Grace Period for Auto Insurance Claims After Accident in Florida?

Reader’s Question:

My cousin got involved in a vehicular accident last month. It is not her fault. There was no serious physical damage on her part and she just sustained minor injuries. However, there was so much damaged on her car. What I am curious about, is there a certain grace period for filing for auto insurance claim in Florida? I mean since this happened like a month ago, can my cousin still file for a claim? For how long are we given the grace period before we lose our right to file for claims?

Christine

Central Pasco, FL

In general, auto insurance polices states that in an event of vehicular accidents or loss to the policyholder, a claim must be done the soonest the possible time. By doing this, your car insurance claim would be considered in a timely manner by your insurer. The longer period you failed to file for the claim, the more difficult it would be to set the facts relating to your claims. In addition, if you filed for a delayed claim you must be prepared to explain to your car insurance company the reason for the delay. A claim adjuster would determine the total loss you had and the coverage you would have.

As to your question, your cousin can still file for a claim. As per Florida law, you could file for a claim within the four year period. Meaning to say four years from the time the accident happened. However, I would not suggest you wait that long before making the claim. Once involved in an accident, file the claim as soon as possible to avoid any future problems you might encounter if you opted to delay it.

For more information about car insurance claims in Florida, ask your auto insurance agent.