If you’ve been in a Florida or Texas car accident, car accident injury claims are likely a top concern.
Understandably, the aftermath can be overwhelming. From dealing with vehicle property damage to addressing injuries, there’s no shortage of stress.
When it comes to filing a property damage claim (PD claim) and a bodily injury claim (BI claim).
Dealing with Property Damage and Injury Claims
It can often feel like a full-time job, especially when you’re up against insurance adjusters who may delay the process.
For instance, according to recent data, there are nearly 400,000 car accidents annually in Florida and more than 550,000 in Texas.
Of these incidents, a significant portion results in property damage alone, while many also involve bodily injury claims.
Clearly, understanding how to handle these claims properly can make all the difference in getting back on the road sooner.
Understanding Property Damage Claims (PD Claims) in Car Accident Injury Claims
You can seek compensation for damage to your vehicle and other personal property through a property damage claim after a car accident.
Whether you need your car repaired or replaced, you’ll file a PD claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
At first glance, this claim seems straightforward:
The insurance adjuster assesses the damage, and then they compensate you to fix your car.
Nevertheless, the reality is often much more complicated.
Many drivers in Florida and Texas find that getting their car repaired sooner is easier said than done.
Indeed, insurance adjusters can delay the process, lowball repair estimates, or push you to use a repair shop of their choosing.
In fact, in Texas, it could take a couple of weeks to settle a property damage claim, and that’s if there are no complications.
Without the right assistance, it can feel like a losing battle to get back on the road quickly.
What Is a Bodily Injury Claim (BI Claim) in Car Accident Injury Claims?
A bodily injury claim covers medical costs, lost wages, and other damages from injuries sustained in an accident.
This is another critical component of car accident injury claims.
Differentiation Between Texas and Florida
In Texas, bodily injury liability coverage is required by law, with a minimum of $30,000 per person.
On the other hand, in Florida, bodily injury coverage is not mandatory, but policyholders can opt for a minimum of $10,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person.
Moreover, Florida also requires a $10,000 benefit called Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which helps cover medical expenses for injuries.
Texas, however, does not require PIP.
Attorney Significant Impact in Car Accident Injury Claims
This claim is often more complex than a PD claim, and it’s here that an attorney can make a significant impact.
Even though an attorney may not handle PD claims alone, they are essential if your bodily injury claim is part of the equation.
According to studies, accident victims who work with attorneys tend to receive 3.5 times more in settlements than those who don’t.
In other words, having legal support can substantially increase your compensation.
Furthermore, when you’re injured, a lawyer can help push for both your property damage and bodily injury claims to be settled in a timely manner.
They act as an advocate, ensuring that your medical bills are covered and that your car is repaired fast — all while taking the burden off your shoulders.
The Common Struggles of Dealing with Property Damage Claims Alone
Handling a property damage claim on your own can feel like an uphill battle, especially when insurance adjusters seem to drag their feet.
Here are some of the most common challenges victims face when dealing with PD claims without an attorney:
Delays
It’s no secret that adjusters are often in no rush to settle PD claims.
In fact, according to recent reports, insurance claims in Florida are known to take an average of 30-45 days to fully settle, and that’s for straightforward cases.
Whether they’re overloaded with cases or simply taking their time, it’s not unusual for victims to wait weeks or even months to get their cars fixed.
Lowball Offers
Another frequent complaint is receiving a settlement that doesn’t cover the full cost of repairs.
Often, insurance adjusters may offer compensation that’s well below what’s needed to get your car back on the road.
Without an attorney advocating on your behalf, you could be left footing the bill for the difference.
Push to Use Specific Repair Shops
In some cases, insurance companies will try to steer you toward a specific repair shop, even if you’d prefer to use your own mechanic.
This tactic can cause further delays and add more stress to an already complicated process.
The Difference an Attorney Can Make for Your Car Accident Injury Claims
While it’s certainly possible to handle a PD claim on your own, having an attorney involved — especially if you’ve been injured — can significantly improve your experience.
Here’s how an attorney can help when you’re dealing with both a property damage claim and a bodily injury claim as part of your car accident injury claims:
Faster Settlements
When an attorney is involved in your bodily injury claim, insurance companies know they can’t afford to stall.
As a result, they’re more likely to settle both your PD and BI claims sooner rather than later to avoid legal complications.
This means you’ll get your car repaired fast, and your medical bills will be taken care of quickly.
Better Compensation
Lawyers know the ins and outs of the insurance industry, and they know when a settlement offer is too low.
In fact, statistics show that people who work with an attorney are likely to receive more than three times the compensation as those who don’t.
When an attorney advocates for a fair settlement on your bodily injury claim, it strengthens your case.
They can also help ensure your property damage claim is settled at a fair rate.
Streamlined Process
Filing both a property damage claim and a bodily injury claim can feel like juggling two jobs.
Fortunately, with an attorney on your side, you can rest assured that both claims are being handled simultaneously.
They ensure that:
- Your car will be fixed soon.
- Your medical needs are addressed quickly.
without you having to follow up with insurance companies.
Get Professional Help Today for Your Car Accident Injury Claims
We are here to save you time and energy.
We’ll connect you with the right people who can guide you through your claims process. and ensure you get the medical attention you need.
Don’t wait —Call us now at 844-324-HURT (4878) to get started!
Your recovery and peace of mind are just one call away.