Understanding Nationwide Insurance Claims in Florida
Nationwide is one of the largest auto insurance carriers operating in Florida, alongside companies like GEICO and State Farm. After a collision, you may need to file:
- A claim under your own Nationwide policy, or
- A third-party claim against a Nationwide-insured driver.
Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage typically pays for initial medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault.
Under current Florida law:
- PIP covers 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost wages, up to $10,000.
- You must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident.
- To pursue a bodily injury claim against the at-fault driver, you must meet Florida’s serious injury threshold under §627.737, Fla. Stat.
These rules apply statewide, including Miami-Dade County, Broward County, Palm Beach County, and Orange County (Orlando area).Understanding your rights under Florida insurance law is critical. An experienced Florida insurance claims lawyer can review your policy, evaluate coverage limits, and protect you from unfair settlement tactics.
How to File a Nationwide Auto Insurance Claim in Florida?
After a crash in Miami, Orlando, West Palm Beach or Fort Lauderdale, taking the correct steps is critical.
Step 1: Report the Accident
Nationwide policyholders can report claims:
- By phone through the Nationwide claims department
- Online through their website
- Through the Nationwide mobile app
You will typically need to provide:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Names and contact information of drivers and witnesses
- Police report number (if available)
- Description of injuries and property damage
If the accident occurred in Miami-Dade, Broward, or Palm Beach County, obtaining the official crash report is important for claim documentation.
Be Careful When Speaking to a Claims Adjuster
Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company — not for you.
Before giving a recorded statement or accepting any settlement offer, understand:
- You are not legally required to provide a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer.
- Early settlement offers are often made before the full extent of injuries is known.
- Some injuries, such as herniated discs or traumatic brain injuries, may worsen over time.
Even reputable companies like Nationwide are still businesses focused on limiting financial exposure. Adjusters may:
- Dispute liability
- Minimize medical treatment
- Argue that injuries are pre-existing
- Delay payment
Having legal representation helps protect your rights and strengthens your claim.
Florida Insurance Law & Your Rights
Florida law requires insurance companies to handle claims in good faith. Additionally, for most negligence-based car accident claims arising after March 24, 2023, the statute of limitations is two years. Failing to act within this time period may permanently bar recovery.
When Should You Contact an Attorney?
You should strongly consider consulting an attorney if:
- You suffered serious injuries
- Liability is disputed
- Nationwide denied or undervalued your claim
- You are being pressured to settle quickly
- The accident involved significant property damage
- You are dealing with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
The legal and insurance process can be overwhelming — especially while recovering from injuries.
How The Law Offices of Robert Dixon Helps
The Law Offices of Robert Dixon represents car accident victims throughout:
- Miami
- Orlando
- West Palm Beach
- Fort Lauderdale
We handle:
- Nationwide PIP disputes
- Bodily injury liability claims
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist claims
- Property damage disputes
- Settlement negotiations
- Litigation and trial-ready representation
Insurance companies know which firms are prepared to go to court. We prepare every case as if it may proceed to trial.
We offer:
- Free consultation
- No fees unless we win
- Direct attorney communication
- Strategic claim evaluation
If you need assistance with a Nationwide auto insurance claim, contact The Law Offices of Robert Dixon today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to give Nationwide a recorded statement?
You must cooperate with your own insurer under your policy terms, but you are not required to give a recorded statement to the at-fault driver’s insurer without legal guidance.
How long does a Nationwide claim take in Florida?
Simple property damage claims may resolve in weeks. Injury claims involving significant medical treatment can take several months or longer depending on liability and damages.
What if Nationwide denies my claim?
You may have options including submitting additional documentation, filing an appeal, or filing a lawsuit within the statute of limitations.
Can I sue after filing a PIP claim?
Yes. If your injuries meet Florida’s serious injury threshold, you may pursue a bodily injury claim against the at-fault driver in addition to your PIP benefits.
What if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance?
You may be able to recover compensation through your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if it is included in your policy.
