Being in a car accident can be stressful—not just physically, but financially. Many patients wonder, “Will my car insurance or PIP cover chiropractic treatment after an auto accident in Florida?” The good news is, in most cases, yes. Florida’s no-fault insurance system helps ensure you get treatment quickly—without needing to wait for a legal settlement.
This guide explains how PIP (Personal Injury Protection) and car insurance work when it comes to chiropractic auto injury care in Florida.
🚗 Understanding Florida’s No-Fault Insurance System
Florida is a no-fault state, which means that after a car accident, your own auto insurance company pays for your medical care—no matter who caused the accident. This coverage comes from Personal Injury Protection (PIP).
✅ What Does PIP Cover?
Florida law requires every driver to carry:
- $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
- $10,000 in Property Damage Liability
PIP helps cover:
✔ Chiropractic care
✔ Medical treatments and imaging (X-rays, MRIs)
✔ Physical therapy or rehab
✔ Medication (if required)
✔ 60% of lost wages
✔ Transportation for medical visits (in some cases)
📅 Important: The 14-Day Rule
To qualify for PIP coverage, you must seek medical care within 14 days of the accident—even if your injuries feel minor.
Care can be from:
- A chiropractor
- Medical doctor
- Urgent care or ER
- Hospital
- Physical therapist (with referral)
If you wait longer than 14 days, your insurance company can deny coverage for your treatment.
💵 How Much of My Chiropractic Care Is Covered?
Here’s how PIP typically divides coverage:
| Service | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Chiropractic treatment | Up to 80% of costs (within $10,000 PIP limit) |
| Medical care / hospital | Up to 80% |
| Lost wages | Up to 60% |
| Massage/acupuncture | Not covered under Florida PIP law |
If you are diagnosed with an EMC (Emergency Medical Condition)—meaning your injury could lead to serious health risks—you may access the full $10,000 in PIP benefits.
Without an EMC, coverage is capped at $2,500.
🏥 Do I Need a Lawyer to Use PIP for Chiropractic Care?
No. You do not need a lawyer to start chiropractic treatment. Chiropractors can:
- Bill PIP insurance directly
- Provide medical documentation and injury reports
- Work with attorneys if you choose legal representation later
🧾 What You Need to Bring to Your Chiropractic Appointment
To make the process easier, bring:
- Auto insurance information
- Accident report/police report (if available)
- Claim number (if you’ve already opened a case)
- Attorney contact (if you have one)
Your chiropractic office will handle billing and required documentation.
🌀 Why Chiropractic Care After a Car Accident Matters
Even a low-speed collision can cause:
- Whiplash
- Neck or back pain
- Headaches or dizziness
- Soft tissue injuries
- Reduced mobility
Chiropractic care focuses on realigning the spine and reducing inflammation naturally—without surgery or addictive pain medication.
✅ Key Takeaways
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does PIP cover chiropractic care? | Yes—up to 80% within the $10,000 PIP limit |
| How long do I have to get treatment? | 14 days from the date of the accident |
| Do I need to prove someone was at fault? | No—Florida is a no-fault state |
| What if I need more than PIP covers? | A lawyer may pursue additional compensation from the at-fault party’s insurance |
📍 Auto Accident? We’re Here to Help.
At Havlicek Chiropractic in St. Augustine, FL, we specialize in treating auto accident injuries with personalized, gentle chiropractic care. We also assist with:
✔ PIP insurance billing
✔ Attorney communication and documentation
✔ Same-day or walk-in appointments
📞 Call Us Today: (904) 515-2225
📍 2085 A1A S #103, St. Augustine, FL 32080
