Car Accidents in Palm Bay, Florida: Legal Steps and Compensation Rights

Car accidents are all too common in Palm Bay, Florida. Whether it’s a rear-end collision at the Malabar Road and Babcock Street intersection or a T-bone collision along Palm Bay Road, these nasty accidents often cause much damage.

That’s why if you’re a car crash victim in Palm Bay, it’s important to understand the law, as many things depend on it. Remember, one wrong move may cost you a night in jail or heavy fines. A car wreck lawyer in Palm Bay can help if in doubt.

The lawyer will guide you through the legal process of filing for claims, police reports, and much more. Going at it alone may seem cheaper, but it may be more expensive in the long run or even backfire on you.

So, what do you do after a road accident in Palm Bay? Let’s break it down.

What to Do Immediately After a Car Wreck

The period immediately after a car accident can be confusing; however, following these steps may improve the situation.

Confirm Safety

Check yourself and your passengers for injuries and call the police immediately. In Florida, you must report a road accident to the police if it results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $500. Even for minor accidents, a police report is better since it provides an unbiased account of the events.

Document Everything

Take clear photos of the accident, including close-ups of the vehicles, registration plates, and road conditions. You should also exchange details, including names, contact details, and insurance information, with all the involved parties.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Road accidents have many hidden injuries, like blood clots and whiplash, that may not be immediately visible. Seeking immediate medical care can help identify these conditions to prevent future complications.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Inform your insurance company as soon as possible. Most insurers have a deadline for reporting accidents, so keep this in mind. When making the report, clearly state what happened without admitting fault. A proper investigation will determine the facts of the case.

Florida’s No-Fault Insurance Laws: What It Means for You

Since Florida is a no-fault state, you must carry Personal Injury Protection coverage as a driver. This covers part of your medical expenses, lost wages, and death benefits after a car accident, irrespective of who’s at fault.

However, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) doesn’t cover non-economic damages like pain and suffering and has a $10,000 limit. You’ll have to pay for any extra expenses beyond this amount.

Even with PIP, you can sue an at-fault driver if your injuries meet the “serious injuries” requirements. Under this condition, you can sue for death, permanent scarring or disfigurement, permanent loss of bodily functions, and permanent injury.

Proving your case and getting fair compensation in Palm Beach isn’t easy, thanks to the no-fault law. However, seeking the services of a car wreck lawyer may help you achieve a better outcome in such a case.

What Compensation Can You Get After a Car Wreck in Florida?

Nobody prays for a car accident, but you can claim the following compensation in Florida once it happens.

Medical Expenses

Personal Injury Protection is mandatory for all drivers in Florida and covers up to 80% of your medical expenses. This includes the costs of ambulance services, surgeries, and physical therapy. However, it is capped at $10,000.

Lost Wages and Future Earnings

If the injuries from a car accident prevent you from working and earning an income, PIP covers up to 60% of lost wages. However, this is capped at your policy limit. For permanent disabilities that affect your earning ability, you can file a personal injury lawsuit to get more compensation.

Property Damage

Property Damage Liability (PDL) insurance, mandatory in Florida, covers the damage you cause to other people’s property during an accident. If the other driver caused damage to your property, their insurance will compensate you.

Pain and Suffering

Compensation for pain and suffering covers the physical and emotional pain caused by an accident. It also covers the reduced quality of life due to the accident. Your injuries must meet the state’s “serious injury” minimum to claim these damages.

Wrongful Death Compensation

If your family member dies due to the fault of another driver, you can file for a wrongful death claim. You can sue for medical and funeral expenses, along with other costs. The only condition is that you must make a claim within two years of the accident and be a legal representative of the deceased.

Protecting Your Rights After a Car Wreck

The legal system in Florida can be confusing, especially after a car accident. You need an experienced car accident lawyer who understands the system for the best outcome and fair compensation.