If you remember one thing after a Florida car accident, make it this: get medical care within 14 days.
What the rule says
Florida drivers carry personal injury protection, or PIP. PIP pays 80% of reasonable medical expenses, up to a $10,000 limit, no matter who caused the crash. But it only pays medical benefits if you receive initial services and care within 14 days after the accident (Fla. Stat. 627.736).
Why people miss it
After a crash, most people feel shaken but not hurt. They go home, figure they’ll be sore for a day or two, and get back to work. Then the neck pain, back pain, or headaches show up a week later. By the time they see a doctor, the window can be closing.
What to do
- Go to the ER, urgent care, or your doctor as soon as you can after the crash.
- Tell the provider you were in a car accident and describe every symptom, even small ones.
- Keep copies of your visit paperwork and any referrals.
- Follow the treatment plan. Gaps in treatment give insurance companies an argument that you weren’t really hurt.
PIP is only the start
$10,000 doesn’t go far after a serious injury. If someone else caused the crash, you may have a claim against them for the rest of your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Those claims have their own deadlines and rules, which is why it helps to talk with a lawyer early.
Hurt in a crash? Call me at (561) 291-7088 or request a free case review. There is no fee unless we recover.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Every case is different. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship.
