Auto accident victims only have 14 days after an auto accident in Florida to be examined by a medical professional or risk losing any compensation, they may be entitled to from the personal injury protection (PIP) insurance policy every Florida motorist is required to carry.

Under Florida statute 627.736, all motorists must have a PIP insurance policy when they register their cars. PIP insurance provides medical coverage, compensation for lost wages and death benefits after an accident.

If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, Florida law requires you to initially seek coverage for medical care under the PIP portion of your own insurance policy before filing a personal injury claim.

Under PIP insurance, you are entitled to file a claim to pay for any necessary medical, surgical, X-ray, dental, rehabilitative, ambulance, hospital services you may require because of your injuries. How much you can collect depends on if your medical provider determines whether you have an emergency medical condition (EMC) or not.

You may be eligible for up to up to $10,000 in medical benefits if a qualified medical professional has determined that your injuries constitute an EMC. If it is determined you do not have an EMC, you will be limited to only $2,500.

The Florida 14 Day Deadline

There is one requirement, to receive the benefits, you must be examined by a qualified physician, dentist, or chiropractor no later than 14 days after the accident. If you do not receive medical services and care within 14 days following your motor vehicle accident, you will not be entitled to collect any PIP benefits.

This is the reasons why auto accident victims seek medical treatment as soon as possible after being involved in a car accident, even if they feel “ok.” In some circumstances, it can take days for symptoms of neck, back and head injuries to appear. If you decide not to see a doctor because you do not think you have been hurt, and then on the 15th day after the accident you begin to experience pain, under the law your insurer will not have to pay your claim. You will be stuck having to pay your medical bills out of pocket.

Get Immediate Help Now From an Experienced Auto Accident Doctor Serving Delray Beach, Boca Raton, and Boynton Beach.

Keep in mind, if you fail to seek medical treatment within 14 days of your accident, you run the risk of not be able to recover any compensation for medical expenses or lost wages through a PIP claim.