If you were involved in a car accident in St. Petersburg and the other driver was given a ticket for careless driving, you will be a witness in that case. There is nothing to fear and it is standard procedure. Most of the careless driving tickets get resolved and you are never even bothered. This article will walk you through all of the possibilities and give you some information on what to expect.
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Scenario 1- The Other Driver Pays the Ticket
If the other driver pays the ticket, you will never have to go to court to be a witness. If the driver elects to do a driver’s improvement class, they will not get any points and just have to pay the fine. If the driver is not eligible for school or doesn’t choose to do it, they will get four points on their driver’s license in addition to the fine.
Can the Payment of the Ticket be Used in an Injury Claim?
No. Florida law specifically prevents you from using the fact that the other driver paid the ticket in court. Now, that being said, if the other driver tries to tell his insurance company that he wasn’t at fault, you can point it out to the insurance adjuster.
Scenario 2- The Other Driver Fights the Ticket
When the other driver fights the ticket, they will normally hire a lawyer and plead not guilty. The case will then be set for a hearing before a magistrate at the courthouse on 49th St. in Clearwater. The magistrate is a lawyer that is permitted to resolve traffic tickets. If there were not any injuries, the magistrate can decide the case. All of the witnesses to the case are given a subpoena to appear. But, if there are any injuries, the magistrate must continue the case to a county court judge. This means that you may have to come back to court again. Most of the time, if the witnesses appear, the ticket defense lawyer will simply try to work out a deal. We encourage our clients who are injured in the accident to appear for these hearings to make sure that the ticket is not dismissed.
Can the Result of the Hearing be Used in an Injury Claim?
Normally, no. But, if the driver takes the case to the hearing and loses beyond a reasonable doubt, then you can. This is why we encourage our clients to make sure that they appear and cooperate with the ticket process. Our thought process is that it can only help your injury claim, never hurt it.
How Do I Prove the Other Driver Was Acting Carelessly or Recklessly?
It is essential to consult with a knowledgeable St. Petersburg car accident attorney who can help you navigate the legal distinctions between these offenses. They can guide you through the legal process of making a claim against a careless or reckless driver. They’ll gather evidence on your behalf and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to the specific circumstances of your case.
Why You Should Be Seeking Legal Help When Hit By a Careless or Reckless Driver
When you find yourself in a collision caused by a careless or reckless driver, it’s crucial to consult with a St. Petersburg car accident attorney. Their negligent and dangerous behavior can cause serious damage and injuries. Having an experienced attorney by your side can make all the difference in maximizing your compensation.
One of the primary roles that a St. Petersburg car accident attorney can play is to build a strong case, which allows them to negotiate for maximum compensation on your behalf. They have the expertise and knowledge of the legal system to thoroughly review your legal outlook and challenge any weak points.
Moreover, an attorney will take on all the complexities of the legal process for you. They will gather all necessary information and documentation related to the incident and conduct their own investigation if required. They can also interview witnesses and work with accident reconstruction experts to build a solid defense that supports your innocence or mitigates the severity of the alleged offense.
By having a St. Petersburg car accident attorney on board, they can handle all communication with law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and insurance companies. They will ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal proceedings, preventing any unfair treatment or exploitation.
Contact a St. Petersburg Car Accident Attorney For a Free Consultation
If you find yourself dealing with being injured by a careless or reckless driver, don’t face these challenges alone. Take the first step towards a fair and just outcome by reaching out to our compassionate and experienced St. Petersburg car accident attorneys. With their expertise, they can provide you with valuable guidance and support during this challenging time.
We offer a free first consultation, allowing you to discuss your situation openly and confidentially without any financial obligation. This initial meeting will help you understand the options available to you and determine the best course of action for your case.
