Many people presume that only one person could be at fault for a single-vehicle accident: that vehicle’s driver. However, this is not the case. Other drivers, passengers, pedestrians, mechanics, vehicle manufacturers, and even government entities could be to blame for a collision that only damages one car. If someone else is responsible for the single-vehicle car accident that caused your injury, you may be eligible to seek compensation.
At Cardoso Law, PLLC, we have been fighting for the rights of injured Floridians since 2009. Our experienced personal injury legal team can help you seek fair compensation for your physical, financial, and emotional losses. Call us today or contact us online for a free case review with a car crash lawyer in Pensacola to determine how much you could be owed.
Statistics on Single-Car Crashes in Florida
According to the National Safety Council, collisions between two or more vehicles make up less than half the number of fatal traffic accidents each year. Consider the following:
- Collisions with fixed or other objects account for 20 percent of all crashes, 31 percent of fatal crashes, and 18 percent of injury crashes.
- Collisions with animals and animal-drawn vehicles account for 5 percent of all accidents, 0.3 percent of fatal crashes, and 0.9 percent of injury crashes.
- Non-collisions, such as rollovers, account for 2 percent of all crashes, 9 percent of fatal crashes, and 4 percent of injury accidents.
- Pedestrian accidents account for 1.2 percent of all crashes, 16 percent of fatal crashes, and 2 percent of injury crashes.
- Pedalcycle collisions account for 1 percent of all accidents, 2 percent of fatal accidents, and 3 percent of injury accidents.
Common Causes of Single-Car Crashes
Some external causes of single-car crashes, including adverse weather conditions or animal crossings, may not involve negligence on the part of either the driver or a third party. While driver error may contribute to other single-car crashes, many of these car accidents occur due to factors beyond the driver’s control.
For example, poorly maintained roads may have hazards such as potholes, uneven pavement, or inadequate signage that can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles. You may be able to hold municipalities and other entities responsible for performing road maintenance accountable if you’ve been hurt in an auto accident caused by their negligence.
Many single-vehicle crashes result from vehicle defects, including faulty brakes, steering issues, or tire blowouts. In these cases, you may be able to hold the vehicle manufacturer or a negligent mechanic accountable for the resulting injuries and losses.
It is worth noting that passengers may be eligible to file a claim against another driver if the driver’s speeding, distraction, or otherwise negligent behavior caused a single-vehicle accident.
High-Risk Areas in Florida
Single-vehicle crashes can happen just about anywhere. However, some areas in Florida pose an exceptionally high risk for single-car crashes, including:
- Rural roads with lower visibility and higher speed limits
- Construction zones with shifted and narrowed lanes
- Tight turns without warning signs
- Areas prone to weather hazards like flooding
Remaining alert while traveling through these high-risk areas can significantly reduce your chances of being involved in a single-vehicle accident.
Consequences of Single-Car Crashes
Single-car crashes can result in severe consequences for those involved, including:
- Serious injuries, including broken bones, spinal cord damage, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Substantial medical expenses for emergency treatment, hospitalization, and ongoing care
- Lost income due to an inability to work during recovery
- Property damage to the vehicle and any structures or objects struck during the crash
- Emotional trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Individuals who suffer these types of losses in a single-vehicle crash may be eligible to recover financial compensation. An experienced Florida personal injury attorney at Cardoso Law, PLLC, can review your car accident case in detail to determine its potential value.
Prevention and Safety Measures
To reduce the risk of single-car crashes and your chances of suffering serious injuries, you can:
- Wear a seat belt at all times and ensure all passengers in your vehicle do the same
- Conduct regular vehicle maintenance
- Avoid cellphone use, eating, and other distractions behind the wheel
- Obey posted speed limits and adjust speed for weather conditions
- Maintain a safe following distance
- Stay alert and avoid driving while tired
Remember, never operate a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
How Can an Attorney Help After a Single-Car Crash?
Car accident claims can be complex, but an experienced single-car crash attorney can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Florida insurance requirements stipulate that all drivers carry both Property Damage Liability (PDL) insurance and Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. The latter covers some medical expenses and lost wages, no matter who caused the motor vehicle accident. However, if your injuries are severe, you may need to pursue additional compensation through a third-party liability claim.
If your single-car crash was caused by the negligence of another party, such as a vehicle manufacturer or a municipality responsible for road maintenance, or if you were the passenger of an at-fault driver, you can seek accountability with the help of an attorney. A Pensacola car accident lawyer at Cardoso Law, PLLC, can evaluate your car accident claim, gather evidence, and fight for your rights. We can seek the maximum compensation available so you can focus on your recovery rather than your medical bills.
Contact Our Car Crash Lawyer in Pensacola Today
Life after a single-car crash can be painful, overwhelming, and financially tumultuous. Fortunately, you do not have to face this challenging time alone, as the compassionate single-vehicle accident attorney at Cardoso Law, PLLC, can help you find the best route to get your life back on track.
You’re not alone. Contact us today for a free case evaluation with a single-vehicle accident lawyer in Florida, and let our experienced legal team pursue the compensation you need and deserve.