Should You See a Doctor After a Car Accident in Miami, FL?
Yes — if you’ve been in a car accident in Miami or anywhere in Miami-Dade County, you should get medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Many serious injuries, such as concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage, may not cause symptoms right away. In Florida, seeking treatment quickly also protects your legal rights — state law requires you to see a doctor within 14 days to use your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. Waiting can hurt your health and limit your ability to recover full compensation.
Why Is Immediate Medical Care Important After a Car Accident in Miami?
- Detect hidden injuries such as spinal cord damage or internal bleeding
- Prevent complications and long-term pain
- Create timely medical records for your insurance claim
What Are the Risks of Delaying Medical Treatment in Miami-Dade County?
- Undetected injuries from rear-end collisions on the Palmetto Expressway or high-speed crashes on the Florida Turnpike
- Longer recovery times or permanent disability
- Chronic pain from improper healing
- Emotional distress such as anxiety or depression after the crash
- Losing access to PIP benefits if you don’t see a doctor within 14 days (Florida Statutes § 627.736)
- Weaker evidence linking your injuries to the accident
- Reduced settlement value due to incomplete documentation
How Does Florida’s PIP 14-Day Rule Affect Miami Drivers?
Florida’s no-fault insurance system means most Miami-Dade County drivers must first turn to their own PIP coverage for medical bills and lost wages after a crash, regardless of fault. To qualify for up to $10,000 in PIP benefits, you must see an approved medical provider within 14 days.
Acceptable providers include physicians, chiropractors, dentists, and certain emergency medical professionals at Miami-area hospitals like Jackson Memorial or Baptist Health.
Missing this deadline can mean losing coverage for accident-related medical care — even if the other driver was at fault.
Can You Still Sue the At-Fault Driver in Miami?
- Significant and permanent loss of an important bodily function
- Permanent injury within a reasonable degree of medical probability
- Significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Death
Common Injuries Miami Car Accident Victims Should Watch For
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Broken bones and fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Severe cuts and lacerations
- Soft tissue injuries
How a Miami Car Accident Lawyer Can Help After You See a Doctor
After you’ve received medical treatment, a lawyer can:
- Guide you through the claims process under Florida’s no-fault system
- Ensure your medical records are complete and submitted on time
- Protect you from insurance company tactics aimed at reducing payouts
- Negotiate a fair settlement or take your case to court if necessary
With over 30 years of experience and $100+ million recovered, Payer Law represents injury victims throughout Miami and all of Miami-Dade County, from Hialeah to Homestead.
Get a Free Consultation With Payer Law Today
If you’ve been injured in a Miami car accident — whether in Coconut Grove, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, or anywhere in Miami-Dade County — see a doctor right away, then call our team at Payer Law. Our Miami office is available 24/7 to take your call. If you hire us after a car accident, we will protect your rights and handle the legal process so you can focus on recovery.
Call 305-363-7099 or contact us online for your free consultation.
