Florida is one of several states with a no-fault insurance system. The state requires those who register a motor vehicle to purchase at least $10,000 in coverage for personal injury protection (PIP). After a car accident, each driver and occupant who suffers injuries files a claim under the applicable PIP policy to receive benefits for a portion of their medical expenses and lost wages.
Unfortunately, those involved in severe accidents quickly meet or exceed their PIP policy limit. Once this occurs, you are financially responsible for your medical expenses and face the financial burden of lost wages until you return to work—unless you file a claim against the at-fault driver or another party responsible for the accident and your injuries.
Typically, the next step after meeting your PIP limit is to step outside the no-fault insurance system and file a claim with the insurance carrier of the driver responsible for the accident. Insurance companies usually take these claims more seriously when a claimant has legal representation, so it is best to let a lawyer handle the claim. If the insurance company refuses to meet your demand for compensation, your attorney can help you bring a lawsuit against the driver to seek compensation beyond what you received for your PIP benefits.
Also, you should remember that PIP coverage does not pay for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering and loss of consortium. Additionally, PIP pays only 80 percent of medically necessary treatment costs and 60 percent of lost wages. An attorney can help you get the full amount of compensation you deserve for losses you have incurred because of your injuries. Contact the Law Offices of Jared Spingarn to get started.