PIP Insurance Coverage in Utah

In Utah, you have multiple options to recover compensation after being involved in a car accident. One of the most overlooked is personal injury protection (PIP), a type of no-fault insurance that covers certain damages after a car accident. You can secure compensation through PIP coverage regardless of who caused the collision, which makes this insurance a viable option in certain situations.

Is PIP Insurance Required in Utah?

Utah is a fault state, which means that the driver who caused the accident is responsible for paying damages to the other parties involved. To uphold this financial responsibility, state law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance, which pays for things like medical care and property repairs after an accident. 

However, Utah also requires all drivers to carry at least $3,000 of PIP insurance. Drivers who want additional protection can typically purchase higher limits from their insurer, with some policies providing up to $100,000 in coverage. Because medical care and other damages can easily exceed the $3,000 minimum, it is advisable to purchase higher limits if possible.

What Does PIP Insurance Cover and What Does It Exclude?

PIP insurance extends coverage to the driver of the car and any passengers. The minimum policy typically provides coverage for:

• Medical Care: PIP will provide coverage of up to $3,000 for medical expenses per person. Most reasonable medical procedures and services are covered by PIP, including X-rays, hospital costs, prescriptions, and rehabilitation.
• Death Benefits: PIP will provide up to $3,000 in death benefits to heirs if the policyholder is killed in a car accident. This also includes $1,500 in burial costs per deceased person. 
• Wage Replacement: Many people are unable to work after a car accident. If this is the case, PIP insurance will reimburse you for lost wages. However, the minimum required coverage in Utah limits the payout to 85% of lost income or $250 per week, whichever is lower, and only for a maximum of 52 weeks.
• Special Allowance: PIP will provide up to $20 per day as a special allowance for services necessary if you cannot perform certain tasks due to your injuries. These tasks may include childcare, cooking, yard work, and home maintenance. This coverage is usually limited to 365 days, even if your injuries extend longer.

When to Use PIP vs Filing a Third-Party Claim

Since PIP insurance is a no-fault coverage, you can use it immediately after an accident to cover your medical expenses and lost wages. This can be especially helpful if you need medical treatment right away, or if you were at fault for the accident.

If it is clear that another driver’s negligence caused your collision, you should pursue a third-party claim against the at-fault party’s insurance coverage. You can also escalate your claim to a personal injury lawsuit. You can contact a personal injury attorney in Utah to discuss which avenue is appropriate for your situation.

Speak with Our Utah Car Accident Attorneys for Personalized Advice

Understanding Utah’s PIP insurance laws can be confusing, but this knowledge is crucial if you are trying to recover compensation after an accident. If you need help filing an insurance claim or have questions about your coverage, a Utah car accident lawyer from We Win Injury Law can help.

Our firm can evaluate your policies, explain the coverage terms, and identify your optimal path to maximum compensation after a collision. Contact us today at (435) 688-9558 to speak with our attorneys and start planning your next steps.