The Importance of Having a Trial Attorney on Your Side in a Car Accident Claim
When car accidents occur, the impact of the collision can leave drivers and passengers with serious, disabling, and potentially life threatening injuries. The at fault driver can be held liable for paying damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for any future losses suffered. Getting the amount you are entitled in your claim plays a major role in your recovery and your ability to provide for yourself and your loved ones. With so much on the line, you do not want an attorney who is likely to rush into settling your case to avoid going to court. Ultimately, Steven G. Lavely is ready to fight on your behalf, so you can get the maximum amount you deserve.
Negotiating Florida Car Accidents
While often mistakenly referred to as a ‘no fault’ car accident insurance state. Florida’s Financial Responsibility Law requires all drivers to carry a minimum amount of insurance to cover the other driver’s damages in accidents where they are to blame. The flip side of this is that car accident insurers, their representatives, and investigators will attempt to disprove your version of events and to show you were at least partially at fault. Their goal is to avoid paying on your claim. In some cases, they offer an immediate, low settlement, knowing you are still vulnerable from your car accident and likely to accept the first offer you get.
It is during this time, before car insurance investigators can begin gathering evidence to use against you in your case, that you need guidance from an experienced car accident trial attorney. We have the knowledge and resources to conduct our own investigations, gathering our own evidence to counter low ball offers and support your claims. This includes:
- Police reports and statements from witnesses and other drivers involved;
- Photos of vehicle, your injuries, and the accident scene;
- Videotaped surveillance from nearby stores or traffic lights;
- Medical records and statements from your doctor, outlining your injuries and future prognosis;
- Testimony from accident reconstruction experts.
Taking Your Case to Trial
As a trial attorney, Steven G. Lavely is experienced in making a compelling case on behalf of the clients he represents. In insurance negotiations, he presents evidence in your favor, arguing to get you compensation for your current losses, along with any future costs you incur. In the event your case cannot be resolved in this manner, we will not hesitate to file a claim in court. As one of the less than two percent of Florida Bar Certified Trial Lawyers in the state, we have the knowledge and experience in Florida District Court policies and procedures to effectively argue your case in pretrial hearings and before the judge. Taking your case to court can also entitle you to additional types of compensation not available through an insurance claim.
Before trusting just anyone to represent you in a claim and settling for less than what you deserve, reach out and contact our Bradenton car accident trial attorney and request a free consultation to discuss your case today.
Resource:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0324/Sections/0324.021.html