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If you are injured in a slip-and-fall accident, you should first determine if you can file a claim. You may be entitled to financial compensation if you have a case, but it is important to act fast to protect your rights.
You will need to know what you can expect on the way if you have a legal case. You can be proactive by making informed decisions and being aware of what you should expect. What can you expect from a Florida slip-and-fall case?
What to Expect in a Slip and Fall case in Florida
We will presume you are not yet a client of an attorney for the sake of this article. It is significant to engage the services of a lawyer to defend your legal rights after an accident. You have minimal opportunity to recover the damages you are entitled to without an attorney.
If you have hired an experienced attorney to represent you, this is what you should expect when filing a claim in Florida to recover your damages after a slip-and-fall accident:
1. The Property Owner (Or Tenant) Will Deny Liability
The property owner or tenant will likely initially deny responsibility, even if you have hired a lawyer. It is not unusual for companies to try to avoid paying compensation for injuries caused by slip-and-fall accidents. Owners or tenants may try to blame the victim for their injuries. You should not be discouraged if this happens. There are still many steps to the process.
2. Your Lawyer Will Conduct a Thorough Investigation
Your lawyer will investigate your case as soon as possible. Examining the scene of an accident is part of this process. Your lawyer will also try to get security camera footage, eyewitness testimonies, property maintenance records, and other types of evidence. As long as you consult a lawyer promptly, there will be several types of evidence.
3. You Will Need to Focus On Your Recovery
You will have to concentrate on your recovery while your attorney investigates your accident and builds your case for compensation. Attending your doctor appointments and listening to your doctor are important. Rest when you need to. If you need physical therapy, go there. You should do everything possible to get better as soon as you can.
4. Your Lawyer Will File Your Claim With the Property Owner’s (Or Tenant’s) Insurance Company
Your lawyer will then file a claim against the insurance company of the property owner (or tenant) after investigating your accident. Insurance claims are involved in almost all slip-and-fall accident cases.
5. Insurance Companies Will Inquire
The insurance company will now conduct its own investigation. It will take time, and you must be patient. Your lawyer will act on your behalf if the insurance company takes too long.
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6. Insurance Companies Could Deny Liability
The insurance company is likely to deny responsibility after conducting an investigation. It is not unusual for insurance companies to do this. Insurance companies will investigate to protect their own interests and won’t accept responsibility unless they feel it is in their interest to do so.
7. Your Lawyer Will Work With Your Insurance Company on Your Behalf
Your lawyer will continue to work on your behalf as the case progresses. Your lawyer will use evidence to prove fault. If the insurance company accepts this proof, then your lawyer will begin settlement negotiations. Your lawyer will negotiate a fair settlement for your injuries, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and discomfort, and loss of enjoyment of life.
8. You May Receive a Settlement Offer
Settlements are the most common way to resolve slip and fall cases. Your lawyer will talk to you individually if the insurance company offers a settlement.
9. Your Lawyer Will Help You Make Informed Decisions About Settlement
During the discussion, your attorney will help you decide if you should accept or reject the offer. Your lawyer will extend the time if you need it. Once you accept a settlement, you cannot ask for more.
10.If Necessary, Your Lawyer Will Take Your Case to Court in Florida
If you do not receive a fair offer of settlement, your lawyer can take your slip-and-fall case to court. Your lawyer will present both damage and liability evidence in court. The insurance company will then present its defense. The judge or jury will make a final decision. You can continue your life if you’re satisfied with the verdict. You can speak to your attorney about appealing the decision if you’re not satisfied.
What if You Do Not Hire an Attorney to Represent You
All of this is based on the assumption that you have not hired an attorney to represent you. What if you do not?
The same thing will happen in your case: the property owner or renter will deny any liability. Most likely, this will be the end. You won’t get the compensation you deserve if, for example, you can’t contact the insurance company or prove your right to compensation.
Free Consultation with a Florida Slip & Fall Attorney
W. Lee Clark & Associates invite you to contact us if you would like to learn more about your Florida slip and fall claim. Request a free consultation online today.
