Making Informed Decisions After a Florida Car Accident

A car accident can instantly change an ordinary day into a stressful and confusing ordeal. Following the accident, it’s very easy to feel overwhelmed because of medical appointments, vehicle repairs, missed work, and insurance calls. However, it is crucial that you ensure you make informed decisions from early on. That way, you can protect your health and legal rights. Below is what you need to know if you’ve been in a Florida car accident.

Prioritize Safety and Medical Care

Your health and safety should be your top priority after a car accident. If it’s safe and the vehicle can move, move to a safe location to avoid further incidents. Otherwise, remain where you are and wait for help. If you are injured, call 911 right away. Even if you feel “fine,” it is vital to get medical attention as soon as possible, as some injuries are usually not apparent immediately.

According to Florida law, seeking prompt medical attention also serves a legal purpose. After a Florida car accident, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is responsible for covering your initial medical expenses. However, to be eligible for PIP benefits, the law requires you to see a doctor within 14 days of the accident. Failure to do so can result in benefits denial.

Understand Florida’s No-Fault Insurance System

If you’ve been in a Florida car accident, it is crucial that you understand the state’s no-fault insurance system, which we have mentioned briefly in the previous section. PIP coverage generally pays up to 80% of your medical expenses and 60% of lost wages, up to your policy’s limits, regardless of who caused the accident. However, PIP does not cover pain and suffering and may not fully cover serious or permanent injuries.

Luckily, if your injuries meet the serious injury threshold that is outlined in Florida Statute Section 627.737, such as significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement, you may be able to step outside the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the at-fault driver. Understanding whether you qualify to file an at-fault-based claim is vital for ensuring you make informed decisions.

Be Cautious When Dealing With Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but remember, they work for the insurance company, and their main objective is to reduce payouts. Shortly after an accident, you might receive calls asking for a recorded statement or proposing a quick settlement. It’s crucial to be cautious.

Giving a recorded statement without consulting an attorney can be dangerous. Your words may be used against you. You should also avoid accepting the initial settlement offer before consulting an attorney. Initial settlement offers are often lower than the claim’s actual value.

Understand Time Limits

You generally have two years to file a personal injury claim against an at-fault driver. Not filing your claim within this time can lead to you being permanently barred from recovering compensation.

Legal Help Is Available

If you’ve been in a car accident, one of the smartest moves you can make is speaking to an attorney. Our skilled Fort Lauderdale car accident attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and guide you throughout the legal process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, Miami, Ocala, Fort Myers, Tampa, Jacksonville, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, West Palm Beach, Naples, and Melbourne areas.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699/0627/Sections/0627.736.html