Robert A. Rush, P.A. is now Rush & Frisco Law

Get Your Risk Free Consultation*

24/7 Legal Help: (352) 373-7566

Call Now

24/7 Legal Help

Who Pays for Medical Expenses After an Accident in Florida?

Who Pays for Medical Expenses After an Accident in Florida?
If you’ve been injured in an accident, understanding who is responsible for your medical expenses can be confusing. In Florida, the rules vary depending on the type of accident, the insurance policies involved, and other factors. While some insurance policies may cover your medical bills, you may still need to use a portion of your personal injury settlement to pay for any remaining costs. Consulting an experienced personal injury attorney, like the team at Rush & Frisco Law, can help you navigate these complexities and protect your rights.

Determining Responsibility for Medical Bills After an Injury

When someone else’s negligence causes you harm—whether in a car accident, a slip-and-fall, or another incident—you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. However, the degree to which your medical bills are covered can depend on several factors, including the type of accident, the parties involved, and the insurance coverage available. For example, while car accidents are often covered by auto insurance, other types of accidents may involve different insurance policies or legal considerations.
Medical expenses after an accident can include a wide range of costs, such as:
  • Emergency treatment immediately after the accident
  • Consultations with specialists or surgeons
  • Medical treatments, physical therapy, and rehabilitation
  • Prescription medications
  • Ongoing or future medical care needed to achieve full recovery
Depending on the type of accident and the available insurance coverage, you may still be responsible for covering some or all of these expenses, even if you receive a settlement.

Understanding Florida's PIP Coverage for Car Accidents

Florida requires all drivers to carry “Personal Injury Protection” (PIP) insurance, a no-fault coverage that helps pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs up to $10,000. PIP coverage applies regardless of who caused the accident and covers various types of medical care, including chiropractic visits, dental services, surgeries, and medications.
However, PIP insurance only covers 80% of eligible medical expenses and 60% of lost wages. For instance, if your medical bills total $10,000, PIP would cover up to $8,000, leaving you with a $2,000 balance to pay out of pocket. Additionally, Florida’s PIP laws have undergone recent changes that make it more challenging to recover attorney fees when filing lawsuits to claim PIP benefits. While this change might affect the decision to pursue legal action for PIP recovery, it does not necessarily discourage lawsuits for claims beyond PIP coverage.
To fully understand how PIP coverage impacts your specific situation, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer at Rush & Frisco Law.

How an Attorney Can Help You Manage Medical Expenses

An experienced personal injury attorney can play a pivotal role in helping accident victims recover the compensation they deserve while managing the complexities of medical expenses. Here’s how a lawyer can assist:

  1. Protect Your Interests: An attorney can negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement and aren’t overcharged for medical care. They can also help resolve liens from healthcare providers or insurance companies, reducing your financial burden.

  2. Guide You in Structuring Settlements: If you receive a lump sum settlement from an insurance company, managing those funds to cover ongoing or future medical costs can be challenging. While structured settlements are usually arranged with insurance companies or financial firms specializing in annuities, an attorney can advise you on the best options to ensure you have adequate resources for future needs.

  3. Defend Your Rights in Court: If an insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, an experienced personal injury attorney can represent you in court. They handle all aspects of the legal process, from filing the lawsuit to negotiating settlements and, if necessary, taking your case to trial to ensure your rights are protected.

Contact Rush & Frisco Law for a Free Case Evaluation

If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, the legal team at Rush & Frisco Law is here to help. With decades of experience and a commitment to securing fair compensation, we are prepared to fight for your rights. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and learn how we can help you recover the compensation you deserve for your medical expenses and other damages.