How does Florida’s no-fault (PIP) insurance system affect an auto accident claim?

Florida is a no-fault auto insurance state, which means that after a car accident, an injured person’s own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage generally pays their initial medical bills and a portion of lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash. PIP provides a set amount of coverage and is designed to get accident victims prompt treatment without first having to establish fault. To claim these benefits, treatment generally must be sought within a limited time after the accident. The ability to step outside the no-fault system and pursue a claim against an at-fault driver depends on the nature and severity of the injuries. Because the interaction between PIP and a liability claim can be confusing, understanding how the no-fault system works is important to evaluating an auto accident claim in Florida.