08 Sep How Does Florida’s Personal Injury Protection Law Affect You?
Last year, changes to Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) law took effect, and accident victims and their accident attorneys have had to accept fewer benefits and reduced payouts for claims. They also have less time to seek medical treatment and fewer options for who can provide treatment. Now more than ever, accident victims need the protection of a personal injury attorney to make sure they get compensated for their injuries.
Narrow Treatment Window
Under the new law, accident victims must seek medical treatment within 14 days from the accident. This means that there is a very short window to see a doctor. It is important that anyone involved in a motor vehicle accident seek comprehensive medical treatment right away — even if there are no immediate apparent injuries — just to be sure that the window doesn’t close before it’s too late.
Limited Physicians
In the past, a wide variety of medical professionals could provide treatment for accident victims. The new PIP laws exclude treatment from massage therapists and acupuncturists and in some cases limits payment for chiropractic visits to $2,500.
According to the new law, patients must see a medical doctor, a doctor of osteopathy, dentist, physician assistant, or advanced registered nurse practitioner to determine that injuries need immediate attention, and one of these providers must provide a referral to a chiropractor in order for those visits to be covered. This means that any patients who prefer a more holistic approach to their treatment will be forced to rely on their own medical insurance or pay out of their own pockets.
Don’t Face the Laws Alone
If you’ve been injured in an accident, getting well should be your first priority, not dealing with insurance companies and complicated regulations. Enlisting the help of a personal injury attorney will make sure you receive the benefits that you’re entitled to so you can get back on your feet.