Jax 14-Day PIP Rule: Save Your $10k
Florida is a "No-Fault" insurance state. This means that after a car accident, your own insurance provider is responsible for paying a portion of your medical bills through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, regardless of who caused the crash.
However, under Florida Statute § 627.736, there is a strict catch: You must seek initial medical treatment within 14 days of the accident.
What Happens if You Wait Longer Than 14 Days?
If you do not see a qualified healthcare provider within the two-week window following your accident, your insurance company has the legal right to deny your claim entirely. This is true even if:
- Your injuries are clearly from the accident.
- Your symptoms (like whiplash or back pain) didn't appear until a few days later.
- You were busy with work or family and simply couldn't get to a doctor sooner.
| Legal Tip: Adrenaline often masks pain immediately following a crash. Even if you feel "fine," it is vital to get a medical evaluation to preserve your right to benefits.
What Benefits Does PIP Provide?
If you meet the 14-day deadline, your PIP insurance typically covers:
- 80% of medical expenses (up to your policy limit).
- 60% of lost wages if you are unable to work.
- $5,000 in death benefits to help families with final expenses.
Emergency Medical Condition (EMC) & Payout Limits
Not all injuries qualify for the full amount of coverage. Florida law divides PIP payouts into two tiers based on the severity of the injury:
- Full Benefits ($10,000): Only available if a qualified medical professional determines you have an Emergency Medical Condition (EMC)—an injury so severe that it could jeopardize your health or bodily functions if not treated immediately.
- Limited Benefits ($2,500): If your injury is not classified as an EMC, your coverage is capped at $2,500.