How Long Do I Have To File A Personal Injury Claim?
Personal injuries can happen for a variety of reasons. When the reckless and negligent actions of others are responsible, you have the right to make them pay. This may involve filing a claim against their insurer or personal injury lawsuit. In either case, you need to be aware of the amount of time you have to seek compensation.
Compensation For Personal Injuries
Personal injuries are a leading cause of death and disability. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), they send close to 40 million people to hospital emergency rooms each year. When the negligent actions of others are responsible, you have the right to seek compensation in a personal injury claim. This should include:
- Coverage of current and future medical expenses;
- Reimbursement for lost wages and future losses in income;
- Compensation for your pain, suffering, and any loss of enjoyment in life you experience due to your injuries.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding your accident, you may be able to seek compensation through the at-fault party’s insurer. However, an insurance settlement generally only covers some of the above costs. To get the total amount you need to recover, the best course of action is often to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Time Limits For Filing A Personal Injury Claim
Whenever an accident happens that results in personal injuries, you need to report it immediately to the police so that an accident report can be filed. You also need to seek medical care for your injuries as soon as possible and notify any insurers involved. Not following proper timelines in taking these actions could jeopardize your rights in a claim.
The insurance company may offer you a settlement in as little as a few weeks. However, this is generally not enough time for the full extent of your injuries to be revealed. You have up to four years under the Florida Statutes to file a personal injury lawsuit. This allows time for the following:
- To determine the level of maximum medical recovery for your injuries;
- To determine the total amount of your current and future medical costs you are likely to incur.
- To determine the impact your injuries are likely to have on your ability to work, both now and in the years to come.
- To determine the impact your injuries are likely to have on your family and your ability to engage in your usual hobbies and activities.
Determining the above can take a year or longer. Settling your claim too early can leave you paying out of pocket for costs related to your accident for years into the future.
Let Us Help You Today
You have only one chance to get the compensation you need to recover from personal injuries. To ensure you get the maximum amount you are entitled to, speak with our Daytona Beach personal injury attorneys before accepting any insurance settlements. To request a consultation, contact Bundza & Rodriguez, P.A. today.
https://www.daytonalawyers.com/should-you-accept-an-insurance-company-settlement-after-an-accident/
