Fort Lauderdale’s sudden downpours and slick roads can turn an ordinary drive into a life-threatening event. If you’ve ever felt your vehicle lose traction during a rainstorm, you may have experienced hydroplaning. Unfortunately, this phenomenon is more than just frightening; it can lead to serious accidents and life-altering injuries. If you were injured in a hydroplaning car crash, you may be wondering whether you can sue and who may be held accountable.
What Is Hydroplaning and Why Does It Happen?
Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between your tires and the road surface, causing a complete loss of traction. Your vehicle slides uncontrollably, making it impossible to steer, brake, or accelerate safely.
Hydroplaning occurs when a driver moves too fast over a wet surface, especially if the tires are worn or underinflated. In South Florida, where sudden rainstorms and poor drainage are common, the risk of hydroplaning increases significantly. Even the best drivers can find themselves in a dangerous situation when their car loses contact with the pavement.
Who Is Liable in a Hydroplaned Car Crash?
If you were injured in a hydroplane car crash, determining liability is crucial. Contrary to popular belief, not all hydroplaning incidents are unavoidable or blameless. Legal responsibility may fall on one or more parties depending on the details of the accident.
Potentially Liable Parties:
- The at-fault driver: If another driver hydroplaned due to excessive speed or failure to maintain their vehicle, they may be liable.
- The vehicle owner: The owner of the car involved could be responsible if it had bald tires or poorly maintained brakes.
- A government agency: If the accident occurred due to poor road design, lack of signage, or inadequate drainage, a city or state agency may be held accountable.
- A tire or vehicle manufacturer: If a defect in the tire or braking system contributed to the loss of control, product liability could come into play.
A Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer can investigate the circumstances of the crash and determine who should be held responsible.
When Can You Sue After a Hydroplaning Accident?
You can file a lawsuit after a hydroplaning accident if another party’s negligence caused your injuries. Florida drivers have a legal duty to adjust their speed and driving behavior according to weather and road conditions. Failing to do so may be considered a breach of that duty.
You may be eligible to sue if:
- A driver hydroplaned into your vehicle due to speeding or recklessness
- Poor road maintenance caused dangerous standing water
- A third party contributed to the crash through vehicle defects or negligent repairs
To build a strong case, you will need documentation such as the police report, scene photos, medical records, and possibly expert analysis. A personal injury attorney will know how to effectively gather and present this evidence.
How a Car Accident Attorney in Fort Lauderdale Can Help
A car accident attorney in Fort Lauderdale can guide you through the legal process after a hydroplaning crash. These cases often require technical analysis, weather records, and expert testimony to prove liability.
Your attorney will:
- Review police and accident reports
- Collect photographs, dashcam footage, and surveillance videos
- Investigate road conditions and drainage issues
- Consult accident reconstruction experts if needed
- Handle all communication with insurance companies
- Demand full compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering
At Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a hydroplaning accident can be. Our team is committed to helping victims secure the financial resources they need to recover and move forward.
Injured in a Hydroplaning Crash? Let Wolf & Pravato Represent You
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hydroplane car crash, do not assume you have no legal options. At the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato, we dig deep to uncover the cause of each accident and identify who is responsible. We have secured millions in verdicts and settlements, including a $3.85 million settlement for a client seriously injured in a vehicle collision.
We offer free consultations and work on a contingency-fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win. Call us today at (844) 643-7200 and let us help you take the next step toward justice.
FAQs
- What is hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning happens when a layer of water prevents your tires from gripping the road, causing a loss of control. - Can I sue if another driver hydroplaned into my car?
Yes, if the other driver was negligent, such as by speeding in the rain or using bald tires. - Is hydroplaning always the driver’s fault?
Not always; road conditions or vehicle defects can also contribute and shift liability. - What compensation can I recover after a hydroplaning accident?
You may be eligible for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. - How much does a Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer cost?
Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato charges no upfront fees and only gets paid if your case is successful.
