Personal Injury Protection/Medical Payments FAQs
Personal injury protection (PIP) is a type of auto insurance coverage that pays for medical expenses and, in some cases, lost wages and other damages, regardless of who is at fault in an accident. PIP is often referred to as "no-fault" coverage.
Medical payments (MP), also known as MedPay, is a type of auto insurance coverage that also pays for medical expenses incurred due to an auto accident, regardless of fault. However, it typically does not cover other damages, like lost wages.
PIP usually offers broader coverage, including lost wages and rehabilitation costs, whereas MP generally covers only medical expenses. PIP is mandatory in no-fault states, whereas MP is optional in most states. PIP often has higher coverage limits compared to MP. The intricacies of PIP or MP coverage vary by state.
Specific benefits can differ based on state regulations and individual policy details. Check your specific state guidelines to find out more about your coverage options.
Uninsured/underinsured bodily injury coverage provides protection when you’re involved in an accident with a driver who either has no insurance (uninsured) or insufficient insurance (underinsured) to cover the damages. It helps pay for your medical expenses, lost wages and other damages resulting from the accident.
PIP and MP pay regardless of fault, whereas uninsured/underinsured bodily injury coverage only applies when the other driver is at fault and lacks adequate insurance. Uninsured/underinsured coverage typically addresses a broader range of damages, including pain and suffering, while PIP and MP are primarily for medical expenses and possibly lost wages (PIP).
In some states, PIP is the primary payer for auto accident injuries, meaning it pays before health insurance. In other states, your health insurance may be primary, and PIP can cover expenses not covered by health insurance. Both PIP and MP can help cover deductibles, copays and other out-of-pocket expenses that your health insurance doesn’t cover.
Check your specific state regulations to find out more about your coverage options.
PIP and MP are designed to provide immediate medical expense coverage, regardless of fault. This ensures that you can receive necessary medical treatment promptly without waiting for a fault determination or litigation against the at-fault party.
Yes, PIP and MP can cover medical expenses for passengers in your vehicle at the time of the accident, even if they are not named on your policy. This coverage generally extends to anyone occupying your vehicle with permission. Some exclusions apply. Check your policy for state specifics.
The typical PIP or MP claims process begins with an accident resulting in the need for medical attention. From there, the injured party or representative of the injured party should notify Amica while providing all necessary documentation (medical bills and accident reports). A PIP or MP adjuster will be assigned to review the claim and may request additional information. Once the claim is approved, Amica will pay the covered expenses. Some states require direct payment to the medical provider.