Florida is among a handful of states in the U.S. that use a no-fault auto insurance system. This means that all motorists are required by Florida law to obtain personal injury protection or PIP, insurance coverage. This insurance coverage affects how you’ll move forward and obtain compensation for certain losses after a motor vehicle crash in Florida.
Read on for a complete guide to Florida’s PIP coverage and what you need to know as a driver.
What is PIP Insurance?
PIP insurance, also known as no-fault insurance, is a form of auto insurance that covers a portion of medical expenses, lost wages, and other expenses incurred by the driver (policyholder) and their passengers in a car accident. It provides coverage for these limited expenses regardless of who is considered at fault for the crash.
As of 2024, under state law, PIP insurance is mandatory for all Florida drivers. The policy must provide at least $10,000 worth of coverage.
PIP insurance covers the following expenses:
- Up to 80% of medical expenses, including hospital bills, physical therapy, prescription medications, imaging tests, surgical procedures, and ambulances
- Up to 80% of loss of service, which could include expenses for services you needed to hire due to your injuries (housekeepers, law maintenance, etc.)
- Up to 60% of lost wages
- Certain wrongful death benefits
Notably, you must seek treatment within 14 days of the crash to be eligible for benefits under your PIP coverage. Make sure to keep all documentation relating to injuries and other losses.
What Does “No Fault” Mean in Florida?
Florida’s no-fault system means that no matter who was at fault for the accident, the drivers’ initial medical expenses and other related PIP damages are first covered by their own PIP policies (to the extent PIP is available). This is in contrast to an at-fault system, under which the at-fault driver’s insurance policy is used to cover all of the other party’s damages.
What if My PIP Insurance Doesn’t Cover All of My Expenses?
If your PIP insurance doesn’t cover all of your expenses (typically they won’t as PIP only pays a % of those expenses) and another party is negligent for the crash, you can seek compensation from the at fault-party and their insurance carrier. Before pursuing such a claim, you should contact a local and experienced personal injury attorney.
Schedule a free personal injury case review with one of the experienced auto accident attorneys at Weldon & Rothman, PL to learn more!