What is Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance?
If you’ve been in a car accident in Washington, DC, you might wonder how you’ll afford your medical bills and lost wages. In some cases, personal injury protection (PIP) might be an option. PIP is a type of auto coverage that helps pay for these expenses, regardless of who caused the crash. In Washington D.C., PIP is optional, but insurance companies are required to offer it to all drivers.
How Does PIP Work?
PIP pays out regardless of who was at fault in an accident. You file the claim with your own insurance carrier, and they cover approved expenses up to your policy’s limits. Typically, this includes medical bills, lost wages, and sometimes even costs for hiring help around the house if you can’t manage your usual tasks because of your injuries. If your damages exceed your PIP coverage, you can still pursue further claims if the other driver was negligent and your accident and injuries meet certain criteria.
When You Can File a Personal Injury Lawsuit Even If You Have PIP
Even if you decide to use no-fault PIP benefits, you typically can’t sue the at-fault driver unless your injuries surpass certain levels of seriousness. Specifically, you’ll need to show that your medical bills went beyond your PIP limits or that you suffered lasting harm such as major scarring, noticeable disfigurement, or a catastrophic injury.
Additional Compensation You Could Be Entitled To Through a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If you’ve met the threshold to pursue a personal injury lawsuit, you might qualify for compensation that goes beyond what PIP covers. Below are some of the common categories of compensation you could receive:
More Medical Costs
Your medical bills can range from hospital stays and diagnostic tests to ongoing treatments and therapy. These expenses can add up quickly, especially if you need long-term care. You have the right to seek reimbursement for any past, present, or future costs related to the accident that PIP hasn’t covered.
Lost Wages and Earning Potential
Being hurt may force you to take unpaid time off or even give up your job entirely if your injuries are severe. You could be entitled to compensation for the income you’ve missed and any future earning capacity you’ve lost. This includes decreased wages if you’re unable to return to the same line of work or must accept a lower-paying position.
Pain and Suffering
In addition to financial losses, you could pursue damages for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured. Chronic pain, anxiety, and depression are just a few of the issues that can arise after a serious injury. These non-financial damages aim to address the harm that isn’t easily measured in dollars.
Punitive Damages
If it’s proven the responsible party acted especially recklessly, you might be able to recover punitive damages. These damages serve as a deterrent, meant to discourage others from behaving in a similar way. It’s less common to receive punitive damages, but they can make a big difference in your monetary award.
The best way to make sure you get the compensation you’re truly entitled to is to speak with an experienced attorney. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer.