Complicated legislation governs personal injury law. Over the last two decades, Florida has seen personal injury protection reform four times. Since the first three reforms have been implemented, there had been many more instances of fraud that came forth in the form of fake car accidents and injuries. The most recent reform was to curb these instances and they very reason why you need a personal injury attorney to legally represent in the event of an automobile accident.
Melbourne, FL, Brevard County Automobile Accident Statistics
Taking statistics from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles or DHSMV, there were 455,253 licensed drivers in Brevard County as of January 1, 2014. Of those drivers, 7,661 crashes were reported for the entire year of 2014 which is higher than the state’s average. That averages to 147 crashes per week. Of those crashes, 5,386 people were injured and 65 lost their lives. That is more than a death a week in our county alone. The even worse part is that of the crashes, almost half, 2,420, were in Melbourne.
Types of Automobile Accident Injuries
The most commonly reported injuries are:
– Whiplash
– Head injuries: concussions, traumatic brain injuries
– Back injuries: herniated disk, paralysis
– Injuries to extremities
– Chest injuries
– Post-traumatic stress disorder
The type and severity of injury depend on many factors such as speed and impact of collision.
Steps to Take if You Have Been Involved in a Car Accident
The most important factor when you have been involved and injured in an automobile accident is that you seek medical evaluation and treatment if necessary. The latest personal injury protection reform requires that anyone who files a personal injury claim related to automobile accidents must have been seen by a qualified professional within 14 days of the date of the accident.
Do not leave the scene unless you have a ride in the back of an ambulance or have been told it is okay to do so by a police officer. Florida law requires that the accident be reported if any injuries were sustained. Even if you do not feel injured right away, it is always better to be safe than sorry as some injuries do not show symptoms until adrenaline has worn off.
Once you have ensured your safety and those of others involved, call your Melbourne, Florida personal injury attorney so you can protect your rights and recover any financial losses that will inevitably accrue.
