In Oregon, Personal Injury Protection (“PIP”) is a mandatory feature of every auto insurance policy. Whether you're at fault or not in a car accident, PIP ensures that you have access to essential benefits to cover immediate expenses. Here’s everything you need to know about how PIP coverage works and why it’s crucial.

What Is Personal Injury Protection (“PIP”)?

PIP, short for “Personal Injury Protection”, is a no-fault insurance coverage. This means it applies regardless of who caused the auto accident. In Oregon, the minimum required PIP coverage includes:

• $15,000 in medical bills for treatment directly related to the accident.
• 70% wage loss reimbursement, capped at $3,000 per month, if your injuries prevent you from working, not to exceed 52 weeks.
• Coverage for funeral expenses and memorial costs in tragic cases of loss.

Your auto insurance policy may include higher limits, so it’s always wise to review your plan.

Who Does PIP Cover?

PIP is designed to protect more than just the policyholder. It also covers:

• Family members who are injured in any vehicle.
• Passengers in the vehicle at the time of the crash.
• Pedestrians hit by the insured vehicle, if they don’t have their own auto insurance or health insurance.

This broad scope ensures that individuals injured in an accident have access to covered medical expenses and financial support.

How to Use PIP Coverage After an Accident

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, activating your PIP coverage is straightforward:

1. File a Claim: Contact your insurance company immediately to open a PIP claim. They are typically cooperative with PIP-related claims.
2. Seek Medical Treatment: Don’t delay treatment. Even if you think your injuries are minor, using your PIP coverage ensures your medical expenses are covered, helping you recover without financial strain.  Doing so also helps to document your condition following the car crash.
3. Document Everything: Keep records of all medical visits, wage loss, and other related costs. These documents will be invaluable if your case evolves into a personal injury claim.

Why PIP Is Essential

One of the most significant advantages of PIP is its flexibility. Whether you’re a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, PIP ensures you won’t face delays in receiving financial support for your recovery. It also provides peace of mind by covering lost income and medical bills, enabling you to focus on healing rather than worrying about finances.

The Role of a Personal Injury Attorney

While PIP is straightforward in many cases, disputes with the insurance company often arise. If you encounter issues accessing your benefits, a skilled personal injury attorney can advocate for your rights. They can help with more complex cases, including injury lawsuits or claims involving uninsured drivers.

At our law firm, we’re here to guide you through the legal process and ensure your recovery isn’t hindered by bureaucratic roadblocks. From handling PIP disputes to navigating broader personal injury cases, we are committed to achieving the best outcome for you.

Conclusion

Don’t avoid treatment or hesitate to use your PIP coverage because you’re unsure about your rights. Whether you’re a driver, pedestrian, or passenger, Oregon law requires personal injury protection coverage to safeguard your recovery. If you have questions about your benefits or need help with a personal injury claim, our experienced injury attorneys are here to help. Call us today at (541) 617-0555 for a free consultation.