When a driver has been in an accident, no-fault auto insurance allows the driver to collect from his or her insurance company no matter who was at fault. Not every state has a no-fault insurance structure, but those that do have very specific laws governing when, how much and for how long the injured party may collect. Contact The McLeod Firm in Saint Augustine to schedule a consultation with an attorney to discuss how Florida views fault and to determine how the laws may affect your right to recover damages for injuries.

How No-Fault Insurance Works

No-fault insurance is a system in which auto insurance pays benefits to the insured driver in case of an accident. The insurance compensates the insured driver for monetary losses, no matter who was at fault. This is different than systems in which the at-fault driver’s insurance company must pay the bulk of the compensation after an investigation and determination of fault by the insurance companies or the courts.

The system is designed to streamline the process of payments to injured people and to lower the burden on the courts. Under the no-fault insurance system, it can be more difficult to sue an at-fault driver for damages; the insured typically must have been seriously injured in order to take such legal action and request certain types of compensation, like pain and suffering. On the other hand, monetary recovery for the insured is more certain under no-fault insurance because the compensation is immediately available through the insurance policy of the injured party. No-fault insurance policies often have a cap on the compensation they will pay.

The no-fault insurance system ensures compensation no matter who caused the accident. In a no-fault state, the other driver will also receive compensation from his or her insurance company if that driver sustained certain economic losses. The specifics of no-fault insurance laws are well known by the McLeod Firm

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

If you have a no-fault insurance policy, it is probably called a personal injury protection (PIP) package. PIP insurance pays for the medical expenses of the insured driver and the passengers who were injured in an auto accident. PIP insurance typically covers things like medical bills, wage loss and funeral expenses, but not pain and suffering or vehicle damage. This varies by state and particular insurance policy. The PIP packages have limits on what they will pay.

Speak with an Attorney

How you handle the situation after a motor vehicle accident can make a significant difference in your monetary recovery. Dealing with insurance companies can be especially frustrating. In addition, the no-fault and fault insurance systems vary widely by state. Speaking with an attorney from The McLeod Firm in Saint Augustine, Florida, will help to clear up the confusion these systems can cause.

DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter

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