Coker Law Personal Injury Lawyers | September 5, 2025 | Personal Injury
Being injured in an accident can be overwhelming. It is not only physically and emotionally challenging, but it can be difficult to navigate the legal process as well. Most people have very little experience with the legal system. Even basic steps can feel confusing. The good news is that the personal injury claims process in Florida usually follows a predictable path.
By understanding each stage, you can approach your case with confidence, knowing what to expect along the way.
Getting Started: Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney
After a serious accident, the first step is to consider hiring a personal injury attorney.
While you can technically pursue a claim on your own, it may not be wise. Having a skilled lawyer on your side can make a significant difference. Attorneys experienced in Florida personal injury law can help you navigate insurance negotiations, gather evidence, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
When choosing a lawyer, look beyond flashy advertisements or online testimonials. Focus on:
- Experience in cases similar to yours. Your attorney should have handled similar cases successfully, whether it’s a car accident, slip and fall, or another type of personal injury.
- Trial experience. Many cases settle, but some go to court. You want an attorney capable of taking your case to trial if needed.
- Track record with settlements. Check past outcomes to see whether the attorney consistently obtains fair compensation for clients.
Most personal injury lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if you win your case. This arrangement aligns your lawyer’s incentives with your own. It also levels the playing field for injured victims who are pursuing compensation from large companies or wealthy defendants.
Understanding Florida’s Statute of Limitations
Florida law imposes strict time limits on filing personal injury claims, known as the statute of limitations. As a general rule, personal injury claims must typically be filed within two years from the date of the accident or injury. The same deadline usually applies to wrongful death actions.
Missing these deadlines can prevent you from seeking compensation entirely. Acting promptly is critical. Make sure to speak with an attorney as soon as possible, so you don’t mistakenly miss your opportunity for compensation.
What Beginning a Personal Injury Claim Entails
A personal injury claim is essentially a formal request for compensation from the party responsible for your injuries. This often involves an insurance company. In some cases, however, it may be an individual, a business, or a government entity.
The process usually begins with preparing and sending a demand letter, which will outline:
- Why the other party is legally responsible
- A summary of your injuries and treatments
- Lost wages and other financial impacts
- Pain and suffering or other non-economic damages
The insurance company will review the demand. They may agree to pay, dispute the claim, or offer a lower-than-expected settlement. If negotiations fail, your attorney may proceed to file a lawsuit.
Filing a Lawsuit and Serving the Defendant
When a settlement cannot be reached, a formal complaint is filed in court.
This document includes:
- The parties involved
- The legal basis for the claim
- Facts supporting the claim
- The amount of compensation being sought
Once filed, the complaint must be served on the defendant. A process server usually performs this step. Once service of process is accomplished, the case will move forward.
Discovery: Gathering Evidence
Discovery is a critical phase in any personal injury case. During this stage, both sides collect information to strengthen their arguments.
Typical discovery activities include:
- Depositions of witnesses and parties involved
- Requests for medical records, police reports, and insurance information
- Questionnaires or written interrogatories to clarify facts
Discovery ensures that both sides fully understand the case. This also helps your attorney quantify the value of your claim. After exchanging evidence and evaluating the facts, your attorney will be in a better position to negotiate effectively.
Settlements and Mediation
Most personal injury claims never go to trial. In fact, the vast majority of cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. Mediation or direct negotiation allows both parties to agree on compensation without the time and expense of a trial.
Mediation is conducted by a neutral third party who attempts to get both sides (plaintiff and defendant) to agree on compensation and resolve the case before trial.
Settlement agreements are legally binding contracts that typically include terms about payment and sometimes confidentiality clauses.
Going to Trial
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to trial. At trial, a judge or jury examines evidence and hears testimony. Then, the judge or jury will decide whether the defendant is liable and how much compensation the victim is entitled to.
Trials can be lengthy and complex. Trials are also unpredictable. A skilled trial attorney is invaluable if your case reaches this stage.
Once a judgment is issued, both sides have a limited period to appeal if they believe a legal error occurred. After this window passes, the personal injury claim process concludes.
Contact a Jacksonville Personal Injury Attorney at Coker Law Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Navigating a personal injury claim can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone.
At Coker Law Personal Injury Lawyers, we combine experience, dedication, and personalized attention to help our clients get the compensation they deserve. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or taking a case to trial, our team is committed to protecting your rights every step of the way.
If you have been injured in an accident in Florida, contact Coker Law Personal Injury Lawyers today. We offer a no-risk, free case review to answer your questions and discuss your next steps. We will explain your options, address your concerns, and guide you through the legal process with confidence and clarity.
When you hire us, you will have peace of mind knowing that your case is being handled with the utmost care and attention. Call today to get started.
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville personal injury law firm of Coker Law Personal Injury Lawyers and schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County and its surrounding areas.
Coker Law Personal Injury Lawyers
136 E Bay St #5438
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 356-6071
Find us with our Geo Coordinates: 30.32569719086265, -81.65515220132858
