Although Florida has a lot of sunshine, it’s also known for having heavy rainstorms and a recurrent hurricane season. When heavy rain mixes with heavy traffic, car accidents become more frequent on the road. Not all accidents involving bad weather can be blamed on others, but occasionally, the weather is only one factor in how a car accident occurs.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Florida during bad weather, you can take various steps to recover compensation. At The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo, we’re prepared to investigate your case and maximize your settlement. A West Palm Beach car accident lawyer from our team can use evidence to support your claim in court so you can receive the money you deserve.
Because Florida is a no-fault insurance state, all drivers must carry a minimum of $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. This insurance will protect you from liability if you get into a wreck, regardless of who was at fault. PIP insurance doesn’t cover property damage or non-economic damages, but it will pay for medical expenses and lost wages from missing work.
When bad weather causes a wreck, you can reach out to your insurance for a settlement. Insurance companies often have their own financial interests in mind, so you may not receive the maximum settlement you deserve. You can sue any other liable parties in your wreck if you suffer severe and disfiguring injuries, if you have property damages, or if your PIP insurance runs out.
If you’re eligible to file a lawsuit, you should first identify any liable parties in your accident by investigating your case. Weather is usually only one factor in an accident. For example, if it’s raining and someone swerves into your vehicle, they may still be at fault for your losses because the rain should’ve compelled them to slow down and take more caution.
No one can control the rain, but drivers can control their actions in the rain. They can pull over if it’s too dangerous to drive or drive slower in bad weather.
Once you have enough evidence against the liable party in your accident, you can sue them and recover compensation for any of your remaining damages. In a lawsuit, you can account for any medical expenses and lost wages that your PIP insurance didn’t cover. You can also account for property damage and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and emotional distress.
Florida weather is unpredictable and can cause severe accidents. When someone else’s negligence in bad weather results in your injuries, you should hold the negligent party accountable. To speak with a West Palm Beach car accident lawyer from The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo, call 561-659-6366 to schedule a free consultation or check out our website for more information.
