Ferrer Law, PA

What Florida Insurance Companies Do Not Want You to Know After an Accident

2026-02-10T14:58:27Z

You pay for insurance so that medical bills and car repairs will not ruin you after a crash. But after an accident, a lot of people accept less money than they actually deserve. Florida insurance company tactics pressure you into taking a quick, low settlement. The best way to protect yourself is to understand how the claims process works and how insurance adjusters think.

What happens after you file a Florida crash claim

After a crash, report the accident right away—especially if there is an injury—and call law enforcement when required. Then you (or the other driver) will notify your insurance company and open a claim. The insurance company assigns an adjuster, and the adjuster gathers information like the police report, photos, and medical records. Florida also uses Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which can affect how medical bills get paid early on. Because of that, it is important to get checked out promptly and keep clear records of your treatment. Adjusters focus on speed and efficiency. They investigate what happened, estimate the value of your losses, and then make a settlement offer. Even though the adjuster may sound helpful, their job is also to control what the company pays out.

Why adjusters often start with a low offer

Adjusters usually begin with a low offer to see if you will settle quickly. This is especially common when someone feels stressed, confused, or overwhelmed after a crash. Insurance companies also track which offers people accept, and they adjust their approach over time. Most first offers leave out some of your total medical costs, missed work, or future treatment. It helps to expect a low first offer, because it is often meant to set the tone for negotiations.

How recorded statements and medical releases can be used against you

Soon after the crash, an adjuster may ask you to give a recorded statement and sign a broad medical release. These requests can put your claim at risk. The adjuster may use a recorded statement to question your injuries or make it seem like your story changed. A broad medical release can give the insurer access to your full medical history, and they may try to blame your pain on a past injury or a pre-existing condition. Be cautious with recorded statements. If an adjuster asks for one, consider waiting until you understand the risks or have spoken with a lawyer. If the insurer asks for medical records, keep any release limited to care connected to the crash (the relevant providers and time period), instead of signing a release that gives access to your entire medical history.

How insurers undervalue pain, future care, and lost income

Adjusters often focus only on your immediate medical bills and obvious vehicle damage. They may downplay things that are harder to measure, such as pain, emotional stress, or the need for future therapy. They may also point to short-term information and argue that you recovered faster than you really did. If you work irregular hours or your injury affects your ability to work long-term, an adjuster may also try to minimize your lost income. To protect yourself, keep track of symptoms, follow your treatment plan, and document any future medical recommendations.

What to tell an adjuster (and what to avoid)

Keep your communication simple and factual. Adjusters often ask broad questions to get extra details they can use to reduce the value of your claim, so it helps to keep your answers short and focused. You can tell the adjuster:

Basic facts like the date, location, and names of people involved
What injuries you noticed and what medical care you received right away, and that you are still being evaluated if symptoms are ongoing
Relevant medical records after you consult a doctor.

You should avoid:

Giving detailed injury descriptions that go beyond what you told medical providers
Admitting fault
Saying you are “fine” if you are actually hurt
Giving a recorded statement until you have spoken with a lawyer

Always be truthful, but do not guess, exaggerate, or give detailed opinions before you follow up with a doctor. These Florida insurance settlement tips help keep your claim focused on facts while you gather the evidence you need.

How insurance companies use timing and paperwork to weaken claims

Insurance companies sometimes use paperwork and deadlines to pressure people. They may rush you to fill out forms quickly or take advantage of gaps in medical treatment to argue you “must not be that hurt.” They may also delay approvals and responses to frustrate you into settling. To protect your claim, keep notes of everything, meet deadlines, and attend medical appointments consistently so you create a clear record of ongoing care.

When you should call a lawyer

You should call a lawyer before accepting a settlement, especially if the offer seems final or if you are unsure what your case is worth. A Florida attorney can recognize common insurance adjuster tricks and calculate losses that adjusters might ignore, including future medical care and reduced earning ability. If the insurance company refuses to be fair, an attorney can negotiate further or file a lawsuit. Florida law sets deadlines for injury claims, so get legal advice sooner rather than later.

Final steps to protect your claim

Insurance is supposed to protect you, but insurance companies often protect their profits first. You can defend yourself by documenting injuries, being careful about statements and medical releases, and talking to a lawyer before signing anything. If an insurer tries to delay, pressure, or underpay you, having the right support can make a big difference.

Airbnb & VRBO Accidents in Florida: Understanding Liability & Your Rights

2026-02-10T18:36:26Z

A Florida vacation often brings plans for rest and time away from daily stress. Even so, injuries can still happen during a short term stay. Slips, falls and other accidents may occur even in rentals that appear clean and well kept. When someone is hurt, questions often arise about who may be responsible. Florida law includes several rules that can affect how responsibility is viewed, and a basic understanding of those rules may help bring clarity after an accident.

Guest status and its role after an injury

Paying to stay in a vacation rental often places a guest in a category known as a business invitee under Florida law. This term applies when someone enters a property for the owner’s financial benefit. Because of that relationship, owners may owe a higher level of care than they would to a social guest. That duty often involves keeping the property reasonably safe for normal use. It may also include taking reasonable steps to look for problems that are not easy to spot right away. For example, a loose step, a damaged railing or faulty wiring may not stand out at first. Over time, however, routine checks and basic upkeep may bring those issues to light. Even with this status, an injury alone does not automatically point to responsibility. In many situations, the surrounding facts still matter. Questions often examine whether a dangerous condition existed and whether someone took reasonable steps to fix it or provide a warning. You may also consider how long the condition lasted and how the property owner maintained the area.

💡 Attorney Insight: The "Blame Game"

"In my experience, the biggest frustration for clients isn't proving the injury—it's untangling the web of contracts between owners and managers. The table below cuts through the confusion to show you where the legal responsibility typically lies."

Who is actually on the hook for your injury? It depends entirely on how the defect occurred. While the property owner is the ultimate decision-maker, Florida law recognizes that managers and vendors play a massive role in guest safety. Use the table below to see where the buck stops in common accident scenarios.

Who Is Liable for Vacation Rental Injuries?

Responsible Party	Primary Role	Common Examples of Negligence
Property Owner	Main responsibility for the structure, habitability, and safety of the home.	Broken railings, stairs, or decks Faulty electrical wiring Lack of pool safety barriers Ignoring known hazards (e.g., a leaking roof)
Property Manager	Hired to handle daily operations, safety inspections, and guest communication.	Failing to inspect the property between stays Ignoring a guest's report of a broken item Delaying urgent repairs to save money
Third-Party Vendor	Outside companies hired for specific tasks (cleaning, pool maintenance, landscaping).	Cleaners leaving wet floors without warning signs Pool services leaving safety gates unlocked Landscapers leaving equipment on walkways
Booking Platform (Airbnb / VRBO)	Facilitates the transaction; may offer limited "Host Protection" insurance.	Listing a property that has been previously banned Failing to vet hosts (Note: Liability here is legally complex and often limited)

Fault and time limits come into play

Florida law sets rules that guide how courts evaluate responsibility and timing after an injury. In some cases, a person does not need to know about a hazard directly. If a condition existed long enough that a reasonable owner would have found it through regular care, responsibility may still be considered. Maintenance records and inspection practices often become important in these situations. Time limits also matter. For many negligence claims that arise after March 2023, Florida law generally allows two years to file a lawsuit. While that period may seem long, waiting can make it harder to gather records or identify everyone involved. Acting sooner may help preserve details while they remain clear. Florida also uses a modified comparative fault system. If a court finds an injured person more than 50% responsible, they cannot recover damages. When a person’s responsibility is 50% or less, they can still receive compensation, though the amount may be reduced. As a result, courts often closely examine the details of how an accident occurred.

Insurance issues in vacation rental claims

Insurance coverage can add another layer of difficulty. Many homeowners policies do not automatically cover short term rentals. Some owners obtain special coverage or add endorsements to protect paying guests. When proper coverage is missing, claims may face early challenges. In some cases, more than one policy may apply, including coverage held by the owner, a management company or a booking platform. Each policy may include its own limits and conditions. While insurance does not decide fault on its own, coverage details often affect how a claim moves forward and what options may be available.

Steps that may help after an accident

After an accident, certain actions may help preserve important information. Taking photos of the area and any visible hazards can help document conditions before they change. Reporting the incident to the host or booking platform may also create a record of when and where the injury occurred. Medical care may also matter. Some injuries worsen over time and medical records often help connect the injury to the incident. Keeping receipts, messages and notes related to the stay may also help clarify what happened.

Moving forward with perspective

Vacation rental accidents in Florida can feel stressful, especially when several parties and insurance policies are involved. Learning how guest status, fault rules and insurance issues often work may help bring perspective during premises liability cases. Taking timely steps and keeping organized records helps individuals feel prepared to assess responsibility and plan next actions.

The alcohol factor: Do DUI laws apply to e-bikes and e-scooters?

2026-01-27T14:44:46Z

Many people have the misconception that smaller vehicles that receive power from electricity are safe to use, even when under the influence. They weigh less than cars and take up significantly less space. However, a drunk driver on an electric bicycle or scooter can still crash into pedestrians and cause potentially serious damage. Due to the danger this can pose, Florida’s DUI laws still apply.

Why do DUI laws apply to electric vehicles?

Florida considers e-bikes and e-scooters as vehicles. The state defines a vehicle as a device that transports people or property on public highways, receiving power from any source other than human muscle. It is also illegal for drivers to operate any vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. This is because alcohol negatively affects a person’s balance, coordination, reaction time and thinking ability. According to state definitions, electric vehicles are vehicles by definition. This means that it is illegal to drive them after drinking alcohol. Doing so can get you a DUI charge.

How do DUI charges affect personal injury claims?

If a car accident leads to an injury and the victim files a claim, they can use a DUI charge as evidence against you in court. Even if you ride an e-bike or e-scooter, driving under the influence is evidence of negligence under Florida law because you have actual physical control of your vehicle. Due to Florida’s comparative fault system, driving under the influence also reduces how much you can recover. How much you can recover depends on your percentage of fault: the more responsible you are for an accident, the less compensation you receive.

What can you do to avoid DUI charges in Florida?

While the most foolproof way to avoid a DUI charge is to avoid alcohol entirely, there may be times when you will need to travel home after drinking with friends or family. If this happens, it is important to avoid being in control of any vehicle, including electric bikes and scooters. Instead, see if you can have a sober friend drive you home or ask to sleep over. If you need to leave your vehicle at a bar or a similar venue overnight, ask permission from the owner or the manager before returning the following morning. Ultimately, Florida’s DUI laws exist for your protection, which means it is important to follow them carefully. By deterring people from driving while under the influence, roads become significantly safer for drivers and pedestrians alike.

The insurance conundrum: Rideshare passengers and Florida accident claims

2026-02-03T17:51:43Z

Uber and Lyft vehicles are everywhere, from the busy streets of Miami to the tourist hubs in Orlando. While these rides offer passengers great convenience, an accident can quickly turn into a complex puzzle. Most people assume insurance works the same way in every car crash. However, rideshare accidents involve overlapping policies that differ greatly from standard claims. Managing this situation as a passenger requires understanding specific coverages and Florida’s evolving legal landscape.

How a driver’s app status affects coverage

The level of insurance available to you depends entirely on the driver’s status in the app at the time of the crash. Florida Statutes break these down into distinct phases to determine which policy pays:

Phase 1 (app on, no request): If the driver is logged in but has not accepted a trip, the requirements are lower: $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage.
Phase 2 (en route): As of July 1, 2026, Florida law will adjust the requirements for when a driver has accepted a ride but hasn't picked you up yet. This phase no longer automatically triggers the company’s million-dollar policy.
Phase 3 (the passenger standard): Once you are physically in the car, a $1 million commercial liability policy is active and remains in effect until you reach your destination and the ride ends in the app.

While the $1 million policy sounds substantial, receiving fair payment is rarely automatic. Under Florida's modified comparative negligence rules, you must still prove the driver or another party was at fault, as being more than 50% responsible for your own harm can now bar you from recovery entirely.

Moving targets: PIP and fault

Currently, Florida still utilizes a "no-fault" system. If you own a car, your own personal injury protection (PIP) typically pays for your medical bills first, regardless of who caused the crash. If you don't own a car, look to the rideshare company’s PIP coverage. However, Florida is considering a major transition. There is ongoing legislation to shift away from PIP toward a tort-based system that emphasizes bodily injury (BI) liability. However, Florida’s governor vetoed a similar attempt in 2021. Additionally, the window to take action is smaller than it used to be; the statute of limitations for most negligence claims in Florida is now only two years.

Smart strategies for handling a passenger claim

You should take specific steps immediately after a crash to protect your rights. Start by taking a screenshot of your ride details in the app to prove which phase of the trip was active when the accident happened. Critical things to consider include:

Managing multiple carriers: You may have to deal with the rideshare company's insurer, the driver’s personal insurance and your own provider.
Anticipating the contractor defense: Rideshare companies often argue that drivers are independent contractors to distance themselves from direct liability.
Watching the clock: With the shortened two-year deadline, waiting to file a claim can result in losing your right to compensation forever.

These steps ensure you have a "paper trail" before evidence disappears or memories fade. Taking control of the documentation early prevents insurance companies from downplaying the incident's severity later.

Find clarity with experienced legal guidance

A rideshare company’s mandatory $1 million policy exists to help you, but accessing it requires you to overcome aggressive insurance adjusters and complex policy language. You should not have to fight these battles alone while recovering from injuries. Given the high stakes and recent (and potential) changes to Florida law, working with a skilled rideshare accident lawyer is essential to protecting your rights to compensation.

How Is Liability Determined When Both the E-Bike Rider and a Motorist Share Fault for an Accident

2025-11-17T03:11:10Z

Florida’s liability standards underwent a major shift in 2023, altering how responsibility is divided in motor vehicle and e-bike collisions. When both the rider and the driver contribute to an accident, each party’s share of fault now directly affects not only who can recover damages but also how much compensation may ultimately be available.

Florida’s modified comparative negligence

Since March 24, 2023, you may recover damages only when you hold 50% or less of the fault. If your share of fault reaches 51%, you recover nothing. When your fault is 50% or less, the court reduces your award by that same percentage. A $100,000 verdict becomes $80,000 if you are 20% at fault. Florida also shortened most negligence deadlines to two years for claims accruing after March 24, 2023.

How liability is determined

Investigators look for negligence and whether each person failed to use reasonable care. They review traffic laws, right of way, speeds, lighting and visibility then link those failures to the crash and losses.

What the investigation gathers

A proper investigation helps clarify each party’s share of fault and the facts that caused the crash. You strengthen your position with preserved proof like:

Scene media: Photos, video, skid marks, debris.
Official records: Police report, 911 audio.
Witness accounts: Names, numbers, statements.
Device data: Dashcam, GPS, cycling apps.
Medical files: ER notes, diagnostics, follow-ups.

These items help reconstruct events and anchor fault percentages.

Common shared-fault scenarios

Determining fault in e-bike and car accidents is rarely absolute. Many cases involve actions by both the motorist and rider that contribute to the outcome. Shared fault is common when facts point both ways:

Left turn vs. unlit e-bike: Driver fails to yield, rider lacks lights.
Right-hook turn: Driver turns across a bike lane, rider in blind spot.
Unsafe passing: Driver crowds the lane, rider weaves.
Dooring near parking: Driver opens a door, rider rides too close.

A few percentage points may decide recovery under the 50% bar.

Some options you can consider

Shared-fault e-bike crashes turn on evidence, timelines and small percentage swings. You may benefit from a lawyer who can preserve proof, apply Florida’s 50% rule and challenge blame-shifting within the two-year window. An early consultation can clarify strategy, likely fault ranges and how insurers may value the claim under the modified system.

The speed factor: Why e-bike accidents are more severe than traditional bicycle crashes

2025-11-13T14:46:08Z

You love the ease of traveling Florida's sunny streets and trails on your e-bike, but this convenience hides a serious risk. E-bikes travel significantly faster than traditional bicycles, creating a dangerous speed disparity that many people are not fully aware of. The higher speed dramatically increases the risk and severity of any crash compared to conventional bicycles. Receiving compensation for injuries caused by someone else can also make these accidents even more challenging.

Twice the speed, exponential risk

Traditional bicycles usually average a cruising speed of 10 to 15 mph. In stark contrast, Class 3 e-bikes—often referred to as "speed pedelecs"—can reach speeds of up to 28 mph with pedal assist. Doubling your speed creates a severe hazard, especially when you share roads with motorists and paths with pedestrians, children and regular cyclists. The greater velocity significantly reduces the reaction time for everyone involved, making accidents much more challenging to avoid. The fact that e-bikes also carry heavier batteries and motors only amplifies the force of a collision.

28 mph can cause catastrophic damage

A crash at or near the 28 mph limit generates a far greater force of impact than a low-speed, typical bicycle accident. When a collision happens, your body is simply not designed to withstand this kind of blunt force trauma. One study found that injuries resulting from e-bike crashes surged by 293% between 2019 and 2022. The kinetic energy involved is not just double the energy of a 15 mph crash; it is exponentially higher, which is why e-bike accidents often cause injuries that look more like those from a motorcycle wreck than a standard bicycle fall. You can sustain severe damage because of the massive force your body absorbs.

Unique and severe injury patterns

The speed and weight of an e-bike fundamentally change the injury landscape in a crash. Severe injury patterns are more common in e-bike accidents than in conventional bicycle crashes. The high speeds dramatically increase the likelihood of life-altering damage, especially to the body's core structure and most vital areas. Common severe injuries include:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Fractures of the pelvis and lower extremities
Spinal cord damage

A key distinction in high-speed impacts is the increased risk of internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding. You may sustain these life-threatening injuries even if you do not show major external trauma right away. E-bike riders are statistically more likely to suffer internal injuries than those on traditional bikes.

Protecting Florida e-bike victims

The increased speed and weight of e-bikes clearly change the type of injuries people suffer. Victims also face unique legal complexities, particularly concerning who is at fault—whether it is a negligent motorist, a distracted pedestrian or a defective product. Because e-bike riders are not required to have insurance, securing compensation for catastrophic injuries can be difficult. If someone’s negligence injures you, a skilled personal injury attorney can protect your rights and help you get the compensation you need to cover your medical costs and other losses.

Will my social media activity impact my personal injury claim in Florida?

2025-11-13T14:46:42Z

Social media is a regular part of our everyday routines, providing a space to share experiences, connect with people, and express our thoughts. However, for those pursuing personal injury claims in Florida, social media can present both opportunities and risks. Insurance companies and defense lawyers are increasingly leveraging social media to collect evidence that could question the legitimacy of claims. As such, it is important for individuals proceeding with a claim to be aware of how their social media activity might affect their case.

Social media as evidence

Insurance companies and defense attorneys are aware of the potential of social media to serve as a tool for gathering evidence. They often scour platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to find posts that may contradict a claimant's statements about their injuries or emotional distress. This trend underscores the importance of being mindful of one's online presence during a personal injury case. Common examples of types of evidence they will look for include:

Contradictory physical activity: Posts showing claimants engaging in physical activities that contradict their claims of disability can undermine the case. For instance, a video of someone playing sports while claiming severe back pain may raise doubts about the injury's severity.
Social events and emotional distress: Photos or posts from social events that suggest a claimant is experiencing less emotional distress than claimed can be used to challenge their credibility. Attending parties or vacations may be interpreted as evidence of a quicker recovery or less suffering.
Location check-ins: Check-ins at locations that conflict with medical appointments or treatment schedules can be used to question the claimant's commitment to recovery. If someone claims to be bedridden but checks in at a theme park, it may cast doubt on their statements.

It is important to keep these points in mind before posting updates and photos on social media sites.

How can I use social media without having a negative impact on my case?

You do not have to give up your social media use to protect your case. Instead, use these practice tips to help reduce the likelihood your posts will impact your case:

Avoid discussing the accident: Refrain from posting details about the accident, injuries, or treatment. The other side can misconstrue even seemingly innocent comments.
Be cautious with photos: Avoid sharing photos that could be misinterpreted. The other side will use images of physical activities or social gatherings against you if it helps their case.
Review privacy settings: Ensure your social media accounts have strict privacy settings. Limit who can view your posts and personal information.
Think before you post: Consider the potential implications of each post. If in doubt, consult with your attorney before sharing anything related to your case.

It is important to realize that privacy settings are not enough to protect your information. Investigators have methods to access this information, with some even getting permission from those that you have friended online.

What are Florida’s rules for using this type of evidence in a case?

There are specific rules that guide what type of evidence the law will allow when building a case. Generally, Florida allows admission of relevant evidence, “except as provided by the law.” Basically, as long as the side using social media evidence gathers it within the bounds of the law and it pertains to the case, it is likely admissible. Florida's discovery rules generally allow attorneys to obtain social media records through subpoenas. This means that anything posted online can potentially be used as evidence in court. As such, it is wise to preserve social media evidence that supports your case while being mindful and refraining from sharing posts that could harm it. Social media can play an important role in Florida personal injury claims. By following practical guidelines and being aware of discovery rules, claimants can continue to use social media while helping their claims remain credible.

How long do I have to file a legal claim in Florida?

2025-11-13T14:46:51Z

We come across deadlines in various forms throughout our lives. We have to deal with deadlines for project submissions, expiration dates for offers or coupons, countdowns for events, and time constraints in competitive games or sports. The same is true in the legal world. Whether filing a claim to hold someone accountable after a car accident, medical error, or slip-and-fall, there are time limits that we must follow. A failure to do so can mean we lose the chance to hold the responsible party legally and financially accountable for their wrongdoing. It is important that anyone with a legal claim be aware of these limits and understand how they could impact their case.

What are the basics of the statute of limitations in Florida?

In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims generally ranges from two to four years. Lawmakers designed this timeframe to help better ensure that victims file claims while evidence is still reliable. However, the specific deadline depends on the nature of the claim, and it is important for anyone considering legal action to understand these distinctions.

What are the different types of personal injury claims?

The first step towards understanding these time limits is to realize that there are different types of personal injury claims. They encompass a wide range of situations, each with its own statute of limitations. Common types include car accidents, slip-and-falls, product liability, and premises liability. These cases are often based on the legal theory of negligence. In Florida, victims generally have two years to file a claim for most cases based on negligence. There are nuances to this rule. An important question when figuring out the statute of limitations is when do we start counting time towards the limit? Oftentimes, the answer is obvious. If the case is against a driver for negligent driving causing a crash that resulted in serious injuries, the time limit likely begins the day of the crash. But what about a medical malpractice claim? Here it gets more complicated because the victim may not be aware of the injury on the date it occurs. As such, for these types of cases the law allows the victim to begin counting time towards the limit when it would be reasonable to be aware of the injury. Although this provides a bit of leniency, the state generally does not allow claims to move forward more than four years after the medical malpractice event. There are also special rules that apply if you are attempting to hold a government entity accountable. The statute of limitations in these cases is three years. Additionally, the victim must also provide the government with notice. The government has six months to respond before a victim can initiate a lawsuit.

What is the discovery rule and what are pre-suit requirements?

The discovery rule plays a significant role in extending the statute of limitations in certain cases. It allows the clock to start ticking from the date the victim discovers the injury, rather than when it occurred, as discussed above. This rule is particularly relevant in medical malpractice cases, where injuries may not be immediately apparent. Medical malpractice claims also have pre-suit requirements. Before filing a lawsuit, the claimant must conduct a thorough investigation and provide a notice of intent to sue to the healthcare provider. This process can be complex and time-consuming, making it essential to act promptly.

What are the consequences of missing the statute of limitations?

Once the deadline passes, unless there is an exception the court typically dismisses the case, and the injured party loses the right to seek compensation. This loss can be devastating, especially if the injury results in significant medical expenses or lost wages.

Are there any exceptions?

There are rare exceptions that may extend the deadline:

Minor plaintiffs: If the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations may pause until the child reaches 18 years of age.
Mental incapacity: In these situations, the statute of limitations may be paused until the victim regains capacity.
Fraud or concealment: If the defendant attempts to hide the injury or their involvement through deceit, the time limit for filing a legal claim might be prolonged.

These exceptions are rare and often require substantial evidence to prove. It is wise that anyone who believes they qualify for an exception to seek legal guidance from an attorney experienced in this area of law. This professional can review the details of your case and help you determine if you qualify. Anyone considering a personal injury claim in Florida should understand the basics of these deadlines. The statute of limitations vary depending on the type of claim and the laws that govern these time limits are often evolving. Even if a new timeline is in place, missing the deadline can result in losing the right to compensation. It is important for victims to stay up to date on any changes to these time limits to better protect their legal right to financial relief.

Can Auto Insurers Deny PIP for Failing to Disclose Certain Information?

2025-11-13T14:47:47Z

After a serious auto accident, PIP coverage is essential, this is a component of your automobile insurance plan that covers the healthcare expenses associated with a car accident. PIP covers medical expenses for both injured policyholders and passengers, even if some don't have health insurance. However, if you are not up to date with providing your auto insurer with essential information, this may cause you PIP claim to be denied. Florida law states any that misrepresentations, omissions, concealment of facts and incorrect statements prevent recovery under a policy if they are: (1) fraudulent; (2) material to the risk assumed by the insurer; or (3) the insurer in good faith would not have issued the policy or would have done so only on different terms if the insurer had known the true facts. When applying for auto insurance, it is extremely vital to be truthful in regard to all the questions they ask you. For example, If the auto insurer asks you to list every person who you live with that is 14 or older, do it. Do this even if you reside with someone who is too young to drive, doesn’t have a driver’s license, or will never drive your car.

Update Your Personal Information with Your Insured

Time and time again we have delt with situations in which our client failed to update their personal information with their insured, causing their PIP claim to get denied. It is important to update your information with you insured on a regular basis. More specifically you should always update or disclose these 3 things: 1. Any change in address or location in which you reside 2. Any new members of the house household that are 14 years of age or older 3. And if you begin to use your vehicle for any commercial purpose. Rideshare and Food Delivery Services Failing to disclose that you use your vehicle for a commercial purpose such as Uber, Lyft, Uber Eats, Grub Hub or Postmates may lead to the cancellation of your personal auto insurance policy and insurance company will find out that you are driving for a ride-sharing service eventually. Since the beginning of the pandemic, and the rise of unemployment, we have seen a surge in the number of users driving for food delivery services. If you do not disclose this to your insurance company from the time you begin driving for the service, you are at risk of having your PIP claim denied entirely if you are involved in a car accident. Are certain Florida Auto Insurers More Likely to Deny PIP Coverage than Others? Yes. Florida nonstandard auto insurers are more likely to deny coverage due to failing to misrepresentation or failure to disclose. The insurers who are more likely to deny coverage in this case are: · United Auto Insurance Company · Infinity Insurance Company · Imperial Fire and Casualty (RAC) Companies that sell Florida car and truck insurance policies are more likely to let the misrepresentation slide are: · State Farm · GEICO · Progressive · Allstate · United States Automobile Association (USAA) · Travelers Insurance Company · Safeco Insurance Company · Liberty Mutual · Esurance · Nationwide Insurance Company The Miami Personal Injury Lawyers at Ferrer Law, PA have represented individuals with various injuries due to automobile accidents throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and the rest of the state of Florida. If you or a loved one were involved in a left turn collision call [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"] at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-REGULAR-NUMBER-3"] for a free consultation.

Is It Worth Hiring a Personal injury Attorney?

2025-11-13T14:47:08Z

If you have suffered an injury as a result of a car accident, you might be wondering whether you should hire a Miami Injury Attorney to represent you for your injury claim. If you have suffered severe injuries as a result of a car accident it is important to always consult with an attorney, after the accident.

The Advantages of Hiring an Attorney

According to nolo.com, when it comes to car accident injury claims, the numbers do not lie. Over 90% of injury claims in which the claimants hired an attorney receive some form of settlement, as opposed to 50%. Legal representation also made a drastic difference in the amount of personal injury payouts. Those who hired a lawyer walked away with an average of $77,600 in compensation, compared to an average of $17,600 for those who handled their own injury claims. The main reason why this occurs is because when someone handles their own injury claim, as oppose to an attorney, there is no threat of a lawsuit. When a lawsuit is filed, this means that both parties including the insurance company will have to invest further resources and expenses into the claim. Most claims will settle prior to filing a lawsuit because of this (assuming an attorney is handling the injury claim. When there is no threat of a lawsuit, there is no reason for the insurance company to offer what would be “fair compensation” for your injury claim.

A Personal Injury Attorney Will Make Sure All Liens and Bills are Paid

Generally, when you settle a claim, it is truly over. This is why it is extremely important to have an experience personal injury attorney handling your claim. Your attorney will make sure to satisfy all unpaid medical balances and liens from the settlement amount. This will guarantee that you will not be responsible for any medical expenses relating to the accident later on down the road. Also, your attorney will more than likely give you a set amount that you should be netting once your case is settle, prior to settling the claim. This will assure that you are satisfied with the amount of compensation you will be receiving once all bills and liens are paid. The Miami Personal Injury Lawyers at Ferrer Law, PA have represented individuals with various injuries due to automobile accidents throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and the rest of the state of Florida. If you or a loved one were involved in a left turn collision call [nap_names id="FIRM-NAME-1"] at [nap_phone id="LOCAL-REGULAR-NUMBER-3"] for a free consultation.