Looking for accident lawsuit tips in Florida?? Distracted Driving: While less pernicious than impaired driving, distracted driving is still very dangerous. Unlike impaired driving, where a specific substance can be identified, distracted driving encompasses any activity that takes the driver’s attention off of the road. Obvious examples include texting while driving or calling while driving without using a hands-free device. Less obvious examples of distracted driving include changing the radio station, inputting an address into a navigation system, eating or drinking while driving, or putting on makeup while behind the wheel. For victims of car accidents that have been caused by distracted drivers, there may be a legal recourse in the Florida courts for their damages.
In putting together your settlement demand letter, you figured out a range of what you believe your claim is worth. Before you speak to an adjuster about your demand, decide on a minimum settlement figure within that range that you would accept. This figure is for your own information, not something you would reveal to the adjuster. But once the figures and discussions start going back and forth, it helps if you already have your bottom line in mind. That way, you don’t have to make a snap decision if an adjuster makes you a take-it-or-leave-it offer on the phone. You will know whether it meets your minimum level or not. However, you do not have to cling to the figure you originally set for yourself. If an adjuster points out some facts you had not considered but which clearly make your claim weaker, you may have to lower your minimum figure somewhat. And if the adjuster starts with a low settlement offer or a number at or near your minimum — or if you discover evidence that makes your claim stronger — you may want to revise your minimum upward.
Keep your attorney informed of anything that might affect your case. Certainly nothing should be signed without first consulting the attorney. Applications for insurance benefits, reports to the State, any change in doctors, returning to work, any change in treatment, etc., should be reported promptly. Disability or unemployment applications should first be checked by the attorney. Keep your attorney advised of any vacation times when you may not be available. An emergency telephone number and an alternative way of reaching you must be in your attorney’s file at all times.
Once the claims process gets underway, you will likely receive a call from the at-fault party’s insurance company. They will ask you to make a recorded statement. They may even tell you that this is a normal part of the process or that it’s necessary to process your claim. You are NOT obligated to provide any statement. In fact, the insurance company can (and will) use anything you say as a reason to minimize your personal injury claim value or deny your claim outright.
Florida has a relatively short statute of limitations, the legal term for the amount of time a person has to file a lawsuit. Under state law, a victim of a car accident caused by a negligent driver must file a lawsuit within four years of the accident. Because time is of the essence in these types of cases, it is important for you to contact a car accident attorney in Orlando to discuss any possible legal options that may be available to you. To reach out to a knowledgeable attorney, contact Bengal Law at 407-315-8000. Discover extra info at https://bengallaw.com/.
The other side is going to make a settlement offer based on what they think a jury might do at trial. Juries make their decisions based on what they see and hear at trial. It’s important to put your best foot forward. This means being polite and respectful at all times and looking your best when you’re due in court. All of these little things can help you convince the other side that a jury is going to be sympathetic to what happened in your case. This small effort can nudge the other side to offer you a fair settlement.