There are a few forms of insurance that may be required as the driver of a vehicle in Utah, and one that should not be ignored is known as PIP insurance. Generally included as part of your broad car insurance plan, PIP insurance stands for personal injury protection - what is this form of insurance, and what does personal injury protection cover for drivers around the state?
At William Rawlings & Associates, we're happy to help clients around Salt Lake City, Provo, Draper and nearby areas of Utah with all their auto accident injury lawyer needs, plus varying other personal injury attorney services for any kind of injury or hardship you or someone close to you has undergone. Here are some basics on how PIP works, its requirements for Utah drivers, and some of the key areas it covers for any accident you're involved in.
For those just learning about personal injury protection in Utah, it's important to understand that this is a form of insurance that's specifically designed to cover any medical expenses or lost wages you may incur as the result of a car accident. PIP coverage can also include additional costs such as childcare and household services if needed due to injuries sustained in an accident.
Also known as no-fault insurance, PIP coverage is meant to provide quick and easy access to funds for immediate expenses following an accident, regardless of who is at fault. This helps alleviate financial stress and allows drivers to focus on their recovery.
In the state of Utah, personal injury protection is required as part of every car insurance policy. The minimum coverage amounts are $3,000 for medical expenses and $250 per week for lost wages. However, it's recommended that drivers opt for higher coverage limits in order to fully protect themselves in the event of a serious accident.
It's important to note that PIP insurance extends not just to the driver, but also to any passengers in the vehicle at the time of the accident. This allows for coverage of medical expenses and lost wages for all parties involved.
As mentioned previously, personal injury protection covers a variety of expenses related to car accidents. Here are some key areas that may be covered by your PIP insurance:
The most significant expense that PIP insurance covers is medical expenses related to a car accident. This can include hospital visits, doctor's appointments, surgeries, and any necessary medical treatments.
There may also be several associated medical expenses that will be covered by personal injury protection. Things like ambulance rides, X-rays, physical therapy and rehabilitation costs may all be included in your PIP coverage.
If you're unable to work due to injuries sustained in a car accident, PIP insurance can help cover lost wages. This includes both the time you miss from work immediately following the accident as well as any future lost earnings if your injuries prevent you from returning to work.
As we noted above, the limit here for Utah drivers is $250 per week or 85% of your lost income, whichever is lower. This compensation can extend for up to one full year after the accident.
In addition to medical expenses and lost wages, PIP insurance can also cover other related costs such as childcare or household services that may be needed due to your injuries. These additional expenses are meant to help you maintain your normal way of life while recovering from an accident.
It's important to review your policy carefully and understand exactly what is covered by personal injury protection in order to make sure you have adequate coverage for any potential expenses.
To limit the number of minor lawsuits filed over car accidents, Utah has a tort threshold in place. This means that if your injuries are minor enough to fall below a certain threshold, you cannot sue the at-fault driver for additional damages beyond what is covered by your PIP insurance.
However, if your injuries exceed this threshold or meet certain criteria such as permanent disability or disfigurement, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. This is one of several areas where working with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. If you're unsure about your rights or how to navigate the complex legal process, don't hesitate to reach out to an experienced lawyer for guidance and representation.
At the offices of William Rawlings & Associates, we have a team of dedicated and experienced lawyers who are committed to helping you receive the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay anything unless we win your case. Contact us for help with auto accident injury or any other personal injury lawyer needs you may have around SLC, Provo, Draper and nearby areas of Utah!