Many people in Maryland are surprised to learn that Personal Injury Protection, or PIP, is far more accessible after a car accident than insurance companies might like them to know. This valuable coverage can help a lot when you’ve been hurt. Understanding how PIP functions in our state will make a big difference, and talking with a Baltimore, MD PIP insurance lawyer can help you ensure you’re getting all the help you should after an accident.
How Does PIP Insurance Work After a Car Crash in Baltimore, MD?
PIP Definition and Requirements in Maryland
PIP is a form of no-fault auto insurance that’s designed to cover certain losses you might have after a wreck, regardless of who caused the crash. Traditional liability coverage depends on proving fault, but PIP steps in immediately to help victims recover those essential out-of-pocket costs even if they’re to blame (or partly to blame) for an accident. It covers everyone, whether they’re a totally innocent victim or completely to blame for what happened.
Coverage can apply to the policyholder, family members living in the same household, guests riding in the car, anyone given permission to drive it, passengers, and even pedestrians struck by the insured vehicle. One of the most important things to know is that Maryland does not mandate PIP on every auto policy, yet insurers are required by law to offer it whenever someone purchases coverage.
You can choose to decline PIP, but that decision must be made explicitly. You’ll have to sign a waiver at the time you get your policy, though that can be done electronically if you signed up for your insurance coverage electronically. Simply not paying an extra premium for PIP coverage does not count as a waiver, so if your insurer claims the coverage was waived, request a copy of that document immediately.
How It Can Help
When You’re Not at Fault
What makes PIP especially powerful in Maryland is the “collateral source rule.” Under this rule, victims can often recover the same medical expenses and lost wages twice: once from their own PIP carrier and again from the at-fault driver’s liability insurance.
Now, the insurance adjuster for the at-fault driver will never volunteer this information, and they’ll likely try to settle your claim for less if you don’t have a lawyer and are unaware of your rights. They likely won’t actually lie and tell you that they don’t have to pay for your losses and damages if your PIP already covered it, but they will be happy to imply it with statements like, “oh, didn’t you get coverage for that with your PIP?”
When You Are at Fault
PIP is even more important when you are at fault, because it allows you to get some coverage for your losses.
Get Help From a PIP Insurance Lawyer
If you’re trying to figure out your coverage, don’t miss out on all you’re eligible for. Call us now at the Law Offices of Elan B. Rafael in Baltimore, MD, where we also serve clients in Silver Spring, Brooklyn Park, Glen Burnie, Towson, Columbia, Annapolis, and Rockville.
Connect with us
