Aggressive driving is one of the most dangerous behaviors on Florida roads. It is more than a moment of frustration; it is a deliberate act that puts everyone at risk. From speeding and tailgating to erratic lane changes and road rage, these actions often lead to serious crashes. If you or a loved one has been injured due to another driver’s reckless aggression, you deserve justice. A Fort Lauderdale aggressive driving accident lawyer can help you hold the responsible party accountable.
At the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato, our team of Fort Lauderdale aggressive driving accident attorneys is prepared to investigate, litigate, and fight for the compensation you need. We understand the unique complexities of aggressive driving cases and provide the focused legal representation victims deserve.
What Constitutes Aggressive Driving in Florida?
Aggressive driving encompasses a pattern of hazardous actions that put other drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians at risk. Florida law outlines specific behaviors that may be considered aggressive or reckless.
Examples of Aggressive Driving
- Excessive speeding
- Tailgating or following too closely
- Sudden or improper lane changes
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Ignoring traffic signals and stop signs
- Cutting off other vehicles
- Honking excessively or making threatening gestures
UnderFlorida Statute §316.1923, aggressive driving is defined as committing two or more moving violations simultaneously, such as speeding and unsafe lane changes. These behaviors can escalate into road rage, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
Aggressive driving is also closely linked to reckless driving, which is separately addressed under Florida Statute §316.192. Drivers found guilty of reckless or aggressive behavior may face both criminal charges and civil liability.
Common Injuries in Aggressive Driving Accidents
Because aggressive driving often involves high speeds and intentional behavior, the injuries sustained in these accidents are frequently severe.
H3: Common Types of Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These can result from directtraumatic brain injury during a collision.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Sudden impact may cause partial or total paralysis.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: High-speed crashes frequently cause arm, leg, rib, and pelvic fractures.
- Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Common in rear-end collisions caused by tailgating.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to organs can result from the force of the crash or seatbelt trauma.
- Psychological Trauma: Victims may experience PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
In some cases, victims may succumb to their injuries. Surviving family members may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim under Florida Statute §768.21.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Aggressive Driving Accidents?
Determining liability in an aggressive driving accident requires a thorough investigation and legal analysis. Multiple parties may be held responsible depending on the circumstances.
Potentially Liable Parties
- The Aggressive Driver: The individual who engaged in reckless conduct is typically the primary liable party.
- An Employer: If the aggressive driver was operating a company vehicle while on the job, their employer may be held liable under the doctrine of vicarious liability.
- Vehicle Owner: Under Florida’s dangerous instrumentality doctrine, the owner of a vehicle may be held responsible if someone else was driving with their permission.
To establish liability, evidence such as traffic camera footage, police reports, eyewitness testimony, and expert analysis from accident reconstruction may be used. A skilled aggressive driving accident attorney in Fort Lauderdale can help gather this evidence and build a strong claim.
How Florida Law Handles Aggressive Driving Cases
Florida law treats aggressive driving as a serious offense that can result in both criminal penalties and civil liability. Personal injury claims involving aggressive drivers often rely on the legal theory of negligence or recklessness.
Florida Statute §316.192 defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. Aggressive driving that results in injury may qualify as reckless conduct.
In addition,Florida Statute §768.81 governs comparative fault in personal injury cases. This means that even if the injured party shares some responsibility for the accident, they may still recover damages as long as they were less than 50% at fault.
Law enforcement citations or criminal convictions for aggressive driving can be powerful evidence in a civil lawsuit. A Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorney can ensure that this evidence is properly used to support your case.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If you have been injured by an aggressive driver, you may be entitled to significant compensation depending on the severity of your injuries and losses.
Types of Compensation Available
- Medical Expenses: Emergency care, hospitalization, rehabilitation, surgeries, and medications.
- Lost Income: Wages lost due to time off work and diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical discomfort and emotional trauma.
- Property Damage: Costs related to vehicle repair or replacement.
- Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, and other psychological impacts.
- Punitive Damages: In rare cases, these may be awarded if the aggressive driving involved intentional misconduct or gross negligence, as outlined inFlorida Statute §768.72.
An experiencedFort Lauderdale car accident lawyer can evaluate your case and determine what types of damages you may be eligible to claim.
How a Fort Lauderdale Aggressive Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help
Aggressive driving accident claims are often complicated by disputed liability and the need for in-depth investigation. That is why working with an experienced attorney is essential.
A Fort Lauderdale aggressive driving accident attorney from the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato can:
- Investigate the scene and gather evidence
- Interview witnesses and retain accident reconstruction experts
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Determine liability and pursue full compensation
- Represent you in court if necessary
We understand how traumatic these accidents can be and work to ensure your legal and financial interests are protected.
Call for Aggressive Representation & Get Your Free Case Review
If you were hurt by an aggressive driver in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in South Florida, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. The Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato has recovered over $100 million in verdicts and settlements for injured clients throughout Florida.
We offer personalized, compassionate representation combined with aggressive advocacy. Our legal team will investigate your case, identify liable parties, and pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call us at(844) 643-7200 now for a free consultation with a top-rated Fort Lauderdale aggressive driving accident lawyer. There are no fees unless we win your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as aggressive driving in Florida?
Aggressive driving includes behaviors like speeding, tailgating, and improper lane changes under Florida Statute §316.1923.
Can I still sue if I was partly at fault?
Yes. Under comparative fault rules in Florida, you may still recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault.
How soon should I contact a lawyer after the accident?
Immediately. Prompt legal action helps preserve evidence and ensures your claim is filed within the statute of limitations.
Will insurance cover damages caused by aggressive driving?
It may, but many aggressive drivers are underinsured or deny fault, making legal representation essential.
How much compensation can I recover?
Compensation depends on medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the severity of the driver’s conduct.