When you are injured because of another person’s negligence, whether this is due to texting and driving or failure to properly maintain their premises, it can have a significant impact on your life. Not only can you suffer from the pain the injuries you’ve sustained caused, but you may also find that these matters can result in astronomical medical bills. As such, filing a personal injury claim against the negligent party may be in your best interest. However, you should understand when this is a viable option and what this process entails. Keep reading to learn more about these matters and why connecting with a Broward County personal injury attorney is imperative during these difficult times.
How Do I File a Personal Injury Claim in Broward County?
It’s important to understand that Florida is a no-fault state for auto accidents. This means that, regardless of fault, each driver is required to file a claim through their own insurance to recover compensation for medical bills and property damage. As such, drivers in Florida are required to carry the minimum Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage as required by state law.
This PIP insurance will cover 80% of or up to $10,000 worth of medical bills, and 60% or up to $10,000 of lost wages incurred as a result of the accident. However, if you sustain life-altering and serious injuries, you may quickly realize this amount barely covers a fraction of the damages you’ve endured as a result of someone else’s negligent actions. As such, you may pursue a lawsuit against the negligent party for the additional compensation you are entitled to.
Typically, when this happens, you and the other party’s insurance company will attempt to reach a settlement. This means that after submitting all necessary evidence and documentation, the insurance company will review the matter before offering a compensation amount. Generally, this offer will be considerably lower than the true value of your claim. As such, you can counter, and negotiations will begin.
What Happens if We Cannot Reach a Settlement?
If you cannot reach an agreement with the other party, your claim may proceed to trial. As such, understanding what to expect during these periods is critical. Generally, you must begin by filing a claim through the Broward County Clerk’s Office to initiate the lawsuit. As the party filing, you are the plaintiff, and the party you are suing is the defendant.
Before your trial officially begins, both parties will participate in the discovery process, which entails exchanging information, questioning witnesses, and examining documents to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the other party’s case. After discovery, your trial will begin. At trial, your attorney will introduce different arguments to the court, present and examine evidence, and question witnesses. The defendant’s attorney will do the same. Once your trial has concluded, the jury will issue a decision. Either party may file an appeal of this decision if they have the legal ground to do so.
As you can see, navigating a personal injury claim can be overwhelming, especially when grappling with the aftermath of an injury and attempting to heal from the damages you’ve endured due to the negligent actions of another party. That is why working with an experienced injury attorney with the Finizio Law Group is in your best interest. Our dedicated firm understands the impact these injuries can have on your life, which is why we are committed to fighting for the best possible outcome for you. When you need help, don’t hesitate to contact our team today.
