In most states, carrying car insurance is mandatory, and failing to do so carries fines and potential jail time. Yet some motorists take the risk and drive uninsured, either through a misguided sense of invincibility or an inability to afford it. While car insurance is precautionary, it’s always better to have it and not need it, rather than need it and not have it. However, for Florida drivers, the chances of getting into a collision with an uninsured driver can be catastrophic. Property damages, accrued costs, and lasting injuries can completely change one’s life. Even if the other party isn’t insured, you may still be able to hold them accountable. Here’s how a car accident law firm in South Florida can help.
Know the Law
Florida is a “no-fault” state, which is why all motorists are required to carry car insurance. This is to ensure that in the case of an accident, you are able to recover your damages to the extent of your own insurance coverage. However, damages exceed your limit and the party responsible for your accident is uninsured, you may feel helpless.
First, double check your own insurance plan. If you have uninsured driver coverage, you may be entitled to additional coverage. Regardless, your initial claim must be filed through your own insurer first. From there, a car accident law firm in South Florida like Lieberman Injury Law can help you determine your next steps.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim Against an Uninsured Driver?
Under Florida law, most cases against uninsured motorists must be filed within five years of the accident. However, if the insured party is from a different state, one must follow the policy from that state. For instance, if the insured driver is from New Jersey, but the accident involving an uninsured driver happened in Florida, the claim must be filed within two years.
What Do I Need to File Against an Uninsured Driver?
The most important thing you need in order to file a claim against an uninsured driver is identification. You must be able to identify the driver responsible for your damages or injury. This can be difficult if the driver flees the scene of the accident, but not impossible. If you can record the license plate number, you may be able to pinpoint the culprit. The owner may claim they were not driving, but it then becomes their burden to prove. Additionally, if you are at an intersection with cameras, it may be possible to access identifying footage.
How Can a Car Accident Law Firm in South Florida Help Me?
With years of experience in all areas of injury law, including car accidents, Lieberman Injury Law is fully prepared to fight for what you’re due. We have the courtroom experience you need to successfully recover your funds from a reckless, uninsured driver. Our team is dedicated to you and your accident claim. Let us guide you through the entire process. Contact Lieberman Injury Law today!