No-Fault Recovery Following A Fender-Bender Crash
Even a minor car accident can leave you feeling shaken, frustrated, and unsure of what to do next. Fender-benders, which is a term that is often assigned to low-speed collisions that result in minimal visible damage, may initially be dismissed as no more than a hassle. But these seemingly minor incidents can still cause injuries, disrupt your daily life, and generate unexpected expenses.
Fortunately, Florida’s no-fault insurance laws are designed to help you recover financially, regardless of who caused the crash. An Orlando personal injury attorney can help ensure you recover fully, not just physically, but financially as well. Always speak to an experienced accident injury attorney before speaking to any insurance company.
What Is a Fender-Bender?
The term fender-bender dates back to the mid-20th century, when car fenders (the curved sections over the wheels) were more prominent. A slight bump or scrape in traffic could bend the metal, giving rise to the phrase. Today, the term is used more broadly to describe low-impact collisions that cause cosmetic damage and, at times, mild to moderate physical injuries.
These low-speed accidents often occur in parking lots, at stoplights, or during heavy traffic when a driver fails to stop in time. While the damage might seem minor, it’s important not to underestimate the effects. After all, whiplash, soft tissue injuries, and lingering pain are all common results of fender-benders.
After a car accident, remember that Florida is a no-fault insurance state. This means your own insurance policy pays for your medical treatment and certain other expenses, regardless of fault. This system is meant to streamline recovery and reduce the number of lawsuits. So, if you’re involved in a fender-bender, you can file a claim with your own insurance company to get compensation quickly.
When Is No-Fault Not Enough?
While no-fault coverage helps with immediate expenses, it may not cover everything. This is especially true if your injuries turn out to be more serious than initially thought. Florida law allows injured individuals to step outside the no-fault system and pursue a personal injury claim if their injuries meet certain thresholds. Florida’s No-Fault law also indicates that your own insurance company pays the medical and/or lost wages but do not pay 100% of those losses. Therefore, a claim against the at-fault party may be necessary to seek just compensation to recover all of your losses.
In these cases, a skilled lawyer can help you seek additional compensation through the at-fault driver’s insurance or a personal injury lawsuit. Because it is impossible to know how much damage will be incurred in the moments following a collision, it is essential to take every traffic incident seriously and follow best practices to protect yourself from loss.
- Get a medical evaluation right away
- Document everything (photos, witness info, repair bills)
- You need to notify your insurer promptly but always speak to an experienced accident injury attorney before speaking to any insurance company.
- Talk to a legal professional if you’re unsure about your rights
Fender-benders can be deceiving, what starts as a small bump in traffic can lead to weeks or months of recovery. Florida’s no-fault system is designed to help you get back on your feet fast, but you may need legal guidance if your damages exceed the coverage amounts. Orlando personal injury attorneys have the skills to guide you through the recovery process.
Could you access monetary support following a low-speed traffic event? Connect with the dedicated lawyers at Israoui Law. Call 407-381-4529 for the personal attention you deserve.
