Motor Vehicle Accidents

What is personal injury protection?

Personal injury protection, or PIP, is sometimes referred to as “no fault” insurance. This form of insurance covers you and those in your household for automobile accident injuries no matter who is at fault. Florida law requires all drivers have PIP coverage and, in the event of an automobile accident injury, this coverage is more important than any form of health insurance you may have.

Do I need to contact an attorney after a car accident?

Generally speaking, it depends on what happened and what injuries were suffered, and to whom. If you and your family members have not been hurt, the answer is probably no. If you or anyone you care about has been injured in the car accident, especially if there is any permanent injury, or significant time is lost from work or school or household duties, then you’ll want to see a lawyer about possibly representing you in a claim against anyone else who may be responsible for your injuries. However, even if you’re not injured, don’t entirely rule it out as the facts and circumstances surrounding car accidents are always different. It is important to look at the degree of the car accident and use your best judgment. A simple fender bender where no occupants are hurt can usually be appropriately handled through your insurer.

Why is my insurance company involved if the accident was not my fault?

Florida is a “no fault” insurance state. This means that, no matter who was a fault for the accident, you are required by law to submit medical expenses to your own insurance company to be covered under your personal injury protection coverage. If your medical bills and lost wages exceed what is covered by your insurance, the at-fault driver or their insurance company is responsible for those costs as well as possible compensation for pain and suffering. In addition, your insurance company may be involved if the at-fault driver does not carry enough insurance and you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.