Understanding Personal Injury Protection (PIP) in Florida

Florida is one of few states with a no-fault auto insurance system, built around Personal Injury Protection (PIP). Understanding PIP is essential for every Florida driver.

What Is PIP?

Personal Injury Protection is no-fault insurance that pays for your own injuries regardless of who caused the accident. Florida requires all registered vehicles to have at least $10,000 in PIP coverage.

What PIP Covers

Medical Expenses

PIP covers 80% of reasonable medical expenses, including:

Emergency room visits
Hospital stays
Surgery
Doctor visits
Physical therapy
Medication
Medical equipment

Lost Wages

PIP covers 60% of lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working.

Death Benefits

PIP provides $5,000 in death benefits to surviving family members.

Important PIP Rules

The 14-Day Rule

This is critical: You must seek medical treatment within 14 days of an accident to qualify for PIP benefits. If you wait longer than 14 days, you may lose coverage entirely.

Emergency Medical Condition

If a licensed medical provider determines you have an emergency medical condition, PIP pays up to $10,000. Without that determination, coverage is limited to $2,500.

Deductibles

You can choose PIP deductibles of $0, $250, $500, or $1,000. Higher deductibles lower your premium but increase your out-of-pocket costs.

Who Is Covered?

Your PIP coverage extends to:

You (the policyholder)
Family members living with you
Passengers in your vehicle
You as a pedestrian hit by a vehicle
You while riding in someone else car

PIP Limitations

PIP has significant limitations:

Maximum coverage is $10,000
Only pays 80% of medical and 60% of wages
Does not cover pain and suffering
Does not cover damage to your vehicle
Does not pay for injuries to the other driver

Why You Need More Than PIP

$10,000 in coverage is quickly exhausted in serious accidents. A broken leg can cost $30,000 or more in medical bills. You need additional coverage:

Bodily Injury Liability: Pays for injuries you cause to others
Medical Payments: Additional coverage for your injuries
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: Covers you when at-fault driver has inadequate insurance

PIP and Health Insurance

If you have health insurance, you may be able to coordinate benefits:

PIP typically pays first in auto accidents
Health insurance can cover expenses beyond PIP limits
Some PIP policies allow you to elect health insurance as primary

Filing a PIP Claim

Seek medical attention within 14 days
Notify your insurance company about the accident
Provide documentation of all medical treatment
Submit lost wage documentation if applicable
Follow up on claim status regularly

Have questions about PIP coverage? Contact Anchor & Atlas Insurance to review your auto policy.