What PIP covers
Florida requires most drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection. Because Florida is a no-fault state, PIP is meant to pay initial medical bills and a portion of lost wages regardless of who caused the crash, up to the policy limit — commonly discussed as $10,000 in medical benefits when an emergency medical condition is found.
Who counts as a qualifying initial provider
Section 627.736 focuses on where initial care comes from. Hospital and emergency department care, and treatment by licensed physicians, osteopathic physicians, dentists, and chiropractors, are the categories people rely on to start the clock correctly. Waiting for a massage therapist or an urgent-care visit that does not meet the statute’s requirements can leave a gap — confirm with a medical provider or attorney if you are unsure.
Without an emergency-medical-condition determination by a qualified provider, PIP medical benefits may be capped at $2,500. Prompt, well-documented care protects both the 14-day window and the higher benefit.
Motorcycles and next steps
Passenger-car PIP rules do not automatically apply to motorcycles. Riders should read the motorcycle guide on this site.
If bills already exceed PIP, or the insurer is denying the claim, CrashAid can refer you to a participating Florida attorney for free. Call (941) 770-2727.
Request a free attorney referral
CrashAid is a free attorney referral service — English and Spanish. Call or use the form to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Questions
What is the Florida 14-day PIP rule?
Under Fla. Stat. § 627.736, you generally must receive initial medical care from a qualifying provider within 14 days of the crash, or the insurer can deny PIP medical benefits.
Which providers qualify for initial PIP care?
Qualifying initial care commonly includes a hospital, emergency department, licensed physician, osteopathic physician, dentist, or chiropractor. Confirm the statute’s categories with a provider or attorney if your first stop was somewhere else.
What if I feel fine after the crash?
Get evaluated anyway. Soft-tissue injuries and concussion symptoms often appear days later, and the 14-day window does not pause while you wait to see how you feel.
Can CrashAid help if my PIP was denied?
Yes. CrashAid is a free attorney referral service. Call (941) 770-2727 for English or Spanish help connecting with a participating attorney.
City referrals
Related guides
- What to do after a car accident in Florida: a step-by-step checklist
- How long you have to file a Florida car accident claim
- Can I recover if I was partly at fault in a Florida car accident?
- Do I need a lawyer for a minor accident — and how much does a car accident lawyer cost?
- Uber and Lyft accidents in Florida: whose insurance may apply
