Car accidents are upsetting on many levels. If one is lucky enough to not be injured, they still may have to deal with damage to their property or vehicle, sometimes making it difficult for them to proceed with their normal day to day activities. The law provides protection for these drivers, but the full extent of what a victim is entitled to may not be known. The property damage lawyers at the Coye Law Firm can explain to you exactly what benefits and damages you can collect from the at-fault driver. Calling one of our four offices today can make your recovery quicker and more complete.
Insurance Matters
Florida's No Fault Law requires drivers to carry a minimum of $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection and $10,000 in Property Damage Liability. This means that if an insured driver causes damage, their insurance company will pay for repairs to another's vehicle up to $10,000 or the amount they have insured. The Florida Division of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles has a question and answer section that goes into more detail for those who have been involved in a crash.
Degree of Damage
If you are in a car accident, your vehicle may have varying degrees of damage. Some are lucky enough to be in minor car accidents in which small scratches occur. These are easily fixed, but many other repairs may take days or weeks to finish. You can collect monetary damages if you lose the use of your vehicle for an extended period of time. The driver who caused the damage is liable for this payment, not his or her insurance company.
Compensation for Loss of Use of Vehicle
Even those who choose not to rent a car for the time being can collect money. Often times this number is calculated by considering how much it would cost to rent your own vehicle for the amount of time it takes to make the repairs. For example, depending on your car's value, it could cost $100 a week to rent. If the car takes 2 weeks to repair, you can pursue $200 in damages to make up for the time you aren't able to use it. Some courts consider testimony of rental car agents to determine the amount. To speak directly with a car rental representative, you can use this list from Yahoo directories to choose a company.
Unfortunately, some insurance companies try to give low estimates on a car's value and the victim doesn't collect the full amount they are entitled to under the law. Don't agree to or sign anything that you feel is unfair following your car accident. If another driver has caused you property damage or hardship, the damages you collect in court may be vital. Consult the property damage attorneys at the Coye Law Firm to secure experienced defense and quickly recover the full amount that you are legally entitled to. Call today.
