Five Facts You Need To Be Aware Of When Filing A Personal Injury Claim In Naples
Personal injuries in Naples often happen in accidents for which others involved are to blame. In this situation, it is important to be aware of your rights to compensation. Our Naples personal injury lawyer shares five facts you need to be aware of when filing a claim.
- Personal injuries take time to recover from.
It can take a long time to recover from personal injuries. Even a minor accident can cause impacts that last for months or years after. For example, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons states that while muscle strains or sprains may not appear severe, failure to rest or undergo physical therapy can cause chronic pain and potentially permanent impairments.
- Insurance companies are not your friend.
When personal injuries happen, the at-fault party may have insurance policies in place that can help cover your losses. However, be aware that while they portray themselves as protecting your interests, the fact is they are big businesses whose main goal is increasing profits. One of the ways they do this is by denying or downplaying claims.
- Once you accept a settlement, you waive your rights to any future claims.
Victims of personal injuries are vulnerable. It is not uncommon for them to suffer serious mental trauma as a result of an accident while physical symptoms can cause chronic pain. Unfortunately, insurers often take advantage of this situation. Be wary of any settlement offers, particularly within days after your accident, as it is likely to be far less than what you deserve. Once you accept, you waive the right to any future compensation.
- You have up to four years to file a personal injury lawsuit.
It can take long months for doctors to determine when you have reached the level of maximum medical recovery. This means that any ongoing issues are likely to result in permanent impairments. It also takes time to investigate accidents, determine who is at fault, and calculate the total amount of compensation you are entitled to. As a result, under the Florida Statutes, you have up to four years to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party.
- You may be entitled to compensation, even if you were partially to blame.
While insurers will deny your claim if you were even partially at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation. Under the legal theory of comparative negligence, you still have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit, even if your own actions contributed to the accident or your injuries.
Request A Consultation With Our Naples Personal Injury Lawyer
When personal injuries in Naples happen, you only have one chance to get compensation in a claim. To get the maximum amount you are entitled to and need to recover, get Cardinal Law, P.A. on your side. Before making statements to insurers or accepting a settlement, call or contact our Naples personal injury lawyer online and request a consultation first.
Sources:
orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/sprains-strains-and-other-soft-tissue-injuries/
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0095/Sections/0095.11.html
