Toll Road Accidents And Financial Relief
A common part of daily life for many Orlando-area drivers, toll roads are pay-to-drive roads designed to ease traffic congestion and provide faster travel options. While they often succeed in improving commute times, toll roads can also be the site of serious accidents.
When a crash happens on a toll road, the aftermath can be confusing, especially when it comes to determining fault and seeking financial relief. If you were hurt in a toll road accident, don’t navigate the complex insurance and liability system alone. Partner with an Orlando personal injury attorney.
What Are Toll Roads?
In the Orlando area, some of the most commonly used toll roads include Florida’s Turnpike, East-West Expressway, Central Florida GreeneWay, and Beachline Expressway. These toll roads connect major tourist attractions, suburbs, and business hubs, making them heavily traveled.
Toll roads are highways or expressways that require drivers to pay a fee to use them. In Florida, tolls are collected through cashless systems like SunPass or toll-by-plate. These roads are typically well-maintained and monitored, but that doesn’t eliminate accident risks.
These auto paths are often associated with higher speeds, limited access points, and complex merging patterns. This can increase the likelihood of certain types of accidents. For instance, there may be rear-end collisions near toll gantries or exit ramps. There have been side-swipe collisions due to abrupt lane changes and multi-car pile ups during traffic slowdowns and inclement weather, too.
Who Is Responsible for Toll Road Accident Losses?
If you’re injured in an accident on a toll road, multiple parties could be held liable depending on the circumstances:
- Other drivers. If another driver’s negligence caused the crash, which could be the case if they were speeding, tailgating, or failing to yield, they can be held accountable for your injuries and damages.
- Commercial vehicle operators. If a commercial truck or delivery van caused the accident, their employer may also share responsibility under Florida’s vicarious liability laws.
- Government agencies or toll authorities. In rare cases, poor road maintenance, lack of signage, or malfunctioning toll equipment could contribute to an accident. Claims against public entities like the Florida Department of Transportation are complex but possible.
- Vehicle manufacturers. If a mechanical defect or faulty safety system contributed to the crash, a product liability claim may be appropriate.
Florida is a no-fault insurance state, meaning your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) plan is the coverage you would initially turn to for medical and lost wage relief. PIP covers up to $10,000 in losses.
Should you be in a situation where your injuries require a more extensive level of care, you may pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault party for additional compensation. An experienced Orlando personal injury attorney can evaluate your case, gather evidence from toll road cameras and witnesses, and work to ensure you receive full compensation.
Are you recovering from a toll road injury? Sharing the specifics of your situation with the talented attorneys at Israoui Law can help you navigate the process and maximize your compensation. For the personal attention you deserve, call 407-381-4529. Always speak to an experienced accident injury attorney before speaking to any insurance company.
