The 14-day rule, in plain language
Florida is a “no-fault” state. Most drivers carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) on their own auto policy, which generally helps pay for injury care after a crash, no matter who caused it.
Under Florida law, PIP benefits generally apply only if you receive initial care within 14 days of the accident (Florida Statutes §627.736). Initial care can come from a licensed provider such as a chiropractic physician. If you wait longer than 14 days, your PIP benefits for that accident may not be available.
Coverage amounts and requirements depend on your policy and current Florida law. Your insurer can explain your specific benefits. This page is general information, not legal or insurance advice.
What to bring to your first visit
- Photo ID
- Your auto insurance company’s name and your policy card
- Your claim number, if you have opened a claim
- The police or crash report, or the report number, if available
- A list of current medications
- Comfortable clothing that lets you move easily
Don’t have everything yet? Come anyway. We can help you gather what’s missing.
What to expect at your first visit
Check-in and paperwork
Intake forms about you, the accident, and your symptoms. Yes
History and conversation
Your chiropractic physician asks how the accident happened, where you feel symptoms, and how they affect sleep, work, and daily life.
Chiropractic examination
A hands-on exam that may include posture, range of motion, and orthopedic and neurological screening tests.
Findings and next steps
We explain what we found in plain language and discuss a care plan. If you need a medical evaluation or imaging, we refer you to an independent medical provider.
First visits usually take about 45–60 minutes.
Common questions
What is Florida’s 14-day PIP rule?
Florida’s no-fault law generally requires that you receive initial care within 14 days of a motor vehicle accident for your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits to apply (Florida Statutes §627.736). Your policy and insurer determine your coverage.
Will my visit be billed to my auto insurance?
For auto accident injuries, our team can bill your PIP carrier directly. we submit your bills directly to you auto insurance carrier, they reimburse us for your services and you are mailed a summary from your carrier after each payment they've made to our office. Your insurer decides what is covered under your policy.
The accident wasn’t my fault. Does that change anything?
Florida PIP generally pays regardless of who caused the crash. Questions about claims against another driver are best directed to your insurer or an attorney.
What if it has been more than 14 days since my accident?
You can still request a chiropractic visit, but PIP benefits may not apply. Call us and we can talk through your options. — self-pay / payment plan options and settlement payment options
I feel fine. Should I still get checked after a car accident?
Some people notice stiffness, soreness, or headaches hours or days after a collision. A check-up gives you a baseline and keeps you inside the 14-day window if you need care later.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractic physician?
No. We’ll see you with or without a referral. Call us or request a visit online, and if you were in a car accident, try to be seen within 14 days.
What should I bring to my first visit after an accident?
Photo ID, your auto insurance company’s name and policy card, your claim number if you have one, the police or crash report or report number if available, and a list of current medications.
What happens at the first visit?
Intake paperwork, a conversation about the accident and your symptoms, a chiropractic examination, and a plain-language explanation of what we found and the next steps.
How long does the first visit take?
First visits usually take about 45–60 minutes.
More questions and answers · What to do after a car accident