Florida is a no-fault state for auto insurance, which means that drivers are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. PIP insurance helps cover medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers, regardless of who was at fault in an accident. This is why PIP coverage is often called “no-fault” coverage.
What does PIP insurance cover?
PIP coverage typically includes:
- Medical expenses: This includes costs for doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and other medical treatments related to the accident. Typically PIP pays 80% of these expenses up to the PIP limit, which is usually $10,000.
- Lost wages: PIP can help replace a portion of your income if you are unable to work due to injuries sustained in an accident. Usually PIP pays 60% of wage loss until the PIP limit of $10,000 is exhausted.
- Rehabilitation costs: This can cover the cost of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitative services.
- Death benefits: In the event of a fatality, PIP insurance may provide limited death benefits to beneficiaries. This is paid in a single lump sum payment, usually the amount is $5,000. This payment is made regardless of fault and the payment does not limit the ability to bring a wrongful death claim.
How much PIP coverage is required in Florida?
Florida law requires drivers to carry a minimum of $10,000 in PIP coverage. However, it’s important to note that this is the minimum requirement, and you may want to consider increasing your coverage to ensure you have adequate protection in the event of a serious accident.
What are the benefits of having adequate PIP coverage?
- Faster access to medical care: PIP coverage can help you get the medical treatment you need quickly, without having to wait for a lengthy legal process.
- Reduced financial burden: PIP can help cover a significant portion of your medical expenses and lost wages, reducing the financial strain on you and your family.
What to do after an accident:
If you are involved in an accident, it’s important to:
- Seek medical attention immediately: Even if you don’t think your injuries are serious, it’s important to see a doctor to ensure you don’t have any hidden injuries.
- Contact your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Gather information: Collect information from the other driver, including their name, contact information, and insurance information.
- Consult with an experienced attorney: If you have questions about your PIP coverage or if you believe your rights have been violated, it’s important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney.
- Submit Medical Bills to PIP First: If you need medical care because of injuries from a car accident in Florida, you may be required to submit those bills to PIP first, even if you have health insurance. Once PIP is exhausted, health insurance may begin to pay towards those bills. A failure to use PIP benefits first may result in your health insurance denying payment for those bills.
At Weinstein & Cohen, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive support to clients involved in such accidents. If you or someone you care about has been injured or involved in an accident across South Florida, contact our accident lawyers and Miami personal injury attorneys at 305-374-1011, or visit fairnessforall.com for a free legal consultation to learn more about your options.
