According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Department, 401,533 car accidents occurred in Florida in 2022, with 3,445 fatalities and 163,961 injuries. Those involved in a Florida automobile accident should be informed of their legal rights, as understanding the state's car accident regulations is critical for recovering losses. Chances are assistance will be needed as this is your first time handling these cases.
Insurance requirements in Florida:
Florida is unique among states in that it does not need bodily injury liability coverage, which covers injury-related costs for other motorists when the policyholder is at fault. Personal injury protection (PIP) and property damage liability (PDL) coverage are required by the state, while bodily injury liability is optional. Despite this, many drivers choose it to protect their assets in the event of an accident, as not having it would necessitate paying collision-related expenditures out of pocket if sued by an injured party.
Reporting to the police:
Drivers in Florida are required to report an automobile collision to police if it causes $500 or more in vehicle or property damage, or if it causes injury or death. For less serious accidents, motorists can use particular forms available on the FLHSMV website. Reporting to the police is recommended since the ensuing report can be used to get compensation for collision-related damages.
No-fault state:
Due to Florida's "no-fault" system for auto insurance, drivers may file a claim with their own insurer for compensation for relatively minor injuries regardless of who was at blame. This is achieved through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which, in the event of a terrible accident, pays 80% of reasonable medical expenses, 60% of lost income, and $5,000 in death benefits.
Florida's no-fault system can be avoided for catastrophic injuries such as death, lifelong scarring, loss of bodily function, or permanent disability. When injuries exceed the state's serious threshold, victims can file a personal injury claim against the at-fault motorist, seeking compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. An expert Florida automobile accident lawyer can assist victims in determining if they can pursue compensation beyond PIP coverage.
Final thoughts:
The governor recently overruled proposals by Florida lawmakers to change the state's rules regarding auto accidents and repeal no-fault statutes. A Florida auto accident attorney can offer crucial counsel, assisting victims in understanding their legal rights and pursuing the best possible compensation by quickly filing a claim.
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