In Florida, all drivers are required by law to have a minimum of $10,000 in PIP coverage with their auto insurance. This coverage is designed to pay for medical expenses in the event of an accident, regardless of fault. However, if the PIP coverage is insufficient to cover all medical costs, the injured party may have the option to pursue legal action against the at-fault driver.
Personal Injury Protection Coverage (PIP)
Personal injury protection coverage (PIP) is a no-fault component of an auto insurance policy designed to cover medical expenses for anyone in a vehicle involved in an accident and suffering injuries. It also provides coverage for lost wages if the injured party misses work to recover from their injuries.
Different Types of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage in Florida
Florida offers various types of PIP coverage, encompassing medical expenses, disability benefits, death benefits, essential services, funeral expenses, and lost wages.
Medical Expenses Resulting From Injuries
In Florida, PIP insurance covers up to 80% of medical expenses for individuals injured in a car accident, with a maximum coverage of $10,000 for anything related to the accident. This encompasses medical and hospital bills, doctor’s visits, dental work, ambulance rides, and other relevant expenses. PIP covers medical costs if the injured person receives treatment within 14 days of the accident.
Disability Benefits After An Accident
If someone is injured in a car accident to the extent of being disabled and unable to work, their PIP insurance can provide coverage for up to 60% of their wages, capped at $10,000. Disability benefits are accessible for individuals who need to take temporary time off work to recover from their injuries, or for those who have sustained permanent injuries that hinder their ability to return to work.
Death Benefits For Surviving Family Members
In Florida, PIP coverage also offers death benefits to the family members of individuals who pass away in a car accident. The coverage provides $5,000 for each person, which is separate from the $10,000 PIP coverage limit.
Essential Household Services
Everyday essential services include household chores like cleaning and childcare. If someone is too injured to manage these tasks, their Florida PIP insurance can help cover the expenses.
Financial Expenses For Funerals
If someone dies as a result of injuries from a car accident, PIP coverage can cover the funeral expenses, easing the financial burden for the family during this tragic time.
Accidents Causing Lost Wages
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance can cover the expenses of lost wages when an individual is injured and unable to work. This coverage provides 60% of your total income while you’re out of work.
What is Covered by Florida PIP Insurance?
Florida PIP insurance provides coverage for 80% of your medical expenses, up to $10,000, in the event of a car accident, regardless of fault. Additionally, it includes $5,000 in death benefits, coverage for essential household services, lost wages, and funeral expenses.
The Benefits of PIP Coverage
PIP coverage offers various benefits, such as coverage for medical bills, funeral expenses, death benefits, and other financial support.
Medical Expenses and Coverage
If you experience a personal injury in a car accident, regardless of fault, your PIP insurance can cover your medical expenses and necessary ongoing treatment, up to $10,000 per person per accident.
Funeral Costs
PIP insurance also covers funeral expenses, providing relief to the survivors of a car accident victim, regardless of fault.
Death Benefits
In the event of a car accident fatality, PIP insurance can offer $5,000 per person killed per accident to the surviving family members, separate from the $10,000 PIP coverage limit.
Additional Financial Assistance
Household services such as housekeeping and childcare, if you are unable to perform these tasks due to car accident injuries, are among the additional financial benefits provided by PIP insurance.
Eligibility Requirements for Personal Injury Protection Coverage in Florida
In Florida, specific criteria determine eligibility for PIP coverage. These include meeting the requirements for driver’s liability insurance and vehicle ownership.
Driver’s Insurance Requirements
To qualify for Florida PIP coverage, drivers need to meet the state’s liability insurance requirements. This includes having property damage liability (PDL) coverage of at least $10,000, which should be added when the vehicle is registered.
Vehicle Ownership Obligations
When a vehicle is registered in Florida, the owner must have both PIP and PDL coverage, each with a minimum of $10,000. Furthermore, they are required to maintain PIP and PDL coverage even if the vehicle is not in use or is inoperable.
Filing a PIP Coverage Claim in Florida: A Step-by-Step Guide
Understanding the process for filing a PIP coverage claim in Florida is crucial. This involves having essential information readily available, such as post-accident procedures, claiming forms and documentation, and receiving PIP benefits.
After an Accident: What to Do Next
After a car accident, regardless of fault, it’s crucial to take certain steps. Firstly, move to a safe spot away from traffic and check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Even if you feel okay, seek medical attention on the same day to document any treatment needed for a potential claim.
Remain at the scene and call 911, ensuring you stay until the police arrive. Exchange information with the other drivers but avoid admitting fault. Gather witness statements and their contact details, take photos of the scene, and note any relevant details as evidence.
Contact your insurance company to report the accident, providing enough information to aid in filing a claim.
Documentation and Forms Needed When Submitting a Claim
When filing a claim with your insurance company, it’s crucial to provide all evidence to support your case. This includes medical records, accident photos, the police report, and witness statements, as these can bolster your claim. Your insurance provider will likely provide specific forms for you to fill out. After completing all the required information and attaching your documentation, you can then submit them for review.
Receiving the Benefits from Personal Injury Protection
After submitting your claim, following the correct procedures is crucial to receive your PIP benefits. To qualify for these benefits, it’s essential to seek medical care from a doctor within 14 days of your car accident. Failure to do so may result in your claim being denied.
Coverage is Limited
It is important to remember that if the PIP coverage is insufficient to cover all medical costs, the injured party may have the option to pursue legal action against the at-fault driver. When that happens you should consider hiring a qualified auto accident attorney who can get you the compensation you deserve.
The Experienced Port Charlotte Car Accident Lawyers At FGB Law Firm Are Here For You
At FGB Law Firm, we specialize in handling car accident claims with professionalism and expertise. Our dedicated team of Port Charlotte car accident lawyers will guide you through every step of the process, providing personalized assistance tailored to meet your unique needs.
Dealing with a car accident claim can be overwhelming, but with our skilled professionals by your side, you can rest assured knowing that your rights are protected. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our firm today by calling 941-979-9010 or completing our online consultation form for the support you deserve.
Let us help you navigate the complexities of your car accident claim and work towards a favorable outcome.