When Does a Sarasota Personal Injury Claim Become a Lawsuit?
If you have been injured, a Sarasota personal injury attorney can help you to file a personal injury claim. After speaking with your lawyer, your claim will most likely be filed with an insurance company. The at-fault person or company’s insurance should then negotiate with your attorney and compensate you for medical bills, lost work, or any other damages incurred.
However, if the claim that is filed does not achieve the results you and your lawyer are seeking, or if the circumstances do not involve an insurance company, then it may be time to file a personal injury lawsuit. A lawsuit is typically filed against an individual, business, or insurance company.
After a Car Accident Injury, File a Personal Injury Claim
When seeking compensation for car accident injuries for example, you will typically begin negotiations with the insurance company of the at-fault driver. Negotiations can be tricky, particularly if an insurance adjuster denies your damages. Having a knowledgeable lawyer on your side can not only help in establishing driver liability, but also in discovering and arguing all of your damages entitled under the law.
Documents to help establish at-fault driver liability:
- Video or photos of accident site taken by you or others.
- Witness statements from individuals who were involved in the accident or saw the accident.
- A copy of the police report covering the accident.
- Additional items that demonstrate you were not at fault.
Different types of damages available:
- Lost Wages.
- Past and Future Medical Expenses.
- Past and Future Pain and Suffering.
The insurance company of the at-fault driver may still attempt to reduce the compensation amount when who was at fault is clear. Negotiations around how much compensation is fair are common. A Sarasota car accident attorney can help you through this process. If there is not a claim that is agreeable, your lawyer may advise moving forward with a personal injury lawsuit to secure a fair amount.
Time Limits for Lawsuits in Florida
Each state has time limits in place for filing lawsuits. If negotiations go on for an extended period of time, these time limits can become an issue. Under Florida’s statute of limitations, you have typically have four years from the time of an accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Still, different situations may call for different time limits. Consult with an experienced Florida attorney to determine when your time limit to file a lawsuit expires.
You need a knowledgeable lawyer to guide you through a Florida lawsuit as well. In the discovery process, you will need to collect documents and records to strengthen your case. Do not be discouraged by having to file a lawsuit; there are still opportunities to negotiate a settlement at this stage. If an attractive compensation package is eventually offered after filing a lawsuit, settling before trial can save you time and stress. A Sarasota car accident attorney can help you to determine what is a fair settlement after filing a lawsuit and if it is in your best interest to accept.
Talk to an Experienced Sarasota Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Claims and lawsuits can be stressful. You want a lawyer working for you who has successfully secured positive results in claims similar to yours. Plus, they can help you decide if a lawsuit is more appropriate than anything offered. To understand your personal injury claim options, talk to an experienced Sarasota personal injury lawyer.
After a Sarasota car accident, “Give ‘Em Hale.” Contact Hale Law at 941-735-4529 to discuss your options. Our Sarasota personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, schedule your consultation today.
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