Statutes Of Limitations In Personal Injury Claims
Injuries suffered in accidents can have major impacts on your health and finances. When negligence on the part of others is involved, you have the right to hold them accountable in a personal injury claim. However, you only have a limited amount of time. Our Naples personal injury lawyer explains how statutes of limitations can impact your rights to compensation.
Limitations In Filing Insurance Claims For Personal Injuries
When personal injuries happen, such as due to slips and falls or motor vehicle accidents, insurance policies the at-fault party has in place can help cover some of your costs.
The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation closely monitors insurance companies and has strict requirements that must be followed.
Car accident victims are required to get medical care within 14 days of a car accident to be eligible for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. Otherwise, time limits for filing a claim are generally vague. To protect your rights in a settlement, take these actions:
- Report the accidents to the police, property owner, or other authorities immediately;
- Get contact and insurance information for everyone involved;
- Seek medical care for your injuries as soon as possible, regardless of severity;
- Make sure your doctor notes in your file that your injuries were the result of an accident involving others;
- Notify the insurance company right away.
Insurance companies have a financial interest in denying or downplaying claims. They may offer an immediate settlement, but it is likely less than the total amount you deserve. Before accepting or signing any documents, consult with our Naples personal injury lawyers first.
Personal Injury Lawsuit Statutes Of Limitations In Florida
Under the Florida Statutes, you have up to four years to file a personal injury. This may seem like a long time, but it allows for the following:
- Thorough investigations: it takes time to determine exactly how your accident happened, who is at fault, and to gather the evidence needed.
- Maximum medical recovery: It is generally best not to accept a settlement until you have reached the maximum level of medical recovery. Any ongoing issues could result in long-term disabilities.
- Determining total damages: As you only have one chance to get compensation, you want to be sure all current and likely future costs are included in a final settlement or court order.
- Negotiations: Settling your case out of court can save time and money in terms of court costs and legal fees. The statute of limitations in personal injury claims allows whatever negotiations are needed.
Find Out More About Filing A Claim From Our Naples Personal Injury Lawyer
Personal injuries can impact your health and your finances for years into the future. At Cardinal Law, P.A., we help you get the maximum amount you are entitled to in a claim. To find out more about your options and time limits that may apply, request a consultation with our Naples personal injury lawyer. Call or contact our office online today.
Sources:
floir.com/Sections/PandC/ProductReview/PIPInfo.aspx
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0095/Sections/0095.11.html
