What Do You Need to Make an Injury Claim in Florida? 7 Key Steps to Protect Your Case
Wondering what you need to start a personal injury claim? Brewer Law Firm, P.A. in Zephyrhills outlines 7 essential steps and documents to protect your rights and maximize compensation.
✅ Quick Answer: What Do You Need to Make an Injury Claim?
To make a personal injury claim in Florida, you need evidence of your injury, proof of someone else’s fault, and timely action. This includes medical records, accident reports, photos, witness info, and support from an experienced attorney.
📄 Full List: What You Need to Start Your Injury Claim
1. Proof of Injury
Your case starts with medical documentation showing that you were hurt. This can include:
Emergency room reports
X-rays, MRIs, or diagnostic scans
Primary care or specialist notes
Treatment plans or surgical records
Prescription lists
📌 Tip: Always seek care right away — delays hurt your health and your case.
2. Accident Documentation
Gather everything you can from the scene:
Police or crash reports (if applicable)
Photos of injuries, damage, skid marks, or hazards
Contact info for the at-fault party and any witnesses
Property damage estimates (for car or item damage)
This first-party documentation is critical if the case goes to insurance negotiations or court.
3. Proof of Negligence or Fault
To win compensation, you must show the other party was legally at fault. Brewer Law Firm uses:
Surveillance footage or dash cams
Witness statements
Traffic citations
Road conditions
Safety code violations (e.g., construction accidents)
We’ll help build the legal narrative that links their negligence to your injury.
4. Evidence of Financial Loss
You need to show the impact on your life, which may include:
Hospital and rehab bills
Lost wage statements or tax returns
Mileage logs for treatment visits
Estimates for future medical needs or disability
These directly affect the value of your claim.
5. Insurance Information
Bring your:
Health insurance card
Auto insurance (if a car accident)
Any correspondence from the other party’s insurer
⚠️ Do not speak to the at-fault party’s insurance adjuster without legal advice.
6. Witness Cooperation
If someone saw the accident happen — or can speak to your pain and lifestyle changes — get their:
Name
Phone number
Written or recorded statement (if available)
Brewer Law Firm can follow up and secure affidavits or depositions if needed.
7. A Personal Injury Lawyer on Your Side
While not legally required, hiring a personal injury attorney increases your odds of full compensation — especially in complex cases like:
Serious injuries
Shared fault
Insurance delays
Rideshare, construction, or commercial vehicle accidents
Brewer Law Firm handles everything from evidence gathering to settlement negotiations and trial, so you can focus on recovery.
🔎 Why Acting Quickly Matters
Florida has a strict statute of limitations:
For personal injury: 2 years from the date of the accident (as of 2023 updates)
For wrongful death: 2 years
For property damage claims: 4 years
⏳ Miss a deadline? Your claim could be thrown out — no matter how valid it is.
🔗 Related Services From Brewer Law Firm
📍 Why Zephyrhills Clients Choose Brewer Law Firm
One-on-one attention from Attorney Nathan Brewer
Deep knowledge of local roads, hospitals, and insurers
Contingency fee structure — you pay nothing unless we win
Local to Zephyrhills, Wesley Chapel, Dade City, Land O’ Lakes
❓ FAQs About Injury Claims in Florida
Q1: What if I don’t have all the evidence yet?
A: That’s okay — start your claim and let us help you collect everything.
Q2: Can I still file if I was partially at fault?
A: Yes. Florida follows a modified comparative fault system. You can recover damages if you’re less than 51% at fault.
Q3: How long do claims take to settle?
A: Anywhere from 3 months to 18 months, depending on case complexity and insurer cooperation.
Q4: How much is my injury claim worth?
A: Depends on medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Check out our blog on this topic →
📞 Ready to Make a Claim? Let’s Talk.
Brewer Law Firm helps you protect your case, your health, and your future — with no upfront fees.