Things to Know When You’ve Been Injured in an Auto Accident

by Sep 22, 2024Article

Being injured in a car accident is often a traumatic and difficult experience. In the aftermath of such an incident, you may be in a state of shock and unsure what your next steps should be. You already know you should have a lawyer to obtain the best outcome for your auto accident case, but beyond that, what should you be aware of when beginning the process? After all, most car accident victims are not well-versed in car accident claims and personal injury law – that’s what the lawyers are for. To make the process less daunting, here are some things to know after being injured in an auto accident.

How does the fee structure work?

Understanding the fee structure is critical when it comes to personal injury cases as it may actually ease the concerns of potential claimants who are concerned about not being able to afford representation. Personal injury attorneys in Florida, including the car accident attorneys at Rosenblum & Mayer, work on what is known as “contingency fee basis.” This means that you don’t pay upfront or on an hourly basis; rather, the lawyer gets a percentage of the settlement or judgment you receive if you win. If there is no recovery, you don’t owe a thing.

What are the potential outcomes for the case?

Every car accident case is unique, and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all predictor for the compensation outcomes in any case. The outcome can vary depending on everything from the specific circumstances of your car accident to how much of a fight the defendant is willing to put up. Generally, the value of a case is dictated by liability, the amount of coverage available, and your damages.

What is the general timeline of the case?

The timeline of your case depends on a range of factors, such as the length of your treatment, and whether or not it becomes necessary to file a lawsuit. Your lawyer will update you on the potential duration of your case. However, there are some time frames to keep in mind in order to avoid exceeding the statute of limitations for Florida auto accidents:

  • You must visit the doctor within 14 days of the accident in order to be eligible for PIP benefits
  • If your accident occurred on or after March 24, 2023, you must file a lawsuit in the appropriate jurisdiction within two years of the date of the accident or it will be forever barred (accidents that occurred before this date can follow the previous four-year statute of limitations)

How do we recommend handling insurance companies and adjusters?

Always speak through your lawyer. A critical component of personal injury cases – particularly those involving car accidents – is dealing with insurance companies. Personal injury attorneys typically don’t recommend communicating directly with insurers, and you will communicate with insurers through them. If you are forced to deal with them, your lawyer will offer detailed advice on what you should and shouldn’t say so you don’t compromise your case. Such professional legal advice is a key reason you need to hire a personal injury attorney in order to get the optimal outcome for your case.

Contact Us Today

Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney is the first step towards getting the compensation you are legally entitled to for your car accident injuries. Call Rosenblum & Mayer to consult with a Florida personal injury attorney who specializes in car accident cases today.