When it comes to auto insurance, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage can play a crucial role in helping you recover after a car accident. Unlike other types of coverage that depend on proving fault, PIP is designed to provide immediate financial support for medical care, lost wages, and other necessary expenses following a collision.
At Hillstone Law, we help accident victims in California understand their insurance coverage and fight for the full compensation they deserve.
Understanding Personal Injury Protection
Personal Injury Protection is a type of auto insurance that pays for medical expenses and other costs after an accident—regardless of who was at fault. Not all states require it, but in states where it’s mandatory, drivers must include PIP in their auto policies.
Even in states where it isn’t required, PIP can be a valuable option, offering peace of mind and immediate access to benefits when injuries occur.
What PIP Typically Covers
Depending on the terms of your policy, PIP may include coverage for:
- Medical Expenses: Hospital bills, doctor visits, medications, rehabilitation, and therapy
- Lost Wages: Compensation for a percentage of income lost if you’re unable to work due to your injuries
- Transportation Costs: Travel expenses for medical treatment and follow-up care
- Essential Services: Assistance with household chores or childcare you can’t perform while recovering
- Rehabilitation Services: Ongoing therapy to help you regain strength and mobility
It’s important to note that PIP generally does not cover property damage. Vehicle repairs and other property-related expenses are usually handled under separate coverage types.
Where Is PIP Coverage Required?
Thirteen states currently mandate PIP coverage as part of their auto insurance requirements. These include:
- Florida
- Michigan
- New York
- New Jersey
- Hawaii
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- North Dakota
- Pennsylvania
- Kentucky
- Utah
- District of Columbia
In California, PIP is not required, but other insurance options may provide similar benefits. Understanding what your policy covers is essential to ensuring you’re financially protected after an accident.
Variations in PIP Coverage
The scope of PIP coverage can vary widely by state and policy. For example:
- Some states allow coverage for alternative treatments like acupuncture
- Coverage amounts and wage replacement percentages differ
- Some policies offer additional optional benefits, like extended household services
Because of these variations, it’s important to review your specific policy and understand exactly what benefits are available to you.
Why PIP Matters After an Accident
PIP can provide critical financial support during recovery by:
- Ensuring immediate access to medical treatment without waiting for a fault determination
- Reducing the need for lawsuits against the at-fault driver for basic expenses
- Covering essential living costs while you heal
In states where PIP is required, the goal is to help accident victims recover quickly and reduce the burden on court systems by limiting litigation for minor claims.
How Hillstone Law Can Help
While PIP coverage is designed to provide quick relief, insurance companies don’t always make the claims process easy. They may delay payments, underpay, or deny valid claims. That’s where we come in.
At Hillstone Law, our California personal injury attorneys will:
- Review your insurance policy to determine your rights under PIP or similar coverage
- Handle communications with the insurance company
- Challenge denied or undervalued claims
- Pursue additional compensation if your injuries exceed policy limits
- Ensure you receive the full benefits you are entitled to
Contact Hillstone Law Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in California, don’t leave your recovery in the hands of the insurance company. Contact Hillstone Law today for a free consultation. We’ll help you navigate your insurance coverage, fight for the compensation you deserve, and ensure your rights are fully protected.
