Hudson Car Accident Lawyer
Traffic accidents are so common in Florida they almost seem unavoidable. And while many accidents are little more than inconvenient “fender benders,” far too many crashes do serious damage to people and property alike. And the sad truth is that most of these accidents were preventable.
Negligence plays a role in most car accidents. So if you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence, a qualified Hudson car accident lawyer can review your case and advise you on the best way to seek compensation for your losses. At Florin Gray, our personal injury team can represent you when dealing with negligent drivers and their insurance companies and help to resolve your case on the most favorable terms possible.
Florida’s “No-Fault” System Affects Your Right to Sue
You might think if a reckless driver caused your accident, you have the right to sue them for damages. That is actually not how the law works in Florida. The Sunshine State has what is often called a “no-fault” system for auto insurance. When you purchase your own auto insurance it includes something called “personal injury protection” (PIP) coverage. This provides you with certain benefits in the event of a car accident regardless of what was at-fault.
Unfortunately, PIP coverage does not cover 100 percent of your accident-related losses. By law your insurer only has to provide the following benefits:
- Up to 80 percent of reasonable medical expenses necessary to treat your injuries from a covered accident.
- Up to 60 percent of income lost due to time missed from work following an accident.
- In the event someone died in the accident, the estate or relatives will receive a $5,000 death benefit.
While PIP coverage may be sufficient to compensate you following a minor accident, if you suffered a “serious injury” in a crash you can step outside of the no-fault system and pursue a personal injury claim directly against the negligent driver (and their liability insurance carrier). If you are able to do so, a personal injury claim allows you to seek the full measure of economic losses (or damages) that you suffered in the accident. This includes the following:
- Economic damages – Your out-of-pocket costs, including all of your medical bills, rehabilitation expenses, and lost income.
- Non-economic damages – Compensation for your pain and suffering, which is not available under the no-fault system.
- Punitive damages – If your car crash was the result of a defendant’s intentional misconduct or gross negligence, you can seek punitive damages, which are capped under Florida law to the greater of three times the amount of your actual (economic and non-economic) losses or $500,000.
Contact Florin Gray Today
Even if you think your accident will be covered under your own insurance policy, it is always a good idea to consult with an experienced Hudson car accident lawyer who can review your case and advise you of your rights. If you need to speak with an attorney as soon as possible, contact Florin Gray, today to schedule a free consultation.