Auto Accidents Caused by Animal Crossings in Brevard County
Although Florida is typically thought of as a beach state, it is an area with many different terrains. And within these different terrains are many different types of wildlife. Although animals tend to stick to the safety of their natural environment, it is not unusual to see wildlife on the road.
Unfortunately, auto accidents caused by animal crossings are a serious concern in Melbourne, FL and surrounding areas. These car accidents can cause serious property damage, significant personal injury, and even death. The attorneys at Charpentier Law Firm understand the dangers involved with auto accidents caused by animal crossings.
Here we discuss ways to avoid these types of accidents, and what should be done if you are involved in this type of collision.
Dangers of Animal Crossings
An animal crossing the road poses just as much of a danger to vehicles as other hazards in the road. In some ways, an animal can be even more dangerous, because driver often have little time to respond.
Striking an animal creates an impact that can damage a vehicle and cause a driver to lose control. Often, a driver will react suddenly and swerve the vehicle to avoid hitting an animal. Unfortunately, by doing so, drivers may end up hitting another vehicle or losing control of their car.
Avoiding Wildlife
Wildlife is unpredictable, so it is not always easy to anticipate and respond to an animal crossing the road. However, drivers can take certain precautions to minimize the risk of an auto accident caused by wildlife on the road.
First, drivers should constantly be aware of their surroundings. It is important to scan the road for any potential hazards. This is especially important when driving in rural areas, where animals tend to live.
It is also vital to pay close attention at night, since many animals are nocturnal. Drivers should always use their headlights when driving at night, and should even consider high beams in certain situations.
Finally, be on the lookout for animal crossing signs. These signs highlight areas where wildlife is prevalent, and alert drivers to be particularly cautious of animals darting into the road.
Who Is at Fault?
Drivers may assume their rights are limited after an accident caused by an animal crossing. Our attorneys will look into the details of each accident to determine whether the area that the accident occurred was properly lit, and whether appropriate signs were in place to alert drivers to the risk of animal crossings. In certain cases, the county or state may be held at least partially liable for damages stemming from accidents such as these.
Get Help After Your Auto Accident
If you’ve been involved in an auto accident in Brevard County that was caused by an animal crossing and would like to learn more about your legal options, contact us at your earliest convenience by using the contact form found at the bottom of this page or by calling 321-308-8020. The experienced Brevard County Auto Accident Attorneys at Charpentier Law Firm are ready to assist you in collecting any financial damages you may be due following such an accident.
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IN BREVARD COUNTY
Over the past 40-plus years of helping Brevard County's injured and mistreated, our firm has obtained some $65 million in recoveries on behalf of our clients, highlighted by an $15.5 million product liability award.
The team at Charpentier Law Firm has the negotiation skills to reach favorable settlements in many cases, but also has the experience and perseverance to try a case to verdict whenever it is in the best interests of our clients. Our history of success illustrates our dedication to our clients and their pursuit of justice. Our personal injury attorneys in Melbourne, Titusville, and Cocoa are proud to offer superior legal representation to victims and their families throughout Brevard County and Central Florida.