Car Accidents
Car accidents happen all too often and may cause significant harm. If you sustained injuries in a car accident that was caused by someone else, you may be able to recover compensation from the at-fault party and should speak to an attorney. Orlando car accident lawyer Felicia A. Bunbury at The FAB Law Firm understands the difficulties faced by victims of car accidents, and she can help them seek recourse for their losses. Ms. Bunbury represents victims in lawsuits arising out of car accidents throughout Florida.
Common Causes of Car AccidentsCar accidents are usually caused by unsafe driving. For example, many motorists get distracted by cell phones or other technology and take their eyes away from the road, which causes a collision. Drivers can cause crashes by speeding or driving aggressively as well. Additionally, many accidents occur because drivers are impaired by drugs or alcohol, such that they are unable to safely operate their vehicles. While most crashes result, at least in part, from reckless driving, other factors can contribute to causing collisions, such as poorly designed roads, defective vehicles or parts, and inadequately maintained property.
Elements of a Car Accident LawsuitA plaintiff and a car accident attorney in Orlando or elsewhere usually will allege a negligence claim against the defendant. In general, a plaintiff alleging negligence must establish that the defendant had a duty to act with reasonable care under the circumstances, but the defendant acted in a manner that constituted a breach of the duty. For example, following too closely behind another vehicle or reading a text message while driving may be considered a departure from the standard of care. The plaintiff must also prove that the defendant’s actions or failure to act caused the plaintiff to suffer quantifiable harm.
While the defendant’s behavior does not need to be the sole cause of the collision, it must be a primary factor in bringing about the accident for the defendant to be deemed liable. Additionally, the plaintiff must show that the collision would not have happened if the defendant had driven their vehicle with proper care. A defendant may try to avoid liability by arguing that the plaintiff was at fault for the accident. In Florida and New York, however, even if a plaintiff is found to be partly at fault, this will only reduce the damages awarded to the plaintiff and will not bar the plaintiff from recovering compensation entirely. Our Orlando car accident attorney can prevent a defendant from unfairly placing blame on a victim.
Damages Recoverable in a Lawsuit Arising out of a Car AccidentIn addition to proving liability, a plaintiff must prove the damages that he or she sustained due to the accident. Typically, this requires the plaintiff to establish the financial harm that he or she suffered, such as the cost of medical treatment, wages lost due to an inability to work, and out-of-pocket expenses. A plaintiff who successfully proves economic damages will be reimbursed for his or her losses. Additionally, a plaintiff may be awarded compensation for the intangible impairments caused by a crash, such as mental anguish, suffering, pain, anxiety, and depression. Moreover, if the plaintiff was married when the accident occurred, the plaintiff’s spouse may be awarded damages for the loss of the plaintiff’s services and companionship.
Meet With a Skillful Orlando Car Accident AttorneyCar accidents generally could be avoided if people on the road drove carefully, and people who drive recklessly should be held accountable for the harm that they cause. If you were injured in a collision, Felicia A. Bunbury at The FAB Law Firm can assist you in seeking any damages that you may be owed. Ms. Bunbury represents people who need a Orlando car accident lawyer throughout Florida. You can contact our firm via the form online or by calling 800-322-9467 to schedule a confidential and free consultation.