Timeline of a Florida Car Accident Lawsuit
Florida differs from many other states when it comes to car accident lawsuits. Because of the state’s no-fault insurance law, restrictions are placed on when you can sue the negligent party after a car accident. Because of this law, the timeline for car accident lawsuits is more complex. Understanding the laws and knowing how to handle a wreck when it happens can be useful.
If you’ve already been injured in a wreck, our team at The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo is here to help. We’ve handled many car accident lawsuits in Florida and can provide guidance on how to recover a settlement from your insurance or advice on whether you have grounds for a legal case. A car accident lawyer from our team will support you in your time of need.
Seek Medical Attention
Right after you get into a car accident, you must call the police and seek medical attention for yourself and anyone else who’s been injured in the accident. Even if you don’t believe the wreck was severe, it’s important to alert the police so that they can write an official report and record all the details of the wreck.
Collect Evidence to Support Your Case
After you’ve begun recovering from your injuries, you can investigate your case and collect evidence to support your claim. Gathering evidence is essential even if you’re trying to obtain a settlement from your insurance company because the adjuster will want to know exactly what happened on scene.
Any evidence you have, such as medical records, witness testimonies, and police reports will help your insurance company understand the situation.
Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Law
Florida’s no-fault insurance law requires all drivers to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. The minimum required coverage for PIP insurance is $10,000 bodily injury and $10,000 property damage liability. Regardless of who’s at fault for causing a wreck, all drivers must first use their PIP to cover damages before taking legal action.
When You Can File a Car Accident Lawsuit
There are certain exceptions to Florida’s no-fault insurance policy in which you’ll be able to sue the liable party in your car accident.
The no-fault insurance policy doesn’t apply to vehicle damage claims, so if you want to sue the liable party for vehicle damage alone, you’re able to. Alternatively, if you suffer a severe injury after your wreck, you can bypass your PIP insurance and sue the at-fault party.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney
Only a handful of states in the country have no-fault insurance laws, but navigating a car accident lawsuit in these states can be slightly more complicated. When trying to recover compensation for your damages in Florida, it’s beneficial to have a knowledgeable attorney by your side.
If you’d like to discuss your case with a car accident lawyer from The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo, fill out the contact form below or call 561-659-6366 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
