Seeking justice after an accident? Our West Palm Beach Uninsured Accident Attorney specializes in securing compensation for victims without insurance coverage.Have you sustained an injury or experienced property damage caused by a driver without insurance in the Port St. Lucie area? At GOLDLAW, we understand you may have some questions about what happens next, and we want to help. We are here when you need a West Palm Beach personal injury lawyer to help you recover the compensation you are entitled to. We go up against aggressive insurance carriers in Florida all the time, and we want to get to work on your behalf today. Contact us today.
Why Choose GOLDLAW for Your Claim?
- With over two decades of experience handling complex car accident claims, including those involving uninsured motorists, our car accident lawyers in West Palm Beach have the skills and knowledge needed to navigate Florida’s unique insurance laws.
- Other law firms may not take the time to keep you informed as your case proceeds forward, but we aren’t like the others. You’ll always be able to get a hold of us when you have questions.
- Our firm handles uninsured motorist claims on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not pay any legal fees or upfront costs unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
Understanding Florida’s No-Fault Insurance System
Florida is a no-fault insurance state, which means that each driver is required to carry insurance coverage that pays their own damages. This coverage is called Personal Injury Protection and helps pay for medical costs and lost income up to $10,000, regardless of who caused the accident.
What Happens When the Negligent Driver Is Uninsured?
When the at-fault driver is uninsured, it complicates the process of recovering compensation. In such cases, victims cannot rely on the at-fault driver’s liability insurance because it does not exist. Instead, they must turn to their own insurance policies or seek alternative methods to recover their losses. This is where uninsured motorist (UM) coverage comes into play.
The Role of Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
Uninsured motorist coverage is an optional (in Florida anyway) insurance policy that provides additional protection when an accident involves a driver who doesn’t have coverage. If you have UM coverage, you can file a claim with your own carrier to recover damages such as medical costs, lost current and future wages, and pain and suffering. UM coverage can be a critical safety net in Florida, given the high percentage of uninsured drivers on the road.
What Compensation is Available?
If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver in West Palm Beach, you may be able to recover monetary compensation for a few types of losses. This typically includes medical expenses for emergency care, surgeries, and ongoing treatments, lost wages if you cannot work, and compensation for pain and suffering. Additionally, you can seek damages for property repair or replacement and, in rare cases, punitive damages if the other driver’s actions were especially reckless.
The amount you can expect to receive varies based on the severity of injuries, treatment costs, lost income, and other factors. Still, settlements often aim to cover the full extent of your financial and emotional losses.
What an Uninsured Motorist Attorney in West Palm Beach Can Do to Help
Yes, these claims can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance carriers or individual claims adjusters who may not have your best interests in mind. An attorney with experience handling uninsured motorist claims can provide invaluable assistance by:
- Evaluating your claim. An experienced West Palm Beach uninsured motorist lawyer will review the details of your case, including the accident report, medical records, and any available evidence, to determine the viability of your claim and the best legal strategy to pursue.
- Handling insurance communications. Insurance companies often use tactics to minimize payouts. Your lawyer will handle all communications with insurance carriers (yours and the other party’s), protecting your rights and ensuring you are not pressured into accepting a lowball settlement.
- Negotiating settlements. A knowledgeable uninsured motorist attorney in West Palm Beach will negotiate aggressively with your insurance company to secure an adequate settlement that fully compensates you for your losses. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, they will be prepared to take your case to court.
- Providing legal representation in court. If your case goes to trial, having an uninsured motorist lawyer in West Palm Beach by your side can significantly increase your chances of securing a favorable outcome.
- Offering guidance and support. Throughout the legal process, your uninsured motorist attorney will provide the guidance and support you need to make informed decisions about your case. They will keep you updated on the progress of your claim and answer any questions you may have.
Steps to Take Soon After the Collision Occurs
If you have been involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, taking the right steps immediately can help protect your rights and strengthen your claim:
- Seek medical attention. Your health and safety are the top priorities. Even if you do not feel injured immediately, it is crucial to get checked by a medical professional.
- Report the accident. Contact local law enforcement to report the accident and obtain a copy of the police report. This document is essential for your claim, as it provides an official record of the uninsured claim.
- Document the scene. If possible, take photos or videos of the whole accident area, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange information. Gather contact information from the other driver, witnesses, and any passengers. Even if the other driver is uninsured, their contact information will be necessary for your claim.
- Notify your insurance company. Report the accident to your insurance carrier, preferable on the same day the incident occurred. Be honest and provide accurate information, but avoid giving a recorded statement or accepting any settlement offers without consulting your attorney.
- Consult with an attorney. Contact a West Palm Beach uninsured accident lawyer to discuss your case. An attorney can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the claims process.
Call an Uninsured Motorist Lawyer in West Palm Beach Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with an uninsured driver in West Palm Beach, do not hesitate to seek legal assistance. At GOLDLAW, our experienced team of uninsured accident lawyers is here to help you. Please reach out to our team for a free consultation by filling out our contact form or calling (561) 222-2222.