Floridians are no strangers to high-profile lawsuits shaping public policy. However, personal injury lawsuits involving slip-and-fall accidents have a complex path to success in court. This is because every state has its laws, including those governing individual injury cases.
No matter how straightforward a slip-and-fall injury case seems, it is important to engage an attorney. One reason is that the party you are suing for damages may not readily accept liability. Or, they may not be able to evade liability, but they may be unwilling to offer adequate compensation. If you reside in New Port Richey and have been hurt due to wet, greasy flooring or unsecured carpets, consult New Port Richey slip and fall lawyers to help you seek the restitution you deserve.
What Your New Port Richey Slip And Fall Lawyers Can Do For You
In Florida, slip-and-fall accident victims have four years to claim compensation. It is important to make a claim as soon as possible. Even if your case does not go to trial, you will benefit greatly from the counsel of an attorney. They will make a difference in your case in the following ways;
Determining Liability
Perhaps you did suffer an injury, but it was not through the negligence of the party you believe is liable. For instance, the store cannot be held liable if you slip and fall in a store, but a sign had been put up that cleaning was in progress or the floor was wet. Your attorney will start by determining if you have a case at all.
Examination Of Your Evidence
A case is resolved solely based on irrefutable proof. Your attorney will listen to your account of what happened from the point of view of the evidence that can be presented to prove liability and justify compensation.
A competent attorney will ask for any photos you have and return to the scene to take others. They will collect video evidence from cameras inside or around the accident scene if possible. They will collect medical records to show exactly which injuries you suffered, the treatment you received or are still undergoing, and what it cost you.
If you were engaged in income-generating activities when you got injured, your attorney will also factor this in. If your injuries prevented you from working and you lost income, they will also seek to get you compensation for this. Additionally, any other form of distress you suffered, such as emotional, will be taken into account, and compensation will be sought for it.
To Settle Or Go To Court
Once all the evidence is in, your attorney will work with you to determine a figure for a fair amount of damages. He will then present this to the other party. They will be agreeable and pay you the amount within a stipulated time frame.
If not, they may want to negotiate the amount you are asking for in damages. Your attorney will advise you on this. An out-of-court settlement is the best scenario compared to a court battle that will take time and cost money. They can play the role of negotiator but will only take a deal if you are agreeable to it. They will file a case in court if an agreement cannot be reached.
Fighting For You In Court
If the case goes to court, your attorney will devise a plan. It will include how you will counter the defense the defendant will put up. It will also involve preparing you to answer the questions you might ask if you take the stand.
Conclusion
Slip-and-fall accidents are fairly common in public places, and sometimes, people do get hurt. If you suffered major injuries in a slip-and-fall accident, seeking legal counsel can help you get the compensation you are due. Your attorney will guide you through the process and make sure there are no loose ends that might hurt your case.
