Few things are more jarring than being involved in a car accident, especially when the accident is caused by someone else. If you’ve sustained an injury in an accident caused by another party, you most likely have several questions, including how car accident settlements are typically calculated in Florida. Please continue reading and reach out to a skilled Jacksonville personal injury lawyer from Ansbacher Law to learn more about how car accident settlements are calculated and how we can help you through the claims process. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What Factors Influence Car Accident Settlements in Florida?
Several elements play a pivotal role in determining settlement values. Primarily, the degree of fault each party holds significantly sways the outcome. Florida’s comparative negligence system impacts settlement calculations. Insurance coverage types and limits also shape the settlement’s structure. Importantly, the severity and nature of injuries, alongside required medical treatments, profoundly affect settlement amounts. Future financial losses due to ongoing care or lost wages also factor in. You should also note that emotional trauma and pain suffering, though harder to quantify, can hold substantial weight in determining the payout of a personal injury claim. Additionally, documented evidence and witness testimonies can solidify a claim’s validity.
How Does Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Affect Settlements?
Florida’s no-fault insurance system is unique. In this system, drivers initially turn to their own insurance, regardless of who caused the accident. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage is mandatory for Florida drivers. PIP covers medical expenses and lost wages, but only up to a certain limit, and it does not compensate for pain and suffering. In serious injury cases, victims can step outside the no-fault system. This allows pursuing claims against the at-fault driver’s insurance. Importantly, you should never do so without a competent personal injury lawyer in your corner.
What Steps Should You Take to Ensure a Fair Settlement?
Immediate action post-accident significantly influences settlement outcomes. Firstly, documenting the accident scene comprehensively is essential. This includes taking photos, gathering witness information, and filing a police report. Seeking medical attention promptly, even for minor injuries, is also important, as delaying medical care can weaken your claim significantly. Keeping a detailed record of all medical treatments, expenses, and missed work is advisable. Finally, you should hire a seasoned attorney who can effectively negotiate with insurance companies and work to obtain the most favorable settlement possible on your behalf.
Ansbacher Law has decades of experience fighting for auto accident victims in Florida, and our legal team stands ready to put that experience to work for you in your case as well.
Contact our firm today to schedule your free initial consultation.
