An accident can turn your entire world upside down in the blink of an eye.
Whether it’s a car accident, a slip and fall, a work injury or medical malpractice, an accident can result in physical injuries or property damage as well as emotional turmoil and new financial burdens.
Personal injury lawsuits can help with these damages. But many are uncertain whether they can file such a claim or how to go about doing so.
What is a Personal Injury Claim?
A claim for personal injury arises after a negligence action causes injury or financial damages to another individual. Individuals and businesses have a duty to act reasonably (for example, abiding by traffic laws), so failing to do so (for example, running a stop sign) is an indication of negligence.
The injured person typically files the personal injury claim against the negligent party in order to be compensated for the damages they’ve suffered.
What You Can Recover in a Personal Injury Claim
People who file personal injury claims can recover for many different types of damages, not just physical injuries. Financial compensation can cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost time at work
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage (to your vehicle, for example)
It’s important to note that, under Florida law, an individual is only responsible for paying for the percentage of the damages they directly caused. For example, if both drivers were acting negligently at the time of the accident, both drivers will be responsible for part of the compensation.
A personal injury attorney will be able to help you determine these percentages.
How to File a Personal Injury Claim in Florida
The first step to filing a personal injury claim for compensation is to speak with a personal injury attorney. An attorney will have in-depth knowledge of the legal system and be able to guide you in the best direction.
In the meantime, because the damages sustained from an accident can be numerous, it’s very important to begin documenting all of your injuries and other economic losses. This can be done through photos, medical records, police reports, etc. Keep all documents and other evidence in a safe place and readily available.
If you’ve been in a serious accident in Florida, Lorenzo & Lorenzo is ready to help you through your personal injury claim from start to finish. Give us a call to schedule a free consultation.
