You likely already know that having car insurance isn’t just required by law but incredibly important in the event that you’re involved in an accident. But the truth is, there are many types and levels of automobile insurance and what’s required differs from state to state, making it difficult to know what you really need in order to protect yourself.
Do you wonder ‘what is PIP insurance?’ or ‘what is personal injury protection insurance and how is it beneficial to me?’
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Our attorneys at The Law Offices of Blaine Barrilleaux have outlined everything you need to know about this form of car insurance so you understand what it may cover if you’ve been hurt in an accident.
What Is Personal Injury Protection?
Personal Injury Protection insurance, or PIP, is an extension of your basic automobile insurance policy. When it comes to motor vehicle liability insurance, states fall into one of two categories known as “fault” and “no-fault.”
In many “no-fault” states, drivers are required to carry PIP insurance because it is designed to cover your injuries no matter who was at fault for the accident. Under a no-fault system, car accident victims typically cannot seek compensation for their injuries from the other driver, even if they caused the accident. The state of Louisiana, however, operates under a fault system, in which the victim of a car accident can pursue compensation for their accident-related expenses from the “at-fault” driver’s liability insurance policy.
With this in mind, PIP insurance is not mandatory in Louisiana, but optional.
What Does Personal Injury Protection Cover?
Are you confused about ‘what is personal protection insurance’ and what does it cover?
Again, PIP insurance is a form of no-fault coverage, so it is available for you and your passengers in the event of an accident no matter who is determined to be at fault.
PIP insurance can cover a percentage of your medical bills and, under some policies, any lost wages you’ve suffered as a result of your accident. Here’s a breakdown of the expenses that may be included under a PIP insurance policy:
- Medical bills
- Ambulance fees
- Surgical costs
- Lost wages
- Rehabilitation services
- Consequential costs, such as child care or transportation
Should You Have Personal Injury Protection?
Although Louisiana drivers aren’t required to carry PIP insurance, you may find the minimum coverage amount required by law to be insufficient if you’ve suffered serious injuries in a motor vehicle accident.
Having PIP insurance can be incredibly advantageous for several reasons. For starters, being hurt in a car accident isn’t just painful and traumatic, it can also be expensive. While you can file a personal injury claim with the other driver’s insurance company to receive compensation for the expenses from your accident, this process can take time. Many people wonder how they’re going to pay their medical bills and continue to support their families while they’re trying to recover, unable to work, and waiting on the insurance company to give them a fair settlement.
Since PIP insurance is available regardless of fault, you don’t have to wait to know that you’re covered. Another important benefit of carrying PIP insurance is that it can provide coverage for a portion of your expenses (up to your policy’s limit) in the event that the driver at fault for your accident is uninsured.
At The Law Offices of Blaine Barrilleaux, we unfortunately see these situations all too often. It’s important to keep in mind that a car accident can happen in the blink of an eye and it’s always better to have too much coverage than not enough.
Whatever auto liability insurance limits best suit you, we hope that you take the time to research your options and make an informed decision so that you and your passengers are protected on the roads!
What is Personal Injury Insurance? Call an Injury Lawyer
While PIP insurance can be an excellent addition to your car insurance policy, it’s important to remember that at the end of the day, insurance companies don’t always have your best interests in mind. Sadly, many insurance companies will do whatever it takes to pay you as little as possible in the event of an accident. This is simply because they are businesses with one goal in mind: to make money. And many do this by lowballing injured victims and paying them far less than they deserve.
That’s where an injury lawyer comes in. If you’ve been hurt in a car accident that wasn’t your fault and are struggling with either your PIP insurance carrier or with filing a claim against the other driver’s insurance company, please don’t wait to give our office a call. We’ve been dealing with insurance companies for years and can see their tricks and tactics from a mile away.
Still Wondering, ‘What is PIP?’. We’ve Got Your Back
Are you wondering, “do I need personal injury protection?” Wait no further; our team is here to provide guidance and support. With over 25 years of experience protecting the rights of injured victims and their families in Lafayette, Metairie, New Orleans, and surrounding Louisiana communities, you can feel confident that our team will fight hard for the maximum amount you’re owed for your losses.
Don’t wait to take action. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced and compassionate injury lawyer. You can reach us by calling 337-221-0547 or by filling out our online form.