How Does Car Insurance Work in Florida?
December 15, 2021As with other US states, Florida has its own laws regarding car insurance, how it works, and what is covered under each policy. As a motorist, you must understand state car insurance laws to ensure you’re covered in the event of a collision.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident and aren’t sure how your insurance covers you or believe the other party was at fault, contact a reputable car accident lawyer to assess whether you have grounds to make a claim for compensation.
How Car Insurance Works in Florida
Florida requires all drivers to have an auto indemnity plan and suitable vehicle registration to drive legally in the state. This must cover at least $10,000 in personal injury protection and $10,000 in property damage should an accident occur. The Florida Department of Motor Vehicles may also require you to have bodily injury liability (BIL).
Many factors can affect your ability to settle through an insurer. Personal injury protection insurance is designed to cover certain medical expenses regardless of fault, along with loss-of-earnings within predefined limits, and is often referred to as no-fault insurance in Florida.
How Long Can a Settlement Take?
All claims are assessed individually, and it’s difficult to give an accurate timescale on how long it may take for your case to reach its conclusion. Florida law doesn’t require proof of liability in all insurance cases, and you’re thus more likely to receive a PIP insurance settlement quicker.
Florida requires providers to pay out claims in under thirty days from the date that the insurer was made aware of the loss. With that said, your insurance company still has the right to investigate for a further sixty days if they feel they need to validate your claim.
Many cases are settled without going to court, with insurance companies agreeing to cover the damages as per their policies. But insurance companies are for-profit businesses. They may put their profits over your recovery. If your insurer fails to pay out or has issues with your claim, you may benefit from the assistance of a car accident lawyer.
With the support of an attorney, you’ll be in a better position to pursue your claim to court, if necessary, and the threat of a protracted legal battle is often enough to persuade your assurer into agreeing to payment terms. If they don’t, your lawyer will aid you, providing guidance and assistance as your claim approaches court.
Get in Touch with a Car Insurance Lawyer in Pensacola
If you’ve been hurt in a Pensacola car accident, you may have grounds for a settlement with your Florida car insurance company. But if they fail to settle fairly, you’re not out of options.
For further guidance and information on how car insurance works in Florida, contact the attorneys at Gross & Schuster, P.A. for your free consultation. Call 850-434-3333 or fill out our contact form, and a member of our team will be in touch. We’re happy to assist you, whether you require advice or assistance in furthering your claim.
