The physical and emotional toll endured by victims of a Lakeland car accident can endure for life. Moreover, the financial consequences of a collision can deeply affect not only the victim but also their entire family. Thankfully, the legal system provides avenues for seeking recompense from those responsible for causing or contributing to such accidents. If you’ve suffered injuries in a car crash, a Lakeland car accident lawyer at Kemp Personal Injury Law can help you secure the compensation you rightfully deserve for all your injuries.
Trying to arrange for medical treatment, dealing with a sudden loss of income, and attempting to understand the legal steps you need to take following a Lakeland car accident can be overwhelming. Rather than facing these challenges alone, entrust your case to the experienced Lakeland car accident attorneys at Kemp Personal Injury Law. With our expertise, resources, and unwavering dedication, we will tirelessly pursue those responsible for your injuries and ensure they are held accountable. We are committed to ensuring you receive full and just compensation for your physical injuries, lost income, and emotional suffering.
What Are Some Common Types of Lakeland Car Accidents?
Throughout Polk County, there are over 1,000 motor vehicle accidents in an average month, according to data compiled by the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV). In 2023, 161 people were killed and over 10,000 people were injured in Polk County accidents. While an endless variety of scenarios can lead to a car accident, some common ways in which Lakeland car accidents occur include:
- Single-vehicle accidents.
- Rollover accidents.
- Rear-end accidents.
- Chain reaction crashes.
- T-bone crashes.
- Intersection collisions.
What Are Some Common Causes of Lakeland Car Accidents?
We are all accustomed to referring to a motor vehicle collision as an “accident” when, in fact, most collisions are caused by the negligent conduct of at least one party. The legal system acknowledges this reality by providing a pathway for an injured victim to seek compensation from the party whose negligence caused or contributed to the “accident.” Although negligence is a legal concept that is dependent on the facts and circumstances surrounding the defendant’s conduct, there are some common examples of negligent conduct that may cause or contribute to a Lakeland car crash, such as:
- Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, illicit drugs, prescription medication, or even over-the-counter medications.
- Distracted driving, including texting, eating, or focusing on passengers in the vehicle.
- Aggressive driving, including things such as weaving in and out of traffic, failing to signal lane changes, and failing to keep a proper distance.
- Driving while drowsy or fatigued.
- Speeding, which can include driving too fast for the road conditions.
What Steps Should I Take After a Lakeland Car Accident?
Even though you may acknowledge the potential of being in a collision every time you are in a vehicle, it is likely that you rarely consider what steps to take if you are actually injured in a car accident. What you have likely never considered is how the actions you take after being involved in a collision will impact your ability to recover physically and emotionally and pursue compensation for the at-fault party or parties. With that in mind, it is in your best interest to take the following steps after being involved in a Lakeland car accident:
- Seek medical attention promptly. Regardless of whether you believe your injuries are severe, undergo a comprehensive medical examination at the nearest hospital. Some critical injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or internal organ damage, might not exhibit immediate symptoms but could be life-threatening if left undiagnosed. Additionally, a medical examination provides documentation linking your injuries to the accident.
- Notify law enforcement. Florida law obligates anyone involved in an injury accident or an accident causing $500 or more in property damage to immediately notify the appropriate law enforcement agency. A good rule of thumb is to always notify law enforcement so that a report documenting the accident is filed. Ensure the report includes the names and contact information of all involved parties and witnesses.
- Document the scene of the accident. Capture photos of the crash scene, vehicles involved, and pertinent road conditions using your cellphone whenever possible. Additionally, after your medical examination, gather documentation of your injuries, such as medical bills, therapy notes, lost income records, and any other relevant evidence.
- Seek guidance from an experienced Lakeland car accident lawyer. Shortly after the accident, you may be contacted by an insurance adjuster representing the at-fault party. If so, refrain from discussing the accident with them, or anyone else, until you have consulted with a knowledgeable car accident lawyer to avoid unintentionally providing information that could weaken your case and diminish the compensation you ultimately receive.
How Can an Experienced Lakeland Car Accident Lawyer Help?
The team at Kemp Personal Injury Law recognizes the challenges that follow a car accident, which is why we pledge our unwavering support throughout your recovery journey. With Attorney Adam Kemp’s background as an associate at a leading personal injury firm and his prior experience as a prosecuting attorney, the Kemp team possesses the skills and resources to advocate effectively for those impacted by Lakeland car accidents. Whether you are an injured victim or a bereaved family member, an experienced Winter Haven car accident lawyer can ensure accountability for the responsible party (or parties) and secure full compensation for your suffering.
If you were injured or lost a loved one in a Lakeland car accident, reach out to a knowledgeable Winter Haven car accident lawyer at Kemp Personal Injury Law to explore your legal avenues. Our mission is to ensure that victims of preventable car accidents receive the maximum compensation they deserve for all their physical, emotional, and financial injuries. Contact the team today for your free initial consultation by calling 863-225-0254 or by filling out our convenient online contact form.
