There is not any doubt that the Coronavirus pandemic has affected essentially every aspect of society. When it comes to personal injury claims, there were many moving parts before COVID-19. In a post-pandemic world, some of these factors are causing delays.
First things first, accident victims must obtain medical treatment in order for attorneys to address their personal injury claims. With Florida healthcare facility resources heavily focused on COVID-19 patients, receiving medical treatment can be delayed. If you have concerns about contracting Coronavirus in the process of seeking medical treatment, practice public health guidelines and those imposed by the healthcare facility, but do not delay treatment of your injuries for this reason. Your healthcare facility should have:
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in accordance with current CDC guidance and OSHA standards.
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizer and masks placed at the front of office/practice.
- Single-use gloves, disposable tissues, and no-touch wastebaskets.
- N95 respirators, face shields/goggles, surgical masks, and gowns for providers and staff, as appropriate.
Sluggish Insurance Providers are Par for the Course due to COVID-19
Back in March, the state of Florida set out to assure insurance providers carried on covering its citizens, stating, “all companies regulated by OIR are directed to review and update their Business Continuity Plans and/or Continuity of Operation Plans immediately. The plans must provide a framework for the continuation of company operations, including key insurance functions such as policy issuance, premium collection, claims adjustment and payment, and policyholder service.”
Slowed processing times are understandable, but accepting low settlements and other opportunistic measures of insurance companies are not. Consult with our attorney who specializes in Florida personal injury law if you feel your insurance provider is hoping these rocky times will cause you to settle too soon.
Expect a phone consultation instead of having to venture into our office. Photograph your injuries where possible. E-signature options also allow for contactless navigation through our personal injury claim.
Is Contracting COVID-19 Considered as a Personal Injury Claim?
Yes, especially if you feel you contracted the virus due to negligence. If a Florida nursing home, medical provider, employer, or similar facility failed to take the necessary actions to prevent the spread of the virus. It is especially helpful if you can identify that you contracted the virus on-site, and following that chain is one reason why proving COVID-19 as a personal injury is difficult. Still, do not take on a victim’s mentality if you have questions about why you contracted COVID-19. Speak to an attorney today.
Florida jury trials are delayed by COVID-19
Florida is delaying jury trials in response to COVID-19. Car accidents with personal injury claims that require a jury trial will not be heard again until early July. Furthermore, anyone with a summons for jury duty dated between March 16, 2020, and July 2, 2020, is no longer required to go to court, but in some instances might be required to participate in electronic proceedings. If you are in doubt as to what is required of you, contact the phone number to the local Clerk of Court as it appears on your summons. Do not let the delay in jury trials prevent you from filing a personal injury claim. Florida is slowly re-opening, and the courts are finding ways to stay productive.
Seeking Compensation Following a Peronsal Injury Accident
After an accident, you may need hospital care, physical therapy, medication, and more. Many of our clients are unable to work or get themselves to and from appointments due to COVID-19. Additionally, the emotional distress you can sustain from an incident like this can further add to your stressful situation.
Thankfully, you have options. At the DRG Law Firm, we go above and beyond for our clients. We review all of our cases carefully to help our clients get compensation for any losses they may have sustained. Contact us today at 888-413-8353 to schedule a complimentary consultation, remember you don’t pay unless we win.
Recent Comments