What Factors Affect Car Accident Claims in Tampa?
While some car accidents can seem simple and straightforward, others can be more complicated. This is because various factors must be considered when determining who was at fault, who must be held liable for the crash and the victim’s losses, and how much an injured victim can recover from the liable party.
To obtain maximum compensation for your car accident claim, you must understand the top factors that may affect your claim. Otherwise, you risk recovering less compensation than you deserve.
Liability for The Car Accident
If you share some of the fault for the accident, then your settlement or damages award may be reduced. Florida follows the comparative fault rules, meaning that if you’re determined to be partially at fault for the crash, your financial compensation will be lowered by your share of fault for the crash. An experienced Tampa car accident attorney can thoroughly investigate your car crash to prove the at-fault party’s liability and reduce your share of fault, if necessary.
The Injuries You Suffered
Put simply, the more severe your injuries, the higher your potential financial recovery. For instance, a person with a spinal cord injury or brain injury will recover more money than a person with whiplash or a broken arm. The extent and specific nature of your injury will likewise indicate the damages you can recover, which can include all your medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering, among others.
When You Received Medical Treatment
Regardless of whether you feel fine or not after the crash, you must get proper medical treatment right away. This will leave a record of your injuries and the treatments you sought, which can then be used as evidence for your claim and to justify the losses and damages you’re seeking from the at-fault party. Also, failing to seek treatment on time may result in the liable party arguing that your injuries were or are not as severe as you’re claiming.
The Available Sources of Compensation
You might not be able to get compensation for your damages if there’s no payment source to collect from. In Florida car accident claims, common sources of compensation include:
- First-party insurance coverage, such as your personal injury protection (PIP), uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, MedPay, health insurance, etc.
- Insurance policies of all potentially liable parties
A skilled Tampa car accident attorney can look into all the available compensation sources, including all the insurance plans of relevant parties, to make certain that you get proper compensation for your damages.
Consult with a Top Tampa Car Accident Attorney Now
Our Tampa car accident attorney will guide you through all the steps in a car accident claim, figure out your damages, deal with involved insurance companies and lawyers, and help you understand what exactly is happening with your case. Reach out to the Matthews Injury Law to learn more about your car accident claim and your legal options. You can call 813-530-1000 or complete our online form to arrange your free case consultation with our Tampa car accident attorney.