Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) have become ever more popular as motorists seek more room and safer vehicles. But just how safe an SUV really is depends on whom you ask. For pedestrians and bicyclists, an SUV can wreak havoc in a collision. If you suffered life-changing injuries or a loved one died in an accident involving an SUV, you may qualify for financial compensation. A Bradenton SUV accident lawyer from Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA can assist you with an SUV accident claim and lawsuit. Call us now for a free case evaluation.
About Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA
At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, we pursue compensation and justice for our clients. The shock and sudden changes your accident brought to your life are not fair. You do not have to deal with your case alone.
We can start by negotiating with an insurance adjuster on your behalf. And while many SUV accident cases settle out of court, some cases do go to trial. The goal is to not settle for less compensation than you deserve.
Your injuries or the death of your loved one was expensive. Medical costs constantly increase and funeral costs range in the thousands of dollars. Unexpected expenses, along with stress, can wreak havoc on your life.
SUV drivers typically escape accidents without any injuries. The vehicle saves them from serious harm or death. For pedestrians and bicyclists, there are no airbags or other safety equipment to protect them from harm.
If you suffered serious injuries or you lost a loved one in an SUV accident, take action.
Possible Forms of Compensation in Bradenton SUV Accidents
Our SUV accident lawyers typically fight for the following types of compensation:
- Time missed from work;
- Loss of future earning capacity;
- Medical bills;
- Ongoing medical costs such as rehabilitation; and
- Pain and suffering.
The outcome of your case will depend upon the details of your accident. There is no way to predict if you will receive compensation and if so, how much. Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA fight aggressively to secure the best outcome possible in every case we take. Our proven track record demonstrates our commitment to our clients.
We can help you through this difficult time. The impact of an SUV crash on your life is profound. Our work on behalf of SUV accident clients is important to us. If you suffered serious injuries at the hands of an SUV driver, let us get to work for you.
The Popularity of SUVs in Bradenton
Everywhere you travel, you see SUVs. Their recent rise in popularity resulted in Ford discontinuing several types of sedans. In addition to the higher seating and extra space, SUVs are also consistently improving in performance. This may cause some drivers to push the limits of their SUV by speeding or showing off for other drivers.
Sportier SUVs draw additional drivers to the SUV market. While safety features protect SUV drivers and their passengers, they do nothing for pedestrians or bicycles in the event of an accident. Pedestrians and bicyclists are prone to serious injuries and death in an SUV crash.
Research shows that sedans cause less physical damage in similar accidents. The rise in popularity of SUVs is now causing a decline in sedan sales. The decline in sedan sales is in turn leading to a rise in pedestrian deaths.
The Danger of SUVs in Bradenton
The very features that draw drivers to an SUV are the same features that can cause serious harm to others. The higher profile of an SUV makes an impact with a pedestrian or bicyclist especially harmful.
Pedestrian deaths are on the rise throughout the United States and many experts attribute the rise to SUV crashes.
A study of 79 vehicle crashes in three Michigan cities found the following differences between crashes involving cars versus SUVs:
- Thirty percent of pedestrians struck by an SUV traveling between 20 to 39 miles per hour died from their injuries.
- Twenty-five percent of pedestrians struck by cars traveling between 20 to 39 miles per hour died from their injuries.
The higher the speed, the greater the risk for death:
- One hundred percent of pedestrians struck by an SUV traveling at 40 miles per hour or more died from their injuries.
- Fifty-four percent of pedestrians struck by a car traveling at 40 miles per hour or more died from their injuries.
The study also found that the front end design of an SUV throws a pedestrian forward upon impact. Pedestrians are twice as likely to incur severe hip and thigh injuries when struck by an SUV.
An SUV accident lawyer from Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA can investigate your accident to determine if speed was a factor. They can also investigate whether other negligent driver behaviors caused your serious injuries. The investigation can determine not only the accident's cause, but can help your lawyer prove the other driver's negligence.
Common Types of Dangerous SUV Driver Behaviors in Bradenton
An SUV driver may feel comfortable and protected—and possibly invincible. This can lead them to make poor decisions, such as:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol: despite ever-stricter DUI laws, drivers still risk being caught.
- Texting or other forms of distracted driving, such as reaching for items or eating are other forms of distraction.
- Aggressive driving that leads to road rage, such as speeding or changing lanes without signaling.
- Driving drowsy or nodding off behind the wheel, which can happen due to a lack of rest, prescription medication, or an undiagnosed sleep disorder.
These and other types of negligent behaviors can impair a driver's ability to maintain control of their vehicle. The resulting injuries or death they cause demands justice.
Pursuing a civil claim can hold the driver accountable for their actions. While legal action can never replace your loved one, it can perhaps prevent the driver from engaging in the same behavior again.
Serious Injuries Associated With Bradenton SUV Accidents
SUV accidents often cause pedestrians or bicyclists painful hip and leg fractures. Other types of possible injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) - Florida law does not require bicyclists age 16 and older to wear helmets. Pedestrians and bicyclists who suffer a TBI often face a future of extensive, long-term medical and personal care. A severe TBI can disrupt brain function to the point that even the easiest tasks become difficult.
- Spinal cord injury - A spinal cord injury can result in paralysis below the point of injury. This permanent type of injury is catastrophic and requires many changes to the patient's home, transportation, and life in general.
- Internal injuries - Internal injuries are of special concern following an SUV collision with a pedestrian or bicyclist. Seeking immediate medical help is vital to preventing possible organ damage.
While not complete, the above list demonstrates the physical damage an SUV accident can cause. An SUV driver's failure to use caution can change another person's life forever. Pursuing financial compensation after an SUV accident with the help of a lawyer can give you peace of mind. While there are never any guarantees when it comes to an award, hiring an attorney is the best way to maximize the compensation you receive.
The Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA help SUV accident victims in a multitude of ways. From our caring approach to our aggressive stand with insurance companies, we are by our client's side throughout their case. Call us now for a free case evaluation.
Watch out for Insurance Company Adjusters After Your Bradenton SUV Accident
If an insurance company adjuster calls you soon after your accident, decline to speak with them. Hire legal representation immediately and refer the adjuster to your lawyer. Saying, accepting, or signing the wrong thing can impact your ability to pay for your future medical needs.
Accepting a settlement offer closes your claim. This will likely prevent you from pursuing compensation in the future should your medical condition worsen. Many accident victims do not understand this and accept the offer, believing they can always file a lawsuit later.
The anxiety you likely have regarding your bills and lack of income is understandable. While the amount the insurance adjuster offers you may seem like a large sum, chances are that it is the lowest amount they think they can get away with offering you.
As for-profit businesses, insurance companies strive to protect their bottom line. Their ultimate goal is to settle your claim quickly and for the least amount of money possible. Do not fall for their high-pressure tactics. Protect your best interests and contact the Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA without delay.
The Statute of Limitations After Your Bradenton SUV Accident
The statute of limitations is a law that requires that you file a lawsuit within four years of the date of your injury. Four years may seem like a long time, but when you've experienced serious injuries, this time can fly by.
To prepare the best case possible, our lawyers must gather and examine all evidence connected with your injuries as soon after the accident as possible.
This can include:
- Photographs and videos;
- Police reports;
- Witness statements; and
- Medical records.
Taking quick action helps not only meet the deadline but build your case. Witness memories can fade and photographs may be deleted. The sooner you reach out to a member of our team, the faster we can get to work for you.
Wrongful Deaths From Bradenton SUV Accidents
The statistics listed at the beginning of this article indicate the high number of pedestrian deaths that result from SUV accidents. If you lost a close loved one in such a tragic way, you may be entitled to compensation. An SUV accident lawyer from our team can determine if you qualify for a wrongful death claim and lawsuit.
No one wants to receive the news that a loved one is never coming home. Florida law allows family members two years to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This is half the time allowed for filing a lawsuit, making quick action on your part imperative.
The loss of your loved one is something no amount of money can fix, but compensation might help your family get back on its feet. If your loved one contributed financially to your household, their loss of income is something we can include in your claim and lawsuit.
Other types of damages can include:
- Funeral expenses for your loved one;
- Their final medical costs;
- Loss of companionship; and
- The mental anguish you suffer as a result of your loss.
Wrongful death cases are often quite complex and emotional for family members. At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, we keep our clients updated on the various aspects and developments of their case. At the same time, we respect your privacy as you mourn your loved one.
Bradenton SUV Accident FAQ
Do I need a lawyer to handle my Bradenton SUV accident claim?
Yes. When you work with an attorney, you have a better chance of settling your claim for maximum compensation. An attorney represents you and works hard to protect your legal interests. Attorneys deal with insurance companies and their legal representatives. They evaluate your injuries and negotiate a settlement on your behalf. When necessary, they file a lawsuit and present your case before a judge and jury.
To learn more about legal representation for your injuries, schedule a complimentary consultation. You have an opportunity to meet with an attorney to tell your version of the accident and learn more about your legal options.
With offices across both Florida coasts, you can easily reach Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA Accident Injury Lawyers, LLP.
The Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA No Recovery, No Fee Promise in Bradenton SUV Accident Claims
At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, we offer a No Recovery, No Fee Promise. What this means for you is that we require no money upfront for our services. We collect our fee only if and when we secure compensation for you.
In other words, if we do not win your case, you do not pay. When you experience harm or loss due to someone else's negligence, you cannot afford to not secure legal representation. Our No Recovery, No Fee Promise allows you to breathe easier knowing you can afford to seek our help.
The SUV accident you experienced likely changed your life forever. The attorneys at Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA understand that accident victims are dealing with a multitude of challenges, physically, financially, and emotionally. Our approach is to treat each client with compassion while aggressively fighting for the compensation they deserve.
Time really does fly. When you are in mourning or undergoing medical treatment, it seems as if time flies even faster than normal. You do not want to miss the deadline imposed by state law to file your civil lawsuit. Contact us as soon as possible.
With offices across both Florida coasts, you can easily reach Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, and Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, PA, at (941) 613-5747, or you can write to us using our online contact page. Let our team get started on your case by contacting us for a free case evaluation. With the free evaluation and the no-fee guarantee, you have nothing to lose and possible compensation to gain. Our team is friendly, professional, and ready to fight for you.
Bradenton Office
6703 14th Street West Suite 207
Bradenton, FL 34207
Phone: (941) 613-5747
Client Testimonial
“Very professional and efficient. Entire staff was accommodating and willing to go above and beyond in helping me. I would highly recommend to anyone in need of an attorney's council."
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tlynn
March 2020
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