How to Navigate Car Insurance Claims in Florida

As a car accident attorney in South Florida, I often get questions about how clients can recover losses from their insurance company. While we get insurance to be covered in case of emergency, it unfortunately does not always turn out this way. That’s why it’s so important to know your rights when it comes to navigating car insurance claims in Florida. Understanding these rights is crucial, especially in the aftermath of a car accident.

In this blog post, we’ll explore key points regarding your right to sue car insurance companies in Florida, the timeline for insurance claim settlements, the possibility of legal action for delayed settlements, and the average settlement amounts for car accidents in South Florida.

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How Long Do Insurance Companies Have to Settle a Claim in Florida?

Florida law requires insurance companies to settle claims in a timely manner. Specifically, insurers must acknowledge receipt of a claim within 14 days and make a decision to pay, deny, or investigate the claim further within 90 days of receiving a proof of loss statement. It’s important to know these timelines to ensure your rights are not being violated by a large insurance company.

Can You Sue a Car Insurance Company in Florida?

In Florida, you can sue a car insurance company. Florida law specifies that you can pursue a civil claim when your insurance company fails to honor your contract or otherwise works against your best interest. Pursuing a lawsuit against your insurance company is typically a step taken only after other avenues have been exhausted already. Initially, due to Florida’s no-fault insurance system, you would file a claim with your own insurance provider regardless of who caused the accident. However, if your claim is denied, underpaid, or if you’ve suffered severe injuries exceeding your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, you may consider suing the insurance company. This could involve filing a bad faith insurance claim if the insurer is not adhering to fair practices or pursuing additional compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. While it may seem obvious, it is important to know that for any of this to apply the accident must have occurred within Florida state lines.

Can You Sue an Insurance Company for Taking Too Long in Florida?

If an insurance company unjustifiably delays settling a claim beyond the statutory period, you may have grounds to sue for bad faith. Florida law protects against insurance companies that fail to promptly and fairly settle claims. In such cases, consulting with a personal injury lawyer can help determine the best course of action, including filing a lawsuit for bad faith practices.

What is the Average Settlement for Car Accident Claims in Florida?

Determining the average settlement for a car accident in Florida is challenging due to the variability in cases. Settlement amounts depend on various factors, including the severity of injuries, the extent of property damage, lost wages, and the impact on quality of life.

Generally, settlements can range from modest amounts for minor accidents to substantial sums for more serious incidents. An experienced car accident attorney can help assess your specific situation and give a more accurate estimate based on similar cases.

How to Choose the Best Personal Injury Lawyer for Your Car Accident

Not every personal injury lawyer is created equally. Some specialize in car accidents, while others may specialize in slip and fall accidents or wrongful death cases. Regardless, you need to know what you're getting yourself into when hiring an attorney. In the video below, our car accident lawyer explains how to find the best personal injury lawyer for your specific needs.

Consult With Our Palm Beach Gardens Car Accident Attorney

Dealing with car insurance companies following a car accident can be complex and frustrating. Understanding your rights and the legal avenues available is essential. Not all cases require a lawsuit with the right lawyer.

Whether it’s filing a claim, negotiating a settlement, or pursuing legal action against an insurance company, having an experienced car accident attorney on your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

If you’ve been involved in a car crash and are currently facing challenges with your insurance claim, don’t hesitate to reach out for legal assistance. Our skilled Palm Beach Gardens car accident attorney can provide the guidance and representation you need to protect your rights and receive the compensation you deserve.