Personal Injury Protection, or PIP insurance is one way you can safeguard yourself and loved ones against the financial burdens that arise after unexpected injuries. In this article we will be diving into what PIP insurance is, how much coverage you should consider for you and your family, and when it is necessary to contact an injury lawyer.
What is Personal Injury Protection Insurance
PIP insurance is a type of coverage that pays for medical expenses as well as other related costs resulting from a covered injury, regardless of who is at fault from the accident. PIP is mostly associated with your car insurance plan as it can help cover injuries from an accident that you may have caused, however it can also extend to other forms of insurance, such as homeowner’s or health insurance.
PIP coverage provides financial assistance to its policyholders, allowing you to seek immediate medical attention and cover a range of medical expenses including: hospital bills, doctor’s visits, medical treatments, rehabilitation, lost wages, and even funeral expenses in the case of fatality.
Understanding No-Fault States and PIP Coverage
Here in Utah we are a part of a no-fault system of liability. This means that you are required to carry PIP coverage as part of your auto insurance policy. A No-Fault system is designed so that you will be able to get proper medical care if you were in an accident, regardless of if you were the one at fault. This allows you to seek compensation from your own insurance company if you were the one who may have caused an accident.
PIP plays a vital role here in providing immediate financial support as PIP works regardless of who is at fault in the accident. This allows for a more streamlined claims process letting your recovery take center stage.
How Much PIP Coverage Should You Have
In Utah you are required to carry the state minimum of $3,000 in coverage. However there are several factors that should go into account of how much coverage you should carry including your individual needs, and budget considerations.
Medical Costs in Your Area
One important factor of how much PIP coverage you should carry is the average cost of medical treatments in your area. Make sure that you research how much healthcare services cost near you, and ensure that your PIP coverage is sufficient enough to cover medical expenses that you may incur. In Utah, an optimal PIP coverage amount for medical costs is $3,000-$9,000.
Existing Health Insurance
If you have existing health insurance from work or from a spouse or family member you may consider lower PIP coverage, as your primary health insurance may cover a majority of the medical costs.
Lost Income Considerations
It is important to take into your account your income and the potential lost wages that you may accrue due to an injury. Keeping this in mind it might be helpful to opt into a higher coverage level (between $3,000-$10,000) that would adequately compensate for the time that you may need to take off
When Should I Contact an Injury Lawyer
PIP can only cover so much of someone else’s negligence. When you have been injured and it is not your fault, contacting an injury lawyer can help you seek further compensation for the injuries that you have received. Oftentimes insurance providers will try to keep their settlements at a minimum, and approve as little treatment as possible. An injury attorney can help with the legal legwork of your case, fighting for you so that you will be able to get the settlement that you deserve as well as the best treatment possible.
Here at LifeLaw Personal Injury we understand how PIP insurance works. PIP insurance can help pay for certain medical bills and limited lost wages. However, if your injuries exceed the $3,000 in PIP protection then you should seriously consider getting a lawyer to protect your interests. Don’t trust the insurance company to have your best interests in mind. They don’t answer to you, they answer to their shareholders who always choose profits over people. If you or a loved one has been injured and it was not your fault, be sure to contact the injury lawyers at LifeLaw Personal Injury. Our team of experienced injury lawyers in the Salt Lake and surrounding wasatch area will help you through complex legal processes, while keeping you informed and updated every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation, and to discuss your