Monday, 14 July 2014

Tampa Accident Attorneys: 6 Frequently Asked Questions & Responses

By Clinton Hoosock


If you have been the victim of an accident that resulted from negligence, you are probably filled with questions about filing a case to recover damages. We have compiled this list of commonly asked questions to make the process of meeting with a Tampa accident attorney smoother for you.

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury attorney?

The Florida State Bar allows us to operate under a contingency contract. This means that we will only collect a percentage of your award if your case is successful. In other words, our attorneys do not get paid unless you do.

Can I file an accident claim?

While this is a questions best answered by an experienced Tampa accident lawyer, in most cases anyone who is injured by another party, intentionally or through the result of negligence, is entitled to pursue compensation under Florida laws.

During a meeting with an experienced attorney, you will be asked questions to begin the investigation of your claim. This is the time to present any evidence, such as photos or medical reports, that can help your lawyer determine if you have a solid personal injury case.

How long will my case take?

Every case is unique, and there is no clear cut timetable for how long a personal injury case will take to conclude. Your attorney will need time to investigate, and if the case goes to trial there may be delays depending on the docket of the court.

Should I meet with the insurance company or an investigator?

Before speaking to anyone from the other party's insurance company, you should absolutely meet with a Tampa personal injury attorney. The insurance company will likely contact you very soon after the accident to take a statement. It is in your best interest not to make one, but to contact an attorney instead.

In the immediate aftermath of your accident, the full extent of your injuries may not be apparent. Without consulting an attorney, you will likely not be fully informed of all of the rights available to you under the laws of Florida.

By first consulting an accident attorney in Tampa, you will be able to understand what information you are legally required to give to the insurance company before you speak with them. Remember, the insurance company will be on their terms and they have more experience handling your type of case than the typical person does.

Can I just handle the case myself?

While it may seem cheaper and easier to handle your case alone, in the end this is typically untrue. Personal injury cases can be complex and easily overwhelming for the victim. Having an attorney will improve your odds of winning your claim, and winning more than you would on your own. Before you decide to go it alone, it is important to at least consult with an experienced lawyer.

How soon will I get paid?

How long it takes to get paid after a case is won or settled successfully depends on many factors. In some cases, it takes as little as two weeks. If the other party is from another state, or if it is a business, these may slow down the process of getting payment.




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