February 22, 2025 | Car Accident Lawyer Near St. Petersburg Florida
Auto accident settlements in Florida can vary significantly. There is no single number that fits every case because each accident is unique. Many factors affect the final amount you may receive. In this article, our St. Petersburg car accident attorneys explain why it is hard to determine an average settlement and what elements can change your claim’s value.
Why It Is Hard To Pinpoint an Average Settlement
Every car accident is different. The money you may get in a settlement depends on the details of your accident. For example, the severity of your injuries, the cost of your medical treatment, and the impact on your daily life can all play a role.
Florida law also requires the use of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which can cover some expenses regardless of who is at fault. Because many factors are involved, experts say that there is no true “average” settlement amount in Florida auto accident cases.
The final settlement amount will likely be the result of many discussions between your lawyer and the insurance company. Sometimes, the parties reach a fair settlement without going to trial. Other times, your case may need to be heard in court, and a jury will decide the amount. These different outcomes can also cause the settlement amount to vary widely.
Factors That Affect the Settlement Amount
Several key factors influence how much money you may receive after an auto accident. Understanding these factors can help you know what to expect:
- The Severity of Your Injuries: The worse your injuries, the higher your medical bills and the consequences on your life. This can lead to a higher settlement.
- Medical Expenses: Your current and future medical costs are a major part of your claim. This includes hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: If you miss work because of your injuries, you may be able to recover money for the income you lost. This also covers any reduction in your ability to earn compensation in the future.
- Property Damage: The damage to your vehicle or other property can also affect your settlement. Repair or replacement costs are included in your claim.
- Impact on Daily Life: If your injuries change how you live day to day, such as making it hard to do simple tasks or enjoy life, this loss is considered in your claim.
- Fault and Comparative Negligence: Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means that if you share some of the blame for the accident, your settlement may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- PIP Insurance: In Florida, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance covers many accident-related expenses. However, PIP may not cover all losses, especially non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Each of these factors can have a big impact on your final settlement. Even small differences in one area can change the overall amount you receive.
How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Because auto accident settlements can be so complicated, having an experienced lawyer on your side is very important. A good car accident lawyer can help you by:
- Investigating your accident
- Calculating your damages
- Dealing with insurance companies
- Handling the legal process in court, if needed
Hiring an experienced attorney makes a big difference in how much you might ultimately receive. They know the laws in Florida and have the skills to build a strong case on your behalf.
Reach Out to An Attorney for Legal Assistance
No fixed “average” Florida auto accident settlement exists because every case is unique. The amount you can receive depends on many factors, such as the severity of your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, property damage, and degree of fault. Working with a skilled personal injury lawyer can help you get the best possible outcome.
If you have been injured in an auto accident, understand the factors that may affect your claim. A trusted lawyer will help you navigate the process and fight for your deserved compensation.
Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm in Florida
If you’ve been injured in an accident, please contact our experienced car accident lawyers at Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group to schedule a free consultation today. We have three convenient locations in Florida, including Vero Beach, St. Petersburg, and Port St. Lucie.
Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group – Vero Beach
2651 20th St
Vero Beach, FL 32960
(772) 758-1966
Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group – St. Petersburg
200 Central Ave Suite 304
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
(772) 569-8155
Graves Thomas Rotunda Injury Law Group – Port St. Lucie
10805 SW Tradition Square Unit 024A
Port St. Lucie, FL 34987
(772) 677-0373