If you’ve recently been in a crash and you’re asking, “Does PIP cover a collision with an object?”——like a pole, tree, or wall—you’re not alone. Many Florida drivers assume Personal Injury Protection (PIP) takes care of everything. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
Here’s what you need to know before filing a claim.
What Does PIP Cover After You Hit an Object?
Florida PIP insurance is designed to cover medical expenses and lost wages after a car accident, regardless of who caused it. This means if you hit a stationary object and get hurt, your PIP policy will likely pay for:
- Emergency medical treatment
- Follow-up doctor visits
- Rehabilitation
- Some of your lost income
- Funeral expenses (if the crash results in death)
But here’s the catch: PIP only covers people, not property. So while your injuries may be covered, any damage to your vehicle or the object you hit—like a fence or guardrail—is not.
PIP Does NOT Cover:
- Damage to your vehicle
- The object or property you hit
- Towing, car repairs, or rental cars
To cover those kinds of losses, you need collision coverage (which pays for your car repairs regardless of fault) and property damage liability coverage (which pays for damage to other people’s property). Both are different from PIP.
Understanding Florida PIP Insurance Limits
In Florida, PIP covers up to $10,000 in medical benefits. But:
- You must seek treatment within 14 days
- Only 80% of your medical bills are covered
- Only 60% of your lost income is paid
These limitations mean that even if your injuries are significant, PIP likely won’t cover everything—especially if you were injured in a collision with an object.
Why PIP Alone Isn’t Enough in a Collision With an Object
The key takeaway: PIP is medical insurance, not car insurance. If you hit a concrete wall, traffic sign, or even your own garage door, PIP will help with your ER visit—but not the repairs. That’s why most Florida drivers add:
- Collision coverage for your vehicle
- Comprehensive coverage for theft or weather-related damage
- Uninsured motorist coverage in case the at-fault driver has no insurance
Does PIP Cover a Collision With an Object if You’re a Pedestrian or Cyclist?
Good question—yes, Florida PIP coverage follows the person, not just the car. So if you were a pedestrian or cyclist hit by a vehicle, your own PIP policy may still apply to your injuries. If you don’t own a car, you may be able to use the at-fault driver’s PIP coverage.
Don’t Miss the 14-Day Rule
One crucial PIP rule in Florida: You must seek medical treatment within 14 days of the accident or your benefits may be denied. Even if your injuries seem minor, always see a doctor. Delaying treatment can hurt both your health and your insurance claim.
When to Call a Personal Injury Lawyer About a PIP Claim
Florida’s PIP system is confusing—and insurance companies aren’t always eager to pay. If you were injured in a collision with an object and are facing medical bills or a denied claim, speak with a Florida PIP attorney as soon as possible.
At Chad Barr Law, we don’t just understand insurance—we’ve been on the other side. Attorney Olivia H. Miller previously worked for a top insurance defense firm. Now she uses that experience to protect injured Floridians from the insurance company tricks she used to know firsthand.
Related Blogs From Chad Barr Law:
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Law
Final Thoughts: Does PIP Cover a Collision With an Object?
In short: Florida PIP covers your injuries, but not your car or the object you hit. If you want full protection after a single-car crash, you need to carry collision coverage in addition to the minimum PIP.
Confused about your rights after an accident? Contact Chad Barr Law today for a free case review. We’ll help you understand your coverage, protect your injury claim, and hold the insurance companies accountable.
