Clearwater Uninsured Motorist Claims

Being involved in a car accident comes with its own share of difficulties. You may already be overwhelmed with concerns about who was at fault or what compensation you may be entitled to, and how to make a claim with the insurance company. But what happens if the other driver is uninsured?

You may not be able to make a claim with their insurance company, but there are other options for protecting yourself after an accident with an uninsured driver. Whether you are taking action after an accident or preparing for the future, take the time to get informed about your options. Contact the Clearwater car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Tragos, Sartes & Tragos today to find out how we can help you!

Protect Yourself with Uninsured Motorist Coverage

According to the Insurance Research Council, one out of every seven drivers is uninsured in the United States. Some researchers estimate that one out of every five drivers in Florida are uninsured. There is a chance that, if you unexpectedly find yourself in a car accident, one or more of the other drivers are not insured. This means that you will not be able to file a claim with the driver’s insurance for the damages or injuries you suffer.

In Florida, insurance companies are required to offer uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage is not mandatory, so you may choose to decline it. However, to recover compensation in situations involving uninsured drivers, you must have purchased uninsured motorist coverage. With uninsured motorist coverage, you may be entitled to recover compensation even when the other drivers are uninsured.

Uninsured motorist coverage may entitle you to compensation for the following:

• Damages to property
• Injuries inflicted
• Medical costs
• Physical/mental pain and suffering
• Wages missed as you recuperate

Florida No-Fault Insurance vs. Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Insurance laws in Florida are different from laws in other states. It can be difficult to understand your policy coverage, but it is important to know your rights and compensation entitlements before you find yourself in an accident with an uninsured driver.

Florida no-fault insurance laws require drivers to have two types of insurance coverage: Property Damage Liability (PDL) and Personal Injury Protection (PIP). PDL and PIP coverage is eligible in many no-fault and at-fault situations where the drivers have insurance coverage.

However, Florida no-fault insurance coverage does not cover damages when the other driver is uninsured. Even if you have coverage through PDL and PIP insurance, you may not be entitled to compensation if the other driver is uninsured.

Consulting With An Attorney

Remaining calm and taking the initiative in a car accident can help to prevent misunderstandings and disputes. When the dust has settled and you find yourself preparing to make a claim for damages resulting from an accident, consult an experienced lawyer today.

Your safety is paramount. Whether you’ve suffered an injury or your property has been damaged, you should ensure you are protected and are able to receive the maximum compensation possible. Making the right decisions after a car accident may allow you to focus on your recovery. Retain legal professionals with more than 40 years of experience in complex personal injury cases.