Overview of New Florida Insurance Laws and How They May Affect You

After an accident, the last thing you want to worry about is your insurance rates going up, especially if the accident wasn’t your fault. Unfortunately, many drivers find themselves overwhelmed by the complexities of insurance claims and the fear of unjust rate increases. Fortunately, Florida’s new insurance laws provide crucial protections to prevent this from happening. However, navigating these protections and managing a claim can still be complex and overwhelming.

At the Law Offices of Scott Sobol, our dedicated attorneys are here to simplify the process and ensure you receive fair treatment and compensation without any unjust rate increases. We can help you understand and navigate these laws, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way. Attorney Sobol has represented over 1,000 clients and has a proven track record of achieving the best possible results. When we take your case, you can trust us to provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.

Will My Rates Increase After a Florida Car Accident? 

If you were determined to be at fault for your car accident, your insurance rates are likely to increase. The extent of this increase can depend on several factors, including the details of the accident, your history of insurance claims, and the type of coverage you have. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in the potential adjustment of your insurance premiums.

However, if you were not at fault for the collision, Florida Statute 626.9541 provides significant protections, specifically prohibiting insurance companies from raising rates solely because you were involved in an accident. This law applies unless there is clear evidence that you were at fault for the incident. In other words, simply being involved in an accident does not give insurers a blanket right to hike your rates.

Insurers who violate this statute can face civil liability and fines, ensuring drivers are treated fairly and are not subjected to unfair rate increases.

What to Do if Your Rates Were Unlawfully Increased in Florida

If you believe your insurance company has unlawfully raised your rates in Florida, consider following the steps below to protect your rights and interests:

Understand Your Policy

First, thoroughly review your insurance policy. Make sure you understand all terms and conditions, including the specific scenarios under which your rates can legally be changed. Getting familiar with your policy will help you identify any unjust rate increases.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Next, reach out to your insurance company for clarification on the rate increase. There may be a legitimate reason they can explain to you. A direct conversation can often resolve misunderstandings and provide a reasonable explanation for the change.

File a Complaint with Florida’s Department of Financial Services

If you are not satisfied with the explanation from your insurance company, the next step is to file a complaint with Florida’s Department of Financial Services (FDFS). The FDFS oversees insurance companies and has the authority to investigate your claim. Filing a complaint can spur an investigation into your situation to ensure your insurer complies with the law.

Consult an Attorney

If your rates continue to increase without a lawful basis, it may be time to seek legal advice. Consulting with an attorney can provide you with specific guidance tailored to your circumstances. At the Law Offices of Scott Sobol, we can help you navigate every step of the legal process, protect your rights, and take action against any unlawful practices by your insurance company.

Navigate Florida’s New Insurance Laws With Confidence

Handling the complexities of insurance claims after an accident can be stressful. At the Law Offices of Scott Sobol, we simplify this process, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive fair treatment. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you understand and leverage Florida’s new insurance laws to prevent unjust rate increases. With over 1,000 clients represented and a strong track record of achieving favorable results, you can trust us to provide the top-notch legal services you need after your accident.

Contact us at (954) 440-2000 or through our contact form to discuss your case and explore your options for fair compensation without unjust rate increases. We are committed to standing by you every step of the way, making sure your insurance company complies with the law and that you receive the compensation you deserve.