GEICO insurance company is among the largest providers of car insurance for drivers. Individuals injured in an auto accident may need to file a GEICO insurance claim. If so, understanding the secrets of GEICO accident claims can help them obtain a fair settlement for their injuries and losses.
When dealing with a GEICO accident claim in Jacksonville, Florida, it is crucial to follow Florida’s no-fault insurance laws carefully and understand both your rights and GEICO’s tactics to protect its interests.
This guide offers Florida-specific information on filing and managing GEICO claims, with a focus on protecting your interests.
Understanding Florida’s No-Fault Insurance System and GEICO Claims
Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system. After a car accident, injured parties typically seek compensation through their own insurance, utilizing their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.
Then, they may pursue claims against the at-fault driver if their injuries meet a certain serious threshold under Florida Statute §627.737.
PIP Coverage
Florida drivers must carry a minimum of $10,000 in PIP insurance coverage, which covers medical expenses and lost wages regardless of fault. PIP insurance pays a portion of the person’s economic damages.
Generally, PIP pays up to 80% of reasonable and necessary medical expenses. A victim may also receive up to 60% of their lost wages. However, no-fault insurance does not pay any funds for non-economic damages, including pain and suffering.
The “Serious Injury” Threshold
If your injuries exceed Florida’s legal “serious injury” criteria, you may file a claim against the at-fault party’s liability insurance coverage, which could be GEICO. A liability claim can result in additional damages, including pain and suffering, loss of income, and long-term medical care.
Step-By-Step Guide To Filing a GEICO Accident Claim in Jacksonville
Each accident claim is unique. However, the primary steps in filing a GEICO accident claim in Jacksonville are:
Seek Immediate Medical Treatment
Florida law requires seeking medical attention within 14 days post-accident to qualify for PIP benefits. However, prompt medical care is also beneficial if you file a liability insurance claim.
Delays in medical treatment could raise allegations of failing to mitigate damages, which could decrease the value of your claim. Document all treatments carefully, as medical evidence strongly supports your claim.
Report the Accident Promptly
Always file a police report because official documentation strengthens your claim. Then notify GEICO immediately—use their app, website, or their claims phone line at (800) 841-3000.
When reporting a claim to GEICO, make sure to:
- Provide accurate accident details, such as the date, location, and parties involved.
- Submit the police report, photos of damages and injuries, witness contacts, and medical records if available.
- Do not agree to make a statement or answer questions in writing or while being recorded.
- Never admit fault for the accident or make statements that could be misconstrued as contributing to the cause of the crash.
Because insurance adjusters are trained professionals who prioritize the best interests of the insurance company, it is advisable to have an attorney handle communications with the company. An adjuster may try to “trick” you into saying something that could be intentionally misconstrued as admitting fault.
Gather and Maintain Evidence
Collect vehicle damage photos, accident scene images, eyewitness statements, and medical expense documentation. This evidence is critical, especially if fault or injury severity is disputed.
Understand GEICO’s Claims Process
After filing, GEICO will assign a GEICO claim number for your claim. They will also give the claim to a claims adjuster who may:
- Request additional documents and inspect your vehicle.
- Investigate fault and coverage limits.
- Request a formal statement or a recorded interview.
- Negotiate settlement offers.
Generally, a GEICO insurance adjuster investigates the accident claim to determine if the insurance company is liable for your damages. If so, the adjuster may make a settlement offer. The insurance company could deny the claim if it disputes liability for the accident.
Key Legal Considerations and Common Challenges Related to GEICO Insurance Claims
Individuals filing GEICO auto claims may encounter several challenges. Legal considerations for GEICO accident claims include:
Watch Out for Low Settlement Offers
GEICO may pressure you to accept a quick, low settlement that does not fully compensate for future medical needs, pain and suffering, or lost wages. When you sign a car accident settlement agreement, you waive your right to additional compensation and lawsuits.
It is wise to consult a Jacksonville car accident attorney before accepting an offer or signing documents for GEICO.
The “Serious Injury” Threshold Matters
Florida requires injuries to meet the serious injury standard to sue beyond PIP claims. GEICO might contest whether your injury meets this definition. Strong medical evidence and legal counsel are essential in this case.
Florida Modified Comparative Fault Standard
Florida uses a modified comparative fault standard in car accident cases. If your actions contribute to the cause of the crash, a court can reduce your damages by the percentage of fault assigned to you by a jury.
If your fault exceeds 50%, however, you won’t be able to recover at all.
Appealing Claim Denials
If GEICO denies all or part of your claim, you can file an appeal by submitting a demand letter contesting the denial with supporting facts and evidence. If necessary, litigation may follow.
Litigation Possibility
Though many cases are settled, you may need to file a lawsuit against GEICO or the at-fault party if fair compensation is not offered. A qualified attorney can manage this complex process and negotiate structured or lump-sum settlements on your behalf.
Deadlines for Filing Car Accident Lawsuits
As of March 24, 2023, the statute of limitations for filing most personal injury lawsuits, including car accident cases, is two years from the accident date. Filing a lawsuit after the deadline expires can result in you losing your right to file a legal claim.
How Can a Jacksonville Personal Injury Lawyer Help With a Geico Accident Claim?
The best way to know if you need to hire an attorney to file a GEICO insurance claim in Florida is to meet with an attorney for a free consultation. A car accident lawyer can help you with a GEICO claim in many ways, including:
- Investigate the claim and gather evidence
- Timely and accurate filing of claims and lawsuits
- Effectively present a case to prove fault and injury severity
- Skilled negotiation to avoid premature low-ball settlement offers
- Aggressive representation when necessary
For help, contact Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers for a free consultation to discuss how to protect your interests during a Geico accident claim.
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra personal injury law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and their surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St, Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167
