Seeking Medical Treatment After An Injury Impacts Your Claim
Even if you don’t feel hurt immediately, getting a medical assessment can uncover injuries that may not show symptoms until days later. In Florida, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days from the accident date to maintain eligibility for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. Delaying treatment can impact not only your physical health but also hinder your ability to receive compensation for accident-related injuries and expenses.
Having Medical Documentation Strengthens Your Case
Visiting a doctor shortly after an accident creates a record of your injuries, directly linking them to the incident. This medical documentation is crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Florida’s insurance laws state that you must get treatment within 14 days, or you will be ineligible for PIP coverage. These can cover some of your medical bills and even some of your lost wages. The significant upside to this is that PIP coverage will help you regardless of who was at fault. If you miss this 14-day window, the insurance company may deny your claim, potentially leaving you responsible for your medical bills.
Timely medical records also demonstrate that you took your health and injuries seriously. Insurers often review the timing of treatment when evaluating claims. When you don't have medical documentation, the opposing side may assert that you weren't as injured as you claimed. They may also argue that your injuries weren't connected to the injury you endured.
The Risks Associated with Not Getting Medical Attention
Delaying treatment can also have health consequences. Accident-related injuries, such as concussions, internal injuries, and soft-tissue damage, often do not show immediate symptoms. For example, concussions—classified as a type of traumatic brain injury—can occur even if you didn’t hit your head directly. Collisions can cause head trauma, which results in headaches, dizziness, or memory issues that may appear hours or days later.
Soft-tissue injuries like whiplash also take time to develop. Whiplash occurs when the neck and head are forced backward and then forward suddenly, stretching the muscles and ligaments. This kind of injury can become painful over time as inflammation sets in. By getting medical care early, you can address these injuries before they worsen.
Another reason to avoid delay is that not seeking prompt care may be seen as neglecting your health, which insurers may use to argue that you worsened your injuries. For instance, if a minor injury goes untreated, it may develop into a more severe condition that requires more intensive treatment. Insurers may claim you did not act responsibly by delaying, which could reduce your eligible compensation.
Complying with Florida’s 14-Day Rule
Florida’s PIP statute outlines a 14-day limit for seeking medical treatment after an accident. This requirement was implemented to encourage timely care, which helps accident victims identify and address injuries while allowing for PIP coverage. PIP insurance covers 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost wages up to the policy limit. However, if you miss the 14-day window, the insurer may deny you these benefits, leaving you without coverage for medical bills related to the accident.
Having A Lawyer Protects You & Your Claim
If you have been injured in a car accident, getting medical attention right away is a vital step toward protecting both your health and your rights. Failing to meet the 14-day deadline could affect your insurance claim and financial recovery. Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your options and ensure your compensation rights are protected.
