Drivers who follow too closely to the vehicle in front of them put themselves at a greater risk of causing an accident. When a motorist doesn’t leave ample space between them and another vehicle, they reduce their chances of being able to stop in time if traffic begins to slow or the vehicle in front of them comes to an abrupt stop. If a driver causes an accident as a result of following too closely, there may be a way for the driver who was hit to recover compensation for the injuries/damages they suffered.
Following Too Closely is Against Florida Law
According to Florida Statute §316.0895, “the driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicles and the traffic upon, and the condition of, the highway.” The law also states that “it is unlawful for the driver of any motor truck, motor truck drawing another vehicle, or vehicle towing another vehicle or trailer, when traveling upon a roadway outside of a business or residence district, to follow within 300 feet of another motor truck, motor truck drawing another vehicle, or vehicle towing another vehicle or trailer.” When a driver violates this law and causes a rear-end accident, he/she can be held liable for compensating the party they hit.
If the at-fault driver was insured at the time of the accident, their policy may pay for medical bills if the other driver suffered injuries and property damage. If the driver was not properly insured or was only carrying the minimum coverage, the driver who was hit may need to file a claim with their own insurance company.
Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
In some cases, a driver who suffered serious injuries in an accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence (e.g. following too closely), may even have the grounds to file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver who hit them. Every state, including Florida, has its own laws that govern personal injury law, therefore, it is recommended that a car accident victim contact a Kendall, FL car accident lawyer at Miller Trial Law to find out if they have the grounds to sue.
In the event a car crash victim has a viable case, they can request that the at-fault party pay them for the damages they suffered. Some common damages that are often awarded in personal injury cases include:
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Past and future medical bills
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Mental anguish
- Loss of consortium
To learn more about recovering compensation after an accident in Kendall, FL that was caused by a driver who was following too closely, contact the Kendall, FL car accident attorneys at Miller Trial Law.
Miller Trial Law can be reached at:
Town Center One
8950 S.W. 74th Court, Suite 1711
Miami, FL 33156
Phone: 305-697-8312
Website: www.millertriallaw.com
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