As a driver, it is crucial that you fully comprehend your auto insurance and the rules and regulations surrounding coverage. While PIP insurance is offered in many states across the country, California is not one of them. Although this no-fault insurance is not available to California residents, the state does offer a different type of similar coverage that can help in the event of an accident. For more information on your legal rights and options after a collision, reach out to a San Mateo County, California car accident lawyer today.
What is PIP?
PIP stands for Personal Injury Protection. It is a no-fault insurance that some states offer or require drivers to carry in case of an accident. PIP insurance provides compensation for medical and injury-related economic losses associated with an auto accident.
No-fault states like New Jersey require drivers to carry PIP and file a claim through their own insurance provider first before pursuing compensation with the liable party. Other states like Kentucky offer drivers the choice to opt in or out of no-fault insurance.
PIP covers medical expenses like ambulance rides, hospital stays, surgeries, treatment, prescriptions, and physical therapy. Other eligible expenses include lost wages, costs to accommodate the injury in the home or vehicle, transportation to and from appointments, and other economic losses directly associated with the injury.
Is PIP Insurance Offered in California?
No, PIP insurance is not offered or required in California. California is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who caused the accident is responsible for covering the associated damages. While many states offer Personal Injury Protection insurance, California does not.
California recently raised its auto insurance minimums and state law now requires that all drivers carry the following minimum coverage.
- $30,000 per person per accident for personal injury liability
- $60,000 per accident for personal injury liability
- $15,000 per accident for property damage liability
Although California does not offer PIP insurance, the state has an alternative known as MedPay.
What is MedPay?
MedPay is an optional first-party coverage that California drivers can add to their policy for additional coverage. MedPay, short for “medical payments coverage,” acts similarly to PIP in that it covers reasonable and necessary expenses after you or a passenger are injured in an accident, regardless of fault. If you are involved in a car accident, MedPay can cover expenses like:
- Doctor visits
- Ambulance fees
- EMT fees
- Hospital stays
- Surgery
- X-rays
- Dental procedures
- Nursing services
- Funeral expenses
The above and more injury-related expenses can be covered if you opt into MedPay.
Can I File a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
When dealing with the aftermath of a car accident it is also important to keep in mind that you can file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent driver who is responsible for the accident. California is an at-fault state meaning the liable party has a legal obligation to compensate you for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more.
For more information on your legal rights and options reach out to a skilled attorney today.
