Guide
Florida’s PIP 14-Day Rule Explained
Florida’s personal injury protection law contains a deadline many people only learn about after it has passed: to get PIP medical benefits, you generally need initial care within 14 days of the crash.
By Swift Accident Help Editorial Team · Last reviewed · General information, not legal advice
Key takeaways
- PIP generally pays for medical care only if you receive initial services and care within 14 days of the crash.
- The initial care has to come from qualifying providers, such as a hospital, an emergency service, or certain licensed physicians.
- Full medical benefits (up to $10,000) require a determination of an emergency medical condition; otherwise they are limited to $2,500.
- Even if you feel fine, keep the 14-day window in mind.
What the rule says
Section 627.736 of the Florida Statutes says PIP medical benefits cover services and care only if the injured person receives initial services and care within 14 days after the motor vehicle crash.
The statute also specifies who can provide that initial care — including licensed physicians, osteopathic physicians, chiropractic physicians and dentists, hospitals and emergency services — and who can provide follow-up care.
The $2,500 limit
PIP medical benefits reach the $10,000 limit only if a qualifying provider determines the injured person had an emergency medical condition. If no such determination is made, medical benefits are limited to $2,500.
What this means for you
- If you are hurt, get seen promptly — and within 14 days of the crash.
- Tell the provider you were in a motor vehicle crash.
- Notify your insurer and keep copies of every record.
- If you’re past 14 days, speak to a participating attorney about what other coverage may apply.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 14-day rule apply if I wasn’t at fault?
Yes. PIP is no-fault coverage, and the 14-day requirement applies whoever caused the crash.
Does urgent care count?
It depends on who provides the care. The statute lists which providers can give initial services and care. Check with the provider and your insurer.
What does PIP pay?
PIP pays 80% of reasonable medical expenses up to $10,000 when an emergency medical condition is determined, or up to $2,500 otherwise. It also pays certain lost income and a $5,000 death benefit.
Sources
Official sources this page relies on. Laws and procedures change — check the source for the current version.
- Florida Statutes § 627.736 — Required personal injury protection benefits — The Florida Legislature (Online Sunshine)
- Insurance Requirements — Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
- Personal Automobile Insurance Overview — Florida Department of Financial Services
Related help
- Medical bills after a car accidentHow PIP pays, its limits, and what to keep.Read more
- What to do after a car accident in FloridaA step-by-step checklist for the scene, the next few days and the weeks after.Read more
- Florida car accident helpEverything in one place: the scene, insurance, reports, deadlines and getting help.Read more
- Rear-end collisionsHit from behind at a light, in traffic or on the highway.Read more
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