Merging can be tricky. Drivers have to be attentive when switching lanes of traffic or going from one road to another. Often, merging accidents happen because drivers are speeding or he or she fail to signal a lane change.
Sometimes misjudging space can lead to a car trying to fit in between other vehicles where there is not enough room. A merging accident can lead to serious injuries and extensive damages.
If you have been in an accident while merging in Florida, you might be able to pursue a personal injury claim to recover compensation for your damages. Florida uses pure comparative negligence, which means you can sue the other driver even if you are 99% at fault for the accident.
That means if the other driver is only 1% to blame, you can still recover damages.
How Negligence Impacts Merging Accidents in Florida
Most car crashes could be prevented, especially crashes that happen while a vehicle is merging into traffic. Negligence is a leading cause of motor vehicle accidents.
Merging accidents might happen because of speeding, because of a driver failing to use a turn signal, a driver might fail to properly look before changing lanes or roads, or a driver might try to move a car into an area where there is not sufficient room.
If you can prove a driver acted negligently and that negligence led to the crash, you can have success with a Florida personal injury claim. Maintain all documentation and evidence to support your claim. The evidence is detrimental to a successful claim.
Get the names and contact details for any eyewitnesses to the crash as well.
Possible Damages From A Merging Accident
Merging accidents can vary significantly. The speed of the vehicles, the point of impact, and if a vehicle is run off the roadway can all impact the damages that result from a merging crash. Your vehicle will suffer damages in the accident. Take pictures of these damages and get written estimates for repairing the damage.
You should keep copies of medical bills and medical records as well as take photos of any visible injuries. Maintain documentation of missed work and lost wages. Other damages might include pain and suffering, future medical expenses, future lost earnings, mental trauma, embarrassment, and loss of consortium.
Consult With A Florida Personal Injury Attorney
If you have suffered damages as a result of a merging accident, you might be eligible to recoup compensation through a Florida personal injury claim. You should consult with a personal injury attorney who deals with auto accident injury law.
Your attorney will investigate the accident, gather up evidence and documentation, and get your claim on track. You have nothing to lose and there are not any upfront costs.
Because a statute of limitations applies, you should schedule a free case evaluation as quickly as possible so you can get your claim on track. If you wait too long, you will not be able to recover damages.
Additional Reading About Merging Accidents
You may have more questions about your accident, and we're here to help. You can find additional resources about merging accidents here: