Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, often referred to as no-fault insurance, covers medical expenses and certain other costs for you and anyone on your policy in the event of a car accident, regardless of who was responsible for the crash. In states like Florida, PIP coverage is mandatory.
While the goal of PIP is to ensure prompt coverage of medical bills and damages, the reality is that many claims encounter delays or complications. Insurance companies, focused on protecting their profits, may slow down or complicate the claims process, making it harder for victims to receive the benefits they’re entitled to.
Why Is PIP Important in Florida?
Florida’s PIP system is designed to provide swift access to necessary medical care after an accident. Unlike fault-based systems where compensation might be delayed due to insurance disputes or litigation, PIP allows injured drivers and passengers to get treatment and have their bills covered up to the policy limits, regardless of fault.
However, while PIP offers these advantages, it also comes with limits and restrictions. PIP in Florida typically covers 80% of your medical expenses and 60% of lost wages, up to the policy limit. This means that you may still face out-of-pocket costs depending on the severity of your injuries or the extent of your wage loss.
Who Benefits from PIP Coverage?
- Drivers and Passengers: Whether you’re driving your own car, riding as a passenger, or even a pedestrian involved in a car accident, PIP coverage can help cover your immediate medical bills and wage losses.
- Immediate Medical Care: If you’ve been injured, PIP provides access to emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, and follow-up appointments related to your injuries.
- Income Loss Protection: PIP also helps if you are unable to work due to the accident, covering a portion of your lost wages, which can help ease financial burdens during recovery.
Serious injuries often exceed PIP’s coverage, prompting accident victims to explore additional options for compensation.
Is Personal Injury Protection Required in Florida?
Yes, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance is mandatory for all drivers in Florida. Every vehicle owner is required to carry at least $10,000 in PIP coverage, as part of the state’s no-fault insurance system. This requirement applies to all drivers, whether you’re a Florida resident or a nonresident driving a vehicle registered in the state.
The reason behind this mandate is to ensure that individuals involved in car accidents can receive compensation for medical expenses and lost wages without waiting for lengthy legal disputes or establishing fault. The goal is to provide immediate financial assistance for injuries and damages, reducing the burden on accident victims and the courts.
Who Is Required to Have PIP in Florida?
- Florida Residents: Any Florida resident who owns a vehicle must carry PIP insurance. This includes those who own private passenger vehicles, whether the car is for personal or business use.
- Nonresidents: If you are a nonresident and your vehicle has been in Florida for more than 90 days (consecutive or nonconsecutive) within a 365-day period, you must also carry PIP insurance. This rule ensures that nonresident drivers are equally covered while driving in the state.
Penalties for Not Carrying PIP
Failing to carry PIP insurance in Florida can lead to fines, license suspension, and vehicle registration revocation. Beyond the legal penalties, driving without PIP leaves you financially vulnerable in the event of an accident, as you would be responsible for covering your medical expenses out of pocket.
What Does PIP Insurance Cover in Florida?
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance in Florida is designed to cover specific costs that arise from an auto accident, ensuring that individuals can quickly access medical care and other benefits. Unlike fault-based insurance systems, PIP pays out regardless of who caused the accident, providing essential financial support for injuries and related expenses.
In Florida, PIP typically covers:
Medical Expenses
PIP insurance covers up to 80% of your medical bills resulting from injuries sustained in a car accident. This coverage applies to necessary medical services, including:
- Emergency medical treatment: Ambulance services, emergency room care, and other immediate treatments.
- Ongoing medical care: Hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, and physical therapy.
- Medical tests and diagnostics: X-rays, MRIs, and other tests needed to assess and treat your injuries.
- Follow-up appointments: Care you receive after the initial treatment to help with recovery.
The remaining 20% of medical costs may fall to the individual unless they have additional insurance coverage.
Lost Wages
PIP insurance also covers 60% of lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working. This benefit helps ease the financial burden if you are temporarily or permanently unable to work due to the accident. The coverage extends to:
- Time missed from work due to recovery or medical appointments.
- Inability to return to work because of accident-related injuries.
While this coverage helps cover lost income, it does not fully compensate for lost wages, which may lead some accident victims to explore other options for financial recovery.
Death Benefits
In the tragic event of a fatal accident, PIP provides a $5,000 death benefit to the family of the deceased. This can be used to cover funeral and burial expenses or other end-of-life costs.
Other Benefits
PIP insurance can also cover other necessary services, such as:
- Household services: If the injured person is unable to perform household tasks like cleaning or childcare, PIP may cover the cost of hiring help.
PIP Limitations
While PIP is designed to provide immediate financial relief, it is important to understand its limits. In most cases, the total coverage limit for PIP is $10,000. For more severe or even catastrophic injuries, this amount may be quickly exhausted, leaving you to cover the remaining costs out of pocket. If your injuries exceed this limit, you may need to seek compensation from the at-fault driver through a personal injury lawsuit.
How Do I File a PIP Claim in Florida?
While PIP is designed to simplify the process by offering coverage regardless of fault, there are specific steps you must follow to ensure your claim is successful.
- Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible.
- While speaking with the representative, confirm that your policy includes PIP coverage.
- Ask the representative for your claim number and the contact details of the claims office.
- Reach out to the claims office and get in touch with the insurance adjuster handling your case.
- Request the adjuster to send you a PIP application promptly. You should also ask for a salary verification form and a physician’s report.
- Complete and submit the PIP application as quickly as you can.
- Have your doctor fill out the Attending Physician’s Report.
- If you missed work due to your injury, ask your employer to complete the Salary Verification Form.
- Send both the completed Physician’s Report and Salary Verification Form to the adjuster.
- Provide your healthcare providers with your claim number, the adjuster’s name, and the claims office contact information.
- Authorize your healthcare providers to send bills directly to your PIP coverage.
Filing a PIP claim can be complex, but knowing the steps involved can make the process smoother and increase your chances of getting the compensation you need.
What If My PIP Claim Is Denied?
Unfortunately, not all PIP claims are approved right away. If your insurance company denies your claim or offers less compensation than expected, you may need to take further action. This can include:
- Appealing the decision: You can challenge the denial by providing additional documentation or seeking legal assistance.
- Hiring a personal injury lawyer: If your insurer continues to deny your claim or refuses to pay the full amount, consulting a personal injury attorney can help you navigate the appeals process and recover what you’re owed.
When Should I Hire a Lawyer for a PIP Claim in Florida?

Insurance companies often look for ways to minimize payouts or delay the process, leaving you in a difficult position when medical bills and lost wages pile up. Some scenarios where it’s advisable to consult a lawyer include:
Your PIP Claim Has Been Denied or Underpaid
If your insurance company denies your claim or offers you a lower payout than you expected, it’s time to seek legal help. Denials can occur for a variety of reasons, such as missing documentation, disputes over the severity of your injuries, or arguments that your treatment wasn’t medically necessary. A lawyer can review your case, appeal the decision, and help you gather the necessary evidence to strengthen your claim.
The Insurance Company Is Delaying Your Claim
Insurance companies are known to use delaying tactics in order to avoid paying out on claims promptly. If you’re struggling to get answers from your insurance provider, or they keep requesting more information without making a decision, a lawyer can step in to push the process forward and ensure your claim is processed in a timely manner.
Your Injuries Exceed PIP Coverage Limits
PIP coverage in Florida is capped at $10,000, which may not be enough to cover the full extent of your medical bills or lost wages, especially if your injuries are severe. If your expenses exceed your PIP coverage, a lawyer can help you explore other legal options, such as filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party to recover the additional costs.
You’re Facing Complications with the Insurance Company
Sometimes, insurance companies may dispute certain aspects of your claim, such as whether the injuries were actually caused by the accident, or they may question the necessity of certain treatments. When disputes like these arise, a lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and work to ensure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to under your PIP policy.
You’re Unsure About Your Rights or the Claims Process
If you’re unfamiliar with Florida’s PIP laws or simply feel overwhelmed by the process, consulting with a lawyer can give you peace of mind. They can explain your rights, guide you through the process, and help you avoid any mistakes that could jeopardize your claim.
What Are the Common PIP Insurance Exclusions?
Common scenarios where PIP insurance does not provide coverage are:
1. Injuries That Are Not Related to a Car Accident
PIP coverage only applies to injuries directly resulting from a motor vehicle accident. If you sustain an injury in another way—such as in a slip and fall or a workplace accident—your PIP insurance will not cover your medical expenses. In these cases, other insurance policies or legal avenues may be needed to cover your costs.
2. Accidents While Committing a Crime
If the accident occurred while you were committing a felony, your PIP coverage will likely be denied. For example, if you were involved in a car accident while fleeing a crime scene or driving under the influence of illegal substances, your claim may be invalidated under your PIP policy.
3. Injuries Sustained by Non-Insured Individuals
PIP coverage typically applies to the policyholder, passengers in the insured vehicle, and sometimes pedestrians involved in an accident with the insured vehicle. However, certain individuals—such as someone driving your vehicle without permission—may not be covered under your policy. It’s important to know who is covered under your specific PIP plan to avoid any surprises.
4. Intentional Acts or Self-Inflicted Injuries
If the insurance company determines that your injuries were the result of an intentional act, such as a deliberate crash or self-harm, PIP coverage will not apply. PIP is intended to cover accidental injuries, so any evidence of intentional harm will void the policy’s coverage.
5. Accidents Outside the State of Florida
PIP insurance is specific to Florida’s no-fault system. If you are involved in a car accident outside of the state, PIP may not cover your medical expenses unless you have purchased additional coverage that extends beyond Florida’s borders. It’s essential to understand the geographic limits of your PIP policy.
6. Injuries Occurring in Vehicles Not Covered by PIP
If you are injured while driving a vehicle that is not covered by your PIP policy—such as a motorcycle accident—your PIP benefits may not apply. Florida law requires separate insurance coverage for motorcycles, and PIP typically does not extend to these types of vehicles.
What to Do if Your PIP Coverage Is Denied
If your PIP claim is denied due to one of these exclusions, it may still be possible to recover compensation through other avenues. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can help you explore your options, whether through a liability claim against the at-fault driver or by reviewing the terms of your insurance policy for potential loopholes.
Can I Still Sue After Receiving PIP Insurance Benefits?
Yes, even if you have received Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance benefits, you can still pursue a lawsuit in certain circumstances. While PIP insurance covers immediate medical expenses and lost wages, its coverage is limited. For more severe injuries and damages, you may need to explore additional legal options to receive full compensation.
When Can You Sue After Receiving PIP Benefits?
In Florida, PIP benefits are designed to cover basic costs following an accident, but they do not prevent you from filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party if certain conditions are met. Here are the situations in which you can sue:
Your Injuries Exceed Florida’s Serious Injury Threshold
Under Florida law, you can sue the at-fault driver if your injuries meet the “serious injury threshold.” This means you must have sustained one or more of the following:
- Significant or permanent loss of an important bodily function.
- Permanent injury, including significant scarring or disfigurement.
- Death.
If your injuries are severe enough to meet this threshold, you can file a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation for the pain and suffering, medical expenses, and lost wages that exceed what PIP covers.
Your Medical Bills Exceed PIP Coverage Limits
Florida’s PIP insurance has a limit of $10,000, and it only covers 80% of your medical bills and 60% of your lost wages. If your medical expenses or lost wages surpass this limit, you may need to pursue a lawsuit to recover the additional costs. For example, if you require ongoing medical care or rehabilitation that exceeds your PIP coverage, suing the at-fault party allows you to recover those additional costs.
You Suffer Non-Economic Damages
PIP benefits only cover economic damages like medical bills and lost wages. However, many accident victims experience non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, or loss of enjoyment of life. Florida law allows you to sue for these non-economic damages if your injuries are severe enough to meet the legal threshold.
How Does a Lawsuit Work After PIP Benefits?
When you file a lawsuit after receiving PIP benefits, the process focuses on compensating you for damages not covered by your PIP insurance. This may include:
- Medical expenses that exceed your PIP coverage.
- Future medical treatment if ongoing care is required.
- Lost wages beyond what PIP pays, especially if your ability to work is permanently impacted.
- Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering or emotional distress.
What Medical Costs Are Covered by PIP in Florida?

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage ensures that you can receive the care you need, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. However, it’s important to understand exactly what types of medical expenses PIP will cover.
1. Emergency Medical Care
PIP covers 80% of your medical expenses related to emergency treatment immediately following an accident. This includes:
- Ambulance services: If you are transported to the hospital by ambulance, PIP will cover a portion of that cost.
- Emergency room visits: PIP will help cover emergency medical services you receive at the hospital, including necessary diagnostics and treatments.
2. Hospitalization and Surgeries
If your injuries require hospitalization or surgery, PIP insurance can cover a portion of these costs. Whether it’s a short stay for observation or major surgery due to severe injuries, PIP helps alleviate the financial burden by covering a significant portion of these medical bills.
3. Rehabilitation and Therapy
After the initial treatment, many accident victims require ongoing care in the form of rehabilitation or physical therapy. PIP will cover:
- Physical therapy: To help restore mobility and function after an injury.
- Occupational therapy: For relearning daily activities if your injuries impact your ability to function independently.
- Chiropractic care: If recommended as part of your recovery.
4. Medical Testing and Diagnostic Procedures
If your injuries require further medical tests to assess the extent of the damage, PIP will cover procedures like:
- X-rays: Used to check for fractures or internal injuries.
- MRIs and CT scans: Essential for diagnosing brain injuries, spinal injuries, or other severe conditions following an accident.
5. Prescription Medications
PIP can cover the cost of prescription medications that are necessary as part of your recovery process. This includes:
- Pain relief medications: Prescribed to manage pain following an injury.
- Medications for inflammation: To reduce swelling or treat other injury-related conditions.
6. Follow-Up Doctor Visits
Injuries from a car accident often require follow-up appointments with your physician to monitor recovery or provide additional treatment. PIP covers these visits as part of your ongoing medical care.
7. Specialized Medical Equipment
If your injuries require the use of specialized equipment, such as crutches, wheelchairs, or braces, PIP can cover these expenses as long as they are medically necessary for your recovery.
Limits of PIP Coverage
It’s important to note that PIP only covers 80% of your medical expenses, up to a total of $10,000. Additionally, the full $10,000 may only be available if your injuries are considered “emergency medical conditions” (EMCs). If your injuries do not qualify as an EMC, PIP may limit your medical coverage to just $2,500.
If your medical bills exceed the limits of your PIP policy, you may need to explore other options for compensation, such as filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver, or utilizing health insurance or supplemental coverage.
What If PIP Doesn’t Cover All My Medical Costs?
If your injuries are severe and your medical expenses surpass the limits of your PIP insurance, you may be able to seek additional compensation through:
- Personal injury lawsuits: Filing a claim against the at-fault driver for the remaining medical expenses and other damages.
- Health insurance: Your regular health insurance may cover the portion of medical costs not covered by PIP.
What Happens if My PIP Claim Is Denied?

If your PIP claim is denied, don’t panic. There are steps you can take to resolve the issue, whether it’s submitting additional documentation, filing an appeal, or seeking legal assistance.
1. Understand the Reason for the Denial
Insurance companies are required to provide a reason for denying your PIP claim. Common reasons include:
- Missed deadlines: In Florida, you must seek medical attention within 14 days of the accident to qualify for PIP benefits. If you missed this window, your claim may be denied.
- Insufficient documentation: Your claim may be rejected if you failed to submit all the necessary paperwork, such as medical records, proof of lost wages, or accident reports.
- Disputed injuries: Sometimes insurers dispute the severity of your injuries or argue that the treatment you received wasn’t medically necessary.
2. Gather Additional Documentation
If your claim was denied due to missing or incomplete information, you can often resolve the issue by submitting the required documents. These may include:
- Medical records: Ensure that all relevant medical bills, reports, and treatment records are submitted.
- Proof of lost wages: If you’re claiming compensation for lost wages, make sure you’ve provided a salary verification form from your employer and any additional documentation requested by the insurer.
- Accident reports: If the insurer requires a police report or other proof of the accident, ensure this is included in your submission.
3. File an Appeal
If your PIP claim remains denied after submitting the additional documentation, you can formally appeal the decision. Each insurance company has its own process for filing an appeal, so it’s important to follow their specific procedures and deadlines closely. This process often involves:
- Submitting a written appeal: Explain why you believe the denial was incorrect and provide any additional evidence that supports your claim.
- Requesting a review: Ask for a review of the initial denial by a different claims adjuster or department within the insurance company.
4. Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
If your appeal is unsuccessful or if you believe your claim was unfairly denied, it may be time to consult a personal injury lawyer. An experienced attorney can review your case, help you navigate the appeal process, and, if necessary, take legal action against the insurance company.
Here’s how a lawyer can help:
- Assess the claim: A lawyer can determine whether the denial was legitimate or if the insurance company acted in bad faith.
- Negotiate with the insurer: Attorneys experienced in dealing with insurance companies can negotiate on your behalf to seek a fair settlement.
- File a lawsuit: If all else fails, your attorney can file a lawsuit to recover the benefits you’re entitled to under your PIP policy.
5. Protect Yourself from Future Issues
To prevent future PIP claim denials, it’s important to follow Florida’s rules and regulations regarding PIP coverage. This includes:
- Seeking medical attention within 14 days of the accident.
- Keeping thorough records of all your medical treatments, lost wages, and related expenses.
- Filing your claim promptly and ensuring that all required documentation is submitted on time.
By understanding your rights and options, you can make sure that your claim is handled fairly and that you receive the benefits you’re entitled to under Florida’s no-fault insurance system.
Does PIP Cover Non-residents Driving in Florida?
Yes, Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance can extend coverage to nonresidents driving within the state, but only under certain conditions.
Nonresidents Driving Their Own Vehicles
If you are a nonresident and driving a vehicle that is registered in another state, Florida’s PIP insurance laws may not apply to you directly. However, if your vehicle has been in Florida for more than 90 days within a 365-day period (consecutive or nonconsecutive), you are required to have PIP coverage under Florida law. This is to ensure that even nonresident drivers have adequate coverage in case of an accident while they are in the state.
Nonresidents Driving a Florida-Registered Vehicle
If you’re a nonresident but driving a vehicle that is registered in Florida, such as a rental car or a vehicle owned by a Florida resident, you must have PIP insurance coverage. In this case, the vehicle’s PIP policy will cover you if you’re involved in an accident.
Out-of-State Visitors Using Rental Cars
For nonresidents renting a vehicle in Florida, PIP insurance is typically provided by the rental company as part of the rental agreement. This means that if you are involved in an accident while driving a rental car, the PIP policy tied to the rental vehicle will cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs up to the policy limits.
When PIP Does Not Apply to Nonresidents
If you’re a nonresident driving a vehicle that is not required to carry PIP in Florida (such as a vehicle registered in another state and staying in Florida for less than 90 days), your own state’s insurance policies will typically apply in the event of an accident. However, you should ensure that your existing insurance coverage meets Florida’s minimum requirements for liability in case of an accident involving injuries.
Coverage for Passengers
If you’re a nonresident passenger in a Florida-registered vehicle that has PIP insurance, you may be covered under the vehicle owner’s PIP policy if you’re injured in an accident. This coverage applies regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
What If You’re Involved in an Accident as a Nonresident?
If you’re a nonresident involved in a car accident in Florida, it’s important to know whether PIP insurance applies to you. In cases where PIP does not provide sufficient coverage for your injuries, or if PIP doesn’t apply to your situation, you may be able to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance to recover additional compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Seek Legal Help for Nonresident PIP Claims
If you’re unsure whether PIP applies to you as a nonresident, or if you’re struggling to get the compensation you deserve after an accident in Florida, consulting with a personal injury lawyer can provide clarity and guidance.
Need Help Navigating Your PIP Claim? Contact Our Experienced Florida Personal Injury Attorneys Today!
Whether your claim has been denied, your benefits are delayed, or your medical expenses exceed PIP limits, we’re ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Visit our Practice Areas page to learn more about how we can assist with personal injury claims, car accidents, and more.