Do you know your rights if you get injured in a car accident in Florida? Understanding Florida’s no-fault insurance system is crucial for navigating the aftermath of an accident. In a no-fault state like Florida, your own insurance company is responsible for covering your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault in the accident.

Here’s a breakdown of how Florida’s no-fault insurance system works:

1.      Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage: Your claim is made under your policy’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. PIP will compensate you for:

·         80% of reasonable medical expenses incurred due to accident-related injuries

·         60% of your lost income if the accident-related injuries prevent you from working

·         $5,000 in death benefits if the collision is fatal

2.      Pursuing a Personal Injury Claim or Lawsuit: While PIP covers your immediate expenses, you can pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver if the accident was not minor and you meet certain criteria

Here are the steps to take if the accident was not your fault:

1.      File a No-Fault Claim with your Insurance Company: First, file a “No-Fault” claim with your own insurance company under your PIP policy. This covers lost wages and medical bills up to the policy limit, which is typically $10,000.

2.      Assess Your Injuries: Get proper medical evaluation and treatment to determine whether your injuries qualify as “significant” or “permanent.”

3.      Document Costs: Calculate and document all accident-related costs. Avoid letting the insurance company handle this for you.

4.      Negotiate a Settlement: It’s generally best to negotiate for an insurance settlement, but if you are unable to obtain the compensation you deserve, you can take your case to court.