When you are struck by a driver, it can be a scary and overwhelming experience. However, the outcome of your claim against them can grow even more uncertain when the driver responsible for your collision is uninsured. If this reflects your circumstances, it’s imperative to understand your legal options during these matters. Keep reading to learn more about how you can proceed and fight for the compensation you deserve with the help of a Broward County car accident attorney.
What Happens If I’m Hit By an Uninsured Driver in Florida?
In the event you are struck by a driver without insurance in Florida, understanding your legal options is imperative. Generally, one of the most important things you can do is report the accident to the police, as this will create official documentation of the accident.
Once you leave the scene of the accident, you will file a claim with your own auto insurance. This is regardless of the fact that the other party does not have coverage. Florida is a no-fault accident state, which means that each individual will file a claim with their own company using their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.
In addition, if you have uninsured motorist coverage on your policy, you can utilize this to help cover the cost of some of your damages. However, if you do not have this coverage or your damages exceed your coverage of both your PIP and uninsured motorist coverage, you should not be left responsible for bearing the burden of these costs.
What Damages Can I Seek in a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
In the event your insurance coverage does not provide full coverage for the damages you’ve sustained due to the actions of the negligent party, you may wish to file a lawsuit against them to recover the additional costs. Typically, in a claim, you can seek economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages represent actual, tangible losses, which include things like medical bills, lost wages, and damage to your vehicle. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are representative of intangible losses. These reflect the pain and suffering or loss of enjoyment of life you may experience caused by the collision. Unfortunately, there are no “receipts” for these losses, meaning they are much harder to calculate.
Calculating damages and proving negligence to recover compensation can be incredibly complicated, especially when you consider the fact that you must heal from the injuries. As such, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney from the Finizio Law Group to help you through these difficult issues.
Our firm understands the impact that being involved in a collision can have on your life, which is why we will do everything possible to assist you through these difficult times. When you need help, contact the Finizio Law Group to learn how we can help you in the fight for justice if you’ve been hurt by a negligent driver.
