How Your PIP Coverage Could Impact Your Car Accident Settlement
If you live in West Palm Beach, then you’re likely familiar with Florida’s no-fault car insurance policy. Unlike most states that hold drivers accountable for their negligent actions when car accidents occur, Florida requires all drivers to hold a minimum of $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) insurance.
PIP insurance covers your medical expenses and lost wages when a car accident occurs, regardless of who’s at fault for the wreck. You can’t sue the person who hit you if your damages don’t exceed $10,000; however, there are exceptions to the no-fault rule.
Speaking to a car accident lawyer from The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo can help you determine whether you have grounds for a lawsuit. Our team will assess how your PIP coverage impacts your car accident settlement, and we’ll work hard to maximize your claim.
Suing for a Car Accident in West Palm Beach
You can sue for a car accident even with a no-fault car insurance law in place. Property damage isn’t covered by your PIP insurance, so you can sue the liable party in your accident for damage to your vehicle.
You can also sue the liable party if your medical expenses and lost income exceed $10,000. If you suffered severe injuries in your car accident, you can bypass a PIP insurance claim and file a lawsuit against the negligent driver right away.
How to Maximize Your Car Accident Claim
To maximize your car accident claim, you should account for all the ways your car accident affected your lifestyle. When filing a PIP claim, you won’t have the opportunity to recover compensation for nonfinancial losses, which is why taking legal action is often more desirable. If you can sue the liable party, you’ll be able to recover both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages can include any additional medical expenses and lost wages you’ve suffered after subtracting the $10,000 covered by your PIP insurance. Economic damages will also include property damage. Non-economic damages can include things like pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, scarring and disfigurement, and loss of consortium.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney
Understanding the laws surrounding PIP insurance isn’t always easy. Depending on how your car accident occurred and who’s at fault, you may need guidance from an experienced attorney in Florida. An attorney can help you file your claim and increase your settlement.
When someone injures you because of their negligence, you deserve justice. Although no-fault insurance may make it seem like justice is impossible, this is far from the truth. Our team at The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo will work hard to hold the liable party accountable and make your recovery process easier.
If you’d like to discuss your case in greater detail with a car accident lawyer from our team, call 561-659-6366 or fill out the contact form below to schedule a free consultation.
