FAQs About Personal Injury Law
Whether you have been hurt in a car crash, slip and fall, bicycle accident, or otherwise, and you suffered injuries due to another person’s negligence, you may be able to file a claim against them for compensation. When filing your claim, it is natural to have many questions. Below, our Tampa personal injury attorney answers those we most commonly hear.
How Much Compensation Can I Claim?
The compensation in personal injury claims is known as damages. You can pursue damages for any injury or loss you suffered as a result of the accident. The most common types of damages available in personal injury claims are medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Without fully evaluating the facts of your case, it can be challenging to determine how much compensation you are entitled to. Some cases have a value of a few thousand dollars while others are worth millions. It is important to speak to a personal injury attorney in Tampa who can help you claim the full settlement you deserve.
How Long Will My Case Take?
The timeline of personal injury cases varies, as the facts of each case are unique. The majority of cases are resolved within one to three years. Still, some cases can be resolved in just a few months. If there are questions regarding liability, catastrophic injuries, or the insurance company refuses to act in good faith, your case may take longer.
What if I Contributed to the Accident?
Under Florida’s comparative fault law, you may still be able to claim compensation even if you contributed to the accident. You can file a claim if you are found to be 50 percent or less at fault for the accident. Any compensation you receive, though, will be reduced by your same percentage of fault.
Should I Sign a Release?
Often after an accident, the liable party will ask you to sign a release. This is most often the case in slip and fall cases when a commercial property owner or occupier wants to shield themselves from liability. If you sign a release, you may sign away your right to file a lawsuit in the future and claim the damages you deserve. Never sign a release until you have spoken to an attorney.
Will I Have to Go to Court?
The answer to this is that it depends. In the majority of cases, your lawyer will help you file a claim with the insurance company representing the liable party. Most of the time, your lawyer and the insurer will reach a settlement agreement out of court. If the insurance company refuses to act in good faith, or the liable party was not insured, you may have to go to court to obtain the damages you deserve.
Should I Work with a Personal Injury Attorney in Tampa?
You are not required to work with a Tampa personal injury attorney when filing your claim, but it is recommended that you do. At Moore Law, our seasoned attorney can accurately value your claim, conduct an investigation to determine who is to blame, and guide you through the process so you obtain the maximum damages you are entitled to. Call us today at 813-510-5400 or contact us online to request a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
Source:
flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2024/768.81
