Motor vehicles are many Floridian’s primary means of transportation. Unfortunately, whether you are driving to work, school, or a social event, an accident may drastically alter your plans. Recovering from a car accident can have significant physical, emotional, and financial consequences for victims and their families. These issues may be even more challenging to contend with if the person responsible for the accident has inadequate insurance coverage to pay for your damages. While those injured in a car accident may have the option to file an uninsured motorist claim, many wonder if their premiums will increase as a result.
At Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis, our attorneys are dedicated to helping our clients understand their rights and options after a car accident. Our experienced legal team has over a century of combined experience helping car accident victims file uninsured motorist claims and fight for the maximum amount of compensation for their injuries and other accident-related losses. When you partner with us, you can have peace of mind that a compassionate and seasoned legal professional will handle your case.
Will Filing an Uninsured Motorist Claim Increase My Insurance Premiums in Florida?
Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is designed to protect accident victims if they are hit by an uninsured or underinsured individual who cannot pay for the damages resulting from the accident. UM coverage is also useful when pursuing compensation after a hit-and-run where the driver is unknown. While UM coverage is optional in Florida, it can help accident victims recover compensation for their injuries, pain, and suffering when the negligent party is unknown or has insufficient insurance coverage.
Although UM coverage can act as a safety net in these scenarios, many individuals are hesitant to file a UM claim because they fear their insurance rates will increase. Fortunately, Florida law prohibits insurance companies from raising your rates because the insured filed a UM claim. Section 626.9541 of the Florida Statutes protects consumers from insurance companies attempting to cancel coverage or raising rates for improper reasons, including use of their UM insurance coverage.
However, your insurance company may raise your premiums due to the accident itself. The rules and regulations surrounding insurance rates can be complex and challenging to sort through on your own. An experienced Orlando car accident attorney can help you file your claim and determine if your rates were unlawfully raised.
Possible Damages Available After Filing an Uninsured Motorist Claim in Florida
Depending on the severity of your accident, you may be forced to contend with lasting injuries and other consequences that impact your life. If you have been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, you should not be forced to finance your medical bills and other expenses. By filing a UM claim, you may be able to recover the following damages:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and earning potential
- Surgeries
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Wrongful death
Your attorney will review every detail of your case and advise you on which damages you may be eligible to recover.
Speak to a Talented Car Accident Attorney at Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis
If you have been injured in a car accident by an uninsured or underinsured driver, do not hesitate to contact the experienced attorneys at Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis. Our talented attorneys have more than 100 years of combined experience and are ready to apply their extensive knowledge and expertise to your unique case. We pride ourselves on taking a personalized approach to every case to ensure each of our client’s unique needs are addressed. To schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you, call us today at (407) 843-7060 or complete our contact form.