Question 1

What should I do first after a car accident in Florida?

Accepted Answer

Get to safety and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Document the scene — photos, and the other driver's license, insurance, and tag — and exchange information. Report the crash, and see a doctor within 14 days to protect your Florida PIP benefits.

Question 2

Is Florida a no-fault state?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Under Florida's no-fault system your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) pays your initial medical bills and lost wages regardless of who caused the crash, up to $10,000. You can step outside no-fault and pursue the at-fault driver only if your injury meets Florida's serious-injury threshold.

Question 3

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Florida?

Accepted Answer

For crashes on or after March 24, 2023, Florida's negligence statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident — shortened from four years by HB 837. Wrongful-death and certain other claims carry their own deadlines.

Question 4

How much of my car accident settlement will I actually keep?

Accepted Answer

Less than the gross figure. Your attorney's contingency fee (commonly 33 1/3% before a lawsuit is filed), case costs, and medical liens (health insurer, Medicare/Medicaid, or hospital) come out first. On a $150,000 gross case capped by a $100,000 policy, a claimant often nets roughly $45,000–$55,000. The free net-recovery calculator estimates your take-home range.

Question 5

Does Florida PIP cover all my medical bills?

Accepted Answer

No. PIP pays 80% of reasonable, medically necessary bills and 60% of lost wages, sharing one $10,000 cap — or just $2,500 if no emergency medical condition is documented. Costs beyond that fall to your health insurance or a claim against the at-fault driver.