Car accidents in Fort Myers often occur for a variety of reasons, but one of the most frequent causes is improper turns. In Fort Myers, intersections such as those along U.S. Route 41 and Colonial Boulevard are common locations for accidents involving drivers who fail to signal, turn improperly, or disregard traffic rules.
If you have suffered any damage at all as a result of an auto accident in Fort Myers, whether that means personal injury, property damage, or anything else, you should make the appointment of accident attorneys a priority. At The Law Place, we have more than 75 years of combined experience in law in the State of Florida, and we will provide the Fort Myers car accident lawyers you need to claim compensation successfully.
It is always a stressful time following a Fort Myers car accident, but we will work to ensure that you can focus on anything but the legal side. We will appoint a Fort Myers personal injury lawyer to ensure that you do not lose out due to something that was not your fault. Call us today for a free case evaluation and to get your legal claim underway.
What Qualifies as an Improper Turn?
All drivers in Florida have a duty of care to other road users. Essentially, this means paying attention to their vehicle and those around them so as not to endanger the safety of themselves or others. Unfortunately, when an improper turn takes place, there has always been a failure in the duty of care, leading to the auto accident.
It can involve something as simple as changing lanes without signaling. According to a study undertaken by the Society of Automotive Engineers, 50% of lane changes take place without proper signaling. In the same study, the SAE found that a quarter of all turns occur without any signaling from the driver.
In most cases, an improper turn case falls into one of these categories, with a driver failing to signal their intention to change lanes or turn off. By law, however, there are various other occurrences that can fall under the same laws. They include:
- Making a left turn at a red light.
- Turning off at a red light when it is explicitly stated on signage that turns are not permitted.
- Making a turn at a stop sign without stopping.
- Failure to observe the right of way when making a turn.
Unsurprisingly, every one of these incidents can lead to serious car accidents. For example, an illegal stop sign turn could result in a rear-end accident, while turning in a way that places a car in the middle of oncoming traffic can easily lead to a T-bone incident. At high speeds, injury and property damage are virtually inevitable.
Improper Turn Accident Statistics in Fort Myers
Improper turns are a significant factor in traffic accidents in Fort Myers and the broader Lee County area. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), in 2023, Lee County reported a total of 12,509 traffic crashes, resulting in 7,651 injuries and 99 fatalities. While specific data on accidents caused by improper turns is not detailed in the FLHSMV’s 2021 Traffic Crash Facts report, improper turning maneuvers are commonly cited as contributing factors in many collisions.
Statewide, improper turns are recognized as a prevalent cause of traffic incidents. The FLHSMV’s annual reports consistently highlight driver errors, including improper turns, as leading contributors to accidents. These maneuvers can lead to various types of collisions, such as side-impact crashes, which often result in severe injuries due to the limited protection on the sides of vehicles.
In Fort Myers, intersections are common sites for accidents involving improper turns. High-traffic areas, such as the intersections along U.S. Route 41 and Colonial Boulevard, have been identified as frequent locations for such incidents. Local law enforcement agencies have implemented measures, including increased signage and public awareness campaigns, to address and reduce the occurrence of accidents caused by improper turns.
Understanding the local statistics and common causes of traffic accidents is crucial for both drivers and policymakers. By recognizing the risks associated with improper turns, individuals can adopt safer driving practices, and authorities can develop targeted interventions to enhance road safety in Fort Myers and the surrounding regions.
Reasons Behind an Improper Turn Fort Myers Car Accident
Unlike some car accidents in Florida, which can potentially be put down to adverse conditions or mechanical failure, an auto accident caused by an improper turn can almost always be put down to poor driving. This may be as innocent as a loss of concentration at the wheel or could be the result of reckless driving whereby one or more drivers involved in the accident have not paid due care and attention to those around them.
The injured parties following an accident of this kind will often suffer through no fault of their own. An improper turn can result in positioning a vehicle in the way of others with little time to react.
At The Law Place, we believe that nobody should ever lose out as a result of something that was not their fault. Your injury attorney will deal with your insurance company, witnesses, and anyone else associated with the collision to ensure that any out-of-pocket expenses, such as medical attention for serious injuries or lost wages, are covered by compensation. Our lines are open 24 hours a day, and we are available to schedule a free consultation just by making a phone call. Contact us today to ensure you have an accident attorney working on your behalf as quickly as possible following your Fort Myers car accident.
We’re here to serve you. Our phones are open 24 hours a day. Steps to Take Following a Car Accident in Fort Myers
No matter the cause, being in a car crash that was not your fault is immediately a stressful experience, and anyone could be forgiven if their first instinct is to panic. However, wherever possible, it is important to retain a clear head.
Stay at the scene and call emergency services
The initial reaction should be, where possible, to remain at the scene and, in the case of personal injury, to call for medical attention. It is also ideal to contact law enforcement if someone has not done so already. Speaking with the police while still at the scene can make life easier for your Fort Myers car accident lawyer, as police reports can serve as valuable insight into the accident and strong evidence if and when the case goes to court.
Gather as much evidence as possible
Indeed, one of the most important parts of any case under Florida law is gathering as much evidence as possible. If you have been involved in a car accident in Florida and are in a position to do so, attempt to acquire and retain as much evidence as you can. This could mean retrieving dash-cam footage from the vehicle when it is safe to do so or capturing photographs and videos from the scene. All of this will aid your personal injury attorney in putting together a successful claim for compensation.
Speak to Witnesses
If both you and they are willing and able to do so, it may be worth speaking to witnesses at the scene where any are available. Witnesses can be immensely valuable to a legal case, but they can be difficult to track down by injury lawyers and insurance companies after the event. However, if they are willing to provide contact details, this gives your accident lawyer the opportunity to speak with them on behalf of the law firm in the future.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t think you have suffered injuries, it’s essential to get a medical checkup. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, might not show immediate symptoms. Seeking medical treatment quickly will greatly help you in your pursuit for compensation.
Inform Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. They’ll guide you through their process and inform you of any documentation they might need.
Keep a Record
Maintain a file with all the accident-related documents. This should include medical bills, insurance communications, and any other correspondence related to the incident.
Consult with a Lawyer
If there are any disputes or if you believe you’re entitled to compensation, consult with an attorney. They can advise you on the best course of action and ensure your rights are protected.
We’re Florida’s top litigation team with over 75 years of combined experience Personal Injury in a Fort Myers Car Accident
Ideally, everyone would emerge from Fort Myers car accidents unscathed. However, there is always a likelihood of personal injury following a collision. The higher the speeds and the more robust the vehicles involved, the greater this likelihood becomes.
Common car accident injuries include:
- Broken bones and lacerations
- Trauma to the head, neck, and back
- Whiplash
- Wrongful death
Even minor injuries warrant medical attention soon after the accident. Even if there are no serious injuries among accident victims, it makes sense to seek out legal representation from injury lawyers in Florida, as you may be entitled to compensation, even for minor medical bills.
Naturally, the more severe the injuries, the larger those medical bills will be. It is important to remember that your accident lawyer is not there solely to recoup medical bills when you create an attorney-client relationship after an accident. Instead, they will also provide advice on what else you could claim compensation for. From pain and suffering to ongoing medical needs, the requirement for compensation to cover problems that arise following a car accident in Fort Myers continues for as long as the victim needs it.
From the initial call to updates on your case status, we are here to get you answers. Compensation Our Car Accident Lawyers Will Seek on Your Behalf
As touched on already, direct costs associated with the car accident itself are only the start of what your accident lawyer will seek to claim on your behalf. You can find out more about what you might be entitled to as part of your free consultation. For example, following car accidents in Fort Myers, FL., and an accident attorney from your law firm will often consider the following:
Medical expenses
There will often be direct fees attributable to your car accident, from bumps and bruises to more severe issues. Your personal injury lawyer will consider not only these expenses but also ongoing medical needs, such as additional care.
Loss of earnings
Someone that has been involved in a Fort Myers car accident will be very fortunate to return to work immediately. However, no work often means no wages, even with the most generous employers. While an insurance company may cover some of this, your injury lawyer will seek to ensure you have not lost out at all following the event.
Impact on future employment
Loss of earnings can have a big impact following an accident, but if it results in needing to leave a job and difficulty finding another, the party responsible for the accident will also have to take future earnings into account. Our Florida-based lawyers will take this into account and ensure that any claim for compensation looks at the present circumstances and issues that may arise in the future.
Pain and suffering
This can be difficult to quantify, but that is one of the reasons why the appointment of legal representation is so important. Even in cases where the damages are mostly mental or your lifestyle has changed, your accident attorney will work to ensure that you are adequately compensated.
Wrongful death
In cases where someone loses their life as a result of Fort Myers car accidents, an accident attorney will work to ensure that their family and loved ones are not left out of pocket. This may involve compensation for suffering and trauma but will also extend to funeral arrangements, future lost earnings from a spouse, and support for their dependents.
How a Fort Myers Injury Lawyer Can Help
The laws of Fort Myers are open for everyone to see, but a law firm and an accident lawyer can help to make sense of them and how they apply directly to your circumstances following the accident itself. They will go above and beyond the textbook operations of insurance companies to ensure that clients have all the support they need for a winning case, even if that involves drawing on multiple practice areas in the process.
Even in cases where it has proven impossible to find another party at fault, it is still worth working with an injury lawyer on your case, as they have the legal knowledge to ensure you have explored all compensatory avenues available by law. In addition, as a driver in Florida, you are expected to have Personal Injury Protection cover, and your lawyer can interact with your insurance company to ensure you receive everything you are entitled to.
Insurance companies still play a part in cases where someone else was at fault, but your lawyer is the key to ensuring that you do not miss out on anything available to you by law. When working with us following anything from a rear-end collision to more severe accidents in Fort Myers and the broader Florida area, the process will usually resemble the following:
A Free Consultation With Our Fort Myers Office
Your free consultation takes place over the phone and enables us to understand the specifics of your case while providing advice with a legal basis about potential outcomes. Our lines are open 24 hours a day, and we aim to give every potential client the best idea of upcoming courses of action.
A Phone Call With a Fort Myers Lawyer
Should you decide to proceed, you will receive a call from a lawyer to discuss the accident in more detail. At this point, you can discuss any evidence, witness contact information, and expenses that are directly related to the case. We will also discuss our fee structure and, upon receipt of a signed agreement, we can then proceed to work on the case itself.
Establishing Compensation
With all your information at hand and potentially following further investigation into the incident, your lawyer will work to establish a claim for compensation and submit it to the insurance company of the negligent party, assuming you are happy with the claim. In many cases, this will result in a settlement. If not, the case may go to trial, and your lawyer will continue to work with you in pursuit of fair compensation.
Meet the Personal Injury Attorneys at The Law Place
At The Law Place, our personal injury attorneys bring years of combined experience and dedication to helping accident victims secure the compensation they deserve. With a commitment to compassionate and effective legal representation, our team works tirelessly to guide clients through the complexities of personal injury cases, including those involving improper turns accidents in Fort Myers.
AnneMarie Rizzo has a reputation for her compassionate and tenacious representation in personal injury cases. She works diligently to ensure that her clients feel supported throughout the legal process while fighting to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from accidents caused by negligence.
Darren Finebloom brings a depth of understanding to cases involving motor vehicle accidents, including improper turns. His focus on clear communication and attention to detail ensures that clients are fully informed and confident as their cases progress. Darren’s commitment to justice is reflected in his dedication to securing positive outcomes for those he represents.
When you choose The Law Place, you are not just hiring a law firm – you are gaining a team of attorneys who are passionate about protecting your rights and helping you rebuild your life after an accident. Our collaborative approach ensures that your case benefits from the collective experience and insights of our legal team.
2023 Law Updates
As the legal landscape continually evolves, 2023 has brought about significant changes in various statutes and regulations. Staying informed of these updates is crucial for compliance and effective decision-making. Here’s a summary of the notable 2023 law updates:
First and foremost, the statute of limitations for many personal injury claims in Florida has been modified. Previously set at four years, car accident victims now only have two years from the date of the incident to initiate legal proceedings. This change emphasizes the importance of acting promptly after an accident or injury to secure your rights to potential compensation.
Another pivotal shift in 2023 is the transition from pure comparative negligence to modified comparative negligence in the state of Florida. Under the previous pure comparative negligence system, an injured party could recover damages even if they were 99% at fault. However, with the introduction of the modified system, a plaintiff’s recovery is barred if they are found to be more than 50% at fault. This means that determining liability and understanding the nuances of fault becomes even more critical in personal injury cases.
Furthermore, a renewed emphasis on safety regulations has been observed, especially in sectors like transportation and construction. There are stricter standards and protocols in place to safeguard the well-being of the general public and workers.
For those in the real estate realm, there are adjustments in property rights and zoning laws. These changes aim to address the dynamic housing and commercial needs of Florida’s growing population while preserving environmental and historical sites.
Lastly, with the rapid technological advancements and the digital age’s challenges, there’s a stronger focus on data privacy and cybersecurity laws. New regulations demand businesses to be more transparent about data collection and offer more robust protection against cyber threats.
For anyone affected by these changes or in need of guidance, it’s always advisable to consult with a knowledgeable attorney. They can offer clarity on how these 2023 law updates might impact individual circumstances.
Resources for Victims of Improper Turns Accidents in Fort Myers
Being involved in an accident caused by an improper turn can leave victims dealing with physical injuries, emotional stress, and financial burdens. Having access to the right resources can make the recovery process more manageable and help you navigate the complexities of the legal system.
- The Law Place – Experienced Legal Support – At The Law Place, we are dedicated to helping accident victims in Fort Myers secure the compensation they deserve. Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys understands the challenges you’re facing and provides comprehensive legal assistance, from negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case.
- Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) – The FDOT provides valuable information on road safety, traffic laws, and accident prevention, including improper turns. Learn more about their efforts and resources to improve road safety at the FDOT website.
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – The NHTSA offers insights into traffic accident statistics, safety tips, and research into driving behaviors like improper turns. Visit their site for more information at the NHTSA website.
- Local Support Groups and Rehabilitation Services – Recovering from an accident often requires more than just legal and financial assistance. Local support groups, such as those available through Lee Health, provide resources for physical and emotional recovery. Additionally, rehabilitation centers in Fort Myers can help victims regain mobility and strength after injuries sustained in an accident.
- Insurance Assistance – If you’re struggling with insurance claims, resources like Florida’s Office of Insurance Regulation can help you understand your rights and ensure that your claim is handled fairly.
Fort Myers Improper Turns Accident Lawyer, FAQ
What are the main causes of improper turn accidents in Fort Myers?
Improper turn accidents in Fort Myers are often caused by factors like distracted driving, failure to adhere to traffic signs, and impatience on the road.
How common are fatal car accidents resulting from improper turns?
While not every improper turn results in a crash, these mistakes can lead to fatal car accidents, especially when combined with high speeds or other factors like alcohol.
How do car crashes from improper turns compare to other types of accidents in terms of severity?
Improper turn car crashes can lead to devastating injuries, sometimes more severe than other types of collisions due to the unexpected nature of the maneuver and potential for head-on collisions.
What should I do if I’ve been injured in an accident caused by an improper turn?
It’s essential to seek immediate medical attention for any car accident injuries. After ensuring your health, consider consulting a car accident attorney to understand your rights and potential compensation.
Can I file a personal injury case if I was involved in an accident caused by someone making an improper turn?
Yes, victims of such incidents often have grounds for personal injury cases, especially if they suffer bodily injury or other significant harm due to another driver’s negligence.
How can a car accident attorney help me with my improper turn accident claim?
A car accident attorney can guide you through the complexities of the legal process, help gather evidence, and advocate for you to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
Are distracted driving and improper turns often linked?
Yes, distracted driving is a common cause of improper turns. Drivers not paying attention to their surroundings or traffic signs might make dangerous and unlawful turns.
What kind of compensation can I expect after an accident caused by an improper turn?
Victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in cases of catastrophic injuries, long-term care or disability accommodations.
Are improper turns a leading cause of motor vehicle accidents in Fort Myers?
While not the sole leading cause, improper turns are a significant contributor to motor vehicle accidents in the region, often resulting in bodily harm or even death.
How can I prove that my injuries resulted from an improper turn during a car accident case?
Evidence such as witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstructions can be pivotal in establishing fault in car accident cases stemming from improper turns. It’s crucial to gather as much evidence as possible and consult with a knowledgeable attorney to build a strong case.
Contact Our Fort Myers Car Accident Attorneys at The Law Place Today
The Law Place works with clients across Florida following auto accidents that lead to loss, injury, and other results that are not the client’s fault. We operate across numerous practice areas and are of the opinion that no case is too big, and none is too small. From low-speed rear-end accidents that result in no more than property damage to serious crashes resulting in severe injuries and potentially even fatalities, we will push to claim the compensation available to you under Florida law.
We fully understand that appointing an attorney is a priority for many following accidents, which is one reason why our Fort Myers office never closes. Accidents are stressful, and you may need to contact us from the scene. We are proud to say that we are here to help.
If you have been involved in an accident involving an improper turn in Florida and need representation you can trust to operate in your best interests, then The Law Place is ready and waiting to help. Call us today to get your case underway as we begin work to achieve the compensation you deserve.
