Can Insurance Companies Use Private Investigators to Deny Claims?
Even though car insurance companies exist to cover the cost of vehicle repairs and any injuries, that coverage also comes with certain requirements. When a drunk driver hits you, you need to document the accident and report it through the proper channels. If you’re lucky, the other driver will admit fault and file a claim.
However, their insurance company may look for any reason to reject a claim and avoid paying out. One way they do this is by hiring private investigators to look into the other party and their situation.
How legal is it for an insurance company to use a private investigator? And what would that investigator look for?
Can an Insurance Company Use a Private Investigator?
Car insurance companies will often use various strategies in order to avoid paying certain claims, especially when they’re higher in value. One of the ways they go about finding a reason to deny a claim is by hiring private investigators.
Technically speaking, there’s nothing illegal about hiring a private investigator. Any person can go to an associated agency and hire one for any of their purposes, such as looking into a distrustful spouse or finding dirt on a business partner. The same rules apply to an insurance company.
Insurers will claim that their use of an investigator is solely to prevent fraud. In reality, they’re also looking for something to weaken or challenge a victim’s case.
On the one hand, hiring an investigator feels like they’re overstepping some kind of professional boundary. However, investigators are limited in what they can legally do.
What Private Investigators Look For
A private investigator isn’t going to necessarily analyze every single aspect of your life. After all, there are some boundaries they cannot cross without breaking the law. In the case of a vehicle insurance claim, they want to find anything that could put you at fault or invalidate your claim.
Some of the red flags they want to find include a history of filing claims, no police report, and delayed reporting.
A history of filing claims shows that you may know how to take advantage of the system in your favor. No police report may prove that there was no accident or that it wasn’t serious enough to warrant any kind of police involvement. The same goes for delayed reporting.
In addition, a private investigator will look for anything that discredits you as a person. That may be a history of alcoholism, mental illness, or anything else that paints you in a negative light. They’ll, of course, also see if your vehicle’s damage matches the claim.
What a Private Investigator Can and Can’t Do
Movies and television shows often mislead people into thinking that private investigators operate under different rules than everyone else. It’s not uncommon to see them breaking into apartments or hacking into someone’s electronic devices. However, all of that is illegal activity and fictional behavior.
Private investigators are bound to the same laws as any other ordinary citizen. They are not officers of the law, nor are they given any kind of special privileges in their line of work.
A private investigator cannot make arrests. They are not allowed to spy on people in the privacy of their homes or trespass on their property. At no point can they hack into a private account or illegally gain access to someone else’s devices or information.
What an investigator can do is watch people in public and take photos of them as part of their investigation. Depending on the state, they can record audio conversations with or without the other party’s consent.
While they can’t hack into your private accounts, they are free to monitor and watch your public online activity, such as your social media accounts.
How to Protect Your Claim
There are some ways to protect your claim before and after it’s filed. Even wearing a seatbelt can make a huge difference, as it may show negligence on your part.
One way to protect yourself is by using a dashboard camera. At the very least, it can show that you’re not at fault in an accident, even if it doesn’t prove the other person is completely responsible.
To protect yourself after an accident, make sure to follow all the proper procedures. File a police report, follow your doctor’s orders, and be cautious on social media.
A police report shows accountability. If your doctor orders you to limit physical activity, going against those orders can make it seem like you weren’t as injured as you initially claimed.
You also don’t want to post anything on social media that could be used against you. For example, a friend may post photos of you at a party shortly after suffering a devastating accident. This could be used against you by the insurance company.
What to Do if an Insurance Company Denied a Claim
There’s always the chance that the insurance company’s private investigators find something that they use to deny your claim. However, you still have options available if it comes to that.
First of all, try to get the basis for the claim denial in writing. If they don’t provide a letter, then ask for one. Based on their reasoning, you may be able to provide additional evidence.
Next, you can file an appeal through your car insurance company.
If all else fails, you can contact a car accident lawyer. These lawyers are experienced in this field and can help you fight this decision or otherwise get compensation from the opposing party.
Defend Against Private Investigators
You may run into all kinds of trouble when an insurance company hires private investigators. They can get access to information that may convince the company to reject a claim. Whether or not the information was acquired legally is also up for debate.
In either case, RHINO Lawyers can help you after a car accident. Our clients work directly with an attorney and only pay after we win your case. Contact us to set up a free video consultation and to tell us more about your situation.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.RHINO.77.
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What Should You Do if Hit While Driving Someone Else’s Car?
What should you do if you borrow someone else’s car and get into an accident? Whose insurance is responsible for damages or injuries?
Knowing the steps to take if you’re ever in this situation is essential. That’s why we’ve put together a list of what you need to do if borrowing someone else’s car turns into an accident.
You don’t want to be caught off guard in this type of situation, so make sure you read our guide on what to do if you get hit while driving someone else’s car. It could save you a lot of time and hassle down the road.
If you’re in an accident while driving someone else’s car, there are a few key things you’ll need to do to protect yourself and the vehicle owner. Here’s what to expect and what to do:
What to Do if You Wreck While Driving Someone Else’s Car
If you’ve ever been in an accident, the protocol is the same. However, driving someone else’s car does add an extra layer of complexity to the situation.
Stay Calm
You first need to pull over to a safe spot, turn off the car, and check to see if everyone is okay. Then take time to assess the damage to the vehicle.
Call the Police
Florida requires you to call the police if there are injuries or property damage. They will create a car accident report, and you will need to get a copy. Cooperate with the police investigation but don’t admit fault.
Exchange Information With the Other Driver
You should also exchange insurance information with the other driver. In most cases, the car owner will have insurance that will cover you in the event of an accident.
Take Photos of the Crash Scene and Any Damages
If you have a camera phone, take pictures of the damages to both cars and any skid marks or debris from the accident. These photos can be helpful when filing an insurance claim.
Notify the Car Owner
Now is the time to call the car’s owner and tell them what happened. They will likely need to file an insurance claim, so having all the information on hand will be helpful.
Notify Your Own Insurance Company
If you have your own insurance, you will need to notify them of the accident. They may or may not cover you, depending on your policy.
Contact an Attorney
If you were injured in the accident or think you may be at fault, it’s a good idea to get in touch with an experienced car accident lawyer. They’ll help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you get compensation.
Florida Insurance Laws
Florida has statutes that make it a no-fault insurance state. That means each driver’s insurance pays for their own damages and injuries, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. So even if the accident was your fault, the other driver’s insurance should cover their damages.
PIP Coverage
All drivers in Florida are required to have a personal injury protection (PIP) policy. This type of insurance will cover your medical bills and some of your lost wages, no matter who is at fault for the accident.
What That Means For You
So if you are in a collision while borrowing your grandma’s car, her insurance should cover you. Your PIP policy will kick in if she doesn’t have insurance. However, you may be on the hook for any damages and injuries if you don’t have a PIP policy.
Here’s Where It Gets Complicated
So as far as insurance is concerned, driving someone else’s car is pretty simple.
But what if the accident was your fault, and somebody got hurt?
Even though Florida is a no-fault insurance state, you can still get sued for damages if the other driver thinks you were at fault for the accident. And if they have injuries that exceed their PIP coverage, they may come after you for compensation.
The other party may file a personal injury suit against you for the following reasons:
- Fatality
- Loss of limbs
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Permanent disability
- Significant or permanent injuries
That means that even if you weren’t driving your own car, you could still be on the hook for a lot of money if somebody gets hurt in an accident that was your fault.
So what can you do to protect yourself?
The best way to protect yourself is to have good car insurance. That way, if you do get sued, your insurance company will help you out. But once you find yourself in this situation, you’ll need a good car insurance lawyer.
How a Lawyer Will Help With a Car Accident Case
A lawyer can help you determine if you’re actually at fault for the accident. They can also deal with insurance companies to get the best settlement possible. If you do end up getting sued, a lawyer will be able to help you defend yourself in court.
Personal Injury
Suppose the accident was your fault and somebody gets hurt. In that case, a lawyer can help you navigate the personal injury claims process. And if you get sued for damages, a lawyer can help you defend yourself in court.
Insurance Negotiation
Sometimes there’s a bit of back and forth between insurance companies. If the accident wasn’t your fault, but the other driver’s insurance company is giving you a hard time, call a lawyer. They can help you negotiate with them.
Car Accident Lawyers in Florida
So if you’re driving someone else’s car, having good PIP insurance is a good idea. And if you’re in an accident, don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer. They can help you figure out what to do next and protect your rights.
Your car accident case is in good hands with RHINO Lawyers! We can help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been in an accident while driving someone else’s car, contact RHINO Lawyers for help.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.RHINO.77.
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What Happens if You Don’t Accept an Insurance Settlement Offer?
Being injured is bad enough on its own, but what’s even worse is when it’s someone else’s fault and you end up with huge medical bills and a measly settlement offer that won’t cover them.
A trip to the hospital can cost thousands of dollars. Your emergency room visit alone may run up a bill as high as $11,000—and that’s without accounting for other expenses like ambulance rides or surgery.
It’s frustrating when an insurance company offers you a settlement for your medical bills that don’t come close to paying what your treatments cost. Luckily, you don’t have to accept their offer, and you might even get them to suggest something better. Read on to learn more about your options for settling with an insurance company.
How to Reject a Settlement Offer?
You can reject a settlement offer by simply turning it down. If you’re represented by an attorney, you can advise them to decline for you.
If you’re not represented by an attorney, then there’s nothing stopping you from rejecting the offer yourself. But if this is your first time dealing with insurance companies, it’s a good idea to consult with a reliable lawyer who can help you decide whether the terms of the deal are fair.
Keep in mind that once you reject a settlement offer, it’s final. You can’t change your mind later on and decide to accept it. If the insurance company wants to make a new offer, they’ll have to do so from scratch.
How Long Do You Have Before a Settlement Offer Expires?
The insurance company will give you a deadline by which they expect you to accept or reject their settlement offer. This date is usually somewhere between 30 and 60 days after their investigation. If you haven’t decided within this time frame, the company will revoke the offer.
It’s not unusual for companies to leave off deadlines and hope for a timely response. In this instance, the company can withdraw the offer at its will.
Is There a Benefit to Rejecting a Settlement Offer?
Rejecting a settlement offer from an insurance company has some benefits. While there are no guarantees that you will get better terms than the ones they have presented you with, it’s possible that you can negotiate for more money. If the insurance company thinks your case is strong, they may give in and offer higher pay.
Can You Get a Second Settlement Offer if You Reject the First One?
You absolutely can get another personal injury settlement offer if you reject the first one, but it depends on the strength of your case.
If you’ve rejected an offer from the insurance company and they are willing to negotiate further, they will probably come back with another number that is closer to what you were hoping for. However, companies may not always be willing to change their initial offer. If this happens, you can still work toward getting as much money as possible out of them in court through litigation.
What to Do After You Reject a Settlement Offer
If you think the insurance company might change its mind and offer more than the amount they submitted before, it’s worth waiting to see if they do so. Otherwise, bring in a lawyer and go back into negotiations with them to see if they can come up with a better deal or convince them to accept one of your ideas.
If that doesn’t work out either, then it’s probably time for another legal move: suing them. Here are some things to keep in mind if you choose this route:
Document All Communication
The more documentation you have of the communication between you and the insurance company, the better. If they offer a settlement amount and then change their mind, for example, you’ll want to have records of why. This should be enough evidence to help your case or at least raise questions about how accurately they investigated your claim.
Remember to respond to the insurance company politely. This will help when it comes time for court proceedings because it shows that you were acting in good faith and genuinely trying to reach a solution.
Confirm That You Followed the Correct Reporting Procedure
Filing a claim with an insurance company is always tricky—you need to understand the exact reporting procedure or you risk a lowball settlement offer. But following the rules can do more for your claim than you think.
You can also use it as evidence that you did everything by the book. The insurance company may not offer what you deserve, but you can show that you took all possible steps to receive the right compensation for yourself and your family.
Find an Experienced Attorney
You can represent yourself in court, but personal injury cases can be difficult to navigate on your own. With the right attorney by your side, all the legal details are taken care of for you.
They’ll provide you with the best possible chance of winning your case. During your suit, they’ll make sure that all the evidence is in place, that the right people are called to testify, and that you get fair payment for your injuries.
However, not all attorneys are equal, so find a firm with several years of experience and personable lawyers who will take the time to help you through every step.
Get the Settlement You Deserve With Our Help
If the insurance company is offering you a smaller settlement offer than you deserve, don’t agree to it. A personal injury lawyer can help you get the settlement that fits your case and your injuries.
Call an attorney from RHINO Lawyers to learn more about what they can do for your case and how they will fight for your rights. Our goal is to get you fair and just compensation for what happened. We will ensure that no one takes advantage of your situation.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.RHINO.77.
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Mistakes People Make When Speaking With Doctors After a Crash
Did you know that three million people are injured in car accidents every year in the United States? Or that around two million drivers sustain permanent injuries?
What comes after a car accident may be confusing and outright scary. It’s easy to accidentally make a mistake when speaking with your doctors. Finding the right things to say and do could be hard in a situation like that.
If you’ve been in a car accident and are looking to avoid mistakes, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll tell you everything you need to know so that you can speak with medical professionals without slipping up.
Common Car Accident Injuries
When you’ve been in a car accident, you’ve experienced injuries that you might not realize right away due to the adrenaline in your system. Be aware of these injuries so you can get proper car accident treatment.
The most common injury after a car accident is whiplash. This is caused by your neck moving back and forth when the car impacts. You may experience pain, stiffness in the muscles, and difficulty moving your neck.
Another common injury is a concussion. These are caused by some type of force to the head. Concussions vary in severity, but common symptoms you might notice are headaches, confusion, and trouble focusing.
Also common in car accidents are back injuries. These can be hard to detect or seem mild at first. However, if left untreated, a back injury could progress until you gradually become paralyzed.
For these reasons, you should never assume that you’re alright after being in a car accident. Adrenaline or failure to notice these injuries can lead to complications that are easily preventable through examination.
Why You Need Immediate Medical Care
After a car accident, paramedics will usually show up with the police. It’s important to answer all of their questions and let them examine you. As said earlier, an examination can prevent hidden injuries from hurting you worse.
The quicker an injury is diagnosed, the quicker it can be treated. Immediate medical care can protect you from long-term or permanent injuries as a result of a car accident. It will also save you a lot of pain and suffering as a result.
However, there are more reasons than physical health to receive immediate medical care.
For example, if you’re pursuing charges, you may be asked to have a compulsory medical exam. These are typically requested when the severity of your injuries or their cause is in doubt. Having an immediate medical exam on file can protect you.
You may still need to take a compulsory medical exam, as they are different from independent exams. However, building up a history will help to show that the cause of your injuries and their severity should not be doubted.
Lastly, immediate medical care can prevent you from becoming traumatized. Having a space to talk about your emotional and physical pain can prevent you from developing PTSD or other mental health problems.
Dealing With Doctors After a Car Accident
Knowing what to do when it comes to your doctors is one of the easiest ways to prevent mistakes after a car accident.
One of the biggest mistakes you can make, besides not going to a doctor at all, is to go to the wrong doctor. After a car accident, you should always be seen in the emergency room.
If necessary, you should also be seen by doctors who specialize in car accident treatment. This will help you to ensure that your recovery goes as smoothly as it can.
Next, make sure you attend follow-up appointments. These help your doctor see how you’re healing, as well as see if any other medical problems have developed. If they have, they can be treated.
Pay attention to what the doctor says and keep detailed records if needed. This will help both with your recovery and a potential car accident claim. Keep a filing system to make this easier to manage.
Next, always be honest about your medical history. This includes medications, previous health issues, current symptoms, and anything else that you can think of. Making sure your doctor is aware of your medical history could save your life.
Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
Once you’ve received immediate medical treatment, it’s time to take the next step: filing a car accident claim. When doing this, you should also hire a car accident lawyer.
Car accident treatment is expensive, as are the medical appointments and everything else that comes after a car accident. You should not have to bear the brunt of this alone.
Hiring a car accident attorney will help you to build your case. They can find proof that you were not at fault, as well as proof that you suffered and need compensation. Plus, your attorney can defend you in court if proceedings escalate that far.
They can also help you go over the fine print in any insurance paperwork that you might have to sign.
Schedule a Consultation
Now that you’ve heard what to do when it comes to interacting with doctors after a car accident, you’re ready to hire a car accident lawyer. This is a necessary move because it helps you for reasons outlined earlier in the article.
If you’re looking for a car accident lawyer right now, then look no further. We offer free consultations on cases, and we work to defend your rights. Even better, we only charge if we win your case, so you don’t need to stress over finances.
Schedule a consultation with us today to see what your options might be!
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.RHINO.77.
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Will My Insurance Cover Physical Therapy After a Car Accident in Tampa?
Are you wondering how to afford treatment for your car accident injuries?
If you’ve been in a car accident in Tampa, you need to seek out medical treatment as soon as possible. If you don’t, you run the risk of suffering from long-term injuries and experiencing complications.
For many people who get injured in car accidents, physical therapy becomes an essential part of their treatment. Physical therapists guide patients through a series of motions designed to strengthen injured body parts and help the person regain movement.
But many people worry about affording their treatments. If you’ve been in an accident, you might not know who’s responsible for paying for your treatments.
Below, we’ll get into whether insurance will pay for your physical therapy. Keep reading so you can save money!
Will the Other Driver’s Insurance Pay?
When you get into a car accident in Tampa, you might be able to get the other driver’s auto insurance to pay for your physical therapy.
To do this, you’ll need to exchange insurance information with the other driver. Take pictures of their insurance card and let them do the same to yours. Then, give the insurance company a call. Let them know you’ve been in an accident with one of their drivers and would like to file a claim.
You should call the insurance company as soon as possible. Doing so will kickstart the process of getting your claim processed. The insurance company may ask you to take photos of the damage to both vehicles. These pictures will help them in their investigation of the incident.
During the investigation, they will try to determine who’s at fault. If they find their customer caused the accident, you will be entitled to have your bills and damage paid for. They may also determine that their customer was partially responsible for the incident, in which case you would get some settlement payment as well.
Will Your Insurance Pay?
If you’re at fault for the accident, you might not get money from the other person’s insurance company. Fortunately, though, your auto insurance company may pay to cover your injuries.
As long as you continue to pay your premiums, you’ll have access to insurance that will help you out if you get into a car accident. Most insurance plans cover auto repairs and will pay for accident-related healthcare.
If you’re unsure of what your insurance policy will pay for, call the customer service number on your card. There, you’ll have the opportunity to speak to a customer representative and ask if your insurance covers your injuries.
What if your treatment exceeds that covered by your car insurance? Take a look at your health insurance coverage. Your plan’s benefits may cover physical therapy for disaster-related incidents. However, every insurance plan is different. Your health insurance may limit how much they’re willing to pay for treatment.
No-Fault Insurance
Fortunately, in Florida, every car owner needs to purchase a no-fault insurance policy that covers at least up to $10,000 in damages. “No-fault” refers to the fact that it doesn’t matter whether the other person was at fault or not. All injured parties will get compensated up to a specific amount.
However, not everyone in Tampa has no-fault insurance. Often, drivers who don’t have insurance don’t purchase it because they can’t afford it. So, you must make sure your insurance policy is no-fault. That way, you’ll get covered even if you’re at fault for the accident.
How to Get More Out of Your Car Accident Claims
Sometimes, auto insurance coverage won’t cover all of your physical therapy charges. Instead, insurance companies often try to pay as little as they can. As a result, you might not get as much money out of your car accident claims.
That’s where hiring a personal injury attorney can come in. Personal injury lawyers who focus on car accidents will help you secure a better settlement by filing a lawsuit on your behalf. They will also gather evidence and listen to accounts from firsthand witnesses to establish your case.
Most car accident lawsuits settle outside of court. People often get thousands, sometimes millions, more than they would have if they didn’t pursue a lawsuit.
Even if your case does go to court, though, your lawyer will present the evidence and argue your case to the best of their ability. Then, the judge will hand down a verdict, and if you win, you’ll walk away with compensation for your injuries.
So, it’s important to find the right lawyer to represent you. The best attorney will have lots of experience navigating the car accident claim process and negotiating with insurance companies. They’ll also have great reviews from former clients and lots of respect in the field.
In a Car Accident in Tampa?
If you’ve been in a car accident in Tampa, you must call an attorney as soon as possible. That way, you can get the process started and get your money quicker.
Looking for an excellent legal team? That’s where we come in. We make it our mission to form a personal partnership with every single one of our clients. Our lawyers will fight on your behalf and be there for you every step of the way.
Want to learn more about what we can do for you? Schedule a free consultation!
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.RHINO.77.
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Lakeland Florida Car Accident Statistics
Few things make Florida residents feel as helpless as scary car accidents.
In Lakeland, drivers encounter careless and reckless drivers on busy routes like Interstate 4 and along Memorial Boulevard on every trip. A distracted driver’s lack of focus can end up causing frightening crashes and leave you or a family member recovering from a major injury.
In order to track the frequency of dangerous car accidents in Polk County, RHINO Lawyers of Lakeland studied accident statistics from the past five years. It’s the best way to determine if safety on Lakeland roads is improving or if more effort is needed to keep motorists safer.
Florida Traffic Accident Statistics for 2021 and 2022
Florida’s Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) tracks car accidents across the state each year. As of the first week of October 2022, they’ve documented over 287,000 traffic accidents on Florida roads. Those accidents are blamed for over 182,000 injuries and a tragic 2,521 deaths
That compares with 2021 numbers when 401,501 traffic collisions were recorded in Florida in total. Those accidents were responsible for injuring almost 300,000 victims and led to the tragic deaths of 3,733 people.
Lakeland Car Accident Statistics for 2022
Lakeland doesn’t have quite the reputation for crazy traffic that places like Orlando or Tampa have, but Polk County still sees thousands of preventable car crashes every year. Unfortunately, a lot of reckless drivers travel between both cities and across Polk County. Drivers and passengers are hurt and local families suffer the consequences.
So far in 2022, the FLHSMV has tracked 9,613 motor vehicle crashes across Polk County. That’s according to numbers collected through October 6th of 2022.
This is a look at how Lakeland accident numbers have surged over the past five years:
There’s a way to go before this year’s numbers reach the elevated levels of 2021. In 2021, over 13,000 accidents were recorded on Lakeland and Polk County roads. That figure was at least a thousand accidents more than any of the three previous years.
Sadly, 2022 crash statistics still have time to match or surpass 2021 figures. Generally, over the past couple of years, October, November, and December have proved to be the months that see the most accidents out of all 12 months.
Lakeland Fatal Car Accidents in 2022
The surge in car accidents in 2021 was followed by a surge in fatal incidents as well. 2021 collisions in Lakeland were blamed for 181 heartbreaking deaths and over 9,000 injuries. That was well over 2020’s figures that documented almost 7,500 injuries and 134 deaths.
Over a five-year span, Polk County accidents remained steady until a sudden and tragic rise occurred in 2021:
Lakeland Car DUI Accidents in 2022
Polk County drivers might cause accidents when they stare at a cell phone instead of the road. They may also travel too fast for conditions and end up losing control. These mistakes in the lanes are regrettable, but even good drivers can make bad choices.
It’s harder to forgive the local drivers who decide to get out on the roads after taking drugs or consuming alcohol. Every other motorist on the highway has their safety put in jeopardy by the presence of an impaired driver.
Unfortunately, cases of drunk drivers causing accidents don’t seem to be a hazard that will be going away anytime soon. Crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers rose dramatically in 2021.
WTSP-TV out of Tampa reported that Florida ranked 10th out of all states for the worst drivers in America. That ranking considered factors like DUI arrests, deadly accidents, and hit-and-run dangers. The research showed that Florida recorded 9.4 fatal crashes involving a drunk driver per 100,000 drivers. Georgia had the same report card with 9.4 fatal crashes, while Louisiana reported 12.2 alcohol-related fatal crashes per 100,000 drivers.
For cautious Lakeland drivers, it’s important to note an uptick in alcohol-related deaths on Lakeland roads in both 2020 and 2021.
Lakeland Hit-And-Run Accident Numbers in 2022
The WTSP report also reveals that about a fourth of all Florida drivers are uninsured. Unfortunately, that leaves Florida as the number one state in the U.S. for uninsured motorists. When drivers travel to Florida without car insurance, they can be tempted to flee the scene of any accident that they cause.
Unfortunately, that leads to an increase in hit-and-run accidents as drivers seek to avoid the consequences of their actions. In 2021, Florida’s Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles recorded over 109,000 accidents involving hit-and-run drivers across the state. Those accidents left almost 25,000 people injured and caused just over 300 fatalities.
In Polk County, 2021 hit-and-run accident numbers topped the 3,000 mark. So far, 2022 numbers are inching toward that dangerous level.
Hit-and-run drivers often exit the scene without reporting an accident, leaving injured victims waiting longer for medical care. That extra time can be the thin line between a hit-and-run victim surviving an accident or becoming a tragic fatality statistic.
Lakeland’s deadly hit-and-run accident cases took a leap in 2020 and that frightening trend continued in 2021.
Seeking Support After a Lakeland Car Accident Injury
We can hope that 2022 ends with a safer stretch for Polk County drivers. It would be nice if 2022 accident statistics fell well short of where they’ve been heading over the past few years.
Unfortunately, accidents on local roads will be a way of life for many years to come. There’s always a chance you or a loved one will be the next victim. If you or a family member are hurt in a Lakeland traffic accident, it’s critical to your future that you understand the benefits and support that are available.
You can talk over your options in a free, no-obligation consultation with a real Lakeland Car Accident Attorney at RHINO Lawyers. It’s a chance to get every question you have answered and to find out what your case may be worth.
CONTACT A Lakeland AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.RHINO.77.
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Should You Finish Treatment Before Receiving an Injury Settlement?
InjuryFacts.nsc.org reports that in 2020, 55.4 million people sought medical attention for nonfatal preventable injuries. These injuries come from several sectors, from medical malpractice to car accidents.
Medical attention can cost several thousand dollars in medical expenses. That’s why insurance laws allow you to sue the person who caused your injury. You’ll receive an injury settlement at the end of this trial.
However, many people wonder whether they should pursue their injury settlement before they finish their medical treatment. But there are several factors that could make this a dangerous decision.
So, when should you accept an injury settlement? We’ll explore that question in this guide!
Should You Accept an Injury Settlement Before You Finish Your Treatment?
The short answer to this is no. Accepting an injury settlement too soon can leave you with unexpected medical expenses to pay out of pocket. Waiting to complete your treatment enables you to know your final medical treatment bills.
Unfortunately, there’s often a great deal of pressure to accept a settlement prematurely. The other party’s insurance provider often tries to pressure you to accept this settlement early. They push for this because they understand it can save them substantial money in the long run.
It’s also tempting to accept this money because of short-term issues. After all, it seems helpful to take any sum when medical bills continue piling up.
However, this is an incomplete solution. The best thing you can do is contact a personal injury lawyer. These lawyers can help you navigate this process by directly dealing with the insurance company.
These lawyers can also help you determine how much your injury settlement should be. This knowledge can help you hold out until you receive the best deal.
What About Long-Term Treatment for Personal Injuries?
Unfortunately, many personal injuries can have life-altering consequences. For example, your case could require years of treatment and physical rehabilitation.
Some types of injuries require this scale of treatment more than others. Some of these include:
- spinal injuries
- head injuries
- joint damage
Others may require longer timeframes to make a full recovery. For example, a broken leg takes longer to heal than a sprained ankle.
The costs associated with these injuries could easily reach tens of thousands of dollars. In a worst-case scenario, they could climb to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Once again, nobody could blame you if you accepted a settlement too soon in this condition. Many people do so because they believe it’s better to have some money to help them than none at all.
However, we urge you to remain patient during this process. Remember, long-term treatments can last for years. Each additional year accumulates new costs.
Instead of putting a band-aid on this financial injury, wait until you can heal the wound. Receive your injury settlement at the end of this process. This way, you know exactly how much your medical bills cost and what to fight for in your settlement.
When to Start Medical Treatment
Ideally, you’ve already begun receiving the medical treatment you require. If not, find a doctor to treat your injuries immediately.
It’s always best to begin treatment immediately after receiving your injury. Even minor injuries can cause more extensive damage than people realize.
Treating injuries soon prevents them from worsening. This decision doesn’t just affect your health, either; it can also impact your injury settlement.
If you fail to receive the medical treatment you need, you may discover the injury is worse than you knew. This scenario could have devastating consequences on your personal injury case.
So, start your case right by pursuing the treatment your injury requires. Remember to follow your doctor’s advice as closely as possible, too.
Following this guidance could make or break your injury settlement. Otherwise, the insurance company could claim you don’t deserve your desired sum because of reckless behavior regarding your health.
What Is Maximum Medical Improvement?
Doctors define maximum medical improvement as the point in your recovery when you can’t reach further improvement. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always mean you’ve achieved a full recovery.
Instead, this means you can’t get any better, regardless of the treatments you receive. In many cases, this could be because you made a full recovery. However, other situations have less optimal outcomes.
For example, imagine you received a traumatic brain injury. You’ve finally regained your motor skills and the ability to perform everyday tasks after extensive treatment. However, in spite of this, you still experience trouble with your memory.
In these cases, you may not be where you were before your injury. However, you’ve reached maximum medical improvement.
Why does this matter? Reaching this stage means you’ve completed your medical treatment. As a result, you’ll know how much your medical bills cost.
Accepting a settlement before reaching this stage allows your injuries to worsen afterward. You’ll require more treatment to deal with the complications. Unfortunately, the totals are final; you can’t go back once you’ve accepted an offer.
So, wait until you’ve reached this critical stage and completed your treatment. This patience can help you make the best decisions for your finances.
Find the Best Personal Injury Lawyer to Get the Maximum Injury Settlement
As you can see, it’s best to wait until the end of your medical treatment before accepting an injury settlement. However, this knowledge alone won’t eliminate the pressure to agree to premature settlement offers.
So, how can you guarantee you get the best settlement and get the insurance company off your back? The best solution is to hire personal injury lawyers.
Personal injury lawyers can solve several problems for you. First, they become your representatives when you hire them.
As such, they’ll deal directly with your opponent’s insurance provider. They’ll also keep you posted on events to keep you up-to-date on the proceedings.
Our team offers all of these benefits and more! Schedule a consultation with us today to learn more about your case.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.RHINO.77.
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Can Reaching Maximum Medical Improvement Affect Your Injury Claim?
Every year, people in America sustain more than 122 million accidental injuries. Even minor injuries can have a big impact on your life. You may have to take time off work for your recovery or pay a hefty medical bill.
Fortunately, if someone is responsible for your injuries, you can get compensation by making a personal injury claim. However, your lawyer may recommend waiting to reach maximum medical improvement before you make your claim.
So what does this mean, and how does it affect your personal injury lawsuit? Read on to find out everything you need to know about reaching maximum medical improvement before you make an injury claim.
What Does Maximum Medical Improvement Mean?
Reaching the stage of maximum medical improvement (or MMI) means that you have made as full a recovery as possible. However, what this means for each individual depends on the severity of your injuries.
For example, MMI can mean that:
- You have returned to the same level of health that you had before your accident
- Your injuries will not improve anymore with further medical treatment, and your health is not what it was before your accident
- You will still require ongoing treatment for your injuries in the future for a stable recovery
For example, severe spinal injuries can result in permanent paraplegia or quadriplegia. In that case, the damage is irreversible, so you will reach MMI when you become stable. Your long-term health will be very different from what it was before your accident.
Who Can Decide That You Have Reached Maximum Medical Improvement?
Your doctor will determine when you have reached maximum medical improvement. They will base this on their observations, examinations, and diagnostic tests.
When they do this, they will also outline any ongoing treatment that you might need to manage chronic conditions caused by your accident. This can include monitoring you to prevent future complications from your injuries. You may also receive a disability status from your doctor.
So how does this affect different types of personal injury cases? Let’s take a closer look.
What Affects Your Personal Injury Claim?
There are several factors that you should consider when making a personal injury claim. These include:
- The severity of your injuries
- The impact that they have had on you practically, financially, and emotionally
- How long it takes you to reach MMI
- The long-term consequences of your injuries
Some of these factors will be evident shortly after your accident. However, you generally have to wait until you have reached MMI to understand the full impact that your injuries will have on you in the future.
Once you have reached this point, you can determine how it will affect your claim.
Waiting For MMI Will Help You Determine How Much to Claim For
Reaching MMI helps you understand the full impact of your injuries, and this is crucial if you want to get a fair settlement. For example, this helps you understand:
- The cost of the treatments you need to reach maximum medical improvement
- The cost of any ongoing care that you will require
- How your injuries are going to impact your ability to work in the future and your financial security
- How your injuries might impact your emotional well-being and relationships
Settlements offered before you reach MMI could be way under the value that you are owed. So it is worth holding off to get a fair payout.
MMI and Workers’ Compensation Claims
If you have been injured at work, you could make a claim using your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. In this case, several things happen when you reach maximum medical improvement.
Most employers will offer you two options: ongoing benefits or a final lump sum payout.
Your MMI will determine how much you need to receive in ongoing benefits (if this is the type of compensation that you choose). For example, your disability rating might entitle you to additional benefits.
If you plan on accepting a lump sum payout, it is important to speak to an experienced lawyer before doing this. Most employers will expect you to sign a release before you receive the payout. This releases them from any future liability surrounding your medical treatment and injuries.
If you have not reached MMI by the time that you sign this, you could miss out on valuable compensation. You may also end up having to pay for your ongoing medical expenses yourself. So it is always worth talking your options through with a lawyer before accepting an injury claim settlement.
MMI and the Statute of Limitations
Recovering from serious injuries can take a long time. However, it is very important to be aware of how long you have to make a personal injury claim.
According to the statute of limitations, you have three years to start legal proceedings from the date of your accident. So the clock starts ticking the minute you sustain your injuries. If you miss this deadline, you will struggle to make a claim at all.
Because of this, it is a good idea to seek legal advice even if you haven’t reached MMI yet.
While you are receiving treatment, your lawyer will help put together a strong case for your injuries. They can then adjust this based on your condition when you do reach maximum medical improvement.
This ensures that you won’t miss your deadline for filing a claim and miss out on compensation altogether.
Get Support With Your Personal Injury Lawsuit Today
As you can see, waiting to reach maximum medical improvement after an injury can help you calculate a fair settlement.
This gives you a clear picture of the long-term impact of your accident. So you can make an informed decision when agreeing on a settlement.
Hiring an attorney will help you decide how to proceed with your claim and whether or not you should wait to reach maximum medical improvement. Schedule a free video consultation with RHINO Lawyers today to find out more about our legal services. We’re happy to help!
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.RHINO.77.
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What Is the Sudden Medical Emergency Defense?
Did you know that third-party liability for personal injury claims is often about timing and circumstance? Most personal injury cases hinge on whether the defendant was negligent at a particular moment. If there is no negligence found, then there is no liability.
This does not mean that you can not get sued. It does mean if you have a solid defense, your case will not go much further than the initial stages.
A sudden medical emergency defense may make it possible to have an entire defense to a claim of personal injury. But, the circumstances must meet specific factors that remain consistent for the defense to be effective.
Have you found yourself in one of these unfortunate circumstances? Read on to learn more about the sudden emergency defense and how it could impact your case.
What Is a Sudden Medical Emergency Defense?
A sudden medical emergency defense is a defense used in a personal injury case where a medical condition arises, causing an auto accident. A sudden medical emergency could absolve a driver of responsibility for an accident if a sudden medical emergency is to blame.
Personal injury law believes if someone caused an accident by their negligence, that person should be accountable for the costs resulting from the accident. A person experiencing a medical event did not intend to injure another person. So, the sudden medical emergency defense may release them from blame.
What Is Foreseeability?
Foreseeability evaluates if the responsible party could have expected that their action or inaction would result in harm to another person. If the accident did not stem from an act of negligence, the individual is not to blame for the injuries suffered by another person. If a medical emergency causes a car collision, the at-fault party must prove the following:
- the driver lost consciousness
- they lost control of the vehicle as a result of loss of consciousness
- the loss of consciousness was a result of an unexpected medical incident
They must also prove that the onset of the medical emergency prevented the driver from taking any preventative measures. It was an unexpected event that the driver could not prepare for.
What Defines a Sudden Medical Emergency?
A sudden medical emergency is a sudden onset or an exacerbation of symptoms. These symptoms then led to a situation requiring immediate medical treatment. A sudden medical emergency does not include conditions that were already present.
Or symptoms that were being treated before the auto accident. This is important to note. If the medical condition was present before the accident and only treated after the accident. Then you cannot use a sudden medical emergency defense.
When Can You Use the Sudden Medical Emergency Defense?
The sudden medical emergency defense is only valid in specific circumstances. To use this defense, the medical condition that arose must be sudden and unexpected. The event was so severe that it required immediate medical attention.
The medical issue must have presented itself during the accident, and you must not have known about the condition beforehand. You must have acted as reasonably as possible in light of the circumstances.
If you made an error in judgment or failed to act appropriately despite knowing the condition, you cannot use this defense. It’s also important to note that the defense is not valid if the treatment required is not consistent with that of a standard emergency.
What Are the Requirements for a Sudden Medical Emergency Defense?
There are several requirements for sudden medical emergency defense. First, the condition that caused the medical emergency must qualify as an emergency.
This means that it must have required immediate medical attention. The medical condition must have arisen suddenly and unexpectedly.
This means that it must have been sudden in onset and not something that was even foreseen. So, they did not have time to get proper medical attention. Which means they did not have an opportunity to go to a doctor’s office, hospital, or another medical facility for treatment.
Types of Car Accidents Involving the Sudden Emergency Defense
Many auto accident causes stem from a medical emergency. A sudden medical emergency defense could apply in a collision between two or more vehicles. Or between a vehicle and a pedestrian or bicyclist.
But, only if one or more of the drivers or passengers experienced an unexpected or sudden onset of a medical condition. However, if a vehicle occupant experiences symptoms of a medical condition before an accident. As well as, worsening of the condition that was present before the accident. Then they cannot use the sudden medical emergency defense.
But, if the condition is sudden and unexpected during the accident, the occupants of that vehicle might be able to. A collision between a vehicle and a stationary object also falls under the sudden medical emergency defense. In this circumstance, sudden and unexpected medical conditions with any people involved in the accident could qualify for the defense.
How Hiring a Lawyer Can Help You
Your attorney will help you build your case by finding the most relevant evidence and putting together the best possible defense. The sudden medical emergency defense can be weak if the defense team is not working with all the facts of your particular circumstances.
Your attorney can handle everything for you. They will conduct a thorough investigation and retain expert witnesses. All to help strengthen your case and give you a better chance of winning.
Your attorney will conduct discovery, or a thorough investigation, to gather any evidence that supports your case. This evidence could include witness statements, medical records, and police reports. Your attorney will also be able to examine the evidence that the other side gathers.
Throughout the case, your attorney will interview all witnesses relevant to your case. They will review police reports, and request lab results.
Your attorney will also work with expert witnesses to build your case. Expert witnesses are people who have special knowledge or skills that apply to your case.
Have You Been Involved in an Accident Involving a Sudden Medical Emergency?
An exceptional attorney is an ideal person to offer guidance on how to proceed with your case and protect you. Are you a victim of another driver’s unexpected medical emergency? Or have you experienced a sudden medical event yourself? We can help you.
Contact us or check out our About Us section to learn more. We proudly serve all of Florida, and our goal is to establish a long-term relationship with each client. The people we assist and the lives we transform are what we are most passionate about.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.RHINO.77.
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Headache After a Car Crash? Seek Medical Care Immediately
Every year, about 20-50 million people suffer non-fatal injuries from traffic accidents. And in most cases, people assume that a headache after a car crash is normal. Yet, a lingering headache after a car crash usually indicates something worse.
There are several types of headaches a person can have after a car crash. Today’s post will discuss the types of headaches and what you should do if you’re experiencing one after a recent accident.
Post-Traumatic Headache
A post-traumatic headache describes a feeling of pain in the head after an accident, trauma, or assault. Although this type of headache after a car crash is not common, it can affect anyone who experiences a traumatic event.
Symptoms that come along with a post-traumatic headache are nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. They may be caused by a combination of several factors, including pain from the injury, stress from the incident, and preexisting conditions such as high blood pressure or anxiety.
Not all post-traumatic headaches are the same. Some people experience seizures, muscle spasms, or even loss of consciousness.
Concussion
A concussion is a mild brain injury, often resulting from a bump to the head, where you experience headaches, dizziness, sensitivity to light and sounds, confusion, and fatigue. There is a chance that a series of concussions may result in long-term damage to your brain, leading to conditions such as epilepsy, dementia, and other psychological problems.
A concussion, also known as a brain injury, is caused by a sudden and forceful blow to the head. Concussion symptoms can be mild to severe. The most common symptom is a headache.
Other symptoms include dizziness and nausea or vomiting. Sometimes, people may have blurred vision or other visual problems. A person with a concussion can struggle with concentrating and making decisions.
Whiplash
A whiplash injury is a common car accident injury, causing pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders. The main cause of whiplash injury is an impact to the neck or head that causes a twist in the neck, sometimes referred to as a “slingshot” effect.
Whiplash can also result from a collision with another vehicle, object, or vehicle’s side. Symptoms of whiplash include pain that shoots down one side of the neck, stiffness in the neck and shoulders, and numbness in the arms or hands.
Muscle Strain Headaches
Muscle strains are common injuries following a car crash, often resulting from awkward or sudden movements while in the vehicle. They are characterized by mild muscle pain and tenderness and cause weakness. A muscle strain is a minor injury and should heal on its own after a few days.
If you experience muscle strain after a car accident and notice any signs of a headache, take it easy until the pain subsides. Consult your healthcare provider if you are still experiencing pain after several days.
Fracture Strain Headaches
A fracture strain headache occurs when a person receives head damage during an accident and fractures their skull. The symptoms can be quite painful.
Some people will feel pain behind their eyes or temples, while others may feel pain on top of their heads. The pain may intensify when they move, so they should stay still as much as possible.
Pinched Nerve Headache
A pinched nerve is a common type of headache that occurs after minor trauma. You can feel the pain in the back of the head, and it usually radiates down your neck.
This type of injury occurs when something compresses the nerve, like a seat belt or a bump in the road. It can also be caused by disc compression if you have back issues.
What to Do if You Have a Headache After a Car Accident
If you’ve been suffering a bad headache after a car accident, the first thing to do is visit a doctor. This is crucial for many reasons.
For one, headaches are a common symptom of other conditions, such as severe brain injury. In addition, headaches can cause severe problems if they persist or keep coming back.
It’s not just a case of your body recovering from the effects of the accident — but also the pain of the original injury. If your headache doesn’t clear up soon, it could be a sign that something else is going wrong inside your head.
Call an Auto Accident Lawyer
You should call an auto accident lawyer immediately if you have been seriously injured in a car accident. These professionals can help you evaluate your case, fight for compensation, and recover damages if another driver has wronged you.
A car accident attorney can also represent you in court if they sue you for damages. They are trained to fight for your rights and make sure that your rights are protected.
They will negotiate with the other party’s insurance company to get the best possible settlement for your case. An auto accident attorney will also help you understand the legal process to prepare yourself for the trial.
Seek Professional Help
If you’ve been dealing with a constant headache after a car accident, don’t let it hold you back from seeking medical help. Headaches are common and temporary, and you can get them to go away with simple home remedies. However, if you don’t get yourself checked out by a doctor as soon as you can, it could get worse.
You should also call an auto accident lawyer as early as you can. Here at RHINO Lawyers, we offer a wide variety of services to help you with your recent car crash. Contact our team today for more information.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.RHINO.77.
Read More