Florida Personal Injury Protection Lawyers Near You

Understanding Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage in Florida

Personal Injury Protection (PIP), often referred to as ‘no-fault insurance,’ is a vital component of auto insurance in Florida. As a legal requirement, it provides essential benefits to individuals involved in car accidents, regardless of fault. Understanding what PIP insurance covers and how a PIP attorney can help is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring access to necessary benefits.

PIP is a type of auto insurance coverage mandated in Florida. It typically provides coverage for:

• Medical expenses: Pays for 80% of your medical bills resulting from a car accident, up to a limit of $10,000.
• Lost wages: Covers 60% of your lost income if you’re unable to work due to injuries from an accident.
• Other expenses: Includes replacement services, like hiring someone to take care of household tasks you can no longer perform.

PIP benefits apply regardless of who caused the accident. In most cases, you look to your own insurance company to cover these expenses.

PIP insurance in Florida primarily covers medical expenses, lost wages, and certain other costs related to accident-related injuries. Here’s a breakdown of its coverage and important details to keep in mind:

Coverage Limits – How much does PIP pay in Florida?

The standard PIP policy in Florida covers up to $10,000, but this can vary:

• Medical expenses: 80% of costs, up to the policy limit.
• Lost wages: 60% of income lost due to accident-related injuries.
• Other losses: Additional expenses, like hiring help for household tasks, can be reimbursed.

14-Day Rule

To qualify for PIP benefits, under the Florida PIP statute of limitations, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident. Missing this window could disqualify you from receiving benefits.

Additional Coverage Options

While PIP provides foundational protection, it might not be enough in more severe cases. Here are additional coverage options you can consider:

• Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay): Covers the portion of medical expenses not covered by PIP and offers further protection once PIP benefits are exhausted. MedPay claims are a useful option for covering these additional expenses.
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Helps if you’re injured by a driver who lacks sufficient insurance.
• Additional PIP Coverage: Some policies allow you to increase the standard $10,000 limit, though these options are less common.

Does PIP cover passengers?

Yes. If passengers in your vehicle are injured, their own PIP policies typically cover their medical expenses. If they don’t have their own insurance, your PIP may step in to cover them.

Who gets the PIP check in Florida?

• Medical bills: Payments go directly to healthcare providers under an assignment of benefits.
• Lost wages: Payments are sent directly to you.

Can PIP be used multiple times?

Yes, PIP resets for each accident. If you’re involved in multiple accidents, your coverage applies separately to each event.

Does PIP cover pain and suffering?

PIP does not cover pain and suffering. These damages must be pursued through the at-fault party’s insurance or your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage.

“Using PIP Will Increase My Rates”

Many people worry that filing a PIP claim will raise their insurance premiums. However, PIP is designed to cover your medical expenses without assigning fault, so filing a claim alone should not have an impact on your rates in any accident that is not your fault.

“I Don’t Need PIP if the Accident Wasn’t My Fault”

This is one of the most misunderstood aspects of PIP. Even if another driver caused the accident, your own PIP is the first line of coverage for your medical expenses and lost wages.

If your PIP benefits are denied or exhausted, a PIP lawyer near you can:

• Pursue additional claims: Seek compensation from the at-fault party or through your uninsured motorist coverage.
• Handle disputes: Challenge denied claims or unfair evaluations by the insurance company.

PIP is an essential safety net for Florida drivers, providing immediate financial support after an accident. However, understanding its limitations and exploring additional coverage options is key to ensuring comprehensive protection. If you’re navigating a PIP claim or have questions about your coverage, consulting with an experienced PIP attorney in Florida, can provide clarity and help you maximize your benefits.