Pennsylvania employs a no-fault approach to car accidents, which means that drivers are required to carry personal injury protection (PIP) in the state. This is designed to expedite the claims process by taking the matter of fault out of the equation, which can work well in some situations. If, however, you were seriously injured by a motorist who is uninsured or underinsured, you’ll likely need to explore additional options. Injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver? You need the skilled legal counsel of an experienced Lewisburg car accident attorney in your corner.
Your PIP Coverage
Drivers are required to carry personal injury protection coverage in Pennsylvania. This insurance applies regardless of who is at fault, but the coverage afforded is less comprehensive than it would be if in a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. Coverage includes a specific percentage of your medical expenses and lost income – up to the policy limits. If you were injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver, your PIP coverage can help.
If the Driver Was Underinsured
If the driver who caused you to be injured was underinsured, you can seek compensation for your losses up to their policy limits by filing a car accident claim with their insurance provider. The fact that the driver was underinsured, however, means that you’ll still be facing uncovered losses.
If the Driver Was Uninsured
If the at-fault driver was uninsured, it means that you’re unlikely to be compensated through them. Generally, those who don’t purchase required coverage do so because they can’t afford it, which means you’ll need to explore alternative sources of coverage.
Your Own Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If the driver who caused you to be injured was either underinsured or uninsured, you can turn to your own uninsured or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. While UIM coverage is no longer required in Pennsylvania, it is highly recommended. In fact, insurance providers are required to offer it, and you can only opt-out if you do so in writing.
Coverage
UIM coverage affords broader compensation and will address your comprehensive losses in each of the following categories – up to your policy limits:
- Your medical expenses, including ongoing healthcare needs
- Your lost wages, including any downturn in earning potential
- Your physical and emotional pain and suffering
Stacking UIM Benefits
In Pennsylvania, you can also stack UIM benefits. This amounts to multiplying the coverage limits that are in place times the number of vehicles covered by the policy, which can significantly improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation for your full range of covered losses.
Turn to an Experienced Lewisburg Car Accident Lawyer for the Help You Need
The dedicated Lewisburg car accident attorneys at Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe work tirelessly for our clients who’ve been injured by uninsured and underinsured drivers, and we’re committed to doing the same for you. Your claim is important, so don’t put off reaching out and contacting us online or calling us at 717-789-7859 for more information about what we can do to help you today.