When involved in an automobile accident, you may have significant property damage, bodily injuries, lost income and other harms and losses. These unexpected harms can quickly put a tremendous amount of financial strain on you and your family. This is where some states’ personal injury protection benefits (PIP benefits) come into play.
Overview of Personal Injury Protection Benefits
Some states have PIP benefits. For example, in Florida, the Florida Statute § 627.736 is the personal injury protection law (commonly referred to as PIP) and operates as a type of no-fault insurance coverage. Automobile PIP benefits help pay your medical bills and lost wages in the event of a car accident.
PIP Provides Broad Coverage
PIP benefits are not just limited to an injured driver, or the owner of the vehicle involved in the collision. If you own the car, your PIP coverage will apply for your benefit.
However, if you did not own the vehicle involved in the crash, you can still access PIP coverage if the owner of the vehicle involved in the wreck is a relative.
If you were a passenger in another vehicle, you are also covered under the vehicle’s PIP policy, as long as you either own a vehicle or reside with someone who owns a vehicle.
Pedestrians and Bicyclists Could Be Covered under PIP
Pedestrians and bicyclists involved in accidents may still be able to access PIP benefits. This depends on whether they own a vehicle or live with a relative who owns a car. If they do, then they can access benefits through their own PIP policy. If they do not, they can still access PIP benefits from the policy of the driver that hit them.
Get Medical Treatment Right Away or lose valuable benefits
Why see a doctor right away after an accident? Because if you fail to seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident, you cannot obtain PIP benefits. This does not mean that you have to visit an emergency room. In fact, a chiropractor and other medical professionals are suitable healthcare providers and their care is covered under PIP.
Some PIP laws only requires that medical care be provided by a designated healthcare provider, such as a medical doctor, chiropractor, hospital, and/or emergency medical service. However, in certain instances, PIP laws do not cover treatment provided by a holistic medical practitioner like an acupuncturist or massage therapist.
Speak to an Experienced Car Accident Attorney Right Away
PIP benefits can get confusing, especially if you receive a letter or notice from an insurance company claiming to deny your request for benefits. You may also have damages in excess of the typical PIP limits of $10,000 and are entitled to seek recovery for these damages.
In situations like these, you need the counsel of an experienced car accident lawyer Lakeland, FL, residents often rely on. The law firm of David & Philpot PL is here to help. Our team has experience representing people seriously injured in major car wrecks.
Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation. During the consultation, you will get to meet with an attorney who can talk with you about your potential case.
Thanks to our friends and contributors at David & Philpot for their insight into car accidents.
No Comments