Welcome to our personal injury FAQ page. We understand that after an injury, you want clear information about your rights and how the legal process works. This page covers the basics, from filing a claim to the types of compensation you might receive, to help you get started. Our experienced personal injury lawyers are committed to guiding you through this challenging time with clarity and care.
A personal injury case arises when someone is harmed due to another person or entity’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions. Common examples include car accidents, slips and falls, dog bites, and medical malpractice. If your injuries resulted in physical, emotional, or financial harm, you may have grounds to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim.
You may be eligible for compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and other financial losses. Non-economic damages like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life may also be available. In severe cases, future medical costs and diminished earning capacity may be considered.
Seek medical attention immediately and report the incident to the proper authorities. If possible, document the scene with photos and gather contact information from witnesses. Avoid discussing the incident with insurance adjusters before speaking with a lawyer. Preserving evidence early is key to building a strong case.
If you suffered injuries due to someone else’s negligence, especially if medical bills or lost wages are involved, it’s wise to speak with a lawyer. An attorney can evaluate your case, protect your rights, and pursue the full compensation you’re entitled to—especially when dealing with insurance companies.
Florida law typically gives you two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. Waiting too long can result in losing your right to seek compensation, so it’s crucial to consult a lawyer as soon as possible after your injury.
Many personal injury cases settle out of court through negotiations. However, if the responsible party or their insurer refuses to offer fair compensation, your case may proceed to trial. A skilled attorney will prepare thoroughly and advocate on your behalf throughout the legal process, whether in settlement discussions or in court.
Pain and suffering is a type of non-economic damage that considers the physical and emotional toll of an injury. While there’s no set formula, factors like the severity of the injury, length of recovery, and impact on your life are considered. Your lawyer can help build a case that reflects the full extent of your suffering.
Yes. Florida follows a modified comparative fault rule. You can still recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. A personal injury attorney can help assess liability and fight to minimize the fault assigned to you.
Strong evidence includes medical records, accident reports, witness statements, photographs, video footage, and expert testimony. These help establish the cause of the accident, the extent of your injuries, and the other party’s negligence. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be.
A contingency fee agreement means your attorney is only paid if they successfully recover compensation for you. Instead of paying upfront legal fees, the lawyer takes a percentage of the settlement or verdict. This arrangement allows injury victims to pursue justice without financial barriers.
If the responsible party is uninsured or underinsured, you may still have options. You could seek compensation through your own insurance policy if it includes uninsured motorist coverage. A personal injury lawyer can help identify all potential sources of recovery and explore alternative legal avenues.
Yes, but delaying treatment can affect the strength of your claim. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident. Seeking prompt medical care not only protects your health but also provides important documentation for your case.
The timeline varies depending on the case’s complexity, the severity of injuries, and whether the matter settles or goes to trial. Some claims may resolve within a few months, while others take a year or more. Your attorney will work to move the case forward efficiently while aiming for a fair outcome.
If you were injured on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. In some cases, you may also be able to file a separate personal injury claim against a third party if they contributed to the accident. A lawyer can help you determine the best course of action.
A local attorney understands Florida’s laws, court procedures, and insurance regulations. They’re familiar with area courts and legal personnel, which can benefit your case. Working with someone local also ensures accessibility and personalized attention throughout your case.
In certain situations, such as when a loved one is incapacitated or a minor, you may be able to file a claim on their behalf. If the injury resulted in death, eligible family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit. Speak with an attorney to understand who can file and what compensation may be available.
A demand letter is a formal document your lawyer sends to the at-fault party’s insurer, outlining the facts of the case, your injuries, and the compensation being sought. It initiates settlement negotiations and provides an opportunity to resolve the matter before filing a lawsuit.
You may still recover compensation if an accident worsens a pre-existing condition. The law allows injury victims to be compensated for the extent to which the incident aggravated an existing health issue. Your attorney will work with medical professionals to prove how the accident affected your condition.
Avoid posting about the accident on social media, admitting fault, or signing any documents from an insurer without legal advice. These actions can harm your claim. Instead, seek medical care, document the scene, and contact a personal injury attorney to guide you through the next steps.
Yes, emotional distress—such as anxiety, depression, or trauma—may be compensable in a personal injury case. These are considered non-economic damages. While they may be harder to quantify than medical bills, an attorney can help demonstrate how your emotional well-being has been impacted by the injury.