Licensed drivers in Florida and beyond typically understand that being cautious and alert at the wheel helps improve travel safety. There are certain stretches of roadway that might be more dangerous than others. In fact, intersections, in particular, are known for being areas that are high-risk for collision. Sadly, a fatal motor vehicle accident recently occurred that involved several vehicles, two of which were stopped at traffic lights.
Police say a van had likely been traveling at a high rate of speed moments before the collision occurred. The driver attempted a left turn at a crossroad. Taking a turn too fast can have disastrous results. In this case, the driver lost control of steering and crashed into two vehicles that were stopped at a red light.
The driver of the van did not survive the collision. There were several passengers in the vehicle at the time. Three people were listed in critical condition when rescuers transported them to an area hospital for emergency treatment. Traffic lanes were closed following the crash so that clean-up crews could clear the area of debris.
When a person deemed responsible for a fatal motor vehicle accident in Florida does not survive the incident, a personal injury claim may be filed against his or her estate if someone who survived the collision suffered injury. If such a claim is filed, the plaintiff is tasked with presenting evidence in court to show that the decedent was negligent behind the wheel and that this was a direct cause of the damages that occurred. An experienced personal injury attorney can help determine the maximum compensation for damages that might be available in a particular case.
When you cannot work because of a physical or mental disability, you understand how important it is to secure financial help. Through a claim filed with the Social Security Administration, you can get benefits that will help you address your medical expenses, basic needs and other bills. Unfortunately, many of these claims come back denied the first time.
While this is frustrating, there are other options available to you. You don’t have to give up, but you can move forward with the appeals process. The first part of this is likely to request a reconsideration of your claim with the SSA. If the reconsideration is not successful, you can then request a hearing, but you must do so within 60 days. If you are asking for a hearing, it is in your interests to know what to expect and how you can prepare well.
Before your hearing
After you submit your request for your hearing, the SSA will send you notice of when it will take place. While the dates and times vary, you will receive at least 20 days’ notice. These hearings tend to move fast, and you need to be prepared with your statement if you plan to make one. It is also extremely important to be on time to the hearing. If you are physically unable to appear, you may be able to set up a videoconference for your hearing.
During your hearing
During the hearing, you and everyone else giving testimony and witness accounts will have to swear in. The judge will introduce your case and ask important questions about your health and how it affects your ability to work. Vocational witnesses may speak, as can doctors and health professionals. The SSA may also send representatives and their own witnesses.
If the judge does not speak directly to you or ask you any questions, you may request to speak for yourself. You can also submit evidence for your case, and your representative can ask witnesses questions as well.
After the hearing
After the conclusion of the hearing, the judge will take into account everything stated by witnesses and review all evidence presented. He or she will then make a final decision about your application and determine if you should receive disability benefits. There is a lot on the line during a disability hearing, and you may find it useful to work with a Florida attorney who understands the process and can help you fight for the benefits you need.