Understanding Florida "No-Fault" Insurance For Auto Accidents

Step-By-Step Explanation Of The Florida No-Fault Process

Answers To Commonly Asked Questions If You've Been Injured In An Accident

If you, a family member or friend have been injured in an auto accident in Florida, you may be left "in the dark" by the confusion of the Florida No-Fault System.  Sometimes, even the insurance adjuster don't explain things properly and do not notify you of ALL of your benefits.  This post will address someone who was NOT AT FAULT in a motor vehicle crash.

 

 

Q:  What does No-Fault mean and how do my bills get paid?

A:  No-Fault basically means that no matter who is at fault in the accident, your own insurance pays for your medical bills.  Florida drivers are required to carry a minimum of $10,000 of PIP (personal injury protection).  Whatever money your insurance company pays out, they will get that money back from the other persons insurance company.  If you were not at fault in an accident, it is illegal for your insurance company to raise your premium.  We, as a provider bill your insurance company directly, so you don't have to worry about a thing.

 

Q:  What percentage are my bills paid at?

A:  Your PIP coverage is at 80%, so there would be a 20% balance.  Once your treatment has been completed, the 20% would be paid in a bodily injury settlement, to you or your attorney.  You or your attorney would then pay off any balance you may have.  Your bills will be paid in full at 100%.

 

Q:  What if the other driver had no insurance?

A:  We see this happen quite often in Florida.  If the other driver had no insurance, then your uninsured motorist coverage will pay your bills.  Make sure you have this coverage in your policy.

 

Q:  What if my bills are over $10,000?

A:  If your bills exceed your policy limits, the at-fault insurance company will again pay the excess amount in a bodily injury settlement to you or your attorney.

 

Q:  What if there was someone else in the car with me and they were injured?

A:  If they are covered under your insurance policy (primary resident, spouse, child, etc.) then you have $10,000 of PIP benefits per person.  If they have their own insurance policy, then their policy covers them.

 

Q:  How does my car get fixed?

A:  The at-fault insurance company will fix your car or pay it off if it is totaled.  Usually, if there is damage exceeding 75% of the value of the car, they will total it out.

 

Q:  Does No-Fault work the same in other states?

A:  There are only a few states left that follow these guidelines.  Whatever state your accident was in will determine what laws are followed.  If you were in an accident in another state and hold a Florida policy, we would recommend seeking legal advice from an attorney licensed in that state.

 

Q:  How long do I have to get any treatment?

A:  New Florida Law states that you must seek treatment within 14 days of your accident in order to receive PIP benefits.  If you wait longer that 14 days, your insurance will deny payment of your bills.

 

If you or someone you know has been injured in an auto accident, seeking immediate treatment is crucial to a complete recovery.  For more information or to schedule a complimentary consultation, call the Auto Injury Relief Center at Coastal Chiropractic Dunedin (727)733-1601