Estimate the potential value of your car accident case based on injuries, medical treatment, and other factors.
Car accident settlement amounts are determined by a combination of economic and non-economic damages. Insurance companies and attorneys evaluate several key factors to arrive at a fair compensation figure.
Injury Severity
The type and severity of your injuries is the single most important factor in determining your settlement value. More serious injuries like traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage command significantly higher settlements than soft tissue injuries.
Medical Costs
Your total medical expenses — including emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and future medical needs — form the foundation of your economic damages. Documented medical bills provide concrete evidence of harm.
Lost Wages & Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevented you from working, you can recover lost wages. In severe cases, diminished future earning capacity may also be factored into your settlement.
Liability & Fault
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system. If the other driver was clearly at fault, your settlement potential increases. If fault is shared, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
PIP Insurance (No-Fault Coverage)
Florida is a no-fault state, meaning your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance covers 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost wages up to $10,000 — regardless of who caused the accident.
However, PIP only covers the first $10,000, which is often insufficient for serious injuries. To pursue additional compensation from the at-fault driver, you must meet the "serious injury threshold."
Serious Injury Threshold
If your injuries meet this threshold, you can file a claim against the at-fault driver for full compensation including pain and suffering.
Statute of Limitations
In Florida, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline typically means losing your right to compensation entirely.