Personal Injury Lawyer Orlando, FL

Pursuing Compensation After an Injury

Our Orlando, FL personal injury lawyer has witnessed firsthand the impact of an accident on the victim. Accidents that leave innocent victims with serious injuries occur each day. As a victim of an accident, you may have amassed large amounts of debt due to your injuries. Medical bills, vehicle repairs, missed income, reduced earnings capacity, and other unexpected costs can complicate your recovery after an accident, causing much stress and uncertainty. Chances are, you will be left feeling disheartened should this occur. You may be asking yourself where to go or who to turn to for help. How will you pay all of your bills? No person wants to find themselves feeling unprotected and vulnerable while recovering from injuries. Contact David & Philpot, PL today to schedule your consultation. With offices in multiple locations, we are here to help you when you have been injured.

Table Of Contents

Common Personal Injuries

A personal injury is something that could occur to anyone in several different areas or scenarios. They range from accidents involving vehicles to improperly manufactured products and more. Compensation is generally awarded to those who can prove that their injuries were the result of someone else’s negligence or lack of action leading to injury. Some of the more common types of personal injury accidents include auto accidents, defective product accidents, bicycle and pedestrian accidents, slip and fall injuries, motorcycle accidents, medical malpractice cases, on-the-job injuries, and more.

If you have been injured in one of these types of accidents or from another source, then getting checked out by a doctor is the first thing that should be done. Once you have been checked out by a doctor and have scheduled relevant therapies or other needs, it is then time to seek advice from our Orlando personal injury lawyer.

Compensation For Personal Injury Cases

Many different issues arise with personal injury cases. They can be both expensive and exhausting. This is why you should hire an experienced injury lawyer attorney who will know what kind of damages to file in your case. Some of the most common things people seek compensation for in personal injury cases include: 

• Compensation for all of your medical costs, which include bills from doctors’ offices, prescription medication, physical therapy costs, and anything you have had to pay for emergency room visits because of the accident.
• Compensation for property damaged in the accident. This can be a totaled car from a car crash, or other personal belongings that broke or became damaged in an accident. 
• Compensation for lost wages due to missed work. This could include compensation for lost future wages if you are unable to do the work that you are used to doing. 
• Damages for pain and suffering. This is not always applied in personal injury cases but can be if they are particularly traumatic. 

Your lawyer will be able to look closely at your case to see what you may be entitled to and what we believe you should file for in your case. Lawyers who are experienced in personal injury law will know what kind of things have worked in the past for cases similar to yours, which is why it is so important to have someone on your side who knows what a judge may consider fair. We have handled many different types of personal injury cases and won fair compensation for so many people before. We know how to litigate throughout the entire process to make it much smoother for our clients.

No-Fault Laws

Florida is one of several no-fault states that puts much of the financial responsibility for a car accident on those involved. As such, drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection on their insurance that covers both property damage and any medical bills incurred after the wreck. This helps those affected handle their affairs and have their injuries tended to right away. In some cases, though, PIP is subject to certain limitations, and drivers who have serious injuries may want to seek out legal representation to explore other options for financial recovery.

Creating a Lawsuit

While PIP insurance can help Florida drivers get medical attention more quickly after a car accident, it may not cover all costs. If those injured believe their accident was caused by another driver because he or she acted negligently, they do have the option of filing a personal injury lawsuit.

When PIP Is Not Enough

Injured motorists facing a cap on their PIP and injuries that may affect them in the long term still have the option of filing a court case against the other driver. When they make this choice, they may want to present a Orlando personal injury lawyer, with a variety of details including when and where the crash occurred, what injuries they suffered, and what actions they believe led to the accident. The more factors and information an attorney firm has to work with, the better and more efficiently it can craft a case. 

A car accident can seriously interrupt the lives of Florida residents, no matter where they reside. While no-fault laws may help them streamline medical payouts, other cases may require the assistance and know-how of a dedicated legal team.

What to Look for in a Personal Injury Attorney

They Have a Specialized, Focused Practice

When you are looking for a strong legal counsel, you need to find a firm that specializes in and is focused on personal injury cases. Personal injury law firms spend the majority of their time and resources pursuing settlement negotiations and arguing these in front of a judge and jury.

They understand what a case needs to be successful, and they can evaluate a case in a matter of minutes. They also have investigators, support staff, and expert witnesses who are vetted and provide valuable services in these cases. Personal injury attorneys also have relationships with medical professionals, so they can help you get the care and assessments you need.

They Have a Proven Track Record of Success

Your lawyer should have experience and success in your type of personal injury case. Each type of injury case has unique nuances and characteristics, so your attorney should be familiar with these before taking your case. your prospective attorneys about their experience.

Not only should your Orlando personal injury lawyer have extensive experience in personal injury cases, but this professional should also have a track record of success. When you see a high success rate, you know that the attorney should do what is necessary to get you the best award or settlement possible. Typically, these lawyers are willing to go to court and argue in front of a judge if they cannot get an adequate settlement.

They Only Represent Victims

An attorney who represents both victims and insurance companies may be conflicted. You want loyal attorneys who will represent you to the best of their ability. They cannot be influenced by outside parties or sources.

They Have Time and Resources

Choose a law firm that has the resources necessary to take your case. This includes time. Some attorneys focus on bulk or quantity, not quality. You want a high-quality attorney and high-quality legal services. This requires that your attorney not be overloaded with cases. One way to determine whether they have time for you is by gauging how long it takes for them to return your call for a consultation and how many times they are interrupted during your consultation.

Your law firm should also have dedicated experts, such as vocational, rehabilitation, medical, and accident experts. These individuals work with your legal professionals to support your case. You should also see a dedicated staff of paralegals and other professionals when you are in your attorney’s office.

Tips to Prepare for Your Personal Injury Claim

The groundwork for a personal injury lawsuit starts from the very beginning of your injury. The more information, evidence, and documents you have available, the more likely it is you can win your case and get the compensation you need.

This is one reason why it’s important to contact a personal injury lawyer in Orlando, FL as soon as possible after an injury. What else can you do to prepare?

• Ask Plenty of Questions When You Meet With Your Legal Team

In Florida, there is a statute of limitations on personal injury lawsuits. Different types of paperwork need to be filled out when filing a lawsuit. It can be overwhelming to go through this process alone, but remember that you’re not alone.

Speak with your lawyer whenever you need guidance. The whole purpose of having a legal team is to make your life easier. Asking questions until you understand what to do can help you make better decisions. A helpful injury lawyer is happy to answer all of your questions or concerns.

• Don’t Tough It Out

There’s no point in trying to force yourself to work injured or denying yourself medical treatment after an injury. Seeking medical attention helps you recover more completely and it also helps you with your personal injury lawsuit.

One of the burdens of proof your Orlando personal injury lawyer has to show is the injuries you’ve sustained. It’s much easier to do that when you have doctors’ reports, receipts, X-rays, and other medical documents.

• Keep the Future in Mind When Analyzing Settlement Offers

The compensation you can receive from insurance settlements and lawsuits is meant to help cover the costs of your medical treatment, but not just current treatment. It should also cover possible future care if necessary. We often remind our clients to take a step back and think of all the possibilities before agreeing to an insurance settlement.

Don’t forget that some injuries don’t show up until later. For example, whiplash from a car accident may only cause some bruising or sore muscles at first. Later on, however, you may experience chronic pain, neck and back pain, or mobility issues. Your lawyer can help you make sure settlement payments cover your needs and your family’s needs if your ability to work is affected by the injury.

• Don’t Accept the First Settlement, But Be Open

The main goal of a good injury lawyer should be to protect your interests. Sometimes, this means fighting your case in court, but other times a settlement is the right choice. As long as the offer is substantial enough to cover your needs, settlements can help you avoid the fees and time needed for litigation. We can show you the pros and cons of different options, help you negotiate, and represent you in court if necessary. We follow your wishes every step of the way.

• Honesty Is Best

When speaking with your lawyer you will want to make sure that you give them as many details as possible even if you might be at fault. No matter how small or seemingly insignificant a detail may be, presenting your lawyer with everything you know can help them build the case. This also often includes providing them with any evidence you’ve gathered from eyewitness testimonies, your account, photographic evidence, etc. Your lawyer then will determine what’s useful to the case and not. 

• Do Not Speak to the Police Without a Lawyer 

While speaking to the police especially when the personal injury was in no way your fault may seem harmless enough, it’s better to remain silent on the matter until your lawyer is present. Doing so will verify that you don’t accidentally compromise a potential case. Sometimes people might be hesitant to talk with the police when a lawyer is present as they believe that it can indicate that they’re guilty, but having a lawyer is common practice.

• Refrain From Posting on Social Media 

Social media is an integral part of our lives and is an easy way to keep in touch and communicate what’s happening in our everyday lives while you might be tempted to post about what happened to you in your story, on your profile, etc. it’s better to remain as silent as you can on the matter. Of course, there’s a difference between letting your friends know that you had to go to the hospital for a broken leg versus revealing pivotal details about the case such as where it happened, who you believe was at fault, etc. You will want to avoid talking about what caused the accident and if possible, minimize or avoid talking about the personal injury itself as much as you can.

Orlando Personal Injury Infographic

Orlando Personal Injury Statistics

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately 31 million Americans require medical treatment due to general injuries each year. More than 173,000 deaths result from unintentional injury. These accidents happen practically everywhere: on the road, in the workplace, in retail stores, and in any other location where people go about their normal routines.

According to the latest report from DHSMV,  in one year, Orlando had 23,268 individual crashes, resulting in 18,318 injuries and 174 deaths. Two hundred twenty-five of these were alcohol-related crashes, with 145 resulting in injuries and 25 resulting in fatalities. Twenty-three crashes were caused by drugs, with 16 injuries and 14 deaths.

 

 

 

Orlando Personal Injury FAQs

A personal injury claim can be a stressful thing to go through, especially when you have just started recovering after an accident. It can be frustrating not knowing how long your recovery could take, or how your case can be resolved. You probably don’t know much about your legal options or assume that they are limited. You may be reluctant to go through a complicated legal process while you are trying to focus on getting better and paying off your expenses. However, talking to an experienced personal injury lawyer can shed light on your situation. Common questions that a lawyer receives from clients after an accident include the following:

What types of personal injuries are covered under Orlando’s laws?

Orlando’s personal injury laws encompass a wide range of incidents, including but not limited to car accidents, slips and falls, medical malpractice, dog bites, and workplace injuries. These laws are designed to provide compensation to individuals who have suffered harm due to the negligence or misconduct of another party within the jurisdiction of Orlando, Florida.

How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Orlando?

In Orlando, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim varies depending on the type of injury and the circumstances surrounding it. Generally, the statute of limitations is four years for most personal injury cases, starting from the date of the incident. However, there may be exceptions and nuances to this rule, so it’s paramount to consult with a qualified attorney promptly to verify compliance with the applicable deadlines.

What compensation can I receive for my injury in Orlando?

Victims of personal injury in Orlando may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and in some cases, punitive damages. The exact amount of compensation depends on factors such as the severity of the injury, the impact on the victim’s life, and the degree of negligence or liability of the responsible party.

What should I do if I’ve been injured in Orlando?

If you’ve been injured in Orlando, it’s imperative to take certain steps to protect your rights and maximize your chances of obtaining compensation. First and foremost, seek medical attention for your injuries, even if they seem minor. Then, document the incident by taking photos, obtaining witness statements, and keeping records of any expenses related to the injury. Finally, consult with a reputable personal injury attorney to discuss your options and determine the best course of action for pursuing compensation.

Would you recommend that I pursue a claim with the insurance company or litigation?

You have several options to choose from if you are a personal injury victim. In most cases, your lawyer will likely recommend that you first pursue a claim with the insurance company. They may attempt to give you a low-ball settlement offer, but trying to pursue a claim with them first is a good option. It is always worth the effort. If they give you an offer that is much less than what you are hoping for or deserve, a lawyer will be able to step in and take action. They can better handle the tough negotiations with the insurance company, and your chances of obtaining compensation in a personal injury case are much higher with a lawyer to represent you and advocate on your behalf. 

While a thorough case review will be necessary to make an informed decision, much of the time, our firm can negotiate a fair settlement through the claims process. However, some situations may call for litigation. Sometimes despite your efforts, the insurance company refuses to give you a fair offer. Sometimes, your case has unique factors that require a different approach. There may be times when unexpected complications come up that can affect your claim. If you have a skilled and experienced lawyer, they will have prepared your case as if you are going to trial. This way, you are already prepared for court and can build on your case. A strong lawyer will be ready and prepared to take your case to court if necessary and prepare the best argument for you.

How long will it take to resolve my case?

This will depend upon the nature of your case and the factors at hand. Many factors can influence the specific details of a case, so it can be tough to predict how a case will develop. Some of the factors include the parties involved and how responsive the insurance company is to your negotiations. While a personal injury claim with the insurance company may resolve anywhere from a few short months to a year, litigation can take much longer. Litigation can involve a variety of hurdles. When a lawsuit is filed, it may take years before a resolution is reached. If any issues or delays with your case come up, it may take much longer. For more information about what an estimated timeline for your case may look like, reach out to a lawyer and they can provide more details. 

Why should I hire a lawyer rather than representing myself?

There are cases when you may not need to hire a lawyer. When damages are lower, in some cases, it may be worth pursuing the claims process on your own. However, when damages reach a certain amount, it may be in your best interest to retain the services of a lawyer. The more losses you have, the more you have to lose, so it is important to have a strong lawyer who is skilled enough to handle your case successfully. When you are searching for a lawyer, look for one whose experience is similar to the elements of your case. A lawyer should understand how to best approach your case and use the right legal strategies. They will develop a robust legal strategy and prevent the possibility of accepting an offer that is much lower than you deserve.

Can a lawyer help me if I’m partially at fault?

This is a common concern among many accident victims. Being partially at fault does not mean that your chances of obtaining compensation are zero. It is not completely off the table. Even though you contributed to the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation. A  lawyer may help you by reviewing the evidence in your case and calculating the damages. Every case is different, but a lawyer will assess your case to see if you are eligible to recover your losses despite being at fault. 

How should I prepare for my first meeting with a lawyer?

Coming prepared for your first consultation will make sure that you stay on track, your questions are answered, and that your lawyer can provide an accurate assessment of your case. Bring any relevant information or evidence such as medical documentation, insurance information, police/accident reports, etc. Additionally, bringing a list of questions can guarantee that you get a clear picture of what the process entails. Write down a detailed account of what you remember from your accident so that you don’t forget any important details.

Orlando Personal Injury Glossary

At David & Philpot, PL, we understand that dealing with the aftermath of an accident in Orlando, FL can be overwhelming. As your trusted Orlando, FL personal injury lawyer, we are committed to guiding you through the legal process. This glossary provides clear explanations of important legal terms related to personal injury cases. These definitions aim to help you better understand what to expect as we work together to pursue fair compensation.

Medical Expenses Coverage

Medical expenses coverage refers to compensation for medical costs directly related to an injury. This can include hospital visits, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and follow-up care. Even if you have health insurance, personal injury claims can cover out-of-pocket costs like co-pays and deductibles. In Florida, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) often covers initial expenses, but serious injuries may exceed these limits. Thorough documentation of all medical treatments is essential to support your claim.

Property Damage Claims

Property damage claims involve seeking compensation for personal belongings damaged in an accident. This commonly includes repairs or replacement for vehicles involved in collisions but can also extend to items like phones, laptops, or other valuable possessions. To support a property damage claim, it is helpful to gather photographs, repair estimates, and receipts. While insurance companies may offer initial settlements, consulting with an attorney can help ensure the amount covers the full extent of the loss.

Lost Income Compensation

Lost income compensation covers wages missed due to injuries that prevent you from working. This type of claim accounts for both short-term and long-term impacts on your earning ability. For example, if you require time off for medical treatments or cannot return to your previous job, you may be entitled to recover those lost earnings. Documentation from your employer, medical providers, and financial records strengthens these claims. In cases involving long-term disability, projecting future income loss is an important step.

Rehabilitation Services

Rehabilitation services refer to medical treatments designed to help individuals regain function and mobility after an injury. This may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, or specialized treatments. In personal injury cases, these services play a crucial role in the recovery process. Compensation for rehabilitation ensures that injured parties can access necessary care without the added burden of financial stress. Keeping detailed records of therapy sessions and medical progress supports your claim.

Future Medical Care Costs

Future medical care costs refer to anticipated medical expenses that extend beyond the initial recovery period. Serious injuries may require ongoing treatment, follow-up surgeries, medications, or long-term rehabilitation. Calculating these costs often involves input from medical professionals and financial experts to ensure accurate projections. Including future care costs in a personal injury claim helps cover the expenses of managing chronic conditions, potential complications, or delayed recovery outcomes.

If you’ve been injured and need guidance on your next steps, our team at David & Philpot, PL is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation with an Orlando, FL personal injury lawyer who will work with you to pursue the compensation you deserve.

David & Philpot, P.L., Orlando Personal Injury Lawyers

1936 Boothe Circle, Longwood, FL 32750

Contact Our Orlando Personal Injury Attorney Today

We understand that managing personal injury laws can be a complicated and overwhelming process for those affected by accidents or negligence. Our commitment is to provide our clients with the knowledgeable and compassionate representation they need to secure the justice and compensation they deserve. By advocating tirelessly on behalf of our clients, we at David & Philpot, P.L. aim to make the legal process as clear and effective as possible, helping to restore peace of mind and facilitate healing. Attorney Tim David founded his practice in 1988 to help victims. Speak with our personal injury lawyer in Orlando when you are ready.

“Attorney Tim and his staff were very helpful to me after my injuries he treat me like family. My experience with him during my tough time was an excellent experience anytime I needed him he was available. I would definitely refer David and Philpot to anyone, and if I ever need him again I would definitely be giving him a call. Thank you again Tim for everything you have done for me. You’re a blessing” – Tisha H.