Victims of automobile accidents are entitled to financial compensation for their injuries and damages. However, the car accident claims process can be complicated, which is why many people get lost when filing a claim following a car crash in Florida.
So, what should you expect when filing an insurance claim following an auto accident in Florida?
You Need to File a Claim with Your Own Insurance Company
Florida is a no-fault auto insurance state, which is why every motorist in the state is legally required to purchase personal injury protection (PIP) insurance coverage. Under the no-fault system, motorists can file a car accident claim against their policy to recover damages up to the policy limits, regardless of who was at fault for causing the accident.
When filing a claim with your auto insurance company, you can cover up to 80% of medical bills resulting from the accident and 60% of lost wages, as provided by the Florida Statutes Section 627.736. If you exhausted your PIP coverage, you might have the right to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurer to recover additional damages.
Filing a Car Accident Claim Against the At-Fault Driver’s Insurer
After filing a third-party claim with the at-fault party’s insurance provider, the company will launch an investigation to determine how the crash occurred and whose fault contributed to the collision.
During the investigation, the at-fault driver’s insurance company may review photos and videos taken at the scene of the accident, interview witnesses, or even retain accident reconstruction specialists to approve or deny your claim.
The insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to your case in order to compile your medical records to determine the severity of your injuries and calculate how much your car accident claim is worth.
It is recommended to seek legal counsel from an experienced car accident attorney when filing a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurer. Your Winter Haven car accident attorney will ensure that your claim is handled fairly to help you obtain the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Receiving an Initial Settlement Offer
After concluding its investigation, the insurance company will either deny or approve your claim. If your claim is approved because the insurer determined that their policyholder was liable for the collision, the company will make you an initial settlement offer.
The initial settlement offer following a vehicle crash almost never accurately reflects the full extent of the victim’s injuries, economic losses, and non-economic damages. That is why it is not advised to accept a settlement offer before talking to your lawyer to determine the value of your car accident claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.
If your claim was denied or a settlement cannot be reached, contact an experienced Winter Haven car accident attorney to explore your legal options and, if necessary, prepare your case for court. Speak with our car accident lawyer at The Turnbull Firm to get a free consultation about your case. Call at 863-324-3500.