6 Common Questions And Answers About Tampa Personal Injury Lawyers

When you suffer injuries from an accident as the result of negligence, you likely have many questions about how to seek compensation through a lawsuit. Here are 6 questions that are commonly asked of Tampa accident attorneys by clients.

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury attorney?

Under Florida law, personal injury lawyers are allowed to work on a contingency basis. What does that mean? Working on for a contingency fee means that your lawyer will not collect any payment from you until and unless your case is won or favorably settled.

Can I file an accident claim?

While this is a questions best answered by an experienced Tampa accident lawyer, in most cases anyone who is injured by another party, intentionally or through the result of negligence, is entitled to pursue compensation under Florida laws.

During a meeting with an experienced attorney, you will be asked questions to begin the investigation of your claim. This is the time to present any evidence, such as photos or medical reports, that can help your lawyer determine if you have a solid personal injury case.

How long will my case take?

Every case is unique, and there is no clear cut timetable for how long a personal injury case will take to conclude. Your attorney will need time to investigate, and if the case goes to trial there may be delays depending on the docket of the court.

Should I meet with the insurance company or an investigator?

Before speaking to anyone from the other party’s insurance company, you should absolutely meet with a Tampa personal injury attorney. The insurance company will likely contact you very soon after the accident to take a statement. It is in your best interest not to make one, but to contact an attorney instead.

If you meet with an adjustor soon after your accident, you may not yet know the full extent of your injuries. And without speaking to an attorney, you will not know the full extent of your rights under Florida law.

It’s important to remember that insurance companies are a business. It is not their job to protect your interests, and they are very experienced at handling cases like yours. You need someone who is watching out for you and make sure you understand your rights and what the law requires of you, the other party involved, and the insurance companies. An accident attorney in Tampa can do this for you.

Should I handle my case on my own?

Many people think their personal injury claim is simple and an attorney is not needed. However, before deciding to go it alone, you should strongly consider consulting with an accident lawyer. Consultations are free, and it’s very likely that you’ll leave this first meeting realizing how complex the law actually is and that you do need help. Injury claims can be confusing and easily overwhelm those with no experience and training.

When will I get my compensation?

How long it takes to get compensation depends on many factors, including whether the other party is an individual or company, what their financial situation is, how large the settlement figure is, etc. Many plaintiffs will receive money within two weeks of winning a claim, but this is not always the case.

Winter Haven Accident Lawyers Say To Avoid These 5 Errors After A Car Crash

After a car accident, emotions are often running high. This can make it hard to think clearly and take the right steps to protect yourself and your legal rights. It’s important to avoid mistakes that could be costly later on. Here are 5 mistakes people often make after a crash that should be avoided.

Getting Upset

Keeping your calm after a car crash is important, even though it may be difficult. Winter Haven accident attorneys strongly recommend that you avoid getting angry, arguing with the other driver, or placing blame. When you speak with the police, give only the facts of what happened, not opinions, and do not under any circumstances apologize or admit fault to anyone.

Not Accepting Medical Care

Certain types of accident-related injuries do not produce symptoms for up to one day or longer after the event. Even if medical care is not required right after the accident, a doctor should be seen as soon as possible to document injuries and determine cost of recovery, should a legal claim be necessary. Not seeking medical attention could have a detrimental effect on the overall health of a person.

Forgetting to Document

Using your cell phone camera is a quick and easy way to document your accident. You can snap shots of the vehicles’ positions, damage, skid marks, roadway damage (guardrails and signs, etc.), as well as injuries to passengers and drivers. It’s also important to write down the names and contact information of everyone involved and any witnesses.

Accepting a Quick Settlement

It is the job of an insurance adjuster to protect the company’s interests; this means paying out as little as possible to an accident victim. Initial settlement offers are typically far lower than you are entitled to. Speaking with a Winter Haven accident attorney before accepting any settlement offer will ensure that your interests are protected.

Good legal advice can help you avoid signing away the right to proper compensation from an insurance company. In fact, you should speak with an attorney before speaking with the other driver’s insurer. It’s important to note, though, that you SHOULD report the accident to your insurance company right away, whether your vehicle damage exceeds your deductible or not.

Not Getting Legal Help

One of the biggest mistakes you can make after an automobile crash is not consulting an experienced personal injury lawyer. Having an attorney on your side means having someone who knows the law to review your case and determine your legal options. Initial consultations are typically free of charge. In fact, you will not pay anything unless the case is settled in your favor or won in court.

If you need assistance with an auto accident claim, auto accident attorneys in Winter Haven at Rivas Law Group are ready to help. Don’t delay contacting a lawyer, as this can lower your odds of receiving the maximum compensation you are entitled to.