Will People Find Out I Filed an Auto Accident Lawsuit in Tampa?

Many people feel uncomfortable about suing at-fault drivers for causing car accidents in Tampa. A public trial might seem like a spectacle you’d rather avoid, especially if you value your privacy. Perhaps you’re a celebrity, a local business leader, or a public official who needs to steer clear of unwanted media attention. Is it possible to file an auto accident lawsuit without other people finding out? Could a Tampa car accident lawyer help with this issue?

Your Claim Probably Won’t Become Public Knowledge

People often use the terms “injury claim” and “personal injury lawsuit” interchangeably, but there are major differences between these two concepts. An injury claim exists entirely within the insurance world. On the other hand, a personal injury lawsuit exists in the public court system. You can file an injury claim and recover compensation via insurance without ever filing a public personal injury lawsuit.

This is not a rare occurrence, either. In fact, the vast majority (over 90%) of personal injury lawsuits end in private “settlements” rather than courtroom trials. You can file an insurance claim, hold an at-fault driver accountable, and negotiate a financial settlement with the at-fault driver’s insurance provider. This entire process should be confidential, and people will not find out anything of note.

How to Make Your Auto Insurance Claim Even More Confidential

If you’re still concerned about word getting out, consider asking your auto accident attorney to communicate with the insurer on your behalf. Do not tell the insurance company anything beyond the most basic details, and inform them that you’d rather have your lawyer represent you during this process.

If you communicate with the insurer directly, they may record your conversations. Although rare, this may result in “leaks,” especially if you’re some kind of celebrity or public figure. You should also make it very clear that you’d like the details of the private negotiations to remain confidential.

Consider asking all participants in these agreements to sign confidentiality agreements. Anyone who leaks details could face financial penalties with these safeguards in place. You should also make sure to stress that you want your final settlement amount to remain confidential.

A Lawsuit May Be Necessary

Some negotiations fail, and if a private settlement is impossible, you may need to consider a public trial in order to recover your compensation. Although this can be challenging and perhaps embarrassing for some, it could be the only way to cover the cost of your injuries. Learn more by contacting an experienced attorney.

Can a Tampa Auto Accident Lawyer Help Me?

Privacy and confidentiality are completely understandable priorities if you want to file a car accident lawsuit in Tampa. Fortunately, the vast majority of auto accident claims never become public. You should be able to navigate this process without anyone ever finding out about the negotiations or settlement. Contact Anderson & Anderson today for more information.

Sources: 

flhsmv.gov/insurance/

ahca.myflorida.com/health-quality-assurance/bureau-of-health-facility-regulation/hospital-outpatient-services-unit/health-care-clinics/pip-auto-insurance-regulation