Guide
Who Pays Medical Bills After a Car Accident in Florida?
Florida’s no-fault system means your own insurance usually pays first for your injuries, whoever caused the crash. Understanding how that coverage works — and where it stops — helps you plan.
By Swift Accident Help Editorial Team · Last reviewed · General information, not legal advice
Key takeaways
- Your own PIP generally pays first, regardless of fault.
- PIP pays 80% of reasonable medical expenses, up to $10,000.
- PIP generally requires initial care within 14 days of the crash.
- Without an emergency medical condition determination, PIP medical benefits are limited to $2,500.
How PIP pays
Personal injury protection (PIP) is required on Florida vehicles with four or more wheels. It pays 80% of reasonable medical expenses — and also certain lost income — up to a $10,000 limit, whoever was at fault. It also includes a $5,000 death benefit.
Two conditions matter most. First, you must receive initial services and care within 14 days of the crash. Second, the full $10,000 of medical benefits is available only if a qualifying provider determines you had an emergency medical condition; otherwise, medical benefits are limited to $2,500. See the PIP 14-day rule.
When bills go beyond PIP
Serious injuries can cost far more than $10,000. Depending on your situation, other sources may include health insurance, medical payments coverage on your auto policy, your uninsured motorist coverage, or a claim against the at-fault driver. Which apply depends on your policies and the facts — a participating attorney can review them.
Keep good records
- Every bill, explanation of benefits and receipt.
- Prescriptions and medical equipment costs.
- Mileage to and from appointments.
- Time off work and lost pay.
- Letters from your insurer about your PIP claim.
Frequently asked questions
Does PIP pay 100% of my medical bills?
No. PIP pays 80% of reasonable medical expenses, up to your policy’s limit — $10,000 at the Florida minimum.
I don’t own a car. Who pays?
You may be covered under a PIP policy in your household, or under the PIP of the vehicle involved, depending on the facts. Ask the insurers involved.
What if I waited more than 14 days to see a doctor?
Florida PIP generally requires initial care within 14 days. A participating attorney can review whether other coverage may apply.
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
- Florida’s PIP 14-day ruleWhy getting initial care within 14 days matters for your PIP benefits.Read more
- When the insurance company callsRecorded statements, what to share and how to keep a record.Read more
- Accident with an uninsured driverWhat Florida drivers must carry, and how UM coverage works.Read more
- Florida car accident helpEverything in one place: the scene, insurance, reports, deadlines and getting help.Read more
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