If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Tampa, you’re probably here because you’re trying to determine how much your car accident case may be worth. According to many television commercials, you’re about to come into millions of dollars.
Not so fast.
Fair Compensation
The typical car accident is not worth millions of dollars. Do these settlements occur? Yes, but they are rare. What you are entitled to is fair compensation. You do not deserve to be sent into financial ruin because someone chose to drive negligently.
You also may believe that an insurance company’s settlement is a great offer. You may think that having a check in hand just days after the accident will erase all your financial worries.
The problem is, insurance companies are not on your side. The settlement offer you receive from the insurance company will typically be lower than what you are entitled to.
When you hire an experienced Tampa car accident lawyer, you stand the best chance of securing a higher settlement. Your attorney has the experience it takes to get the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (800) 316-8514 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
Your Accident Is Unique
Your car accident is not like any other. Each has its own set of circumstances. Your injuries may be similar to someone else’s, the time of day could be the same, and the weather conditions could be nearly identical, but your accident will still be unique.
Let’s take a look at two hypothetical cases of people involved in rear-end collisions on a beautiful summer day in South Florida.
Victim One: An elderly gentleman with no previous injuries. He is managing diabetes and a heart condition. He is evaluated at the scene and has sustained a neck injury. He is transported to the hospital where he is given a course of treatment that is safe and appropriate for his medical conditions. He is hospitalized for several days as a precaution.
Victim Two: A healthy young woman with no history of serious illness. She is evaluated on the scene and it is determined she has a neck injury. She is taken to the hospital where she is evaluated and released with instructions to follow up with her family doctor.
Both of these victims were involved in the same accident and sustained similar injuries. The way they were treated was unique and their medical bills will differ greatly. This is why it is so important that you never assume you don’t need expert assistance.
There Is No Formula
You may have heard of the “three-times” formula. It is a common misconception that a payout will be three times the cost of medical bills. Do not fall into this way of thinking. There is no such formula.
The only way to secure a fair settlement is with expert legal help. Your Tampa car accident lawyer will evaluate your case and help you determine how much compensation you may be able to collect. You could receive more or less than the three-times myth.
Compensatory and Punitive Damages
All drivers in the state of Florida are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP). This coverage kicks in to cover medical bills and lost wages. What is important to know is that this coverage doesn’t provide for 100% of your financial loss.
When your bills are not entirely covered by insurance or aren’t covered at all, you may consider filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party.
When you file a lawsuit in Florida, you can seek compensatory and/or punitive damages. Compensatory damages will pay you back for medical expenses and lost wages. Punitive damages are meant as a punishment for the at-fault driver. In the eyes of the law, punitive damages deter people from behaving recklessly in the future.
Time Is Running Out
Once you’ve been in a car accident, the clock starts ticking. In Florida, you have four years from the date of your car accident to file a lawsuit. If you fail to file suit during this time you give up your right to seek compensation in a court of law. It’s imperative that you secure legal advice now. Call our office at (800) 916-8108 to schedule your free case evaluation.
A Tampa Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you have been injured in a car accident, you have rights. A Tampa car accident lawyer from Steinger, Greene & Feiner can help ensure you get the compensation you deserve. We have an excellent reputation in the community and have the experience it takes to fight for what is rightfully yours.
Call us today at (800) 316-8514 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation today.