If you are involved in a car accident that is not your fault in Florida, you may be eligible for compensation from the liable party. Florida is a no-fault car insurance state.
This means that every motorist must carry personal injury protection insurance (PIP) to cater for medical costs and other damages resulting from the crash. However, if the injuries are severe or permanent, then you may pursue the other motorist for damages.
You have a right to settle a car insurance claim out of court through mediation. In fact, this can be a very cost-effective and fast way of settling a car insurance claim in the Sunshine state.
Reaching an out-of-court settlement with the other party
The process of settling a car accident claim out of court begins by sending a demand letter to the other driver’s insurance company. Thus, it is important to clarify the facts and circumstances that lead to the accident, such as when, how and where the accident happened. And if you have a copy of the police report that specifically finds the other driver at fault, be sure to attach it alongside your demand letter.
Get ready for mediation
Once you have submitted your demand letter, the other party’s insurance may reach out for a mediated settlement. It may be important that you tag along a professional mediator. A properly structured mediation can bring both parties to a settlement and bring the matter to rest. But what if mediation fails?
Florida statute of limitations
If mediation fails to work, then you will need to take the matter to court. In this case, it will be important to have the statute of limitations in mind. Under Florida law, you have up to four years from the date of the accident to file an accident claim.