Fault-based insurance programs can leave the victims of crashes in a bad situation. Although they can save people money by only causing claims for people responsible for property damage or injuries, these programs leave many drivers at a disadvantage. Fault-based insurance means a driver has to depend on the person who caused the crash to provide them with insurance coverage.
When someone irresponsible causes a crash, the people hurt in the collision may not have any protection. No-fault insurance helps protect people from uncovered losses in a car crash. If you get hurt in a crash in Florida, you will likely need to file a no-fault insurance claim. Understanding how the no-fault system works can help you maximize the benefits you receive after a collision.
What does the Florida no-fault insurance law require?
When someone insures their motor vehicle in Florida, which is necessary to legally drive on the road, they have to carry some no-fault coverage. State law mandates $10,000 of personal injury protection coverage for drivers and their passengers. This benefit covers you in a crash if you get hurt, regardless of who caused the collision.
It’s important to understand that these benefits have certain limits on them. No-fault benefits in Florida will usually only cover 80% of the medical costs you incur, even if those costs don’t exceed your coverage amount. You will also only receive 60% of any lost wages you claim.
Buying additional coverage can help give you more protection if you get hurt in a crash. You can at least count on your no-fault personal injury protection to replace some of your wages and cover your medical costs after a collision.
No-fault coverage could still fall short of what you need
Especially if you only carry the minimum required policy worth $10,000, you may find that the medical costs you have after the crash are more than the coverage you have. In that scenario, you may need to look at other options for compensation, like a personal injury claim against the other driver.
Sometimes, you may also need help negotiating with your insurance provider if they try to reduce the benefits you receive after a crash. Knowing how no-fault works in Florida will make it easier to file the right claim paperwork and ask for the compensation you deserve if you get hurt in a crash.
