How long it takes to settle a slip and fall claim varies based on a number of contributing factors. Some slip and fall claims will be settled in a few months, but some cases may take years.
The length of time a case takes can depend on how complicated your case is, how much information needs to be reviewed, and how cooperative the defendant or an insurance company is being. Additionally, if you are seeking a substantial settlement after suffering serious injuries, you may not be trying to settle your case as fast as possible.
Why Waiting to Settle Can Benefit Your Case
Some injury victims will take more time to settle in order to gauge the full costs of their injuries. Yes, you may need immediate financial support to help you with medical bills and lost wages after an accident. As tempting as it may be to agree to an early settlement, however, you may want to carefully weigh your settlement options and take your time with your case.
It is important to have a firm grasp on your long-term diagnosis and future treatment plan before settling, especially if you were seriously hurt. You may want to wait until you:
- Obtain necessary medical devices to help you lead a normal life
- Make plans for important surgeries
- Understand your rehabilitation needs going forward
- Arrange home healthcare needs
- And more
All the financial, psychological, and physical impacts of your injuries should be taken into consideration before you accept any financial settlements, as you will not have a second opportunity to file a claim against the same individual for the same accident. If you reach a hasty settlement before getting a clear perspective on the long-term treatment needs your injuries require, you may not have sufficient funds to cover your future medical costs.
This is a major reason why many victims turn to a slip and fall accident lawyer from our team. We can speak with your doctor about your prognosis, assign values to your losses, and estimate future costs before undergoing the settlement negotiation process.
To consult with an experienced slip and fall accidents lawyer today
855-780-9986
Damages You Can Seek in a Slip and Fall Claim
Slip and fall claims fall under the larger umbrella of premises liability claims. As a result, you may be eligible for economic and non-economic damages to assist you during your recovery.
Not only can these damages be used to cover your healthcare expenses, but they can give you the financial security you need to seek treatment for your mental suffering as well. After all, the psychological trauma you endure after a serious fall accident can be just as painful as the physical injuries you suffer.
In Florida, recoverable damages include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages, including past income and future income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of quality of life
- Challenges related to physical disfigurements
- Disability assistance
- Mental anguish
- And more
Understanding Duty of Care in Premises Liability Cases
As we previously discussed, many slip and fall accidents are dealt with in the field of premises liability law. As such, property owners must uphold basic safety standards when you are on their property – as long as you are allowed to be there under Florida law. If you were allowed to be on the property at the time of the accident, you may be granted compensation for your losses.
According to the Florida Bar, three types of visitors are allowed to be on a person’s property under normal circumstances. Therefore, they are owed a duty of care in most cases.
These visitors include:
- Licensee by invitation: Personal guests of the property owner, including neighbors and social guests
- Business invitees: Customers at a business and business associates
- Public invitees: Members of the public visiting the property with implied consent
Slip and Fall Lawyers Fighting for Victims in Orlando
Here at Bogin, Munns & Munns, we have proudly fought for slip and fall victims since 1979. Our team of legal specialists can help you understand how long it takes to settle a slip and fall claim. At the end of the day, we want you to feel confident with your decisions before you move forward with your fight for compensation.
Lastly, we want slip and fall victims to consider the statute of limitations on personal injury cases. If you fail to file your lawsuit within the statute of limitations outlined in Florida law, you may forfeit your right to compensation. In general, most personal injury cases, including slip and falls, must be filed no later than two years after the date of the incident.
To learn more about your eligibility for compensation after a slip and fall accident in Orlando, contact a Bogin, Munns & Munns representative today at (407) 578-9696 to get started with your free consultation.
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