How Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Laws Affect Your Bradenton Car Accident Claim
If you are in a car accident in Bradenton, you might assume that the driver who caused the crash would be responsible for your medical bills. However, Florida’s no-fault insurance system works differently.
Understanding how it applies to your situation is essential when filing a claim. Our experienced Bradenton car accident lawyer explains how it works and when you may be able to step outside no-fault insurance laws and recover the full amount you need.
What Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Law Means for Bradenton Drivers
Under Section 627.736 of the Florida Statutes, drivers must carry at least $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP). This coverage pays a portion of your medical bills and lost earnings after a crash, regardless of who caused it.
In the no-fault system, your own insurance pays first, no matter what. Drivers often don’t realize how limited that coverage can be:
- PIP covers 80 percent of reasonable medical costs and 60 percent of lost wages, up to the $10,000 limit.
- You must get medical care within 14 days of the accident.
- PIP only covers emergency medical conditions at the full $10,000 limit. Non-emergency conditions are capped at $2,500.
- PIP does not cover your pain and suffering or the full cost of serious injuries.
- Florida does not require bodily injury liability (BIL) insurance, which means the at-fault driver may carry little or no coverage for your losses.
If your injuries exceed what PIP covers, it can feel like you have nowhere to turn. However, this is where you may be able to step outside the no-fault system.
When You Can Step Outside Florida’s No-Fault System
Under Section 627.737 of the Florida Statutes, car accident victims who suffer severe, debilitating, and potentially life-threatening injuries can step outside the no-fault system. Data from the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles indicate that, of the more than 6,000 car accidents in Manatee County each year, as many as 4,000 victims may fall into this category.
If your injuries qualify, you have the right to seek compensation for the full extent of your losses, including pain and suffering. To get the maximum amount in a claim, follow these tips:
- Document your injuries thoroughly and follow all medical recommendations.
- Keep records of every expense related to the accident, including out-of-pocket costs.
- Get legal help before making recorded statements to any insurer.
- Act quickly, as evidence and witness accounts are easier to preserve early in the process.
Florida’s no-fault system simplifies minor claims, but it can leave seriously injured victims facing heavy losses. To get the total amount you need to recover, contact our experienced Bradenton car accident lawyer.
Request a Consultation Today With Our Experienced Bradenton Car Accident Lawyer
Florida’s no-fault insurance rules are complicated and could leave you paying high out-of-pocket costs. To get the maximum compensation, contact the Lavely Law Firm.
Our office helps victims of car accidents in Manatee County, protecting their rights throughout the claims process. For trusted legal guidance, request a consultation with our experienced Bradenton car accident lawyer today.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699/0627/Sections/0627.736.html
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699/0627/Sections/0627.737.html
flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2022.pdf
