10.19.2020

For New Drivers: What Are First Party Benefits?

Pennsylvania of one of twelve states, along with Puerto Rico, that have no-fault auto insurance systems. While Pennsylvania, Florida, Michigan, New Jersey, and New York have verbal thresholds, the other seven states – Hawaii, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Utah operate using a monetary threshold. Pennsylvania is one of three states that provide residents with a choice regarding the local no-fault law. Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Kentucky permit motorists to reject the lawsuit threshold and retain the right to sue for injuries.

First party claims for medical benefits are those submitted to an accident victim’s own insurance company under his or her car insurance policy that seeks reimbursement/payment for medical care for injuries that result from a motor vehicle accident. First Party Benefits (FPB) provide coverage for medical costs that a driver and his or her passengers incur in an accident regardless of fault.

Pennsylvania requires motorists to carry minimum required auto insurance, including a minimum, specified amount in bodily injury protection to pay medical expenses after an accident.

  • Bodily injury liability coverage: $15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident
  • Property damage liability coverage: $5,000
  • Uninsured motorist coverage: $15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident
  • Underinsured motorist coverage: $15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident
  • First-party benefits: $5,000

While many drivers choose to purchase more than $5,000 in FPB, Pennsylvania allows drivers to reject the uninsured and underinsured motorist coverages.

If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, seek medical care immediately. Do not wait as delaying treatment at a healthcare facility may jeopardize the chances of filing a viable claim with your insurance company. Once you have received medical treatment, call your auto insurance company to report the accident and file your initial claim. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney should then be your next course of action.

For 115 years, Powell Law has met the needs of those who require representation in personal injury matters in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area. Powell Law’s attorneys have unmatched experience assisting individuals who have suffered damages caused by the conduct of government employees. With Powell Law’s experience, we have unique abilities to help our clients in cases involving the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, as well as local governments and municipalities. Contact Powell Law at (570) 961-0777 or visit us online. Call now for a FREE case evaluation. You don’t pay unless we win!

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