Florida turnpikes and toll roads help move traffic along more quickly, but it can be easy to suffer a car accident as drivers attempt to line up and pass through. When out-of-state drivers are unfamiliar ith the process, it adds more confusion and risk of a crash. No matter the details of your car accident at a toll booth, you need advice from a skilled Florida car accident lawyer at Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath.
How do car accidents at toll booths happen in Florida?
There can be a wide range of accidents that occur at toll booths. For example, consider the following scenarios:
- An inexperienced driver slows down to determine which lane to take, causing other vehicles to swerve and avoid them, potentially causing a multi-car pileup.
- A driver changes their mind to shift into a shorter lane at the last moment, causing a sideswipe accident.
- A driver cuts you off and causes you to hit another vehicle.
- A driver is under the influence of alcohol and hits the toll booth, causing you to rear-end their vehicle.
- Maintenance signs and debris are blown into your lane, hitting your vehicle or causing you to crash.
Whatever the circumstances are concerning your car accident at a toll booth in Florida, you may need guidance untangling insurance claims and getting help for your injuries. Your car accident attorney can manage negotiations for you while you heal, maximizing your compensation and holding the at-fault parties accountable for their negligence. We also examine the law and determine how the Florida statute of limitations applies to a potential personal injury lawsuit if needed.
What should I do after a car accident at a toll booth?
Depending on the severity of the accident, you may need emergency transportation for your injuries. If you are able, here’s what you should do after a car accident:
- Remain calm and check whether anyone is injured.
- Call 911 for police and medical assistance.
- Tell your side of things to law enforcement.
- Get seen by medical personnel in case you are hurt but don’t realize it.
- Exchange insurance and contact details with the other driver(s).
- Take pictures of the damage, your injuries, and anything else that shows what happened.
- Don’t admit fault or lay blame.
- Visit a doctor within 72 hours for a full examination.
- Arrange a free consultation with a Florida car accident lawyer.
It may not be clear right away who is liable for a car accident at a toll booth, but your lawyer can help you discover the truth. They can also speak with insurance companies on your behalf, taking some of the stress off your shoulders if you are injured.
How do I get compensation after a toll booth car accident?
Your first action is likely to file an insurance claim against those at fault. This may involve using your mandatory personal injury protection (PIP) and property damage liability (PDL) policies to pay for your own injuries and auto repairs. If the other driver is an out-of-state visitor, you may be able to file a claim against their liability insurance if yours doesn’t cover all your losses.
You may also be able to bring a personal injury lawsuit for your car accident damages. Your attorney will attempt to settle out of court whenever possible to save you time and money, but in some instances, you may need to take more aggressive legal action. If you are filing against a government agency, there are special considerations your lawyer can explain.
However, it is important to know that any case against a state agency must send a notice of claim within 3 years from the date of the accident. In addition, a lawsuit cannot be filed until after the investigation period of 180 days or if you get a notice of denial.
Who should I call after a car accident at a toll booth in Florida?
We at Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath are ready to help you after any car accident or personal injury. Use our online form or call us at (561) 655-1990 to arrange a free consultation with a Florida car accident lawyer today.
