If you’ve been in a car accident in Florida, you’re not alone. According to the preliminary data from The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were 381,156 car accidents in 2022 alone. Car accidents can be traumatic experiences, and they can leave you with a lot of questions and concerns…
If you find yourself in this situation, getting familiar with your options may help you mitigate the repercussions. Here are the top 3 concerns of people who have been in a Florida car crash:
Medical Expenses
One of the biggest concerns after a car accident is medical expenses. If you were injured in the accident, you may be facing significant medical bills for treatment and rehabilitation. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may need ongoing medical care for months or even years. These expenses can quickly add up, and you may be worried about how you will pay for them.
Under Florida law, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance pays 80% of your upfront medical expenses up to $10,000.00. This allows you to seek treatment with the comfort of knowing you are able to pay the provider and resolve the balance at the end of your case.
If the other driver was at fault for the accident, you may be able to seek compensation for your medical expenses through a personal injury claim. This claim also would include payment for the 20% of medical expenses that PIP did not pay. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Property Damage
Another concern after a car accident is property damage. Your vehicle may have been severely damaged in the accident, leaving you wondering how you will pay for repairs or replacement – including the costs of a rental vehicle during the interim.
If the other driver was at fault, their insurance company should cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle. If the at-fault party does not have any property damage liability insurance or if they take too long to pay for your property damage claim, you may need to file a collision claim under your insurance policy if you have that coverage. Your insurance company will then recoup those advanced expenses and deductibles from the at-fault party’s insurance company.
When you experience a total loss of your vehicle, it can be very stressful and frustrating. The fair market value of your vehicle is oftentimes less than the value of having your vehicle as it was prior to the crash. In addition, car prices fluctuate and so does your personal credit, which can make purchasing a replacement vehicle much more difficult and costly than you anticipated.
Insurance companies are often more concerned with their own bottom line than with your best interests. They may offer you a settlement that is far below the actual cost of repairs or replacement, making you responsible for the financial deficit.
Although personal injury attorneys usually only handle the injury portion of the claim, The Law Offices of Stephen A. Smith are uniquely qualified to refer you to a specialist who will seek your full compensation for a property damage and diminished value claim. Many times, they can help you negotiate with the insurance company and ensure that you receive a fair settlement of your property damage claim or file a lawsuit if necessary.
Lost Wages
If you were injured in a car accident, you may need to take time off work to recover. This can result in lost wages, which can be a significant financial burden. In circumstances such as these, you may be worried about how you will pay your bills and support your family while you are unable to work.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance covers 60% of your lost wages up to $10,000.00. This is the same $10,000.00 amount from which 80% of your upfront medical expenses may be paid. You may find it necessary to file a claim for lost wages with your insurance company to bridge the gap until such time as your personal injury claim can be fully resolved with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
An experienced personal injury attorney can help you calculate your lost wages and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Involved In A Car Crash In Florida? Call Stephen A. Smith Today!
If you’ve been in a car accident in Florida, it’s important to seek legal guidance from an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and other damages.
Contact The Law Offices of Stephen A. Smith today to schedule a free consultation. We’re here to help you get the justice you deserve!
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