Lake City Uninsured Driver Accident Attorney
Like in every other state, Florida law requires all motorists to purchase and carry minimum levels of car insurance. Unfortunately, many people believe they cannot afford the cost of purchasing auto insurance and others simply do not want to pay the cost of it, which is sometimes exorbitant. If an uninsured driver causes a crash that results in serious injuries, it then becomes very difficult for victims to claim the financial compensation they need. If you or someone you love has been hurt, our Lake City uninsured driver accident attorney can advise you of your legal options during this difficult time.
You Can Claim PIP After Being Hit by Uninsured Driver
All drivers in Lake City are required to purchase many different types of auto insurance. Personal injury protection (PIP) is one type of insurance, and it is important after being hit by an uninsured driver. PIP is a type of no-fault insurance, so all you have to do to receive it is file a claim with your own insurance company. Through PIP benefits, you can claim a maximum $10,000 in medical and disability benefits, and a maximum of 60 percent of your lost income if you cannot work right away after the accident.
Unlike the law in many other states, you are not required to purchase uninsured motorist (UM) coverage or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage in Lake City. Still, while you will have to pay more for this type of insurance, the cost is minimal and it is extremely helpful if you are hit by an uninsured driver, as you can claim up to the policy’s limits.
Filing a Lawsuit After Being Hit by Uninsured Driver
Uninsured drivers are not covered by an insurance policy so you cannot file an insurance claim against them to obtain coverage. Still, you may be able to file a lawsuit directly against the uninsured driver. When filing a lawsuit, you must prove certain elements of your case, which include:
- The uninsured driver had a legal obligation to act in a manner that was reasonable and safe,
- The uninsured driver breached that legal duty of care,
- The breach, or negligent act, resulted in a crash, and
- You suffered losses, legally known as damages, as a result
Proving certain elements of your lawsuit is never easy. For example, it is often very difficult to prove another driver acted negligently. Another challenge associated with filing a lawsuit is that drivers who do not carry the proper amount of insurance usually fail to do so because they cannot afford it. As a result, it can be difficult to obtain financial compensation from a driver that could not even afford to purchase insurance.
Our Lake City Hit By Uninsured Driver Attorney Can Help with Your Case
At Meldon Law, our Lake City personal injury lawyer can advise on your legal options after any car accident. We will review the circumstances of your case, advise you of your legal options, and ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. Call us today at 800-373-8000 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
