Florida Pip 14 Day Rule
The state of Florida has a 14-day rule – if you are not seen by a health care provider within 14-days of your accident you will lose your PIP benefits! You must obtain medical care within 14 days if you suffer injuries in a traffic accident in Florida, or else run the risk of your insurance company denying your claim.
Now, the statute states that a motorist has 14 days after an automobile accident to seek medical treatment from either a hospital facility, emergency transport, medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, chiropractor, or a dentist.
If one does not seek medical treatment within the 14 days, they have forfeited their PIP coverage. This means that if certain symptoms do not surface within the two week period, they will not be covered.
What is Whiplash?
Whiplash injury to the neck or cervical sprain/strain is by far the most common injury that results from an auto accident. Whiplash refers to a specific type of neck injury that occurs when your head moves suddenly forward and backward resulting in pain and discomfort.
Though the initial pain and discomfort may go away over time, it is important to seek care as soon as possible to make sure there is no damage that can lead to lifelong problems if not treated early and properly.
Common signs of whiplash include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Ringing in the ears
- Radiating pain
- Numbing and/or sharp pain in the arms
- Pain and tightness in the shoulders
- Vomiting
- Sciatica (Nerve Pain)
Back Pain Following An Auto Accident
An auto accident injury causes low back discomfort, pain and difficulty moving. Even injuries that seem minor, like a slight pain and tension in your lower back, can worsen without appropriate treatment and care.
Back Injuries After a Car Accident Include:
- Herniated Discs
- Bulging Discs
- Pain shooting down the arms and/or legs
- Sciatica (Nerve Pain)
- Numbing and sharp pain
- Spinal cord injuries
- Muscle spasm and tightness
How Atlas Injury to Health Can Help You?
You may not notice the pain or discomfort for a day or two, and sometimes even longer.
The pain may not fade. Treatment may be required. In fact, some injuries such as back and neck may actually worsen over time if you do not seek treatment and get appropriate care.
