Florida Car Accident Attorney Explains the 14-Day PIP Rule

After a Florida car accident, getting medical attention promptly can affect both your health and your insurance claim. Under Florida’s Personal Injury Protection law, qualifying initial medical services generally must be received within 14 days after the motor vehicle accident for PIP medical benefits to apply.

That deadline can be easy to overlook, especially when injuries do not seem serious immediately after a crash.

Key Takeaways

• Florida generally requires qualifying initial medical care within 14 days of a car accident for PIP medical benefits.
• Waiting beyond the 14-day period may affect eligibility for PIP medical coverage.
• Medical records can help document symptoms and treatment following a collision.
• The 14-day PIP requirement is different from the deadline for filing a negligence lawsuit.
• Speaking with a Florida car accident attorney can help clarify which deadlines apply to your situation.

What Does Florida’s 14-Day PIP Rule Mean?

Florida Statute §627.736 provides PIP medical benefits for 80% of qualifying reasonable and medically necessary expenses, subject to statutory and policy requirements. The statute requires qualifying initial services and care to be received within 14 days of the accident.

For accident victims, that makes the first two weeks particularly important.

Some injuries may become more noticeable after the initial shock of a collision fades. If you experience pain or other symptoms, obtaining appropriate medical care can address those concerns while creating a record of when symptoms were evaluated.

Why Contact a Car Accident Attorney?

Car accident cases can involve medical bills, insurance coverage, questions about liability, vehicle damage, and communications with insurers.

Kevin L. Sullivan II represents Florida car accident victims and states that he has represented more than 1,000 accident victims throughout the state. His firm also offers free consultations and handles qualifying cases without upfront attorney fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 14-day rule the deadline for filing a lawsuit?

No. The 14-day rule concerns qualifying initial medical treatment for PIP benefits. Florida negligence lawsuits generally have a separate limitations period.

What happens if I wait more than 14 days?

Waiting beyond 14 days can affect eligibility for PIP medical benefits. Other possible claims depend on the circumstances of the accident.

Should I contact an attorney before speaking with insurance companies?

You can seek legal advice at any point after a crash, particularly if injuries, liability, or insurance coverage are disputed.

This post was written by a professional at LeavenLaw. Attorney Kevin L. Sullivan II is your zephyrhills truck accident lawyer and an experienced personal attorney near you for LeavenLaw. Kevin is proud to serve Florida accident victims that have been injured in auto accidents, motorcycle accident, slip and falls or have suffered any other type of injury caused by negligence. Kevin offers a FREE no-obligation consultation to discuss your claim. There are NO upfront fees or costs and if he does not collect for you, you do not owe him anything.