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When Accidents Happen: How Our Personal Injury Lawyers in Florida Can Help You Seek Justice
When accidents happen, seeking justice and compensation can be complex and challenging. However, with the help of a personal injury lawyer in Florida, you can navigate the legal system and fight for your rights. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court, a personal injury lawyer will be your advocate every step. Don’t let an accident derail your life.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim in Florida
If you have been injured due to the negligent, reckless, or careless actions of another, you may be entitled to obtain substantial compensation for any damages suffered. To get the maximum compensation the law allows in Florida, you might need to file a personal injury claim with an insurance company and sue the responsible party. Getting total compensation from filing a lawsuit alone is not always possible. The following are things you should know before pursuing your legal options.
Florida Statute of Limitations
There are two statutes of limitations that you should be familiar with in personal injury cases. Florida law gives you four years to act if you file a lawsuit due to injuries you suffered.
Before hiring a personal injury lawyer to represent you in Florida, you should understand how the following aspects of the law affect your case:
- Damage Caps: Florida law does not limit compensatory, non-economic, or punitive damages when the defendant intends to harm the plaintiff. However, it does limit punitive damages to $2 million if the defendant had a financial motive and $500,000 or three times the number of compensatory damages (whichever is greater) in other cases.
- Modified Comparative Negligence: A jury can only award your money if it determines that you were no more than 50% responsible for the injury you suffered. And any award for losses will be prorated equal to the percentage you are responsible for.
Will I Receive a Higher Settlement with a Florida Personal Injury Lawyer?
Three major studies and a report show a clear correlation between retaining a lawyer for a personal injury accident and getting a larger settlement. The Insurance Research Council (IRC) published a study in 1999 with results that are still present over 20 years later. The study, “Paying for Auto Injuries: A Consumer Panel Survey of Auto Accident Victims,” has been updated since it was first published, but what the study found then still holds today. Accident victims who hired attorneys to help them with a claim received 40% more in the insurance settlement than those who didn’t retain a lawyer.
A separate report published by the IRC, “Auto Injuries: Claiming Behavior and Its Impact on Insurance Costs,” looked at how a lawyer’s representation relates to compensation for an insurance settlement. The IRC noted that 85% of all money paid out in insurance settlements for bodily injury claims is paid to people whom lawyers represent.
In 2014, the IRC conducted a study titled “Auto Injury Insurance Claims: Countrywide Patterns in Treatment, Cost and Compensation.” The study collected data from over 35,000 personal injury claims from 12 private car insurance providers. The 12 insurers represented 52% of the private car insurance market in the U.S. They found that attorney involvement affected the amount paid by the insurance companies for the medical expenses of claimants.
Motor Vehicle and Truck Accidents
When you are seriously injured in a car, truck, or motorcycle crash that was determined to be the fault of another driver, you can file a claim with their insurance company for compensation. Drivers in Florida must carry liability insurance for just such a purpose, but they often do not have enough insurance to cover their losses fully. This is where a personal injury attorney can fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Slip and Falls
Wet floors, torn rugs, unsecured electrical cords, broken handrails, uneven steps, and other maintenance issues can cause visitors to stores, restaurants, movie theaters, and amusement parks to fall and suffer severe injuries. While it might be embarrassing to fall in a public place, it’s essential to take a moment to determine the cause of your fall. If your clumsiness didn’t trip you up, you should talk to our team about a possible slip and fall liability claim.
Premises Liability Claims
Falls aren’t the only accident that can happen when a property owner is negligent. Inadequate building security could lead to an assault. An unsecured swimming pool could lead to a child’s drowning. An unrestrained dog could lead to a vicious attack. The property owner where one of these incidents occurred should be held accountable.
It’s important to remember that these parties carry liability insurance. Most personal injury claims involve negotiations with an insurance company, not an actual lawsuit in court.
Importance of Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer in Florida
Navigating the legal process independently after an accident can be overwhelming and time-consuming. This is why hiring a personal injury lawyer who can guide you through the process and fight for your rights is crucial. Here are some key reasons why hiring a personal injury lawyer is essential:
Legal Expertise: Our personal injury lawyers have extensive liability and insurance claims knowledge. We understand the intricacies of the legal system and how insurance companies operate. With 30 years of experience and a deep commitment to justice, we have successfully represented countless clients, securing the compensation they need to rebuild their lives. Every injury victim deserves a strong advocate, and we work tirelessly to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We thoroughly assess your case to determine the full extent of your injuries and the compensation you are entitled to. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future costs related to your injury.
Extensive Experience with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, as they often try to minimize payouts. At Williams Law P.A., we have over 30 years of experience fighting insurance companies in Florida. We will handle all communication with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.
Negotiation Skills: Our personal injury lawyers are skilled negotiators and will strive to reach a fair settlement with the responsible party or their insurance company. They will advocate for your best interests and fight for the maximum compensation.
Court Representation: Williams Law, P.A. is always prepared to take a claim or case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation. Our skilled insurance lawyers are experienced in negotiating settlements and litigating cases in court. We will aggressively advocate for your rights, presenting a persuasive case to the judge or jury. Having an attorney prepared to go to trial can also increase your leverage in settlement negotiations, as insurance companies are often more willing to offer a fair settlement when faced with litigation.
Contact Us Today
If you’ve been injured and need legal assistance, contact Williams Law, P.A. today to schedule your free consultation. Our experienced personal injury lawyers are here to provide you with the support and guidance you need. Call us at 1-800-451-6786 or fill out our online contact form.