As with a handful of other states, Florida is a “no-Fault” accident state. This means that the personal injury protection (“PIP”) coverage that is included with your automobile insurance covers any bodily injuries that you suffer as a result of a car accident, regardless of fault. Compare this to other states where you must pursue a claim against the at-fault driver for your injuries.
The benefits of Florida’s system are hotly debated but if you have been injured in a car accident it is important to understand what it means for your claim. Before making any decisions about your claim, it is best if you discuss your case with a Defuniak Springs car accident lawyer to understand your options.
Understand the Limitations of PIP Coverage
There is a common misconception that PIP coverage eliminates the need for hiring an injury attorney because your losses will be covered by your insurance regardless of loss. While PIP coverage is primary (meaning that they will pay first), it is critical to understand that it will not cover all of your losses:
- PIP coverage pays up to only $10,000 in medical and disability benefits
- PIP coverage pays up to only $5,000 in death benefits
- PIP covers only 80% of your medical bills up to the $10,000 limit
- PIP covers only 60% of your lost wages and other disability-related expenses up to the $10,000 limit
- PIP does not cover non-economic losses such as pain and suffering
How PIP coverage applies to your claim can be quite complicated. A Defuniak Springs car accident lawyer can provide valuable guidance and help you determine how to proceed.
Why You Make Need a Defuniak Springs Car Accident Lawyer
$10,000 may sound like a lot of coverage but this can be exhausted by a single trip to the emergency room. If you require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, you could face significant out-of-pocket medical costs.
It’s also important to note that the 80/60 percent limitations apply before you hit the $10,000 limit. As a result, you will have out-of-pocket medical expenses despite your PIP coverage. For example, if your medical treatment costs $6,000 and you lost $2,000 in income as a result of being unable to work, PIP would pay only $4,800 of your medical bills and $1,200 of your lost wages. To put it another way, you would be out-of-pocket for a total of $2,000 despite having PIP coverage.
Injured in a Car Accident? Contact a Defuniak Springs Car Accident Attorney For Help
Despite the limitations of PIP coverage, you can still pursue a claim for any uncovered losses you may have suffered. At Powell, Powell, & Powell, we have decades of experience in helping our clients recover the compensation they need to rebuild their lives. To speak with a Defuniak Springs car accident attorney who knows how to get results, call us today at 850-682-2757 or send us an email to schedule a free consultation.