What Are the Possible Sources of Compensation for Hit-and-Run Accident Victims?

Dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be difficult, especially if you are uncertain about how to receive compensation for your injuries. In Florida, there are several potential sources of compensation that victims of hit-and-run accidents can access.

Each case is unique, which is why possible sources of compensation may vary greatly from one hit-and-run accident to another. Our Boca Raton hit-and-run lawyers at Leifer & Ramirez can investigate the details of your crash and identify possible sources of compensation that may be available to you.

Options for Compensation for Hit-and-Run Accident Victims in Florida

Let’s discuss the possible sources of compensation if you were involved in a hit-and-run accident in Florida and explain how they work.

Victims of Crimes Compensation Fund (VCCF)

The Victims of Crimes Compensation Fund (VCCF) is a state fund that provides financial assistance to victims or their families for expenses related to an injury caused by a crime. The VCCF covers medical bills, funeral expenses, mental health counseling costs, lost wages, and more. However, your case needs to meet specific criteria to qualify for compensation through the VCCF.

Personal Injury Protection Coverage (PIP)

Personal Injury Protection coverage (PIP) is a type of auto insurance coverage available in Florida that provides up to $10,000 in medical benefits to the policyholder if they are injured in an auto accident—regardless of who was at fault, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. PIP also covers passengers in the car at the time of the accident who do not have their own PIP coverage. This coverage can help cover medical bills and lost wages related to a hit-and-run accident.

Medical Payment Coverage (MedPay)

Medical Payment Coverage (MedPay) is an optional type of auto insurance coverage available in Florida that pays for medical bills and some other expenses associated with a car accident. MedPay is similar to PIP, except that it does not provide any lost wage compensation—it only covers medical expenses. However, MedPay does cover passengers in your car at the time of your crash who do not have their own MedPay coverage. It also pays out regardless of who was at fault for the accident. This means it can be used as part of a hit-and-run claim if you were unable to identify or locate the driver who caused your accident.

Underinsured Motorist Coverage or Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM) and Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UMC) are two other forms of auto insurance that help pay for damages caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver, respectively. UIM pays out when the driver responsible for your crash has insufficient insurance coverage, while UMC pays out when the driver cannot be identified or located after an accident—for example, in cases involving a hit-and-run driver. It’s important to note that these coverages must be added as part of your policy before you get into an accident. Otherwise, you may not be able to file a claim using either one after a crash occurs.

Contact Leifer & Ramirez to Discuss Your Compensation Options

If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Florida, there are several options available to you when it comes to receiving financial compensation for your losses related to the incident. Understanding your options can help ensure that you receive fair compensation after being involved in such an unfortunate event, which is why you may want to discuss your unique case with an experienced lawyer. Contact Leifer & Ramirez to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation about your situation.

We serve clients throughout the state of Florida, including Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Pompano Beach, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach.

Source:

flhsmv.gov/insurance/