Miami, Florida, is the fourth largest urban area in the United States, following New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Just like other major cities in the nation, Miami is blessed with its fair share of traffic jams, road construction, and motor vehicle accidents. Anywhere there are a large number of drivers on the road; there will be a large number of accidents. It is an unpleasant, but true fact.
Florida law requires all owners/operators of motor vehicles to carry a minimum amount of insurance coverage. This coverage is known as motor vehicle liability insurance. In addition, as many other states, Florida also requires seat belt use anytime a driver is behind the wheel. So what does this mean for the average person? It means plenty. In order to be a legal, licensed driver, you are expected to abide by certain rules and regulations. Driving is a privilege. Motor vehicle owners must carry a minimum amount of $10,000 in coverage for bodily harm or injury. Therefore, if another driver is responsible for an accident that causes physical damage to you, that driver is accountable for medical payments, lost work time, and any other damages you may sustain.
In addition to bodily injury, the law requires motorists to carry a minimum of $10,000 in coverage for property damage or destruction of property. For example, a negligent driver destroys or damages your property, such as buildings, mailboxes, or landscaping; that driver is responsible for repair or total reconstruction of your property in the minimum amount of ten thousand dollars. What happens if the driver does not carry the least amount of liability insurance? You still have rights, which is why it is in your best interest to consult with a skilled Miami auto accident attorney immediately after the mishap occurs. Underinsured and uninsured coverage protects motorists from not receiving the compensation they deserve. Settling too early with the at-fault driver’s attorney or insurance company is the biggest mistake an auto accident victim can make.
Surprisingly, Miami has the smallest land area of any major metropolitan city within the United States. As the fourth most populous city in the nation with the least amount of land area, the streets of Miami are more congested than any other city in the United States. Between motorcycles, mopeds, pedestrians, and bicyclists, Miami-Dade County ranks number one in the sunshine state for the highest amount of fatal auto accidents.
Whether driving down the Miami strip or traveling through on your way to the Florida Keys, Miami’s busy streets pose a danger to even the most cautious driver. Be sure to know your rights and steps to take after an accident. In Florida, you have ten days to report an accident to law enforcement officials. Ideally, you should contact law enforcement immediately, however, if for some reason you do not, be sure to report the collision within ten days. Once the incident is reported and the proper medical professionals have examined the victims; consult with an attorney who is trained in auto accidents.