Are you worried that filing a PIP claim for your car accident in Orlando, Florida will cause your insurance rates to skyrocket? It’s a common concern among drivers who have been injured and are seeking compensation through their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.
In this blog post, we will explain how PIP claims work in Florida, and whether or not they will impact your insurance premiums. So read on, and let an experienced Orlando car accident lawyer clear up any confusion surrounding this important topic.
How Does PIP Coverage Work in Florida?
In Florida, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage is a mandatory requirement for all drivers. This means that every driver must have PIP insurance as part of their auto insurance policy. But what exactly does PIP coverage entail?
PIP coverage in Florida pays 80% of your reasonable medical expenses related to the accident, up to a $10,000 limit. This includes hospital bills, doctor visits, medications, and even rehabilitation services if needed. Additionally, PIP will cover up to 60% of your lost wages due to being unable to work because of your injuries.
It’s important to note that there are certain limitations on the amount of compensation you can receive through PIP coverage in Florida. For example, if your injuries are deemed non-emergency by an approved medical professional within 14 days after the accident, your benefits may be limited to $2,500 instead of $10,000.
Furthermore, you only have 14 days from the date of the accident to seek initial medical treatment in order for your PIP claim to be valid. Failure to do so may result in denial or reduction of benefits.
What Else Will Your PIP Coverage Pay for?
PIP coverage can assist with paying for necessary household services that you may be unable to perform while recovering from an accident-related injury. This could include tasks like housekeeping or childcare.
While having PIP coverage is beneficial in helping alleviate some financial burdens following an accident in Orlando, it’s important to remember that there are limits and restrictions on these benefits.
If You Filed Your PIP Claim in Good Faith, Your Rates Should Not Increase
After a car accident in Orlando, Florida, you may be wondering if filing a PIP claim will impact your insurance rates. The good news is that if you file your claim in good faith, your rates should not increase.
Florida law prohibits insurers from increasing rates or canceling coverage for improper reasons. Filing a PIP claim is not considered a valid reason to raise your monthly premiums. If you notice this issue, you have legal options.
You Can Report Unfair Insurance Practices to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation
If you believe that your insurance company is engaging in unfair practices, it is important to take action. Thankfully, in Florida, you have the option to report these issues to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (FOIR). This regulatory agency exists to protect consumers and ensure that insurance companies are following the law.
When it comes to PIP claims, some insurers may try to minimize or deny valid claims, leaving policyholders frustrated and without proper compensation for their injuries. If you suspect that your insurer is acting unfairly by delaying payments, undervaluing your claim, or using other deceptive tactics, you can file a complaint with the FOIR.
To report unfair insurance practices in Orlando or anywhere else in Florida, visit the FOIR’s website and fill out their online complaint form. Provide as much detail as possible about your situation and attach any supporting documents such as correspondence with your insurer or medical bills related to your accident.
Once they receive your complaint, the FOIR will review it carefully and investigate if necessary. They have the authority to take disciplinary action against insurers who violate state laws or regulations regarding PIP claims. By reporting these unfair practices, not only can you seek justice for yourself but also help protect others from similar mistreatment.
You May Have the Right to Sue After a Car Crash
If your medical expenses after an accident exceed $10,000, Florida law allows you to sue the other driver for the amount that’s not covered by PIP. Florida Statutes §627.737 also allows you to sue for an accident that causes:
- Significant and permanent loss of an important bodily function.
- Permanent injury within a reasonable degree of medical probability, other than scarring or disfigurement.
- Significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement.
- Death
Call an Experienced Orlando Car Accident Attorney Today!
In times of uncertainty and confusion after a car accident, it’s essential to have the guidance of an experienced Orlando injury lawyer. A skilled attorney will understand the intricacies of Florida’s PIP laws and fight on your behalf to secure fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Remember, insurance companies are notorious for trying to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Having a skilled lawyer by your side who knows how to negotiate with insurers is absolutely critical.
At Florida Lawyers 360, we offer each new client a free case review, so you do not have to worry about paying advance legal fees. Call us now at 954-448-7355 to schedule your free initial consultation!
