Personal injury protection (PIP) car insurance can pay for medical bills and, in some cases, even lost wages if you suffer an injury in a vehicle accident. In Texas, however, things can get a little complicated regarding this type of coverage.
Following a crash, always consult with a Houston car accident attorney regarding the type of insurance claim you need to file to seek the compensation you deserve.
The Basics of PIP
PIP car insurance covers not only you but also anyone else in your vehicle for injuries and expenses resulting from a wreck. Here’s a closer look at some of the coverage PIP typically includes:
- Medical expenses: PIP typically covers medical expenses incurred as a result of injuries sustained in a car accident. This includes hospital bills, doctor visits, surgery, prescription medications, rehabilitation, and other necessary medical treatments.
- Lost wages: PIP insurance may provide coverage for 80% of lost wages if injuries sustained in a car accident prevent the policyholder or passengers from working. This compensation helps offset income lost due to the victim’s accident-related injuries.
- Funeral expenses: If the car accident results in a tragic loss of life, PIP may pay for funeral and burial expenses for the deceased.
- Essential services: Some PIP insurance policies may also cover expenses for essential services that the injured policyholder is unable to perform due to their injuries. This can include tasks such as housekeeping, childcare, and other activities of daily living.
- Survivor benefits: In cases where the policyholder dies in a car accident, PIP may provide survivor benefits to beneficiaries or dependents the insured has designated.
PIP coverage is “no-fault” coverage, so it applies to you and your passengers regardless of who is to blame for the crash.
Get a Free Consultation Today!
Does Texas Require PIP Car Insurance?
No. Texas doesn’t require drivers to carry PIP coverage. But if you refuse it, you must sign a waiver stating the refusal. Insurers must offer at least $2,500 in PIP coverage.
However, even though the law doesn’t force drivers to purchase a PIP insurance policy, it’s a very good idea. If you don’t have it and are to blame for an accident, your regular car insurance likely won’t pay for your medical expenses.
What if My PIP Provider Doesn’t Pay My Claim?
If this unfortunate situation applies to you, a skilled car accident lawyer can help. We have experience handling insurance disputes, and we’ll investigate to gather proof of your losses and compel the insurer to pay the compensation you deserve.
Even though PIP insurance is supposed to cover you regardless of who caused the accident, that doesn’t mean the insurer will voluntarily offer a fair settlement. Insurance companies often look for any excuse to deny or reduce a claim. But our seasoned car accident lawyers can address any challenges the insurer presents.
Consult a Houston Car Accident Lawyer
If you are having issues with your insurance company, speak with an Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP car accident attorney today. We are here to help. All consultations are free and confidential.
Joshua Lee believes in aggressive, tough advocacy and a client-centered approach to every case. Joshua draws from a wide body of experiences and a robust understanding of the law. Joshua graduated from the New York University School of Law in New York City, which is considered among the best law schools in the world.