Pennsylvania requires motorists to have personal injury protection (PIP) included in their automobile insurance coverage. These “medical benefits” are considered first-party benefits because the injured party receives them from his or her own automobile insurance policy. Personal injury protection is additional no-fault coverage that pays medical bills resulting from a motor vehicle accident regardless of fault.
PIP coverage is mandatory in Pennsylvania and other no-fault vehicle insurance states. It takes care of medical expenses and lost wages. In addition to PIP coverage, Pennsylvania motorists should have the following types of insurance:
The State of Pennsylvania requires all drivers have a minimum of $5,000 in PIP coverage for medical benefits. Payments for PIP claims are processed more quickly since fault is not at issue, in contrast to liability insurance which serves to cover the losses of another motorist and may require litigation causing delay and the additional expense of time and money.
Reasonable and necessary medical expenses for hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation or professional care are generally covered under PIP. Other benefits may be available depending on the insurance carrier.
Non-economic losses such as damages for pain and suffering are not covered under PIP. Also, driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs, or purposely causing an accident, may nullify PIP benefits. Under the concept of no-fault insurance, a driver involved in an accident who makes a PIP claim should experience no increase in insurance premiums.
If you or a loved one has suffered any type of injury resulting from a motor vehicle accident, contact Powell Law at (570) 961-0777. The consultation is FREE and you don’t pay anything unless we win. Our attorneys, past and present, have represented motor vehicle accident victims for 110 years. Call today!
