Loune-Djenia Askew, Esq
May 16, 2025
In Florida, car accident claims are complex—and accepting a settlement too early can prevent you from receiving the full compensation you deserve. Before you agree to any offer, here are seven critical factors you should carefully consider.
When you're recovering from a car accident, the idea of accepting a quick insurance settlement can feel like relief. Medical bills are piling up, your income may be limited, and getting a lump sum seems like a chance to move forward. But rushing into a settlement can cost you more than you think.
In Florida, car accident claims are complex—and accepting a settlement too early can prevent you from receiving the full compensation you deserve. Before you agree to any offer, here are seven critical factors you should carefully consider.
1. Do Your Injuries Meet Florida’s Legal Threshold?
Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning most people are first covered by their own Personal Injury Protection (PIP). But if your injuries are “significant” or “permanent,” you may be able to step outside the no-fault system and seek more compensation from the at-fault party.
Under Florida law, this includes:
A permanent injury (not just temporary discomfort)
Loss of an important bodily function
Significant disfigurement or scarring
If your injuries fall into these categories, your claim's value could increase significantly. Settling too early—before a full medical evaluation—may close the door on that opportunity.
2. How Much Insurance Coverage is Available?
Understanding which insurance policies apply to your accident is key. You may be eligible for:
The other driver’s bodily injury liability coverage
Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage
A family member’s UIM policy (especially if it’s “stacked”)
In some cases, you could even have a claim beyond auto insurance—like if the driver was working for a company or rideshare service at the time of the crash.
Important: If you accept a settlement, you may waive your right to pursue these additional claims.
3. What Are Your Out-of-Pocket Costs—Now and in the Future?
Many car accident victims underestimate the true cost of their injuries. From doctor visits and medications to home modifications and transportation, the bills add up—especially long-term. Accepting a settlement before calculating future expenses means you could be stuck paying the difference out of pocket.
4. Will Your Injuries Affect Your Ability to Work?
If you’ve missed work or are unable to return to your job, your settlement should reflect that lost income. Don’t forget about future losses too—reduced earning capacity, missed promotions, or lost benefits. These damages are real and should be factored into any agreement you sign.
5. How Has the Accident Affected Your Quality of Life?
Florida law allows compensation for pain and suffering, but only if your injuries meet certain standards. Emotional distress, chronic pain, or a diminished ability to enjoy life aren’t always visible—but they matter. And they deserve fair compensation.
6. Are You Missing Out on Other Non-Financial Damages?
Beyond physical and emotional suffering, serious accidents can impact relationships, independence, and your overall joy in daily life. You might be entitled to compensation for things like:
Loss of companionship
Loss of enjoyment of life
Strain on your family relationships
Only a thorough legal review can determine what’s owed to you.
7. Could You Be Blamed for the Accident?
If you were partially at fault, it could reduce or eliminate your right to compensation. Insurance companies may try to shift blame to lower your settlement. Having an attorney investigate your accident helps prevent this tactic and ensures fault is assigned fairly.
Once you accept a settlement, there’s no going back—even if new expenses or complications come up later. That’s why it’s so important to talk with an experienced Florida car accident attorney who can review your situation, explain your options, and negotiate a settlement that truly protects your future.
Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Before signing anything, talk to someone who’s on your side.
Need Help Navigating a Car Accident Claim in Florida?
For more information, contact our office at Askew & Associates, P.A. by calling 954-546-2699.
Disclaimer: this blog post is not intended to be legal advice. We highly recommend speaking to an attorney if you have any legal concerns.