When Do You Need a Lawyer After an Automobile Accident in Florida?
a. When Filing for Non-Economic Damages
In Florida, non-economic damages are not covered by no-fault insurance. This means that if you are injured and wish to file a lawsuit for non-economic damages, you will need to hire an attorney.
There are many examples of non-economic damages. These can include things like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of consortium. Unlike economic damages, which are typically quantifiable (such as medical expenses or lost wages), non-economic damages are more subjective. This makes them more difficult to calculate and to recover without the help of an attorney.
There are many factors that go into determining how much money you could receive in a lawsuit for non-economic damages. Your attorney will be able to help you calculate an estimate based on the facts of your case.
b. When the Damages Involved are Over Your Insurance Coverage Threshold
Oftentimes, when a person is involved in an accident, the damages involved may be over their insurance coverage threshold. This is another area where hiring an attorney can be beneficial.
An experienced attorney can help negotiate a settlement with the other party’s insurance company. In some cases, your attorney may be able to get the other party’s insurance company to pay the remainder of the amount of damages. If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney can file a lawsuit on your behalf.
In this case, your attorney may help you negotiate an out-of-court settlement with the other driver. If that does not work, for example, if the other party is offering you a low amount, you will need to sue the other driver in order to recover full compensation for damages, injuries, as well as for any non economic losses you may have incurred. Your attorney can help you file a lawsuit and represent you in court.
Speak to an Attorney
Even if your damages are limited, hiring an attorney may help you receive the compensation you deserve. For example, insurance companies often refuse to offer a fair settlement, but with an attorney, this is unlikely to be the case.
So, if you or someone you know has been involved in a Florida automobile accident, it is in your best interest to speak with an attorney at HAWM Law. We can help you navigate the complex process of filing a no-fault claim and can ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
