What Damages are Available in a Car Accident Case?

If you are injured in a car accident caused by the other driver, you may be entitled to damages, which is a legal term used to describe the money paid to compensate someone who has been harmed by another person’s negligence. Since Florida is a no-fault insurance state, accident victims usually pursue compensation from their own insurance company in the event of a car crash, unless serious injuries are involved.

There are two broad categories of damages known as economic and non-economic. Economic damages include medical expenses, past and future lost income, lost support and services, replacement value and any other expenses incurred as a result of economic loss from the injuries.
Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, mental anguish and inconvenience.

Florida’s no-fault insurance law expired in October 2007, but under pressure from the Governor, was reenacted and took effect in January 2008. Since Florida is a no-fault insurance state, your insurer will cover your injuries if you are hurt in a car accident, no matter who was at fault, up to your policy limit. The other driver’s insurance company will cover his or her injuries. A standard Florida no-fault policy should cover the majority of your medical expenses, a portion of your lost income and other expenses associated with your injuries. However, if you have a deductible, you must pay your full deductible before you receive any compensation from your insurer.

Florida’s no-fault insurance law does allow you to file a lawsuit against the negligent party that caused your injuries, depending on certain factors. If your car accident resulted in death or a permanent injury, such as paralysis, severed ligaments and so on, you would be able to sue the responsible party to recover damages beyond what your insurance company provides. Compensation may include pain and suffering, lost income, lost wage-earning capacity, past and future medical expenses and other damages related to your auto accident. The jury would determine in court the amount of damages you will be awarded based on the case that is presented before them.

If you have been injured in a car accident in Florida, you should contact an experienced auto accident attorney who can review your case and help you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (866) 836-4947 or (727) 345-4566 for expert legal advice. William Saron, an experienced Florida car accident attorney, will gather the necessary documentation and review the evidence to help you build a strong case to get the settlement in which you are entitled.