Unpacking Statute Of Limitations And Personal Injury Protection Reform

Navigating the legal landscape of personal injury in Florida underwent some significant changes in 2023. Read on to learn what they are, including a discussion of:

• Changes to Florida’s personal injury statute of limitations.
• The effect the elimination of attorney fees has had on filing claims with insurance.
• How the Personal Injury Protection (PIP) legal process may be streamlined in light of recent changes to the law.

Did The Statute Of Limitations For Personal Injury Change In Florida In 2023?

In 2023, the personal injury statute of limitations in Florida was shortened from four years to two years for negligence cases. This went into effect on March 24, 2023. Cases in existence before this date are still subject to the four-year statute of limitation.

What Do The 2023 Changes To Florida PIP Law Mean For Drivers?

The most notable change to Personal Injury Protection (PIP) in 2023 was the removal of attorney fees for the insured. Prior to March 2023, medical providers who were not adequately compensated by PIP could file a lawsuit against the insurance company, seeking payment for medical treatment along with attorney fees to cover legal costs.

After March 2023, the right to attorney fees in PIP cases no longer exists. This change in policy has sparked discussions about the balance of power, with concerns raised that it may shift too far in favor of insurance companies. Consequently, insurance companies become the final decision-makers regarding the payment of medical bills.

Critics argue that the elimination of attorney fees in PIP cases might tip the balance of power excessively in favor of insurance companies. This change implies that insurance companies have the ultimate authority in determining what will be paid and what will not, potentially impacting the resolution of claims.

Some expect a decrease in PIP lawsuits. While this may streamline the legal process, concerns linger about the implications for insured individuals seeking fair compensation for medical expenses. Despite the removal of attorney fees, most personal injury clients continue to have their medical bills covered by PIP insurance.

For more information on the Personal Injury Statute Of Limitations In Florida, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (863) 204-5105 today.