The purpose of Personal Injury Protection (PIP), is to cover any medical expenses and lost wages that an insured incurs as the result of a car crash. An insured need not prove fault on the other to take advantage of their PIP benefits. Additionally, due to the liability-free nature of No-Fault insurance, a PIP claimant’s insurance premiums are not to be increased because the insured filed a PIP claim.
PIP reimburses you for medical costs and lost wages
If you are involved in a car wreck, you may require medical care beginning with a ride in an ambulance from the scene. Emergency room care can be very costly, especially if tests are ordered to determine the full extent of your injuries. Emergency room physicians often direct patients to follow up with their primary care physician or they may refer them to a specialist, such as an orthopedist or chiropractor. Deepening on the extent of the injuries, more than one specialist may be required and ongoing treatment may be necessary. All of these doctor visits and tests mean copays and deductibles that you have to pay.
Also, the time necessary to see these doctors means time out of work. Every day lost from the job can mean lost wages for everyone who isn’t lucky enough to have paid sick leave. Sometimes, car accidents can be so serious that you may exceed your paid time off from work and begin losing wages. PIP insurance is designed to help in these situations.
How do I use PIP insurance
It is important to ensure that you have PIP coverage. When you are purchasing insurance coverage, ask your carrying to include PIP coverage. If you are unsure as to whether you are covered, contact your insurance provider. Make sure that you are properly covered before you need the coverage.
If you are injured in a car wreck and need your PIP benefits:
- Contact your insurance company and open a claim
- Send copies of medical bills for reimbursement
- Comply with the insurance company’s requirement for reimbursement of lost wages
You can use your PIP benefits to ensure that you get the medical care you need following a car wreck even if you have hired an attorney. They may also help you obtain your PIP benefits. Make sure, before they start helping you with your PIP claim, that you discuss whether the attorney will expect a fee from your PIP benefits.
If you would like to discuss your PIP benefits or other avenues for redress after a car accident, contact Chelsie King Garza.
