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Involved in a Car Crash in Florida? Here are the Laws You Need to Know

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Given the number of motorists on the roads of Florida, it is almost inevitable for a car accident to occur daily.

If you’re a new driver or one familiar with Florida roads then you should have a comprehensive understanding of the laws guiding car accidents in the state. Knowing the various driving regulations can help you stay safe and enable you to act promptly in an emergency.

In the event of a car accident in St. Petersburg, you can seek the assistance of a legal team from Lawfran to resolve the case through an insurance claim and settlement with your insurer.

On that note, here are some of the laws you need to know if you’re ever involved in a car crash in Florida.

Florida’s statute of limitations 

Every state has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims. The statute of limitations is a law that sets a time limit on a person’s right to present a particular lawsuit.

In Florida, the statute of limitations is four years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. Once you exceed that deadline, the court will most likely dismiss your case except in rare circumstances.

This timeline may seem lengthy, however, it is crucial to not delay in making a complaint and exercising your legal rights. 

The longer the delay you make in taking legal action, the more difficult it becomes to connect your damages to the accident and the higher the chance of your insurer denying the claim.

Florida’s no-fault insurance law

Florida, among other states, follows a no-fault car insurance policy. This means that each individual’s insurance company pays for their accident expenses regardless of who’s at fault.

However, an insurance claim against the driver at fault can be made if the accident causes more damage than your insurance policy covers.

Also, every motorist must have a minimum of $10,000 in personal injury protection coverage. This covers payment for 80% of medical bills and 60% of lost wages.

Nevertheless, exceptions to Florida’s no-fault insurance law are in place if the accident victim suffers a permanent injury such as death, loss of bodily function, scarring, or disfigurement.

Most insurance companies will offer you a fault determination after they receive vital information from your crash report or a police report.

Comparative negligence in car accident cases

Florida follows a pure fault comparative system. This means that each individual involved is accountable to the extent of his or her fraction of fault.

In most cases, the jury calculates two things based on evidence: the total amount of the plaintiff’s damages, and the percentage of fault from each person.

Under this law, the plaintiff’s damages are reduced by a percentage equal to his or her portion of the fault. In Florida, this law also applies if the plaintiff is more responsible than the defendant.

This law is made binding in court, also, Florida insurance adjusters use this system to evaluate your claims.

What do I need to know if I get in a car accident in Florida? Car Insurance, Fault, Accident, Car Crash, What is comparative negligence in a car accident case? Money Matters, No-fault Insurance

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