While Maryland is not one of the states that require drivers to carry PIP policies along with their traditional motor vehicle insurance, some drivers still choose to carry this type of coverage. PIP, or personal injury protection, will pay for your medical bills and other costs related to your injuries after a motor vehicle accident. The insurance covers you no matter who was at fault in the crash. Some drivers, however, worry that utilizing their PIP coverage will increase their insurance rates.
How PIP works
If you purchase PIP, which is sometimes called no-fault insurance, you can expect it to cover your medical expenses if you’re injured in a car accident. It covers yourself as the driver and any passengers in your vehicle. These policies have a minimum coverage amount and a maximum coverage amount per person. If your medical costs exceed the maximum coverage, your health insurance may pay for the remaining balance.
PIP is helpful if you’re involved in a crash with a driver who doesn’t have motor vehicle insurance. In some cases, your coverage may also provide funds to help with childcare and loss of income. In the case of a fatal accident, funeral costs may receive coverage. PIP does not cover property damage to your vehicle or the other vehicles involved.
Will your rates go up?
PIP is different from liability coverage because it’s not dependent on who caused the accident. In the case of an accident where negligence is involved, the negligent driver’s insurance may have to pay for damages to your vehicle and other accident-related expenses. If you’re injured and have PIP, you may worry about your rates going up if you file a claim to cover your injuries.
If you file a PIP claim and it’s determined that the other driver was at fault, your rates are not likely to increase. However, if you file a claim and your insurance company determines that your negligence caused the accident, your rates may go up. Choosing whether to purchase PIP coverage depends on your financial situation and your desire to have extra coverage in case you’re ever injured in a motor vehicle accident.
Advice after an accident
If you’re injured in a crash in Maryland due to the negligence of another driver, you may suffer long-term effects, which your insurance policy does not always cover. Whether you have PIP or not when another driver’s negligence leads to your injuries, you have the right to seek compensation from that driver. A successful personal injury lawsuit can provide you with the financial assistance you need to make progress toward your recovery.
