Delayed Injury Treatment And PIP Recovery
Priorities can shift in the emotional aftermath of a Florida car crash, and you may find yourself addressing immediate concerns like vehicle damage and insurance claims because you do not realize you are injured. Best practices after an accident include seeking prompt medical attention for injuries, both for your own physical recovery and so you will be able to recover medical expenses through Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage and other insurance recovery avenues, but that does not mean timely treatment is always sought.
When it comes to PIP recovery, individuals involved in a motor vehicle accident must seek medical treatment within 14 days to qualify for benefits. If you miss this 14-day window, or want to discuss other forms of financial relief following an accident injury, connect with a skilled Orlando personal injury attorney.
What If I Missed the 14-Day Window?
Under Florida law, PIP is a no-fault insurance system that provides everyone with coverage, regardless of fault, up to $10,000 in benefits for medical expenses and/or wage loss and, in some situations, other accident-related expenses. The 14-day rule is in place to encourage timely treatment of injuries, prevent fraudulent claims, ensure individuals receive the care they need, and so car accident cases can be settled quickly.
There are various reasons why seeking medical attention within the 14-day window is crucial. First, it ensures that your injuries are properly diagnosed so that you can access care and treatment before injuries worsen. Additionally, prompt medical care establishes a clear link between the accident and your injuries. Insurance companies often scrutinize claims, and any delay in seeking treatment may raise questions about if the harm is a direct result of the vehicular collision.
Of course, life isn’t simple. There are situations where an injury is sustained but the 14-day PIP rule window is missed. If you find yourself in this situation, know that it’s not necessarily the end of the road for seeking compensation but your case could become more complicated. You may need to rely on your health insurance coverage, explore other avenues for medical treatment, or secure proof there is no way for you to have known of your injuries in the two week period following the accident.
How Can a Legal Expert Help?
To connect with an advocate when dealing with insurance companies and pursuing compensation for delayed medical treatment, hire an Orlando personal injury attorney. Skilled legal professionals are available to assess your circumstances, gather evidence to establish a causal link between the accident and injuries, and negotiate with insurance providers on your behalf. Do not assume you are out of options after a missed deadline, there may be more options available than you initially realized.
Did you see a doctor and learn of an injury more than 14 days after a Florida car accident? If you’ve missed the 14-day PIP recovery window but still would benefit from financial relief, consult with the knowledgeable attorneys at Israoui Law. For the personal attention you deserve, call 407-381-4529. Always speak to an experienced accident attorney before speaking to any insurance company.
