What Everyone Should Know About The Florida 14-day Accident Law

If you’ve been involved in a car crash or an Uber accident, you’re probably just worried about your injuries and if you’ve suffered any financial losses. You might be relieved knowing your car insurance covers your injuries and might even know about Personal Injury Protection, or PIP. But you’re probably not aware that there is an important law in Florida that could stop you from being covered by insurance. The Florida 14-day accident law.

What is the Florida 14-day accident law?

The Florida 14-day accident law, also known as the PIP statute, is an important legal provision that affects individuals involved in automobile accidents in Florida. According to this law, those who sustain injuries in an accident must seek medical attention within 14 days to be eligible for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.

PIP coverage guarantees that medical expenses and lost wages resulting from the accident are compensated by insurance companies, providing significant financial relief to those affected. In Florida, PIP coverage is mandatory for all vehicle owners and drivers. It ensures that individuals can receive immediate medical treatment for their injuries without having to wait for any potential legal proceedings or disputes between insurance companies. This no-fault insurance system aims to expedite medical care and alleviate any financial burdens faced by accident victims.

PIP Coverage In Florida Example

The minimum required PIP coverage in Florida is $10,000 and covers 80% of medical expenses, lost wages, and death benefits to a maximum of $10,000.

Here’s an example of how PIP coverage might apply in a car crash:

Nicole was driving along the highway when suddenly, a truck came out of nowhere and smashed into her car. Fortunately, she made it out alive, but she was taken to the hospital, and her medical bills totaled $40,000.

  • Medical Expenses:
    • PIP coverage usually covers a percentage (typically 80%) of reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to the car crash. Since Nicole can use her PIP benefits to pay for 80% of hospital bills, doctor visits, diagnostic tests, prescription medications, and rehabilitation services up to 10,000, she only pays $30,000.

It’s important to note that PIP benefits are subject to the policy limit chosen by the insured. If Nicole’s policy has a limit of $10,000, that is the maximum amount available for PIP benefits. If she has selected a higher limit, such as $20,000 or $30,000, she would have a greater amount of coverage available.

Additionally, if Nicole’s injuries exceed the PIP limits or meet certain criteria, she may pursue additional compensation through a liability claim against the at-fault party or other available insurance coverage.

It’s advisable for individuals like Nicole to review their insurance policies, understand their PIP coverage limits, and consider whether additional coverage is needed to ensure adequate protection in the event of a car crash. Insurance policies and regulations can change, so it’s always a good idea to consult with an insurance agent for the most up-to-date information.

What is the Purpose of the Florida 14-day accident law?

Encourage Prompt Medical Treatment

The Florida 14-day accident law was implemented to encourage individuals involved in motor vehicle accidents to seek medical attention promptly following the incident. This law makes it mandatory for accident victims to seek medical treatment within 14 days after the accident to be eligible for PIP benefits, also known as no-fault insurance, which is compulsory in Florida.

Injuries sustained in an accident may not manifest immediately or may appear minor at first but worsen over time. By requiring individuals to seek medical attention within 14 days, the law aims to identify and address any potential injuries promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and facilitate a quicker recovery process.

Curb Insurance Fraud

Additionally, the Florida 14-day accident law serves as a mechanism to curb fraudulent activities related to insurance claims.

Unfortunately, fraudulent claims are made by some individuals who exaggerate injuries long after an accident has occurred. By establishing a timeframe within which medical attention must be sought, it becomes more difficult for fraudsters to fabricate or inflate injuries to obtain financial compensation through PIP coverage.

What does PIP have to do with the Florida 14-day accident law?

To be eligible for PIP benefits, the injured person must seek medical treatment within the first 14 days following the accident. If they fail to do so, their claim may be denied.

It’s important to note that the 14-day period begins on the day of the accident, not from when you first notice symptoms or become aware of injuries. Even if you initially feel fine but experience pain or discomfort later on, you still need to seek medical attention within those first two weeks to be eligible for coverage under PIP.

It is advisable to report your injuries and seek consultation with a healthcare professional as soon as possible after an accident. This will help establish a clear link between your injuries and the accident itself while complying with the requirements set forth by the Florida 14-day accident law.

How to File a Florida PIP Claim

Filing a PIP claim in Florida typically involves several steps. Here’s a general guide on how to file a PIP claim:

  • Seek Medical Attention:
    • After a car accident, seek prompt medical attention for any injuries sustained. PIP benefits usually cover medical expenses, but it’s crucial to document injuries and treatments.
  • Report the Accident:
    • Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the necessary details, including the accident’s date, time, and location.
  • Obtain Accident Report:
    • Obtain a copy of the accident report filed with the local law enforcement agency. This report can help in the claims process.
  • Contact Your Insurance Company:
    • Contact your insurance company to initiate the PIP claim. You will need to provide details about the accident, your injuries, and the medical treatments received.
  • Complete PIP Application:
    • Your insurance company will provide you with a PIP application form. Complete the form accurately and promptly. Include details about the accident, injuries, and any medical treatments received.
  • Submit Supporting Documents:
    • Attach relevant supporting documents to your PIP application. This may include medical bills, receipts, and any other documentation related to your medical expenses.
  • Cooperate with the Insurance Company:
    • Cooperate with your insurance company throughout the claims process. This may involve providing additional information or participating in an independent medical examination if requested.
  • Receive PIP Benefits:
    • If your claim is approved, you should start receiving PIP benefits to cover your medical expenses and, in some cases, lost wages. PIP benefits typically cover a percentage of your medical expenses up to the policy limit.

It’s important to note that Florida’s PIP system has specific deadlines for reporting accidents and seeking medical treatment. Failure to adhere to these deadlines could affect your ability to receive PIP benefits. Additionally, if your injuries exceed the PIP coverage limits, you may need to explore other avenues for compensation, such as filing a liability claim against the at-fault party or utilizing underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage if applicable. Always consult with your insurance company and, if needed, seek legal advice to ensure proper and timely filing of your PIP claim.

What Should I Do If I Have Injuries After The Florida 14-day Accident Law?

Even if you have missed the 14-day deadline imposed by the Florida 14-day accident law, you can still take action to pursue a claim. However, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible is advisable to guide you through the process and maximize your chances of a successful outcome.

The first thing you should do if you are injured after an accident in Florida is to seek immediate medical attention. Your health and well-being should be your top priority. Receiving prompt medical care will not only help address your injuries but also establish a strong foundation for potential personal injury claims. Medical records documenting your injuries and treatment can serve as vital evidence when seeking compensation for damages.

Even if you did not seek medical attention within the 14-day timeframe outlined by the Florida 14-day accident law, scheduling an appointment with a healthcare professional as soon as possible is still crucial. They can assess and document any underlying injuries that may have arisen from the accident.

Another critical step after seeking necessary medical care is to gather evidence related to the accident. This includes collecting all relevant documents such as police reports, insurance information of all parties involved in the accident, photographs of property damage or injuries sustained, witness statements (if available), and any other documentation that may support your claim for compensation. This evidence will help strengthen your case when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court. Additionally, keeping a detailed record of all expenses related to your injuries will not only assist in calculating damages but also demonstrate the financial impact of the accident on your life.

It is essential to remember that even if you missed the 14-day deadline imposed by Florida’s accident law, do not lose hope. Each case is unique, and exceptions or circumstances could allow you to pursue a claim despite exceeding this timeframe. Consulting with a skilled personal injury attorney will provide clarity on your options given your specific circumstances and help develop a strategy tailored to achieve optimal results. If you find yourself injured after an accident in Florida and have missed the 14-day deadline stipulated by the Florida 14-day accident law, it is crucial not to give up on pursuing rightful compensation. Seek immediate medical attention, gather all relevant evidence related to your injuries and the accident itself, and consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can guide you through the complex legal processes involved in seeking fair compensation for your damages. Remember, time is of the essence in such cases; therefore, it is important not to delay taking these essential steps toward securing justice.

Conclusion: Florida 14-day Accident Law

Accidents can leave individuals with physical and emotional distress, making it essential to know your rights under the Florida 14-day accident law. Understanding the intricacies of the Florida 14-day accident law and PIP statute can be challenging. Therefore, seeking legal assistance from experienced attorneys in personal injury cases is highly recommended. These attorneys can guide you through the process of filing a claim, ensuring that your rights are protected and helping you navigate any potential challenges that may arise during negotiations with insurance companies.

Despite the difficulties faced after an accident, knowing that help is available can bring solace during challenging times. By promptly seeking medical attention and having PIP insurance coverage, individuals involved in accidents can receive timely treatment for their injuries without worrying about immediate out-of-pocket expenses.

If you or a loved one has suffered due to a personal injury and want the help of experienced and empathetic lawyers, contact Perkins Law Offices at perkins@perkinslawoffices.com or call for a free, confidential case review at (855) 741 – LAWS (5297).