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As your experienced car accident attorney in Palm Harbor, Hysenlika Law Firm prepared this guide for both drivers and victims for awareness. This guide will help you understand the 2024 traffic accident law in Florida.
Please note that car accident laws can change. The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles provides the latest information.
Florida Car Accident Reporting Laws
Florida requires you to take certain actions after an accident. Park your vehicle as close as possible to the accident without blocking traffic. If someone is injured, you must stay at the scene.
Report major incidents to a police officer or highway patrol. The information will appear in the official report by law enforcement. Follow these steps to prepare for legal or insurance proceedings.
Florida Insurance Requirements
Florida and most other states have minimum requirements for driver coverage.
Personal Injury Protection
Minimum coverage requirements should include at least $10,000 to cover 80% of medical expenses incurred within 14 days following an accident. PIP coverage applies even if the driver is at fault.
Property Damage Liability
Property damage liability coverage must include at least $10,000 of coverage to cover damages caused by the policyholder. Auto accidents are common in Florida and getting this coverage could help mitigate the expenses for repairs or replacement.
Florida No-Fault System
Florida personal injury cases are under the no-fault system. Under this system of insurance, you can file your first claim within thirty days of the accident. The PIP covers the first set of medical costs, regardless of fault. This way you can get immediate medical attention for your injuries.
Florida Statute 627.737 states victims may only sue if they have suffered “permanent injuries” (as defined in Florida Statute).
Do Florida drivers need PIP insurance?
All drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. PIP provides coverage for injuries sustained in accidents. Even if you are at fault, your policy will cover injuries.
Florida Statute Limitations on Auto Accident Cases
Auto accident cases must be brought within two years. Victims must file suit within this timeframe if someone else is responsible. You can also bring suit on behalf of victims who belong to your family – just ensure all documentation is ready before filing suit! If you are unsure of what to do, contact Hysenlika Law Firm as your car accident attorney in Palm Harbor and we will explain the process to you.
You can file a claim if the driver who caused the collision did not present evidence of insurance. Up to five years may pass after the accident before this happens. Several requirements must be fulfilled. One requirement is to submit a claim using your Personal Injury Protection (PIP).
Also, keep the 14-day rule in mind. You have 14 days to see a doctor if you are hurt.
Can the Florida Statute of Limitations be extended?
Minors or mentally incapacitated plaintiffs at the time of an incident can file beyond the deadline. This is also referred to as “tolling”. Furthermore, deadlines may also be extended in cases in which defendants have left Florida to evade prosecution, changed names, addresses, or both.
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Call us at (813) 803-0733
What is Florida’s comparative negligence rule?
Under the 50 percent bar rule, compensation is awarded even if less than 50 percent blame was your responsibility; no payments would be given if more than 50% blame was assigned; compensation could also be adjusted downward accordingly if less than 50 percent was determined as your responsibility.
Florida Comparative Fault Laws
Florida adopted a modified comparative-negligence system in March 2023. Auto accidents that involve multiple parties are assigned damages and fault based on how each party contributed; each party shares responsibility proportionately.
Florida Rear End Presumption Of Negligence
The majority of accidents are rear-end collisions. When drivers are too close to the vehicle in the front, they can cause an accident. Florida presumes the driver to be at fault. Florida requires drivers to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in the front.
Reporting a car accident is a legal requirement
Florida law does not mandate reporting minor accidents. If injuries or property damages exceed $500, however, reporting them must be made to law enforcement immediately.
Filing reports with your local law enforcement agency – be it sheriff, police or highway patrol – is important to avoid legal complications and ensure accurate and current information is provided. To do this effectively.
Florida Teen Driving Laws
Drivers under 21 are allowed to drive from 11 pm to 6:30 am if they are driving to work or accompanied by an adult. For 17-year-olds, the hours are different.
Is it necessary to report a car crash to the police?
Anyone involved in a car crash that resulted in death, personal injury, or damages exceeding $500 must report the incident to the police. Immediately contact law enforcement officials – either the Florida Highway Patrol office or the county sheriff’s office.
How Hysenlika Law Firm Can Help Your Case
Even though regulations about auto accidents can be complicated, it is simple to locate an expert car accident attorney in Palm Harbor. Our committed team of lawyers would be pleased to answer all of your concerns and evaluate your case when you contact Hysenlika Law Firm for a free consultation. Your legal rights and alternatives will be explained to you by a Palm Harbor auto accident lawyer.