Generally, no Florida law requires a person to consult an attorney after experiencing an auto accident. However, when an auto accident occurs in the city of West Palm Beach, Florida, one can file a claim under their personal insurance protection (PIP) coverage. An auto accident lasts beyond the accident scene. It comes with physical recovery, medical bills, repair costs, etc., that can physically, financially, and emotionally burden a victim.
An accident victim with injury damages over $10,000 can file a compensation claim against the negligent defendant. The victim can hire an attorney or handle the claims process themselves. They may fail to hire an attorney because of the fear of additional expenses or an unwillingness to bear the costs of legal representation.
Although a person can handle their auto accident case without an attorney, it is practically not advisable. Instead, it is strongly recommended to consult a West Palm Beach personal injury lawyer. A lawyer will help evaluate the case, gather all relevant evidence, and help clients seek fair compensation for the injuries they have suffered.
The benefits of working with an attorney far outweigh the legal fees charged. This article discusses the disadvantages of handling an auto accident case by yourself and the benefits of hiring a West Palm Beach personal injury lawyer to handle the case.
Types of Auto Accident Cases in West Palm Beach, Florida
Auto accidents are common in the city of West Palm Beach, Florida. These accidents can sometimes leave victims injured or worse. Some common types of auto accidents include:
- Drunk drivers
- Distracted driving
- Rear-ending
- Pedestrians
- Head-on collisions
- Hit-and-runs
- Carelessness or recklessness
- Inexperienced driving
Where any of these auto accidents occur, one may consider filing a claim on their own. Additionally, the victim may decide to work directly with their insurance company or with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, it is not advisable to attempt to settle or contact an insurance company without the representation of an attorney. This can result in an unfavorable outcome.
Is There Any Disadvantage of Handling a Florida Auto Accident Case Without an Attorney?
The decision to hire the services of an attorney after an auto accident rests with the victim. Although the victim can decide to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company or contact their own insurance, this approach could pose some issues for the victim without legal representation.
The disadvantages of handling a Florida auto accident without an attorney include:
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Undergoing a Stressful Legal Experience
Handling an auto accident case without an attorney can be stressful. There are many legal formalities involved in pursuing an auto accident case which can become very cumbersome without legal help. The legal process requires evidence collection, filling of various paperwork, and actively fighting for your right to compensation.
However, with the representation of an attorney, one does not need to go through the legal stress. Hiring an experienced attorney who is well-versed in Florida laws and procedures can help relieve the pressure. A West Palm Beach personal injury lawyer can actively file a claim and help guide you throughout the entire legal process.
Consequently, the victim can focus on recovering from the accident while the attorney manages the case. As an accident victim in West Palm Beach, Florida, it is advisable to hire an attorney in the area. At Frankl Kominsky Injury Lawyers, we provide exceptional advocacy and representation throughout West Palm Beach, Florida to help accident victims seek a favorable outcome (by appointment only).
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Undervalued Compensation
A question that often arises is how much can one be compensated for a personal injury claim? Legally, one has the right to seek compensation for losses suffered from an auto accident, but the amount depends on the severity of the injury and the value of losses. The damages may be challenging to value.
The question is, who decides what the victim’s injuries and losses suffered are worth? If someone decides to handle the auto accident case without an attorney, the insurance company will be the party deciding this question. This results in a claim possibly being undervalued, as insurance companies are more interested in saving the company money and limiting liability.
If a victim isn’t well-versed in personal injury law or doesn’t have experience speaking with insurance companies, he or she may know when to accept or reject a settlement offer. Additionally, they may lack the skill to build a solid case to support the amount of payment needed for a full recovery.
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Settling for a Lowball Offer
Insurance companies support a victim handling an auto accident claim without an attorney. It is more beneficial to them as they want to minimize the compensation amount. Unfortunately, many insurance companies try to convince accident victims to accept a lowball offer. Additionally, the insurer may not offer compensation and outright deny the claim in some cases.
When one decides to handle an auto accident claim without an attorney, the insurance adjuster might approach them. The adjuster may minimize the amount offered to the victim. They know how to use covert tactics to limit their liability and convince one to accept an offer.
Once a lowball offer is accepted and the victims sign the agreement, they cannot file any further claim related to the accident. However, when an attorney handles the case, they can negotiate with the insurance adjuster on your behalf and advise you before you accept anything.
Benefits of Hiring a West Palm Beach Personal Injury Lawyer
Hiring a personal injury lawyer in an auto accident case can increased your chances of a successful outcome and prevent an unfair compensation offer. It is well-advised to contact a lawyer immediately after an accident and within the Florida Statute of Limitation time period. The Florida Statutes, Section 95.11, requires car accident cases to be filed two years from the accident date.
A personal injury lawyer can help with the following:
- Gathering all significant evidence. Evidence includes police reports, medical records, vehicle repair estimates, witness testimony, photos of the accident scene, and other vital documents.
- Assessing the factors of the case
- Ensuring that the claim is filed on time
- Calculating one’s injuries and losses accurately
- Calculating damages. Damages include past or future medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
- Negotiating a fair and accurate settlement with insurance adjusters
- Representing the victim in the litigation process
- Managing communications on the victim’s behalf
Qualities of a Good Personal Injury Lawyer
There are essential qualities to look for in hiring a West Palm Beach personal injury lawyer. It is important to choose a lawyer that can provide the best outcome for the case. The accident victim must feel confident that the case will be handled with utmost care and compassion.
Here are the top qualities to look for in an attorney:
- Extensive experience
- Commitment to client
- Transparency
- Honesty
- Tenacity
- Works on a contingency basis
- Attention to detail
- Demonstrated empathy, etc.
Speak to a West Palm Beach Personal Injury Lawyer Today
As an accident victim in West Palm Beach, Florida, it is advisable to consult a lawyer. An experienced West Palm Beach personal injury lawyer will evaluate the case and seek adequate compensation for injuries and losses suffered. At Frankl Kominsky Injury Lawyers, we fight for the victim, gather all evidence, and help our clients seek merited compensation. We never settle for less, and neither should you. Contact our firm today at (561) 800-8000 for a free case evaluation.