What should I do if I am in a Pedestrian Accident?
It is important to know what to do when a pedestrian accident occur before they happen. Most importantly, be safe. Take specific steps to prevent further injury to you and your family and document every aspect of the accident, if possible. As important, get the medical attention you need and contact a doctor of your choice as soon as possible. You should also consider retaining a qualified Florida pedestrian accident attorneys such as John Bales Attorneys to help you get compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
How much money is my case worth?
The value of a case is ultimately decided through settlement with the insurance company, or by award determined by a judge or jury. Generally, the amount awarded depends on the type and extent of injuries and damages, the length and frequency of medical treatment, the cost of current and future medical bills, the effects of doctor-supported permanent disabilities, and any other documented damages. The experienced Florida motor vehicle injury lawyers at John Bales Attorneys will examine all these aspects to determine a figure that represents fair compensation. We will study the detail of your case, and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, to ensure that you get the money you deserve for your injuries. If necessary, we will present your case to a jury for a decision.
How long will it take to get a fair and reasonable settlement offer?
Reaching a settlement can take weeks, months, or even years, depending on the extent of medical injuries and damages. However, the sooner you retain a personal injury lawyer such as John Bales Attorneys, the sooner they can investigate and develop your case. Typically, it is better to wait until your doctor is of the opinion that you have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI) as to your injuries, before seeking compensation. The purpose of waiting until you have reached MMI is to ascertain the extent of permanent damage that the injuries you received may have caused. Once we know the long-term extent of your injuries and the financial impact of them, we can more accurately calculate what your case is worth. In the meantime, we will be investigating your case and obtaining your records and information. As experienced Florida accident lawyers, we waste no time in moving your case toward settlement.
What if I have to go to court?
If the insurance company agrees to pay what a Florida injury attorney determines your case to be worth, you can settle out of court. This commonly happens when a case is prepared properly and the insurance company is reasonable. Your case will only require formal trial proceedings, if the insurance company refuses to settle out of court. In either situation, it is critical to hire an experienced Florida accident lawyer with an extensive background in personal injury cases. At John Bales Attorneys, we prepare all our cases as if they are going to court, which is why so many of our cases are settled outside of court. Our preparation and diligence give you a better opportunity of receiving fair compensation in or out of the courtroom.
Even if the wrongdoer lacks insurance, if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, you may still be covered. This coverage is specifically for cases where the other driver does not have any or sufficient auto insurance. An auto accident attorney can evaluate your policy to determine whether you have this coverage.
How will I pay my expenses while I wait for a settlement?
Many have personal injury protection (commonly referred to as "PIP"). If you do, this insurance can help pay for some of your medical bills and a portion of lost wages. You should immediately seek the advice of a Florida injury attorney like John Bales Attorneys after an accident to protect you rights so that a portion of the PIP can be reserved for wages. WE can also evaluate other insurance that may be available.
Should I release my medical records to the insurance adjuster?
Releasing medical information may seriously damage your case, and should be done only in very limited circumstances. Before signing any release of information, it is critical to consult a qualified Florida motor vehicle injury attorney.
Can any lawyer handle my case?
While any lawyer who is licensed to practice in Florida can represent you, not all attorneys have specific experience with truck accident, motorcycle accidents, automobile accidents, drunk driver accidents, or injury cases. A family lawyer may have a strong background in writing Wills and handling estate or elder law and a business attorney may be good at handling business cases, but have little experience with accident cases. Ask an attorney how many injury cases they have handled. If it is not thousands, they may not have the experience needed. Exercise your right to qualified legal counsel, and obtain a Florida accident attorney who has the training and trial experience to represent your best interests.
Is it true that the best lawyers in law firms never handle the small cases?
While this may be true at other law firms, at John Bales Attorneys, we believe in a team concept where the attorneys and staff works together to represent our clients. More than one person will work with you, and all members of our staff are trained in their fields, from our ambassadors to our client managers and attorneys. We are committed to our cultural values of Care, Quality, and Respect and pride ourselves on staying personally involved in our cases. We are available to speak with you and handle your case every step of the way.
How much will John Bales Attorneys charge to represent me?
At John Bales Attorneys, we believe that our clients should only pay for results. That is why we only get a fee and recover our costs if we recover for you. If, in the unlikely event, there is no recovery, you do not owe us for the fees and costs we incurred. Additionally, there is no charge for your first visit or telephone call. We will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and you have no financial obligation. If we agree to represent you, we are paid a percentage of your recovery. Different Florida car accident attorneys may use different pay structures. Make sure you are fully informed before hiring another attorney.
To talk about your case, contact a John Bales Tampa personal injury attorney today. Complete a FREE Online Consultation Form or call us toll free 1-800-CALL JOHN (1-800-225-5564) 24 hours, 7 days a week.