Lawsuit guides when tackling personal injury issues in Florida, USA
Accident attorneys in Florida? When is a Driver Negligent and Liable for Damages in a Car Accident? While every car accident is unique, here are some common scenarios in which a driver in Florida might be negligent and liable for the damages caused: Violating the traffic code: A driver who causes an accident by violating the traffic code will likely be liable for the damages caused by the accident. In fact, this is the most common causes of car accidents. Violations of the traffic code that regularly result in car accidents include drivers who ignore traffic lights and drivers who are speeding. Impaired Driving: Sadly, alcohol-related crashes are still fairly common in Florida. According to the Florida Department of Transportation, 5,223 crashes were caused by drivers impaired by alcohol, which in Florida means that the driver has a Blood Alcohol Level (or BAC) over 0.08.
In putting together your settlement demand letter, you figured out a range of what you believe your claim is worth. Before you speak to an adjuster about your demand, decide on a minimum settlement figure within that range that you would accept. This figure is for your own information, not something you would reveal to the adjuster. But once the figures and discussions start going back and forth, it helps if you already have your bottom line in mind. That way, you don’t have to make a snap decision if an adjuster makes you a take-it-or-leave-it offer on the phone. You will know whether it meets your minimum level or not. However, you do not have to cling to the figure you originally set for yourself. If an adjuster points out some facts you had not considered but which clearly make your claim weaker, you may have to lower your minimum figure somewhat. And if the adjuster starts with a low settlement offer or a number at or near your minimum — or if you discover evidence that makes your claim stronger — you may want to revise your minimum upward.
Never be embarrassed to tell your doctors about all of your complaints. The value of your claim is due in large measure to the doctor’s diagnosis and treatment. The doctor can only treat what he observes of what you tell him. The doctor’s records will only be as complete as information that he receives. Keep track of all prescriptions and medicines taken, preferably saving all bottles or containers of medicine. Provide your attorney with receipts for all medications, both over the counter and prescription medications as well as any other items purchased such as crutches, canes, neck braces, splints and bandages.
Don’t be surprised if the insurance company offers you a settlement shortly after your injury accident. Typically, this means they know you have a viable claim. They might offer you a small settlement, hoping you will take a quick payout, even though the value of your claim could be significantly higher. Once you accept that settlement, you will give up your rights to recover any further compensation.
Florida has a relatively short statute of limitations, the legal term for the amount of time a person has to file a lawsuit. Under state law, a victim of a car accident caused by a negligent driver must file a lawsuit within four years of the accident. Because time is of the essence in these types of cases, it is important for you to contact a car accident attorney in Orlando to discuss any possible legal options that may be available to you. To reach out to a knowledgeable attorney, contact Bengal Law at 407-315-8000. Find more info on https://bengallaw.com/.
The jury is going to decide your case by looking at the evidence. Even the other party is going to decide whether to offer you a fair settlement based on the strength of your case. That means the more you can do to preserve evidence, the greater the chance of winning your case is going to be. You should take photos of the accident scene and your immediate injuries if you’re able to. It’s important to try to collect names and contact information for witnesses. If there’s a police report, you will want to get a copy as soon as possible. Your attorney can follow up on this information to collect detailed witness statements and prepare the case.
