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How Long Does an Insurance Company Have to Pay a Claim in Florida?

When you file an insurance claim in Florida, understanding the timeline for payment is crucial. Whether you are dealing with a property damage claim, a personal injury protection (PIP) claim, or another type of insurance claim, Florida law sets specific deadlines that insurance companies must follow. This guide explains how long insurers have to pay a claim, what factors may delay the process, and what you can do if your claim is taking too long.

At High Stack Law, our experienced Florida accident attorneys can help you deal with insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits. We help you pursue the compensation you deserve after a serious accident.  

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Florida Insurance Claim Payment Deadlines

Florida law requires insurance companies to handle claims within a reasonable timeframe. While there is no single deadline for all claims, different types of insurance claims have specific time limits:

  • Acknowledgment of Claim: Insurers must acknowledge receipt of your claim within 14 days of receiving it.
  • Investigation and Decision: Insurance companies have 30 days to decide whether to pay, deny, or request additional information.
  • Payment After Settlement: Once a settlement is reached, insurers must pay within 20 days.
  • Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Claims: PIP claims must be filed within 14 days of an accident, and insurers have 30 days to investigate and make a settlement offer.
  • Property Damage Claims: Insurers must pay or deny a claim within 90 days, unless circumstances beyond their control prevent payment.

These deadlines may change with the times or be different in your unique situation. Having an experienced Florida car accident attorney help you can make all the difference in getting your claim paid. 

Factors That May Delay Insurance Claim Payments

While Florida law sets deadlines, several factors can delay the payment process:

  1. Incomplete Documentation: If you fail to provide all necessary documents, insurers may request additional information, extending the timeline.
  2. Disputes Over Coverage: If the insurer questions whether the claim is covered under your policy, they may take longer to investigate.
  3. High Volume of Claims: After major storms or disasters, insurance companies may experience delays due to an influx of claims.
  4. Legal Challenges: If your claim involves litigation or disputes, the process may take longer than the standard deadlines.

While some of these delays are legitimate, many others are specifically done by the insurance company as a tactic. Insurance companies may use delays and other inappropriate tactics to reduce the claim they have to pay or deny you coverage altogether. 

What to Do If Your Insurance Claim Is Delayed

If your insurance company is taking longer than allowed by Florida law, you have options:

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  • Follow Up Regularly: Contact your insurer to check the status of your claim and ensure they have all required documents.
  • Request Written Updates: Florida law requires insurers to provide written updates every 45 days if they need more time.
  • File a Complaint: If you believe your insurer is unfairly delaying payment, you can file a complaint with the Florida Department of Financial Services.
  • Seek Legal Help: If your claim is significantly delayed or denied unfairly, consulting a Florida insurance attorney may help expedite the process.

Get Help After a Florida Car Accident

Florida law ensures that insurance companies process claims within reasonable timeframes, but delays can still occur. Understanding the deadlines and your rights can help you navigate the claims process efficiently. If your insurer is taking too long, consider taking action to protect your interests.

Consult a Florida car accident lawyer at High Stack Law for help. Contact us today for a consultation of your case.