Understanding Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

Legally reviewed by Grant R. Gillenwater, Trial Attorney at Morgan & Morgan, on June 07, 2024.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP): What You Need to Know

Personal Injury Protection (PIP), also known as no-fault insurance, is designed to cover expenses such as medical bills, lost wages, and funeral costs after a car accident, regardless of who is at fault. In some states, like Florida, PIP insurance is mandatory for all drivers. In other states, it’s optional and can be added as a rider to your auto insurance policy for extra protection.

What Does PIP Typically Cover?

PIP insurance can be beneficial whether you’re driving, a passenger, or even if you’re a pedestrian or cyclist injured in an accident. While PIP coverage limits vary by state, here’s what it generally covers:

1. Medical Expenses: Covers medical bills for you and your passengers. It can also help with health insurance deductibles.
2. Work Loss: Compensates for lost wages if you’re unable to work due to an accident. This also applies if you’re self-employed and need to hire temporary workers.
3. Funeral Expenses: Helps cover costs associated with funerals, burials, or cremations after an accident.
4. Survivors’ Loss: Provides financial support for your dependents if you pass away in a car accident, replacing lost income.
5. Essential Services: Pays for services you can’t perform due to injury, such as childcare and housekeeping.

What PIP Doesn’t Cover

While PIP covers many economic damages, it doesn’t extend to non-economic damages or property damage. For instance, PIP won’t pay for vehicle repairs or the other driver’s expenses if you’re at fault. Additionally, PIP might not cover:

• Accidents occurring during criminal activities (e.g., fleeing from police).
• Incidents while driving for rideshare services (rideshare insurance typically covers these).

Understanding the nuances of PIP coverage can be complex. Often, PIP doesn’t cover all your expenses, leaving you with outstanding medical bills. In such cases, you may be eligible for additional compensation.

Why Choose Morgan & Morgan for Your Personal Injury Case

Morgan & Morgan is the nation’s largest law firm with a proven success record. We’ve recovered over $20 billion for our clients. If PIP doesn’t cover all your expenses, we can help you seek full and fair compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our specialists.