Car accidents in Sarasota and across Florida often leave victims facing not just physical injuries, but significant emotional and financial burdens. Whether it’s a rear-end collision on I-75 or a multi-vehicle crash at Fruitville Road, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Understanding the types of compensation available is one of the most important steps toward protecting your rights and rebuilding your life.
Below, we break down the primary categories of damages available to car accident victims under Florida law, what you may be entitled to, and what steps you should take next.
Medical Expenses
One of the most immediate and substantial forms of compensation involves reimbursement for medical bills. This includes:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospitalization
- Surgeries
- Doctor’s appointments
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Future anticipated medical treatments
Florida law allows you to recover these costs through your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage and, in more serious cases, from the at-fault driver’s insurance.
Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for:
- Wages lost during your recovery period
- Reduced ability to work in the future (loss of earning capacity)
- Missed job opportunities or promotions
This form of compensation is critical for individuals who are the primary financial providers in their households.
Pain and Suffering
Not all damages are economic. Florida allows for the recovery of non-economic damages, such as:
- Physical pain and discomfort
- Emotional distress or trauma
- Anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Loss of enjoyment of life
These damages are more subjective and are typically evaluated based on the severity of the injury, length of recovery, and long-term impact on your quality of life.
Property Damage
You are entitled to reimbursement for repairs to your vehicle or the fair market value if your car is totaled. Property damage compensation may also cover:
- Personal belongings damaged in the crash
- Rental car expenses
Punitive Damages (in Limited Cases)
While rare, Florida courts may award punitive damages in cases where the at-fault driver’s actions were especially reckless or intentional, such as DUI crashes or hit-and-run accidents. These are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.
Wrongful Death Damages (for Surviving Families)
If a car accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim, which can include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of companionship and protection
- Loss of financial support
- Mental pain and suffering of surviving family
To learn more about wrongful death claims, visit our Wrongful Death page.
What Affects the Value of Your Car Accident Claim?
Several factors influence how much compensation you can claim, including:
- Severity of your injuries
- Duration of your medical treatment and recovery
- Level of fault or shared liability
- Available insurance coverage (your own and the at-fault driver’s)
Under Florida Statutes Section 627.736, all drivers are required to carry minimum PIP coverage of $10,000, but in severe injury cases, this is rarely enough to cover total losses. Knowing the full scope of compensation available can prevent you from accepting a low settlement offer.
How Dannheisser Injury Law Can Help
At Dannheisser Injury Law, we know how to pursue full and fair compensation for car accident victims in Sarasota and surrounding areas. We handle negotiations with insurance companies, investigate fault, and build a case aimed at maximizing your financial recovery.
We recommend reading more about our approach on our Sarasota Car Accident Lawyer page.
Talk to a Sarasota Car Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one were injured in a car accident, don’t leave money on the table. The insurance companies aren’t on your side — but we are.
Call Dannheisser Injury Law today at 941-365-7600, fill out the contact form, or chat live with us on our website. There is no fee unless we win.
