Experiencing Stomach Pain After a Car Accident in Fort Lauderdale? Here's When You Can File a Claim

Depending on how serious a crash you’ve been in, you may be experiencing any number of physical injuries and emotional trauma. However, it can be extremely dangerous to dismiss something like stomach cramps, even after what you may consider a minor fender bender. The repercussions for your lack of action could cost you more than money. It could prove deadly.

If you are experiencing stomach pain after a car accident in Fort Lauderdale, you need to see a doctor immediately. We also suggest discussing your case with a Fort Lauderdale car accident attorney. They can explain if you have a case and when you can file a compensation claim. 

Common Causes of Abdominal Pain After a Car Accident

Car accidents are a violent assault on our bodies. No matter how well protected we are, surrounded by steel and plastic, our bodies are subjected to massive amounts of force, which can cause such injuries as the following: 

• Internal bleeding and organ damage, such as to the spleen, liver, and intestines
• Soft tissue bruising and abdominal trauma due to seat belts
• Whiplash-related injuries that strain the abdominal muscles

Victims often do not experience any pain or symptoms for hours after due to adrenaline. In some instances, symptoms may not appear for days after. 

It is imperative that you receive medical attention after an accident as soon as possible. Your doctors can run tests and scans to diagnose any obscured or hidden injuries you may have and start you on a treatment program immediately.

Why Immediate Medical Attention Matters 

In addition to diagnosing any hidden injuries early, there are also legal requirements you should consider. 

Florida has a no-fault insurance system when it comes to car accidents. Under this system, all drivers are required to carry:

• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): You must carry a minimum of $10,000 in PIP. This policy will typically cover 80% of your medical expenses, roughly 60% in disability benefits (lost wages), and $5,000 in death benefits. 
• Property Damage Liability (PDL): You must also carry a minimum of $10,000 in PDL. This covers damage that you cause to another person’s property. 

To qualify for your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage and file a claim against it, you must see a doctor within 14 days of the accident. The medical records your doctor creates can be used as evidence linking the accident to your injuries. 

Your PIP policy, though, may be inadequate to cover any internal injuries from a car accident. 

Can You Sue for Stomach Injury?

Yes, you can sue for a stomach injury, but you must meet the serious injury threshold to step outside the coverage provided by your PIP policy. 

The qualifications to meet the serious injury threshold and pursue a liability claim include the following: 

• Loss of a bodily function 
• Permanent injury 
• Scarring or disfigurement

If you meet these criteria, you could be eligible to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the other party for the injuries that cause your stomach pain. 

In addition to the deadline to see your doctor, you will also have a two-year deadline for the statute of limitations. Under Florida law, you must file your personal injury lawsuit with the Broward County courts before the deadline expires, or the courts will bar your case. 

Without the right to sue, the insurance companies will not be obligated to negotiate any settlement, and you may be left to cover bills that your PIP will not. 

When You May Have a Valid Claim

To pursue a valid claim, we must demonstrate the following: 

• You were diagnosed with an accident-related injury.
• Your medical bills and lost wages exceed PIP coverage.
• The other driver was negligent or reckless.
• The injury has caused significant or permanent impairment.

How Our Fort Lauderdale Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

For most accident victims, building a claim and seeking medical care at the same time is difficult. However, if you contact us soon enough, we can step in and manage your case, allowing you to see your doctors and follow your treatment plan stress-free. 

We can: 

• Investigate the accident and gather medical evidence
• Negotiate with insurance companies to maximize compensation
• File the lawsuit if the settlement offer is not fair
• Ensure compliance with all deadlines and Florida-specific rules

You do not have to go through this alone. Help is available. 

Call the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato for a Free Case Consultation

Do not let the physical damage to your car dictate your actions. If you are experiencing stomach pain, any pain, see a doctor immediately. You may have internal injuries that could cause you significant loss. Plus, it protects your right to PIP coverage. 

At the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato, our Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers can ensure your rights are protected. We can provide guidance and answers when you need them. Also, our law firm works on contingency, so you pay nothing unless we win. 

Call us today at (844) 643-7200 for your free case consultation.