of medical records, repair estimates, insurance correspondence, and any other related paperwork. This may be valuable in reaching an appropriate settlement figure.
Following these steps will not only protect your well-being but also bolster your case's strength. Timely and accurate documentation and communication are vital. It's advisable to consult with an attorney promptly to align your next steps with a legal strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.
Orlando Traffic Laws & Their Impact on Your Case
Understanding local traffic laws is crucial when pursuing a claim involving a car accident. Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance that covers medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident. However, you may step outside the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the at-fault driver if the injuries are severe enough.
In Orlando, specific local regulations also apply, such as speed limits, right-of-way rules, and restrictions related to texting while driving. Failure to adhere to these laws not only contributes to the likelihood of an accident but impacts liability determinations. Our understanding of these laws allows us to craft compelling arguments demonstrating other drivers' negligence and breach of duty, strengthening your position and aiding fair compensation.
Hear From Our Clients
WE FIGHT FOR YOUR COMPENSATION LIKE IT'S OUR MONEY ON THE LINE
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Modoline is by far the best lawyer.
Modoline is by far the best lawyer. I was in a car accident and she was with me every step of the way. She handled my case ...
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They made my well-being a priority and offered realistic outcomes for my case.
I was in a car accident that left me confused and in pain. I had no idea what to do next, all I knew was I needed help. ...
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Modoline Altenor is the BEST! She is very focused, detail-oriented, and follows through.
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They are the best! She helped with everything and more.
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Evidence to Collect in a Car Accident Case
To win a car accident lawsuit, it will be essential to prove that the other driver breached their duty of care. This means showing that not only was the other driver the cause of the accident but that they operated their vehicle in a way a reasonable person would not have.
Several types of evidence can be instrumental in proving a breach of duty:
- Violation of Traffic Laws: Speeding, running a red light, and other violations are all strong evidence of a breach of duty.
- Eyewitness Testimony: Statements from witnesses help establish whether the defendant's behavior deviated from what a reasonable person would have done in similar circumstances.
- Expert Analysis: Accident reconstruction experts can analyze physical evidence, vehicle damage, skid marks, and other factors to help determine what really happened to cause the accident.
- Surveillance Footage: If available, video footage from surveillance cameras can provide a clear depiction of the accident and potentially reveal any breach of duty by the defendant.
- Maintenance & Vehicle Records: Records indicating inadequate maintenance or mechanical failure can be used to prove negligence in vehicle upkeep, thus supporting the claim of a breach of duty.
- Admissions or Statements: Any admissions made by the defendant after the accident can be used as evidence. This is why it’s imperative to avoid saying anything committal after an accident. A simple “I’m sorry” might be construed as fault. On the flip side, even saying “I’m okay” could come back to haunt an injured plaintiff.
Every case is different. That means the most helpful and available evidence will also be different in each case. Get our Orlando car accident lawyer involved, so we can work with you in evidence-gathering and presentation.
What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Car Accident Claim?
Victims of car accidents may be entitled to various damages, and our legal team is committed to securing the compensation you deserve.
Potentially recoverable damages include:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for all past and future medical bills that are related to the accident, including hospitalization, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost because of missed work during recovery, as well as possible future earnings if the accident results in long-term disability.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairing or replacing your vehicle and any other damaged property.
- Pain & Suffering: Non-economic damages to compensate for the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Wrongful Death Damages: In instances of fatal accidents, surviving family members could pursue damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and more.
Navigating the process of claiming these damages requires knowledge of both legal and medical fields to accurately quantify your losses. Our team works closely with economic and medical experts to have every aspect of your suffering is accounted for and aggressively pursued.
FAQ About Car Accidents in Orlando
What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Orlando?
In the immediate aftermath of a car accident, ensuring your safety and the safety of others is paramount. Move away from traffic, call emergency services if necessary, and gather information by taking photos and exchanging contact details with involved parties. Contact local authorities to file an official report, which serves as crucial evidence later on. Seeking medical attention promptly is advisable, even if injuries seem minor, as not all may be immediately apparent.
How Is Fault Determined in an Orlando Car Accident?
In Orlando, determining fault involves analyzing various factors such as traffic law violations, eyewitness accounts, and the police report. Florida's modified comparative negligence laws allow for shared liability, which means you may still recover damages even if you are partially at fault. The extent of your fault will influence the compensation you receive.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident?
Avoiding certain pitfalls can protect your rights and strengthen your claim. Refrain from admitting fault or making speculative statements about the accident. Avoid settling with insurance companies hastily, as initial offers may undervalue your claim. Ensure all communication is documented, and seek legal advice to guide you through negotiations and potential litigation. Preserving evidence like medical records and witness information is crucial for supporting your case.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims in Florida?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, the timeline may vary for claims involving government entities or wrongful death. Missing this deadline can forfeit your right to claim compensation, making it essential to consult an attorney as soon as possible.
Can I Handle a Car Accident Claim Without an Attorney?
While it's possible to handle a claim independently, navigating the complexities of insurance negotiations and legal requirements can be overwhelming. An attorney offers invaluable support, works to guard your rights, has evidence compiled meticulously, and negotiates on your behalf. Legal representation can enhance the likelihood of securing a comprehensive settlement.
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyer in Orlando Today
The aftermath of an accident can leave people in a very vulnerable position. A defendant’s insurance company may try to capitalize on that vulnerability with a settlement offer lower than what you deserve. The Law Office of Modoline Altenor is dedicated to protecting your interests, negotiating a fair settlement, and going to court if that’s what it takes to get what you need.
No one should have to face the daunting landscape of legal battles and insurance negotiations alone, especially when recovering from an injury. With our team by your side, you have the support and advocacy needed to focus on healing while we handle the complex legal processes involved in securing your rightful compensation.
Contact the Law Office of Modoline Altenor today to get started with our Orlando car accident lawyer.
Many of our clients reach us at one of the hardest moments of their lives. If you have suffered a serious injury or lost someone close to you in an accident, you need more than a lawyer who will fill out the necessary paperwork.
A caring and attentive attorney can not only make the process easier, but also make a difference in the results you get. We are willing to take every action available to give you the legal representation you deserve during a difficult time.
