Navigating the complex world of personal injury claims can be overwhelming for individuals who have been injured due to someone else’s negligence. This article aims to address some frequently asked questions related to personal injury claims in Florida, providing answers based on authoritative sources to help you better understand your rights and the legal process.
In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims was recently changed to only two years from the date of the accident. This means that you have two years to file a lawsuit against the party responsible for your injuries. If you fail to file within this time frame, your claim may be barred, and you may lose your right to seek compensation.
Florida is a no-fault insurance state, which means that after an accident, each driver’s insurance covers their medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance is mandatory in Florida and covers up to $10,000 in medical expenses and lost wages. However, if your injuries are severe or your expenses exceed the PIP coverage limits, you may pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault party for additional compensation.
To prevail in a personal injury case in Florida, the injured party must prove that the defendant was negligent. Negligence involves establishing four elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. The plaintiff must show that the defendant owed a duty of care, breached that duty, directly caused the plaintiff’s injuries and that the plaintiff suffered damages as a result.
In a Florida personal injury claim, you may be entitled to recover various types of damages, including economic, non-economic, and punitive damages. Economic damages are quantifiable losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages are subjective, non-monetary losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of consortium. Punitive damages are awarded to punish the defendant for particularly egregious behavior, though they are relatively rare in personal injury cases.
Florida follows a “modified comparative negligence” system, meaning that if you were partially at fault for an accident, your damages would be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault (6). For example, if you were found to be 30% at fault for an accident and suffered $100,000 in damages, your recovery would be reduced by 30%, leaving you with $70,000. However, with the recent tort reform that law just passed, if you are found to be more than 50% negligent, you are barred from making a recovery.
The duration of a personal injury claim can vary widely, depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate a settlement.
Some cases may be resolved within a few months, while others may take years, particularly if they go to trial. An experienced personal injury attorney at Shapiro | Delgado | Hofmann can provide you with a more accurate timeline based on the specifics of your case.
After an accident in Florida, it’s important to take several steps to protect your rights and support any potential personal injury claim:
Determining the value of a personal injury claim can be complex, as it involves calculating both economic and non-economic damages. Factors that can affect the value of your claim include the severity of your injuries, the extent of your medical expenses, your lost wages, and the impact of your injuries on your quality of life. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you assess the value of your claim and work to maximize your compensation.
While it is not legally required to have an attorney handle your personal injury claim, it is generally advisable. Personal injury attorneys are experienced in negotiating with insurance companies and navigating the legal system to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries. Studies have shown that individuals who are represented by an attorney typically recover significantly more compensation than those who attempt to handle their claims on their own.
See the study here
A contingency fee arrangement is a fee structure where an attorney agrees to represent a client without charging any upfront fees. Instead, the attorney receives a percentage of the client’s recovery, typically ranging from 25% to 40%. If the client does not recover any compensation, the attorney does not receive any fees. This arrangement allows clients to obtain legal representation without having to pay out-of-pocket costs, and it aligns the attorney’s interests with the client’s, as the attorney’s compensation is directly tied to the client’s recovery.
Understanding the complexities of personal injury claims in Florida is crucial for individuals seeking compensation for their injuries. By addressing these frequently asked questions, the law firm of Shapiro | Delgado | Hofmann hope to provide a solid foundation for navigating the personal injury process. It’s important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. Our personal injury attorneys have offices in Sarasota and Bradenton. Call (941) 954-4000 today or fill out our online form.
