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Car accidents can be devastating, and even more so when you're faced with mounting medical bills and lost wages. In Florida, every driver is required to have personal injury protection (PIP) insurance as a form of no-fault coverage. But what does that mean, exactly? In this post, we'll go over the key features of PIP insurance, how it works, and what you need to know to protect yourself in an accident.
First off, let's define what we mean by "no-fault coverage." In a no-fault system, each driver's insurance company is responsible for covering some portion of their medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who is at fault. In Florida, PIP insurance provides the first line of coverage for these expenses up to a limit of $10,000. This means that even if you're not at fault, your PIP coverage will kick in and take care of that first $10,000.
But what about expenses beyond that $10,000limit? Depending on the amount of your policy, PIP insurance usually covers 80%of your medical bills and 60% of your lost wages. Suppose your damages exceed the limits of your PIP policy, which is very likely. In that case, your attorney needs to notify the other driver that your damages have exceeded your PIP and that you are going after their insurance. The other driver's insurance carrier will then deal with your lawyer.
It's important to remember that insurance companies are businesses, and they may only sometimes have your best interests in mind. Don't let them take advantage of you by accepting an offer that doesn't fully cover your expenses. If your damages exceed your PIP policy, it's important to work with an experienced attorney to ensure that you receive adequate compensation.
Another key feature of PIP insurance to remember is that it covers you even if you're not driving your car at the time of the accident. This can be especially beneficial if you're a passenger in someone else's car or if you're involved in a pedestrian or cycling accident.
Finally, it's worth noting that there are some exceptions to Florida's no-fault system. In cases where the accident results in permanent injury, significant scarring or disfigurement, or permanent loss of bodily function, you may be able to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver outside of the no-fault system. However, these cases can be complex, and working with an experienced attorney is important to navigate the legal process.
PIP insurance is an important coverage for anyone who owns a motor vehicle. In the event of an accident, PIP will typically cover your initial medical visits, including x-rays, consultations, chiropractor visits, and necessary medical treatments. However, it's important to note that the bills will likely exceed your PIP coverage immediately in the case of catastrophic injuries. Another significant feature of PIP is that it can cover funeral expenses if someone dies due to a motor vehicle accident. It's also worth mentioning that PIP has limitations and exclusions. It will not cover property damage, and it may not cover unnecessary medical expenses. That's why it's essential to speak to an attorney, regardless of the extent of the damage you suffered in your car accident. Overall, having PIP insurance can give you peace of mind and help cover your initial medical expenses in the unfortunate case of an accident.
Personal injury protection insurance is mandatory for all Florida drivers, but it can sometimes be challenging to understand. By knowing the key features of PIP insurance, you can protect yourself in case of an accident and avoid being taken advantage of by insurance companies. Remember that PIP insurance provides the first line of coverage, but more is needed to cover your expenses. Always work with an experienced attorney to ensure that you receive adequate compensation for your damages.
