Miami Accident Lawyer Blog
No matter what form of motorized transportation you rely on to get around on a routine basis, everyone is in the position of a pedestrian at some point. Therefore, you might not be surprised to learn the disturbing statistics. The National Security Council (NSC) reports that almost 18% of all traffic deaths are pedestrians on an annual basis.
Still, there are other aspects of your rights that you might not realize. A Miami pedestrian accident lawyer will advise you on specifics, but the following should dispel common myths about the costs.
Debunking Misconceptions About Pedestrian Accident Costs
Many people believe that financial matters related to pedestrian accidents are straightforward, but this is not always the case. Victims may assume that medical bills and other expenses are their sole responsibility because they were not in a motorized vehicle at the time.
Understanding the complexities of pedestrian accident costs is essential to avoid financial hardship, and there are various factors to consider.
- Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, requiring purchase of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.
- PIP may cover a portion of medical expenses for pedestrians.
- You do not need to prove that the motorist was at fault to file a claim under your PIP policy.
- For victims of serious injuries, it may be possible to seek additional compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance.
Do Pedestrians Always Pay Their Own Medical Bills in Florida?
In Florida, PIP coverage from an auto insurance policy may pay for initial medical costs, even if the pedestrian was not driving at the time. If injuries exceed PIP limits, the pedestrian may file a claim against the driver’s liability insurance. However, it will be necessary to prove that the driver was at fault.
Additionally, uninsured victims may have options through MedPay coverage, health insurance, or legal claims to recover compensation for hospital bills and rehabilitation costs.
Will Insurance Cover All Pedestrian Accident Costs in Florida?
Many assume that insurance will fully cover pedestrian accident expenses, but this is rarely the case. For numerous reasons, it’s critical to get legal help after getting hurt while on foot:
- Florida’s PIP coverage only provides up to $10,000, which may not be enough for severe injuries.
- Liability insurance from the at-fault driver may help, but insurance companies often minimize payouts to protect their profits.
- Pedestrians may also face costs beyond medical bills, such as lost wages and pain and suffering. These amounts are limited or not recoverable at all under PIP.
Seeking legal assistance can help injured pedestrians pursue full compensation for all damages beyond what insurance provides.
Discuss Your Rights with a Miami Pedestrian Accident Attorney
This overview should clarify common myths about pedestrian accident costs. Fortunately, the experienced attorneys at Gerson & Schwartz, PA, understand the complexities of Florida’s pedestrian accident laws and can help protect your rights. If you or a loved one has been injured, please call (305) 371-6000 or visit our website. We are happy to schedule a free consultation at our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL.