After a car accident in Miami, it is natural to focus on the damage to your car and the paperwork with the other driver. But under Florida’s personal injury protection (PIP) law, the clock on your own medical coverage starts the moment the accident happens. This guide explains the 14-day rule, why imaging matters after a crash and how auto accident imaging in Miami fits into your recovery.
This article is general information, not legal or medical advice. Speak with your physician about your symptoms and with a licensed attorney or your insurer about your specific claim.
What Is Florida’s 14-Day PIP Rule?
Florida is a no-fault state. Drivers carry personal injury protection coverage that pays a portion of their own medical bills after a crash, regardless of who caused it. Under Florida’s current PIP law, you must receive initial medical care within 14 days of the accident to be eligible for those benefits. If you wait longer, your PIP coverage may deny the claim entirely.
That first visit must be with a qualified provider, such as a physician, an urgent care or an emergency department. Your doctor may then order imaging to find out what is causing your pain.
Why Injuries Often Appear Days Later
Adrenaline and shock can mask pain for hours or days after a collision. Many people feel fine at the scene and wake up the next morning with a stiff neck, back pain or a swollen joint. Common delayed injuries include:
- Whiplash and other neck strains
- Back and shoulder injuries
- Soft-tissue tears in muscles, tendons and ligaments
- Small fractures that are painful but not obvious
- Bruising or fluid collections (hematomas) under the skin
How Imaging Helps After an Accident
Imaging gives your doctor objective evidence of what happened inside your body. It guides treatment and creates a clear medical record of your injuries.
- Digital X-ray shows fractures, dislocations and alignment of the spine and joints with a low radiation dose.
- MSK ultrasound evaluates tendons, ligaments and muscles in the shoulder, knee, ankle, wrist and elbow. Learn more in our guide to MSK ultrasound for joint pain.
- Soft tissue ultrasound checks lumps, swelling and fluid collections.
- Venous Doppler ultrasound may be ordered if a leg becomes swollen after an injury or long immobility.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Miami
- Call 911 if anyone is hurt, and get a police report.
- Photograph the vehicles, the scene and any visible injuries.
- See a physician within 14 days, even if you feel mostly fine.
- Follow your doctor’s orders for imaging and therapy, and keep every record.
- Contact your insurance company, and consider speaking with a personal injury attorney.
Imaging for Accident Patients at Imaging Nation Diagnostics
We work with accident patients, their physicians and their attorneys. Every study is interpreted by a board-certified radiologist, and reports are sent to the ordering physician within 48 business hours for ultrasound and X-ray. For payment questions, including self-pay and attorney letters of protection, please contact our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I see a doctor after 14 days?
Under Florida’s current PIP law, you may lose eligibility for PIP medical benefits. You should still get care for your injuries; talk to an attorney about your options.
Do I need a doctor’s order for imaging after an accident?
Yes. Your physician will decide which imaging you need and send a written order.
Can ultrasound show whiplash?
Whiplash is diagnosed clinically by your doctor. Imaging such as X-ray helps rule out fractures and alignment problems, and ultrasound can evaluate some muscle and tendon injuries.
Schedule Accident Imaging in Miami
Don’t let the 14-day window close. Book your appointment online or call 786-353-9160, Monday through Friday. Read more on our auto accident and injury imaging page.
