Getting in a car accident is always a hardship. It is an inconvenience at best, life-altering at worst, and everything in between for many. Having insurance coverage can make the process easier, but it is rarely simple.
Even dealing with large, well-established insurance companies can prove challenging. If you have been in an accident and have questions about your potential Nationwide Insurance claim settlement, there are several things you should know.
Filing an Insurance Claim in Florida
Florida is considered a “no-fault” state.
This means that regardless of who is at fault for the accident, your own insurance pays the first $10,000 of your medical bills and lost wages under which is known as personal injury protection coverage or PIP. All drivers are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.
Basic PIP coverage includes:
- Up to 80% of medical expenses;
- Up to 60% of lost wages;
- Travel expenses for medical appointments; and
- $5,000 in death benefits.
This system is designed as a way to help you get compensation quickly, regardless of who is at fault. Complications may arise when an insurance company refuses to provide an adequate settlement or damage extends beyond your coverage.
Nationwide Insurance Claim Settlement
Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company is one of the largest insurance providers in the country. They have policies for homeowners, renters, business owners, the elderly, and drivers. Their automotive policies are most widely known.
Because of their size and experience, working with a larger company like Nationwide can be beneficial when it comes to car insurance claims, but it can also have its downfalls.
Companies like Nationwide understand how to make a profit and that often means offering a lower Nationwide insurance claim settlement than what you deserve.
Should You Use An Accident Settlement Calculator?
The short answer is no. These so- called calculators are notoriously unreliable and inaccurate. Often, they are actually hosted by insurance companies who are motivated to pay you as little as possible for your claim.
These calculators also fail to take into account the individual aspects of your case. The best way to get an accurate evaluation of your claim is through experienced legal counsel.
What Factors Affect Your Nationwide Insurance Claim Settlement?
There are a number of factors that may impact your Nationwide insurance claim settlement. The biggest one is the severity of your injuries and associated cost of care.
The more expenses you have, the larger the settlement you should get. It is important to be able to prove your expenses. So make sure to keep all records and receipts for any costs associated with your accident.
In Florida, your Nationwide personal injury settlement will only include non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and mental anguish, if you meet Florida’s injury severity threshold. In order to cross that threshold, you must demonstrate that the accident caused either:
- Permanent limited use of a bodily organ or member;
- Significant and permanent loss of an important bodily function;
- A permanent injury;
- Significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement; or
- death.
How Fast Can I Get Paid For My Nationwide Car Accident PIP Claim?
When you are injured, the medical bills can pile up quickly.
When you are filing a PIP claim in Florida, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident.
By law, your insurance company must pay or deny the claim within 30 days. If your original claim is incomplete, the insurance company can extend the deadline by 30 additional days when each piece of information is received. If the claim is denied, the insurance company must provide an explanation.
At that time you have 15 days to revise and resubmit your claim.
Tips For Filing Nationwide Car Insurance Claims
Despite the fact that Florida is a no-fault state, it is important that you gather as much information as possible at the time of the accident.
This could include the police report (which you why you should always file a police report in Riverview or closest community), contact information for the other driver and witnesses, and various photos. Nationwide recommends that you take photos of the following:
- The VIN, which is usually located on the inside driver’s side door or on the dashboard;
- The current mileage on the odometer;
- The vehicle’s registration information;
- A view of both the rear and front of the vehicle;
- A close-up view of damage to the car; and
- A view from 10 feet away, showing all damage to the vehicle.
These are important things to have on hand if requested but pertain primarily to property damage. It is important to note that Florida’s no-fault policy does not apply to vehicle damage. You can file a lawsuit against a negligent party for property damage without stipulations.
For your Nationwide personal injury settlement, your most important assets are records of your injuries, doctor’s visits, and all related medical expenses.
If your injury causes you to miss work, you can include those lost wages. Keeping detailed records is extremely important in order for you to receive fair compensation.
Why Should You Hire An Attorney?
One of the most important things to understand when dealing with insurance companies is that, though they are there to help, they are in the business of making a profit.
They make a profit when they pay you the least amount of money possible. Big companies like Nationwide have entire legal teams dedicated to enticing accident victims into taking the lowest settlement possible.
An experienced law firm like Abrahamson & Uiterwyk will take the time to understand the details of your claim and your expenses. By closely examining your case, we can determine the appropriate amount of compensation you deserve.
We strive to provide prompt and aggressive representation and push insurance companies to settle claims quickly and fairly so you can get back to living your life. Contact us to schedule your free case consultation.
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