Florida is a No-Fault insurance state. This concept is strange and unusual for people who move here from other places where that isn’t the case and for a fair share of life-long Floridians. But what does “No Fault” really mean, and how can it apply to you, accidents that you cause or are caused by someone else, and your ability to recover damages? Let’s take a closer look.

What is No-Fault in Florida

No-Fault Insurance doesn’t mean that there isn’t cause and effect in an accident. It applies to the type of auto insurance available and is intended to make the experience more efficient. No matter who is at fault for the accident, each driver’s insurance pays. In Florida, you’re required to have PIP insurance, but these policies have some limits on what is covered.

Florida Law and Auto Accidents

What happens when you are at fault in a car accident? Can the other driver and their passengers sue you for damages? There are a couple of things to know:

• Florida has a 14-day rule, and a claimant must seek medical treatment within two weeks of the accident to be able to receive payment for up to 80% of these reasonably incurred medical expenses.
• To pursue a liability claim against another driver and to recover for human damages like pain, suffering, and mental anguish, you need to demonstrate that you received serious injuries that are permanent as defined by the law in Florida.

Serious Injury and Your Legal Rights

To claim a serious injury, you have to demonstrate the following:

• Significant and permanent loss of an essential bodily function
• Permanent injury
• Significant disfigurement or permanent scarring
• Death

Suppose your injuries, or the wrongful death of a loved one caused by a driver, meet these definitions. In that case, you can initiate a personal injury lawsuit and seek recovery for anything no-fault insurance doesn’t cover, such as pain and suffering.

Your Next Steps

Do you have questions about a recent auto accident? What are your rights? Contact Glassman & Zissimopulos to see how we Put Clients First and work for you. We know these laws can be complicated, and it can help to have someone in your corner.

Do you have a question about no-fault insurance or an auto accident? 

You deserve someone who will listen to you and work with you to determine the best possible legal outcome.

Call Glassman and Zissimopulos and our team of dedicated attorneys today.

(352) 505-4515 or Toll-Free at (844) 787-2543

Every time you pick up the phone, you’ll speak with an attorney. You’ll never be funneled into a call center or answering service. This is our commitment to you.