What do I need to know about Florida’s new tort laws?
Florida’s new laws may not come as good news for many victims of negligent drivers or negligent property owners.
However, even in the wake of these new laws, personal injury victims can still recover compensation. Victims of negligence in the Lakeland area also should still expect insurance companies that are responsible to do so to pay claims promptly and fairly.
The new law has several details, many of which will get worked out further through the courts as time goes on. A person with detailed questions about how this new law applies to them should speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Here are some highlights of the new law:
- If a person who files suit is the one primarily responsible for their own injuries, they will not be able to recover compensation.
- For some cases, the time to file a lawsuit has decreased from four years to two years.
- It will be more difficult to accuse insurance companies of bad faith in the event that they mishandle a claim for compensation. If an insurance company acts in bad faith, they may have to pay penalties and additional compensation.
- Property owners have some additional protection from lawsuits if they injure someone who was trespassing on their property.
Victims of accidents in the Lakeland area should be aware of their legal rights
The new law does change a lot about how personal injury lawsuits will work in Florida.
However, victims should remember that they still have the right to receive compensation after a motor vehicle accident or other accident.
If another person negligently caused their injuries, they may receive compensation for medical bills and other out-of-pocket costs, lost wages and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Victims do need to act quickly if they have been injured, especially since the new law has shortened important deadlines. At the same time, they should fully understand their legal rights and alternatives.
