January 27, 2015
Personal injury protection, or PIP for short, is an extension of your car insurance that is available in various states throughout America. Personal injury protection covers medical expenses as well as lost wages and other damages in some cases. Unlike car insurance, personal injury protection is also known as a no-fault coverage because it does not take into account who was truly at fault. This means, regardless of whether or not you were at fault, you are entitled to benefits.
What is PIP in Florida?
PIP differs from state to state. If you live in the state of Florida and possess a valid Florida license, registration and insurance, then you already have personal injury protection coverage. Personal injury protection insurance provides compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Funeral expenses
While you may be entitled to compensation for these damages, due to a recent change in Florida law, an injured party must seek medical treatment within two weeks of the accident. Additionally, the coverage typically taps out at $10,000 and may not cover all of your injuries. Ultimately, while PIP can help garner some compensation for your injuries, it may not be enough to cover all of your medical expenses or other monetary damages.
What is Personal Injury Protection Fraud?
Personal injury protection was intended to reduce the cost of auto insurance by keeping claims out of court, and although it does in many instances, PIP has bred a population of scammers. Scammers attempt to stage an accident in order to collect money from insurers. Because there are individuals out there who will attempt to scam insurers, you need to act diligently so that you do not become a victim.
When to Hire an Attorney
If you find yourself involved in a car accident that was not your fault, seeking legal guidance is a must. You do not want to be held accountable for another individual’s injuries when you are not at fault. Be sure to hire a lawyer who is familiar with both PIP and personal injury protection fraud. If you have been involved in an accident, the Khonsari Law Group can help. Our legal team will work to prove the other party’s liability so you will not be left footing someone else’s bill. To learn more about the Khonsari Law Group and how we can help you case, contact us today.