In 2017 alone, the greater Miami area saw 65,986 crashes — 32,389 injuries and 285 fatalities — and the numbers have climbed nearly every year since. Newer cars have better safety technology than ever, yet crash rates keep rising. The most likely culprit is distracted driving: phones, social media, and in-vehicle infotainment pulling drivers' attention away from the road.
Criminal laws and PSA campaigns only move the needle so far. Sometimes the only thing that changes negligent behavior is hitting drivers and their insurers in the pocketbook. A well-litigated civil claim does two things at once: it compensates the victim for medical bills, lost income, and pain, and it sends a financial signal that deters the next bad decision. Brandon Chase pursues both at the same time.
What does no-fault insurance cover in a Florida car accident?
Florida's no-fault personal injury protection (PIP) is helpful, but it doesn't make most injury victims whole. A basic policy covers:
- 80% of medical expenses
- 60% of lost wages
Total payouts cap at $10,000 — and only if you sought treatment for an emergency medical condition within 14 days of the crash. Miss that window and you're capped at $2,500. Getting prompt medical care and legal counsel right after the accident protects your ability to recover.
When can an injury victim sue the negligent driver in Florida?
If your injury is serious, Florida law lets you step outside the no-fault system and bring a negligence claim directly against the at-fault driver. The statute defines a serious injury as any of the following:
- Significant and permanent loss of an important bodily function
- Permanent injury within a reasonable degree of medical probability, other than scarring or disfigurement
- Significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Death
What damages can be recovered in a civil suit?
A civil negligence claim isn't capped at PIP's $10,000 ceiling. You can recover the full amount of present and future medical expenses, the full amount of lost income, plus non-economic damages like pain and suffering and loss of quality of life. If the driver's conduct was especially reckless, punitive damages may be on the table. Most cases settle with the insurer, but Brandon is always prepared to take a case to trial when that produces the best result.
Justice and compensation after a Miami car crash
Insurance carriers negotiate hardest with attorneys they know will go to court. Brandon Chase negotiates from that position of strength. After a serious car accident anywhere in Florida, call 305-677-2228 for a free case evaluation.