What is Personal Injury Protection?

Texan drivers have many costs to contend with on a daily, monthly, and annual basis. When it comes to insurance, the abundance of lingo can make it confusing to know what you require. One common question people ask is “What is Personal Injury Protection (PIP) & do I need it in Texas?” The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates are here to explain what PIP is, the legal requirements, and its benefits. 

About The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates 

The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates has spent years representing clients in Galveston, League City, Houston, and cities across Texas in their personal injury cases. Our team has handled over 400 jury trials and has over 35 years of combined legal experience handling matters ranging from minor injuries to wrongful death. 

What is Personal Injury Protection?

Personal Injury Protection, or PIP, is a type of auto insurance coverage that drivers may purchase in Texas. It is optional and a form of no-fault insurance that can help you in the aftermath of a crash, regardless of its cause. State law requires that PIP coverage be included in plans by default, unless you reject it in writing. A few things that PIP can pay for include:

• Medical bills from accident-sustained injuries
• Lost wages 
• Funeral expenses
• Child care
• Ambulance fees
• Household assistance

An important note is that PIP coverage does not cover property damages, medical expenses for non-policyholders, or intentional criminal actions. 

Why Personal Injury Protection is Important

PIP may not be legally necessary, but it can be essential in protecting you from disaster. In 2024, the Texas Department of Transportation reported that 251,977 people were injured in motor vehicle accidents statewide, with 18,218 injuries classified as serious. During the same year, 4,150 people died in traffic collisions, or a rate of one person every two hours and seven minutes. These incidents can occur anywhere, not just on busy routes like Interstate 45 or Interstate 10.  

PIP can be beneficial to you in a variety of scenarios. A few types of collisions where personal injury protection is helpful include:

• You played a role in causing an accident
• You need immediate medical coverage without going through your health insurer
• You are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, 14.5% of all Texas motorists
• You are a pedestrian or cyclist and are struck by a car
• You are involved in a hit-and-run
• You require ongoing assistance after an accident

Possible Downsides of PIP

While PIP is strongly recommended, there are some downsides to consider when looking into auto insurance. One limitation is that Personal Injury Protection only covers motor vehicle-related incidents. Another reason why PIP may not be right for you is that an existing insurance plan covers similar incidents and exceeds the PIP limits. In these instances, PIP may be an additional, unnecessary cost.   

FAQs

Q: Do Drivers Require Auto Insurance in Texas?

A: Texas state law requires that all drivers have a set amount of liability auto insurance coverage to operate a vehicle. The legal minimum is a plan with at least $30,000 in injury coverage per person up to $60,000, and $25,000 property damage coverage. These figures represent a basic plan and typically do not cover no-fault incidents or may fall short of the total cost of damages. 

Q: Do I Need PIP Coverage in Texas?

A: In Texas, PIP coverage is not included in the mandatory insurance coverage you must have to drive a vehicle. However, PIP can be invaluable in many minor and major accidents. One key benefit is that since it is no-fault, you can receive funds even if you were responsible for the accident. If the accident is another driver’s fault, PIP is useful when the at-fault party is underinsured, uninsured, or flees the scene before they are identified. 

Q: How Much Does PIP Coverage Cost in Texas?

A: How much your Texas PIP coverage costs depends on your insurance provider and the amount of coverage you want. A plan with limited utility and low coverage typically costs less than one that covers thousands in damages. In 2022, the average annual auto insurance expenditure, including PIP,was $1,123.12. Your lawyer can review different plans with you to find one that provides maximum coverage within your budget. 

Q: What Should You Not Say to an Insurance Adjuster?

A: When discussing an accident with your insurance adjuster, you should avoid many details of the event. The first topic to refrain from is blame. You may feel partly responsible, or certain that another party is at fault, but any conjecture can threaten your claim. Second, do not make any official, recorded statement on the record. Any contradiction discovered later may be used to deny your claim. Stick to the basic details of the incident. 

Q: What Can You Do If Your Car Accident Insurance Claim Is Denied?

A: Most feel overwhelmed and upset after receiving a denial for their car accident insurance claim. In the aftermath, it is important to remember that you still have options. The first step to take is to review the rejection letter for its reasoning. Next, gather evidence such as medical records and your existing insurance plan, and use them to draft an appeal. If your appeal is denied, and you have grounds for coverage, you can file a civil claim. 

Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Insurance plans can be confusing, with many providers using complex language and overcomplicated structures. Hire a personal injury lawyer to help you with all insurance concerns. Your Texas personal injury attorney from The Law Offices of Tad Nelson & Associates can prepare you for future incidents and provide options in the time following an accident. 

Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation, where we can discuss whether PIP coverage may be right for you. You may also visit one of our offices in person. We have offices in League City and in Galveston.