A personal injury claim in Florida can be a complex and confusing process, particularly if you have never traversed this part of the legal system before. It is essential to know your rights and your responsibilities, whether you are injured in a car accident, a slip and fall, or some other sort of incident caused by someone else’s negligence. The unfortunate reality is that a number of claimants make mistakes that could and should be avoided.
These mistakes can serve to weaken a person’s case, and in some instances, they even lead to a denied claim. Our friends at Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys inform us that the laws and deadlines pertaining to personal injury cases in Florida are distinctive and, in some cases, even peculiar. The main thing to understand, however, is that partnering with a quality personal injury lawyer near me will make it significantly more likely that your case will be handled properly and in the right timeframe.
Waiting Too Long to File
One of the most common mistakes is missing the claim deadline. For most personal injury claims, the statute of limitation is two years from the incident that caused the injury (as of legislative updates in 2023), and this is the time period within which a plaintiff has to file a claim.
If a plaintiff in Florida fails to file a claim within this time period, their right to seek any kind of compensation for the injury is essentially cancelled.
Not Seeking Medical Attention Immediately
Another significant error is postponing medical attention after an accident. You might not feel any pain, yet some injuries are slow to show signs of damage. Insurance companies are quick to point out times when people have gone to their doctors, using those records as evidence in their favor. If you see your doctor weeks or even months after your injury, it will likely be seen as a red flag.
Giving a Recorded Statement Without Legal Advice
Insurance adjusters frequently ask for a recorded statement just after an accident. This may appear to be a normal part of the process; however, it is a risky decision to go along with it if a lawyer has not been consulted first. The adjuster is fishing for something – anything – that can be used to deny or minimize your valid claim.
Your recorded statement could very well be the bait that they are looking for. Any competent personal injury lawyer near me like Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys would advise against doing this under any circumstance.
Accepting a Settlement Too Early
To resolve their claims quickly, injured parties are sometimes far too eager. This is particularly true when the parties face significant medical bills and lost wages. Their first offer is usually presented by the insurance company, and is almost always a lowball figure. Accepting it can be a very costly mistake.
Finding the Right Personal Injury Lawyer Near Me for Your Case
Handling a personal injury claim demands care, timing, and savvy. You can protect your rights and better your odds for fair compensation by steering clear of the blunders mentioned in today’s article, while also making sure to employ the services of a skilled PI attorney.
