What If PIP Doesn’t Cover Your Losses After You’re Struck by an Illegal Driver
The stress of an accident becomes even more complicated if you’re hit by a driver who shouldn’t have been on the road in the first place. Whether they were driving without a license or using a stolen vehicle, injuries and medical bills can follow.
In Florida, every driver is required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, but your coverage only goes so far. If your PIP coverage doesn’t come close to covering your losses, you don’t have to absorb the costs alone. With the guidance of a Clearwater criminal lawyer, you can explore every option for financial recovery.
Leaning On Your Own PIP Coverage First
Florida is a no-fault state, which means that after an accident, you turn first to your own insurance policy for coverage. Standard PIP benefits provide up to $10,000 for medical expenses and partial wage replacement, regardless of who caused the accident. Unfortunately, in many serious collisions, this amount barely scratches the surface of actual costs.
If you were struck by an illegal driver, you may feel particularly frustrated knowing that your own coverage is being stretched while the at-fault driver claims to not have any valid insurance or assets. Then, you could be dealing with more than just physical injuries, you’re facing complex insurance rules and an uphill battle for financial relief.
Steps to Take After Your PIP Is Exhausted
Legal professionals are available to guide you through the recovery process. One or more of the following steps may be beneficial.
- Review your policy. In addition to PIP, some drivers carry uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This type of insurance can step in to pay for medical care, lost wages, and pain and suffering when the at-fault driver has no coverage or insufficient coverage.
- Pursue a liability claim. Even if the other driver was unlicensed or driving unlawfully, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against them. While some illegal drivers have few assets, others may have income or property that could be pursued to help cover your losses.
- Identify other potentially liable parties. Sometimes, liability extends beyond the illegal driver. For example, if a vehicle owner knowingly allowed an unlicensed person to drive their car, they could share responsibility for damages. Similarly, if the driver was working at the time of the crash, their employer could be held accountable.
- Document losses thoroughly. Medical bills, pay stubs, therapy costs, and documentation of ongoing pain are crucial in proving the extent of your damages. Keep careful records so you can present a strong case when seeking compensation beyond your PIP coverage.
A Clearwater criminal lawyer who also understands the civil side of accident claims can help. They can pursue claims against the at-fault driver, negotiate with insurers, and identify additional avenues of compensation you may not have considered.
Should you share your accident bills with an attorney? If your medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related losses exceed your PIP limits, the attorneys at King Law Group are available to provide you with guidance. Schedule your confidential consultation today.