You may have heard that Florida is a “no-fault” state in regard to motor vehicle accidents, but what does this really mean? Under no-fault laws, people who are involved in car accidents draw from their own insurance coverage to cover losses, and are required to carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage in order to pay for the medical expenses arising from such events.
Florida lawmakers enacted no-fault legislation to reduce the number of car accident lawsuits in the state and to remove barriers for injured people seeking compensation. While no-fault insurance works in many circumstances, there are some accidents in which it is simply not enough.
What are the limits of no-fault insurance?
No-fault insurance typically covers:
- Medical bills
- Wage loss
- Essentials services such as childcare
- Funeral and burial expenses
No-fault insurance typically does not cover:
- Medical expenses for permanent and disabling injuries, scarring and disfigurement
- Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering
While the limits of no-fault insurance may not pose a problem in a relatively minor car accident, they will leave victims financially stranded when the injuries are severe. This is why it is so important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney after a serious motor vehicle crash.
Obtaining the full compensation you need
By filing an injury claim, you can pursue full compensation for the hardships you are suffering today and those you will continue to endure far into the future, including ongoing medical treatment, surgeries, medication and adaptive equipment. You can also pursue compensation for pain and suffering and other non-economic damages. Insurance companies do not pay the full value of claims freely. A skilled attorney can help you navigate Florida’s no-fault insurance laws plus provide you with the strong representation you need to pursue a successful personal injury lawsuit.