Can I Sue My Friend If I Was Hurt In Their Car?
A situation involving a car accident injury claim can feel even more complicated if the person who was driving the car when you were injured is a friend. You may worry about damaging your relationship, or wonder if filing a claim means you’re personally suing your friend.
It’s important to recognize that the recovery process is not always clear. Share the specifics of your injury and medical bills with a Miami personal injury lawyer. An attorney can talk to you about how the insurance system works, which may ease your concerns.
Florida’s No-Fault System and Financial Relief
Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, which means that after a crash, injured individuals first turn to their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. PIP is required for all drivers and covers 80% of reasonable medical expenses and 60% of lost wages up to $10,000.
This coverage applies whether you were driving your own car, riding as a passenger, or even struck as a pedestrian. So if you were injured while riding in your friend’s car, your first source of payment is usually your own PIP insurance.
PIP is designed to handle minor and moderate injuries quickly. But if your injuries are severe, $10,000 doesn’t go far. Florida law allows accident victims to pursue additional compensation outside the no-fault system if they suffer significant or permanent harm. In these cases, you may have the right to bring a claim against the at-fault driver, whether that driver was a stranger or a friend.
Balancing Friendship and Fair Compensation
Know that pursuing a claim against your friend’s negligence doesn’t necessarily mean draining their personal savings. In most cases, you are seeking compensation from their auto insurance policy, not from them directly. Drivers in Florida are required to carry at least $10,000 in Property Damage Liability coverage, and many have Bodily Injury Liability coverage as well. These policies are designed to step in and pay for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages when someone is injured in a crash caused by the policyholder.
That said, if your friend lacks sufficient insurance coverage and your damages are substantial, their personal assets could come into play. This is why it’s crucial to consult an attorney before making any settlement decisions.
Feeling hesitant about making a claim against a friend is normal. But keep in mind that accident claims are part of why we carry insurance in the first place, to protect ourselves and others when unexpected injuries occur. A fair claim can provide you with the resources you need to heal, while allowing your friend’s insurance coverage to fulfill its intended purpose.
A Miami personal injury lawyer can review your situation, explain your options, and pursue the compensation you deserve without unnecessary strain on your relationship. From navigating PIP benefits to filing claims against insurance companies, having an experienced advocate ensures your rights are protected.
Were you hurt in your friend’s car? Connect with the experienced attorneys at Spencer Morgan Law. Call 305-423-3800 to book a confidential consultation.