Car Accident

How No-Fault Insurance Works in Florida

In Florida, your own insurance pays first after an accident, no matter who caused it. But this system has limits most people don’t expect. Your PIP only covers 80% of medical bills and 60% of lost wages, up to just $10,000.

For serious injuries, this money runs out fast. Plus, it doesn’t pay anything for pain and suffering. Our lawyers can help you figure out when you qualify to go beyond these limits and get full payment from the driver who hit you.

What Compensation Are You Entitled To After a Florida Accident?

If your injuries are serious enough, you may qualify for much more than basic PIP coverage. You could get money for all your medical bills (now and future), all lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, car repairs, and more. Insurance companies often try to pay you less than you deserve. Our experienced lawyers know how to properly value your claim and fight for every dollar you’re entitled to.

How is Fault Determined in a Florida Car Accident?

In Florida, your compensation can be reduced by your share of fault. Insurance companies may try to blame you to pay less.  We fight back by doing thorough investigations, getting expert opinions, analyzing police reports, talking to witnesses, and checking traffic camera footage if possible. Our team knows how to build strong cases that show who was really at fault.

How Do I File an Auto Insurance Claim in Florida?

After ensuring safety and calling police, you must notify your insurance company quickly. Florida law requires reporting within 10 days. But be careful what you say to insurance companies. Their adjusters try to get statements that help them pay less. Before talking to any insurance person, call our offices for free advice. We can help you document everything properly and handle insurance talks while you focus on getting better.

Dealing with Uninsured Drivers in Florida

About 20% of Florida drivers have no insurance. If someone without insurance hits you, getting compensation becomes much harder. We can evaluate your case to determine if there are other ways to get paid, finding other responsible parties, or going after the at-fault driver. Don’t assume you’re out of luck. Call us to learn about your options.

What are the Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Florida?

Florida only requires $10,000 in PIP and $10,000 in property damage coverage. This is far too little for serious accidents. Most drivers don’t have enough insurance. A lawyer can find all available coverage including your own underinsured motorist protection, umbrella policies, or health insurance. We often discover coverage options our clients didn’t know they had.

Common Car Accident Injuries in Florida

According to Florida Highway Safety data, the state reported 401,540 traffic crashes in 2021, resulting in 252,973 injuries and 3,741 fatalities.

These injuries often include:

• Whiplash and neck strain
• Traumatic brain injuries (from mild concussions to severe TBI)
• Spinal cord damage and herniated discs
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal bleeding and organ damage
• Cuts, bruises, and soft tissue injuries
• Burns from vehicle fires or airbag deployment
• Back injuries and chronic pain
• Knee and joint injuries
• Facial lacerations and dental injuries

Many injuries may not be immediately apparent after an accident, with symptoms developing days or weeks later. Our team works with medical professionals to document all injuries and their potential long-term impacts on your life.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Florida

1. Distracted Driving:
Distracted driving remains a significant concern in Florida. In 2023, law enforcement agencies issued thousands of citations for texting while driving, highlighting its role in accidents.

2. Tourists on Unfamiliar Roads:
Florida’s popularity as a tourist destination means many drivers are unfamiliar with local roads, leading to navigation errors and accidents. While specific statistics on tourist-related accidents are not readily available, the high volume of visitors contributes to increased traffic incidents.

3. Aggressive Driving in Heavy Traffic:
Aggressive driving behaviors, such as speeding and tailgating, are prevalent in congested areas. In 2023, there were hundreds of thousands of citations issued for speeding violations, showing the extent of the issue.

4. Adverse Weather Conditions:
Florida’s weather, including heavy rain and hurricanes, contributes to accidents. Drivers often struggle with reduced visibility and slippery roads, increasing the likelihood of collisions.

5. Elderly Drivers:
Florida has a significant population of elderly drivers. In 2023, drivers aged 65 and older were involved in a notable number of traffic incidents. However, elderly drivers are not disproportionately responsible for accidents compared to other age groups.

6. Commercial Vehicle Accidents on Major Highways:
Florida’s major highways, such as I-95 and I-75, experience heavy commercial truck traffic. In 2023, tens of thousands of crashes involved commercial motor vehicles, resulting in hundreds of fatalities.

Florida’s Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims

Since March 2023, Florida law gives you just two years to file a lawsuit after a car accident, down from the previous four years. This deadline applies to all traffic injury cases occurring on or after March 24, 2023, while vehicle damage-only claims still have a four-year limit. Special timelines include two years from date of death for wrongful death cases and three years for claims against government entities.

Don’t delay. Missing this deadline means losing your right to compensation completely, no matter how strong your case. Seek medical attention immediately, gather evidence quickly, and contact an advocate as soon as possible for your best chance at receiving fair compensation.