A personal injury settlement is a legal resolution in which many factors need to be considered. The process involves several steps that, when properly followed, ensure that you receive the compensation for personal injury you’re entitled to. In this article, we will walk you through the process and address key questions along the way.
The Personal Injury Settlement Process: Step by Step
In this section, we’ll explain the steps involved in completing a bodily injury settlement.
Filing Your Claim
The first step in the process is to formally file your claim. You’ll need to submit medical reports, photographs, and witness testimony as evidence. According to Florida Statute Fla. Stat. § 95.11, you have two years to file most types of personal injury claims in Florida.
Settlement Negotiation
After filing your claim, the lawyer must navigate the complexities of Florida Tort Law, which was amended in 2023. This law considers several factors, including lawyers’ fees, comparative negligence, civil liability for negligent security, bad faith, medical bills, and other variables. By following this law carefully, you can improve your chances of securing fair compensation in your personal injury settlement.
Signing the Release Form
The next step, which is perhaps the most crucial, is signing the release form. Once you sign, you waive your right to make any future claims related to the settlement. This is an important decision, so it’s vital to consult with your lawyer before taking this step.
Receiving the Settlement Check
You might wonder, how long to get settlement check after signing release? The timeline can vary based on several factors, such as the deduction of medical or legal fees. Typically, it takes 30 to 60 days, but in some cases, especially with insurers involved, it can take longer.
Common Causes of Delays in Receiving Settlement Checks
Even if you have a competent lawyer, delays can occur that aren’t directly related to their efforts. Some of the most common delays include:
Liability Disputes
Under the new Florida Tort Law, comparative fault is closer to “contributory negligence.” If the claimant is found to be more at fault than the defendant, they may not be able to receive compensation for personal injury. This determination can delay the settlement process.
Negotiations with Insurance Companies
While claimants often ask how long can a lawyer hold your settlement check, the reality is that insurers often cause the delays. The process may take longer than expected, but the Florida Financial Services Commission helps expedite these negotiations.
Medical Lien Resolution
Personal injury settlement amounts examples can vary widely, from a few hundred dollars to millions of dollars. However, higher compensation amounts often come with higher expenses. In these cases, any unresolved medical liens or claims against the claimant must be settled before the payout can be released.
How a Lawyer Can Speed Up the Process
Still unsure whether hiring a lawyer specializing in personal injury settlements is worth it? Here are some ways these professionals can benefit your case:
Simplified Communication with Insurance Companies
A lawyer who specializes in personal injury settlements can streamline communication with insurers. With experience and established contacts in the field, they are better equipped to handle negotiations and resolve issues quickly.
Fast Handling of Legal and Medical Liens
A top rated personal injury lawyer can also use legal strategies to expedite the resolution of any legal and medical liens that may slow down your settlement process.
Why Choose Louis Berk Law for Your Settlement Case?
If you’re still undecided about hiring Louis Berk Law, here are some key reasons to consider:
Experience in Expediting Settlements
Our team has extensive experience in expediting bodily injury settlement negotiations. We take care of resolving any outstanding liens so your settlement check can be released as quickly as possible, all while maintaining the highest level of service.
A Trusted Lawyer for Florida Personal Injury Victims
At Louis Berk Law, our priority is to ensure that our clients receive the compensation for personal injury they deserve. We always take both economic and non-economic damages into account when handling a personal injury settlement.
Tired of waiting for your settlement? Let Louis Berk Law help you speed up the process. Contact us today for a consultation.
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