What Are Your Legal Options After an Accident in Florida?

If you’ve recently been in an accident in Florida—whether it was a car crash, slip and fall, or another personal injury incident—you’re likely overwhelmed, confused, and wondering what steps to take next. Florida has unique personal injury laws that affect how and when you can pursue compensation. At Cohen Injury Law, we’re here to help you understand your rights and guide you through the recovery process.

This guide will break down your options after an accident in Florida, including dealing with insurance companies, seeking medical treatment, and filing a personal injury claim.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention — Even If You Feel Fine

Your health and safety come first. In Florida, you must seek medical treatment within 14 days of your accident to qualify for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. This is part of Florida’s 14-Day PIP Rule, which requires accident victims to receive care from an approved provider (doctor, urgent care, chiropractor, etc.) within that timeframe.
Learn more: What is the 14-Day PIP Law in Florida?

2. File a Claim With Your Insurance Under PIP

Florida is a no-fault state, meaning your own insurance typically covers your initial medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash. PIP insurance covers up to 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost income, up to $10,000.

But what if your injuries are serious and PIP isn’t enough? That brings us to your next option.

3. Step Outside the No-Fault System for Serious Injuries

If you suffered a serious injury (e.g., broken bones, permanent disability, significant scarring), Florida law allows you to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party.

Examples of injuries that may qualify:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage
• Multiple fractures
• Internal organ injuries
• Permanent scarring or disfigurement

This is where working with an experienced Florida personal injury attorney—like Zach Cohen—can make all the difference.

4. Document Everything to Build Your Case

The strength of your personal injury claim relies heavily on evidence. Immediately after the accident, you should:

• Take photos of the scene and your injuries
• Get a copy of the police report
• Collect contact information from witnesses
• Keep all medical records and receipts
• Track lost work days and income

At Cohen Injury Law, we help clients organize and strengthen their documentation to maximize the value of their case.

5. Contact a Florida Personal Injury Lawyer

Insurance companies often try to minimize your claim or deny it altogether. They have teams of adjusters and lawyers working against you. That’s why having a knowledgeable advocate like Zach Cohen on your side is critical.

A personal injury attorney can help you:

• Investigate the accident
• Prove liability
• Handle insurance negotiations
• Calculate your damages
• Take the case to trial if needed

Explore some of our case results to see how we’ve helped clients recover substantial compensation.

6. Know What You Can Recover in a Florida Injury Claim

Depending on the type and severity of your injury, you may be eligible for compensation for:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage (e.g., car repair)
• Permanent disability or disfigurement

If your loved one passed away due to negligence, you may also have grounds for a wrongful death claim.

7. Act Within the Legal Time Limit (Statute of Limitations)

In Florida, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. This means you have limited time to take legal action.

If you miss this window, you may lose your right to recover compensation.

Explore All Your Legal Options with Cohen Injury Law

Navigating a personal injury claim in Florida can be complicated, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Cohen Injury Law, we are dedicated to protecting your rights and getting you the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today through our contact page to schedule a free consultation.