You worked hard for your vacation and want your cares to blow away in the breeze. But what do you do when you’re in a car accident on that vacation?
Car accidents are always upsetting, but they’re even more challenging when you’re on vacation. If you or a loved one was hurt in a car accident while you were supposed to be enjoying your vacation in Florida, you should file a claim.
Whether the driver was drunk, distracted, or simply reckless, you should seek compensation for your losses. However, you should know whether to settle or sue.
What Happens in a Car Accident Claim?
When you make a claim for a car accident injury, it will go through several stages. The first will be the negotiations before filing a suit.
If those cannot be adequately satisfied, a lawsuit is filed, where further negotiations occur. Mediation may also be an option. If no agreement is reached at this point, then the case will go to trial.
It’s important to remember that the majority of car accident cases are settled out of court. Deciding whether to settle or sue will depend on the amount you are offered and whether or not it can cover your injuries and damages.
Whether you settle or sue after a car accident on vacation, you should have a truck accident lawyer working on your behalf, especially if the collision was with the truck- to help you recover fair compensation.
Know What to Do After a Car Accident During Your Florida Vacation
While a car crash on your vacation will surely put a damper on things, you need to know what to do next. The first thing to do is call the police, as Florida law requires accidents that result in injury, death, or at least $500 in property damages to be reported.
If you’re hurt, let 911 know that too, then, make sure you get a medical examination. Those with life-threatening injuries should go to the hospital; however, even if you’re not bleeding, it’s still urgent that you rule out traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding.
Gather any evidence you can, and be sure to document everything. This way, whether you decide to settle or sue, you’ll have everything you need to make your case.
Florida’s Statute of Limitations and Jurisdiction
While you most likely want to put this all behind you, Florida has a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim. To make your claim, your injury must have occurred within Florida.
Typically, you will have four years from the date of the accident to file your claim unless it happened due to a government entity, which gives you three years. If you have a wrongful death claim, then time is limited to two years.
So, should you settle or sue? Only an experienced personal injury attorney can help you calculate the full extent of your losses. Most people don’t think about the other things involved with a car accident that go beyond medical bills and property damages, such as pain and suffering or loss of enjoyment of life.
If you settle, the amount must be sufficient to cover all your losses. If not, you can sue to get the proper compensation.
Compensation You May Receive After a Car Accident on Vacation
In Florida, you will also be entitled to the same compensation for your injuries as any resident. Along with medical expenses and vehicle damages, you may receive compensation for loss of income, rehabilitation costs, disability costs, pain, and suffering, or benefits for wrongful death.
If you get into an accident in Florida while on vacation, Fasig | Brooks suggests you retain the services of an experienced personal injury attorney. You can have your case reviewed and find out whether settling or suing is the best option. By having a local attorney help you, you’ll soon be able to put the vacation accident behind you.
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