Florida Auto Accident Rules, Laws & Chiropractic Care

What You Need to Know After a Car Accident in Florida

If you’ve been in a motor vehicle accident (MVA) in Florida, it’s important to understand both your legal rights and your health care options. Prompt action helps ensure you receive the care and insurance benefits you deserve.

Florida’s 14-Day Rule

Under Florida law, you must seek medical care within 14 days of your accident to qualify for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance benefits. If you do not get evaluated by a qualified provider (such as a chiropractor or medical doctor) within this window, you may lose your right to coverage for accident-related injuries. Even if you feel “okay” after the crash, symptoms can appear days later—so it’s critical to get checked as soon as possible.

Common Injuries After an Auto Accident

  • Whiplash & Neck Pain: Sudden force from a collision can strain muscles, ligaments, and joints in the neck.

  • Back Pain: The impact can cause disc injuries, sprains, or muscle spasms in the lower or mid-back.

  • Headaches: Often related to whiplash, tension, or concussion.

  • Shoulder, Arm, or Leg Pain: From seatbelt trauma or bracing during impact.

  • Soft Tissue Injuries: Bruising, strains, or sprains throughout the body.

  • Concussion/Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: Even without hitting your head, the force of impact can cause brain injury.

Why See a Chiropractor After an Accident?

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing pain and restoring function after an accident. At ChiroSource Wellness, we provide:

  • Comprehensive Evaluation & Documentation: We assess your injuries, document everything for your records and insurance, and coordinate with your attorney if needed.

  • Spinal Adjustments: Help restore mobility, reduce pain, and promote healing in injured joints and tissues.

  • Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques like cupping, IASTM, FAKTR, and percussive massage target muscle tension and inflammation.

  • Red Light Therapy: Supports tissue healing and reduces pain from acute injuries.

  • Personalized Home Care: Stretches and exercise programs to speed your recovery and prevent future issues.

What to Do If You’ve Been in an Accident

  1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Even for minor symptoms, get evaluated within 14 days.

  2. Document Everything: Keep records of your accident, symptoms, and any care you receive.

  3. Contact ChiroSource Wellness: We offer same day appointments and can help guide you through the process, from paperwork to recovery.

Schedule Your Evaluation

We’re here to support your recovery every step of the way. For questions or to book your appointment:

Same day appointments available with booking online.

Adult sitting on curb holding neck in pain after minor car accident, with damaged car and concerned driver in the background—illustrates common auto accident injuries treated at ChiroSource Wellness in Pensacola, Florida.
Minor car accident scene at a city intersection in Pensacola, Florida, showing two cars with bumper damage and drivers discussing the incident, used for ChiroSource Wellness chiropractic and auto injury care information.