In Clearwater, vehicle and pedestrian accidents are common. While it is possible to handle an injury claim after an accident alone, certain situations may require assistance from a personal injury lawyer. To gain an idea of when these may be, consider reviewing the following situations:
Facing a serious injury
An accident can leave you with serious injuries, such as bone fractures, neck trauma and spinal cord damage. Depending on the severity of your injuries, expect costly immediate medical treatments, extensive care and long-term rehabilitation.
With the help of an attorney, you can gain a better chance of recovering compensation for the damages you sustained. They can assist you in building a personal injury claim against the at-fault party by gathering evidence and outlining the worth of your injury.
Negotiating with an insurance company
Receiving a low settlement from an insurance company can happen. While you may get an offer that covers bills, it may be insufficient if you consider other factors in your injury.
An attorney can review the settlement offer for you. If they believe the amount is less than what you deserve, they can negotiate on your behalf.
Navigating an accident that resulted in a wrongful death
Filing a wrongful death claim can be a complex and lengthy process that could overwhelm your family. If a loved one dies after an accident caused by another party’s negligence, hiring legal representation might be the best available option. Your lawyer can handle collecting incriminating evidence, estimating losses and negotiating a fair settlement.
Confronting a dispute from the at-fault party
In Florida, the party responsible for the accident can dispute your claim and insist that you are partly to blame for your injuries. If they succeed, the court can significantly reduce your compensation. An attorney can navigate the dispute for you and provide evidence that can help disprove the other party’s statement.
In a nutshell, the presence of a personal injury attorney comes with benefits. They can educate you on Florida statutes, explain the available options for your case and represent you in court when matters escalate.