Did you know that 1 out of 2 drivers in Florida are uninsured or under insured. If you are in an accident, your uninsured motorist coverage will cover you in the event that the other driver has inadequate coverage. Do not rely on the assumption that you can sue the other driver. In reality, this may take a long time and drivers without insurance will not likely have the resources to pay, should you win the case.

There are two kinds of uninsured motorist:

• Stacked: The coverage of two vehicles you own will combine if one car is involved in the accident (50K for each car, you have 100k of coverage).
• Unstacked: Each car is covered separately.

Insurance companies will often tell you do not need uninsured motorist if you have medical insurance. However, hospital bills from an accident can quickly exceed medical coverage allowances, and you will receive nothing for pain and suffering, therfore combining with uninsured motorist is strongly advised. 

If you have been in an accident and you and/or the other party do not have uninsured motorist coverage, contact your attorney first. 

Do not discuss anything with your insurance company or the other driver’s insurance company without an attorney. We will review both policies and verify the coverage levels in each party. By doing this, we can make sure you get what you are entitled to and every base is covered.  The attorneys at Bianco-Mansfield will represent you against the other driver to be sure that you receive any and all compensation possible. 

We review things that are commonly overlooked.  For example, did you check the ‘reject uninsured motorist’ coverage box? If you declined uninsured motorist but your insurance company cannot prove that you formally rejected it in writing, you may still be eligible for coverage. 

Rest assured that in the event that an uninsured driver injures you in a car accident, they do not get off just because they do not have insurance. Your insurance company will pursue them and may put a lien against them for the amount. If they do not satisfy the lien their license may be suspended. If you were not responsible for the accident, your insurance premium should not go up just because you needed the uninsured motorist coverage.

Bianco-Mansfield has been serving the community for more than 20 years.  We will work directly with you from start to finish. 

Learn More about what Bianco and Mansfield can you for you if you have been injured in a car accident.

Dog Attack Injuries Can Have Serious Consequences

Dog attacks can happen to anyone when least expected and can cause serious and permanent injuries and disfigurement.  The extent of your injuries and the long term associated costs are not always immediately apparent.  It is important to understand your rights and the steps you should take if you or someone you care about has been bitten or otherwise injured in a dog attack.  Don’t take risks with your future – seek advice from an experienced personal injury attorney

Understanding Florida Law Related to Dog Attacks

Under Florida Law a dog owner is liable for all injuries and damages that occur as a result of the actions of their pet if the injured person is in a public place or is legally on private property including that of the dog owner.  This is true regardless of whether the dog has a history of aggressiveness or whether the owner is aware of risks posed by the dog. 

There are exemptions to this liability. If the injured party is found to have teased or injured the dog or has attacked the dog’s owner or family of the owner there is no owner liability. Another exemption is if the injured person has ignored appropriate and clear warnings by the owner.

What You Should Do If You Are Bitten or Attacked by a Dog

Get medical attention for your dog attack related injuries: Your first priority is to seek appropriate medical attention. Even if you believe you are not seriously injured you should go to an emergency room and be evaluated. It is possible that a rabies shot may be necessary of the owner cannot demonstrate that the dog has been vaccinated or it you are not aware of who owns the dog.  Keep all paperwork and receipts for evaluation, testing, and treatment.

Obtain dog owner and witness contact information:  Get the name and address of the owner if possible as well as insurance information and dog license information.  Also get contact information for any witnesses to the incident. Witnesses can be extremely important and helpful to your case.

Take photos related the dog attack incident: Take photos of your injuries and clothing as well as any other relevant areas of the scene of the incident. For example if you are attacked while legally on the dog owners property, take pictures of the area to demonstrate that no warning signs were present. Cell phones can be useful for taking photos.

Report the dog attack to authorities:  You should report the dog bite to the police as well as to animal control where appropriate. You may be a dog lover yourself or know the dog owner and hesitate to report the incident. But in order to protect your rights this is an important step.

Contact an Attorney:  As soon as possible contact an experienced personal injury attorney. They can assess the particular circumstances of the dog attack incident and provide you with guidance regarding options and steps you should take. They can also help with referral for treatment.

What Not to Do if You Are Bitten By a Dog!

Do not sign any documents provided by any insurance company, the owner of the dog, or a landlord or property owner. It is inadvisable to even speak to an insurance company until you have had the advice of an attorney.

If You Have Been Bitten or Attacked by a Dog Call for a Free Consultation 

Bianco and Mansfield – Personal Injury Attorneys – New Port Richey