Were you injured in an incident involving a recreational vehicle (RV)? When RV-related accidents happen, the consequences can be dire, especially given the size and weight of RVs. In many cases, collisions like these result in intense levels of damage and serious injuries.
While no one wants to get into a crash, it’s good to know that you don’t have to handle the aftermath of an RV accident alone. Instead, reach out to Viles & Beckman as soon as possible. The sooner you contact a Fort Myers personal injury lawyer, the sooner we can help.
With over 40 years of combined experience, we’ve recovered more than $100 million for personal injury victims just like you. You can trust us—as your Fort Myers RV accident lawyer—to stand by your side and advocate for your rights every step of the way.
Common Causes of RV Accidents
Not only are RVs larger than your average car, but they are also heavier than standard passenger vehicles. This makes them more challenging to operate, and the complicated nature of RVs can naturally contribute to an increased risk of causing a collision.
However, user error is not the only cause of crashes involving RVs. While inexperienced RV drivers who lack the skills they need to drive along highways or safely manage tight turns can cause a collision, our Fort Myers RV accident attorneys also see many other common causes of RV accidents:
- Fatigue: Long road trips can lead to driver fatigue, which inherently slows reaction times and impairs people’s decision-making abilities.
- Speeding: Operating an RV at high speeds can make it difficult to stop or control the vehicle in an emergency.
- Improper loading: Overloading or unevenly distributing the weight in an RV can affect its stability, increasing the risk of a rollover accident.
- Mechanical failures: Faulty brakes, popped tires, and other mechanical errors can lead to catastrophic accidents involving RVs.
- Weather conditions: Wind, rain, and other unsafe weather conditions can exacerbate the difficulty of driving an RV.
- Negligence by other drivers: Other motorists may fail to give RVs enough space on the road or make dangerous maneuvers near RVs, both of which are scenarios that can contribute to the likelihood of a crash taking place.
At Viles & Beckman, our mission and values center around a client-focused and results-driven approach. When you reach out to our RV accident lawyer in Fort Myers, you can trust us to put you first as we investigate the cause of the collision. From there, we can take a look at your injuries.
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Injuries Common in RV Accidents
Due to their size and weight, RV collisions can cause devastating injuries. Here are common injuries that those involved in this type of crash may endure:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Head injuries from the impact of the collision or debris that flies around after the crash can have long-lasting effects.
- Spinal cord injuries: All spine-related damage is concerning, but in worst-case scenarios, you could sustain damage to your spine that results in chronic pain and partial or full paralysis.
- Broken bones: The force of an RV collision can result in either fractured or broken bones, if not both.
- Internal injuries: The impact can cause damage to your organs, which can lead to internal bleeding.
- Lacerations and burns: Accidents that result in fires or involve shattered glass can leave victims like you with serious cuts and burns.
These injuries often require medical care, including surgical procedures, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation. No matter your injuries, it’s not uncommon for herniated disc victims to face financial strain that adds to an already stressful situation.
Liability in RV Accidents
Determining liability in an RV accident can be a difficult process, especially when the collision involves multiple parties. Thankfully, lawyers with experience handling RV accident cases will know how to investigate your case and identify those responsible for the crash.
The following parties could be held liable for an RV-related collision:
- The RV driver: If the RV driver’s negligence caused the accident, they might be found responsible for the damages that resulted from the crash.
- Other motorists: Negligence on part of other drivers could have contributed to the RV accident, in which case they may be held liable.
- RV manufacturers: If defective parts or design flaws contributed to the collision, the RV manufacturer might be at fault for incidents caused by mechanical failures.
- Rental companies: If an improperly maintained rental RV caused the accident, the rental company could be found responsible.
- Government entities: Poorly maintained roads and inadequate signage are two examples of circumstances that could make a government entity liable for a crash.
Compensation for Victims of RV Accident Cases
If you were injured in an RV accident, you might be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical expenses: Reimbursement for hospital bills, surgical procedures, prescription medications, and physical therapy might be an option for you. In some instances, you might receive financial help for future medical care as well.
- Lost wages: You might be eligible to receive compensation for any income that you lost as a result of your injuries. In some cases, you can pursue money for your reduced earning capacity if you are unable to return to work altogether.
- Pain and suffering: Monetary damages for physical pain and emotional distress—as well as a loss of enjoyment of life—might be worth considering.
- Property damage: You might be eligible for reimbursement for repairs to your car or the replacement of your vehicle as a whole.
- Wrongful death: If you lost a loved one in an RV accident, you might be eligible for damages that cover expenses such as funeral costs or loss of companionship.
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Contact a Fort Myers RV Accident Lawyer Today
If you or someone you love was involved in an RV incident, it’s important to act quickly if you want to protect your legal rights. One of the more helpful actions you can take is reaching out to a personal injury lawyer in your area.
The law firm of Viles & Beckman is here to help. We know that collisions involving RVs can result in long-lasting injuries and drastic property damage. They can also put you in stressful financial positions, but with us, there’s no need to worry.
Don’t wait to seek the legal help you need for the compensation you deserve—learn more about Viles & Beckman by contacting us today. When you meet with us, we can review your case, answer your questions, and explain your options for pursuing justice.
Call or text (239) 334-3933 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form