Florida PIP Checklist: Paperwork and Steps After a Car Accident

Personal Injury Protection, usually called PIP, is part of Florida’s no-fault auto insurance system. Because the paperwork can be confusing after a crash, this checklist collects the practical steps in one place. Coverage, limits, and exclusions vary by policy, so always confirm details directly with your own insurer.

Immediately after the crash

• Seek emergency care if there is any red-flag symptom.
• Call law enforcement so a crash report is created.
• Photograph the vehicles, the scene, and any visible injuries.
• Collect the other driver’s name, insurer, and policy number.
• Write down what you remember while it is fresh.

Know the Florida time limit

Florida’s no-fault statute sets a limit on how long you have to obtain initial services and care after a motor vehicle crash in order to be eligible for PIP medical benefits. Waiting can affect eligibility, so do not delay an evaluation simply because symptoms seem mild. The statute text is linked in the sources below, and our Florida PIP page explains the basics.

Documents to gather

• Your auto insurance policy number and the claim number once opened.
• The crash report or report number.
• Photo identification.
• Emergency department or urgent care discharge paperwork.
• Imaging reports such as X-ray, CT, or MRI.
• A current medication list and relevant medical history.
• Health insurance information, if you have it.
• Attorney contact information, if you have retained one.

Notify your own insurer

In a no-fault state, PIP medical benefits are generally billed through your own policy regardless of who caused the crash. Open the claim promptly and ask for the claim number and the adjuster’s contact information. Bring both to your first appointment.

Questions to ask your adjuster

• What are my PIP medical limits and any deductible?
• Does my policy have limits tied to an emergency medical condition determination?
• What documentation is required for treatment to be considered?
• Where should provider bills and records be sent?
• Is there a separate medical payments (MedPay) benefit on my policy?

At your first appointment

Bring the documents above, describe symptoms clearly, and mention anything that changed since the crash. Care decisions are based on the examination, not on insurance paperwork. If findings suggest an emergency or a need for another specialty, expect a referral. See what to bring in our first appointment guide, or learn how care is organized with an auto accident chiropractor in Sarasota.

Keep your own records

• A symptom log with dates, locations, and intensity.
• Copies of every bill, explanation of benefits, and letter.
• Missed work dates and any employer documentation.
• Mileage and out-of-pocket costs related to care.

Get started

For a non-emergency evaluation after a Sarasota crash, call (941) 921-2225 or contact the clinic. We can explain what documentation is typically requested for your visit.

“This content is for general educational purposes and is not legal, insurance, or medical advice. Confirm coverage with your insurer.”

Sources

• Florida Statute 627.736 (PIP benefits)
• Florida Department of Financial Services: Auto Insurance