Car accidents can be sudden and result in substantial physical, emotional, and financial hardships. In Florida, having Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance is not just suggested—it’s mandatory as per the law. This insurance is meant to assist in handling the consequences of a car accident, no matter who caused it. Knowing the extent of coverage and advantages of PIP insurance can offer relief and financial protection in times of need.
Is PIP Insurance Required in Florida?
Yes, PIP insurance is required in Florida. All vehicles registered in the state must have at least $10,000 in PIP coverage. This insurance guarantees that individuals in a car accident can promptly receive medical treatment and payment for lost earnings without having to establish blame. The no-fault system lessens the load on the court system and speeds up the process of receiving compensation.
As a policyholder, you can decide whether your PIP insurance will only cover you or include your whole household. This choice enables you to customize your insurance to meet your requirements, guaranteeing protection for all family members in case of an accident.
What Does PIP Insurance Cover?
PIP insurance in Florida offers a maximum of $10,000 in benefits that can be utilized for various costs associated with a vehicle collision. Here is a summary of the usual coverage provided by PIP insurance:
- Medical Expenses: PIP insurance will cover 80% of your medical expenses. This covers trips to the hospital, surgeries, prescribed drugs, and ambulance charges. If your medical costs amount to $8,000, your PIP insurance will cover $6,000, meaning you must pay the remaining $2,000.
- Lost Wages: PIP insurance can pay for up to 60% of your lost wages if you cannot work due to your injuries. This advantage can assist in easing the financial burden of not being able to work during your recovery period.
- Home Care and Pet Care: Aside from covering medical bills and income loss, PIP insurance can also pay for home care when injuries inhibit your ability to carry out daily activities. Likewise, PIP insurance can assist with expenses for pet care during your recovery.
- Funeral Expenses: If a car accident leads to death, PIP insurance can pay for funeral expenses, reducing the financial strain on your family during a challenging period.
Although PIP insurance is beneficial, it is essential to recognize that it might only partially cover some expenses, particularly those surpassing the $10,000 cap. In those situations, you might be eligible to seek extra payment from the driver responsible for the incident to address any outstanding expenses.
Is Florida a No-Fault State?
Yes, Florida functions using a no-fault insurance system. This indicates that every driver in a collision must file a claim with their insurance provider, regardless of fault. Personal injury protection has a strong foundation in Florida; the no-fault regulation has existed for nearly half a century. In 1971, Florida became the second state in the US to implement the no-fault law. The law came into force the following year, on January 1, 1972.
The no-fault system also decreases the necessity for public assistance for people hurt in car crashes, as their PIP coverage can help with medical costs and lost earnings. Nevertheless, there are obstacles to implementing the law, prompting legislators to make adjustments to enhance its efficiency.
One advantage of the no-fault system is that it enables injured parties to quickly receive compensation without determining fault for the accident. Nevertheless, this also implies that drivers must have insurance to cover their injuries, regardless of whether they were at fault for the crash.
How to File a PIP Claim
- Report the Accident: The first step is to contact your insurance company to report the accident. Ensure to provide them with all the necessary details, including the date and time of the accident, the location, and any injuries you sustained.
- Confirm PIP Coverage: While on the phone with your insurance company, confirm that your policy includes PIP coverage. This is especially important if you need clarification on whether your policy covers only you or your entire household.
- Obtain Your Claim Number: Ask the insurance representative to provide you with your claim number and the contact information for the claims office. You’ll need this information as you move forward with your claim.
- Contact the Claims Office: Once you have your claim number, contact the claims office and speak with the insurance adjuster assigned to your case. The adjuster will be your main point of contact throughout the claims process.
- Request Necessary Forms: Ask the adjuster to send you a PIP application, a salary verification form (if you missed work), and a physician’s report. These forms are essential for processing your claim.
- Complete the PIP Application: Fill out the PIP application as soon as you receive it. Ensure that you provide accurate and complete information to avoid delays in processing your claim.
- Submit Medical Documentation: Your physician must complete the Attending Physicians Report outlining your injuries and treatment plan. Submit this report to your insurance adjuster as soon as possible.
- Submit Salary Verification: If you missed work due to your injuries, have your employer complete the Salary Verification Form. This form will help determine the amount of lost wages you are entitled to under your PIP coverage.
- Provide Billing Information: Give your healthcare providers your claim number, the adjuster’s name, and the contact information for the claims office. This will allow them to bill your PIP insurance directly for medical expenses.
- Authorize Billing: Ensure your healthcare providers can bill your PIP insurance directly. This will streamline the payment process and help you avoid out-of-pocket expenses.
Need Help with Your PIP Insurance Claim? Contact Our Experienced Florida Attorneys Today!
Navigating the PIP insurance claim process can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of a car accident. At RRBH Law, our experienced Florida lawyers are here to help you every step of the way. We are dedicated to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery.
If you need assistance with your PIP insurance claim, contact us at 305-800-4663 to schedule a consultation. Since 2015, we’ve been committed to helping our clients navigate the legal process and achieve justice for their injuries. Let us help you secure the compensation you need to move forward with your life.