When accidents occur, it isn’t always an individual that’s responsible for the incident. In some cases, a business or company might be liable for the accident, which means that you’ll need to make a personal injury claim against them if you want to obtain compensation.

Recent statistics show that more than 346,000 emergency department visits were made in Pinellas County in a single year and approximately 7,166 people were hospitalized in the county due to injuries. While this doesn’t necessarily mean that these incidents will result in a compensation claim, it does highlight the rate at which people need to seek medical help due to unexpected injuries.

Taking Legal Action Against a Company in Clearwater, FL

Making a personal injury claim against a company may seem daunting at first, but it doesn’t need to be. Your personal injury lawyer in Clearwater will work with you to establish the facts of the case and, in doing so, will determine who is liable for the accident.

If you suffered a slip, trip or fall injury while shopping, for example, the retailer’s premises liability insurance may be required to provide you with financial compensation. Alternatively, if you were injured because of a faulty product, the company’s product liability insurance may cover your compensation payout.

Generally, businesses have insurance to cover most types of personal injury claims so, although you’ll be making a claim against a company, it’s likely to be their insurer that actually pays your compensation.

Preparing Your Claim

Before filing your claim, your legal team will ask you to provide them with any evidence you have relating to the accident or your injuries. For example, you might be asked to give permission so that your medical records can be used to evidence your claim. This will confirm the injuries you sustained, as well as the medical treatment you’re receiving and the associated costs.

In addition to this, you may have witness information or even photographs of the scene of the accident, which could be helpful in proving liability. If so, be sure to pass these on to your personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.

Negotiating a Personal Injury Settlement

Once the responsible party (the business) is notified of your claim, your personal injury lawyers will begin the process of trying to negotiate a settlement on your behalf. Even if the business doesn’t actually admit fault or accept their liability, they may still be willing to provide you with a settlement.

However, determining what constitutes a ‘fair settlement’ is a complex process, which is why it’s important to have a good personal injury lawyer on your side. With an experienced legal team assisting you, you can be confident that you won’t inadvertently accept a settlement offer that’s much lower than you deserve.

Make a Personal Injury Claim Now

Across the U.S., around 95% of personal injury claims settle before a trial is conducted, so it’s highly likely that you’ll be able to obtain compensation without going to court but, if a trial is required, your legal representatives will argue the case on your behalf.

Remember – there are strict time limits governing personal injury claims in Florida, so there’s no time to waste when it comes to getting the ball rolling and seeking advice from a personal injury lawyer.