Florida PIP Insurance for Sarasota Auto Accidents: The Complete Guide

What Personal Injury Protection actually is

Personal Injury Protection — PIP — is the coverage every registered Florida driver is required to carry as part of the state's no-fault auto insurance system. It may pay toward medical expenses and a portion of lost wages after a crash, regardless of who caused the accident, subject to your policy limits and your insurer's determinations. The specific amounts are set by statute and by your policy.

The 14-day rule that costs drivers the most

Florida statute requires that initial services and care be received within 14 days of the accident — received, not merely scheduled. The statute names the provider types that may deliver those services, including MDs, DOs, chiropractors, dentists, and hospitals. How the requirement applies to your benefits is decided under your policy and by your insurer. Read our detailed 14-day rule guide →

Emergency medical condition — the second gate

The statute also distinguishes claims where a provider documents an emergency medical condition (EMC) from those where one is not documented, and the benefit amount available differs. Only certain provider types may make that determination, and whether an EMC exists is a clinical judgment based on your examination — not something that can be promised in advance.

What PIP pays for

• A share of reasonable and necessary medical expenses, as determined under the statute and your policy.
• A portion of lost wages, as set out in the statute and your policy.
• Death benefits, where applicable under the policy.
• Mileage to and from medical appointments in some cases.

What PIP does NOT pay for

• Massage therapy or acupuncture (excluded by statute since 2013).
• Pain and suffering — that requires a separate bodily injury claim.
• Care after the available benefit is exhausted.
• Care that falls outside what the statute and your policy allow.

How Bretz Chiropractic handles your PIP claim

Call to ask about availability and how billing works for your policy. Examination findings are documented in your clinical record, and records are released to anyone you authorize in writing, including an attorney you choose. See our full auto accident program →

When to call an attorney

People commonly consult an attorney when injuries are more significant, when fault is disputed, or when costs may exceed available coverage. Choosing an attorney is your decision, and many offer an initial consultation. More on when to hire an attorney →

Quick checklist for the first 14 days

1. Report the crash to your insurance carrier promptly.
2. Get a copy of the police report as soon as it is available.
3. Schedule a chiropractic or medical exam within 72 hours — even if you feel okay.
4. Bring insurance card, accident report, and photos to the exam.
5. Describe every symptom honestly, including things you might dismiss (headaches, sleep changes, dizziness).
6. Follow through on the care that is recommended; insurers may question gaps in care when reviewing a claim.