After a Florida car accident, your first priority is appropriate medical care. If you are hurt or develop symptoms, arrange an evaluation promptly rather than waiting to see whether the discomfort disappears.
What the 14-day rule means
Florida’s PIP statute requires qualifying initial services and care within 14 days after the accident for medical-benefit eligibility. Simply notifying an insurer or reporting symptoms is not the same as receiving those services. Meeting the timing requirement does not guarantee that every expense will be paid.
If you have already received care
Tell your next physician where and when you were evaluated, including any ambulance, hospital, urgent care, or other provider visits. Bring discharge instructions, medication information, and available reports. Your initial evaluation and your continuing care serve different purposes; follow-up helps address symptoms and organize the next steps.
If more than 14 days have passed
You should still seek appropriate medical care. Discuss the timing and available coverage with your insurer or attorney. Missing a PIP requirement does not make your symptoms unimportant.
Prepare for your evaluation
Have the collision date, a description of the impact, your symptoms and their onset, your current medications, and any earlier treatment information ready. Explain what has changed in your daily life, such as trouble sleeping, sitting, walking, driving, or working. If you have claim information, keep it available for the office team.
Build a plan for continuing care
Florida Injury Centers helps patients start physician-led auto-injury care and stay connected through follow-up. Depending on your needs, the plan may include imaging, rehabilitation, or specialist consultation. Our staff helps coordinate appointments and obtain reports so the physician can review your progress.
Call 911 for a medical emergency. Insurance timing should never delay emergency treatment.
Florida Injury Centers is Florida’s Medical Home for Injury Care. For help starting or continuing your care after a Florida auto accident, call 866-402-4250. Physician availability is offered statewide, 24/7.
Reference: Florida Statutes § 627.736. Ask your insurer or attorney about your individual coverage.