If you have been injured in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be wondering how to get compensation for your damages. You can typically obtain compensation through either PIP insurance or a personal injury lawsuit. However, you might question whether you can pursue both options after a collision. Please continue reading as we explore your legal options in the aftermath of a crash and how an experienced Chesterfield County Car Accident Lawyer can assist you.
What is PIP?
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is a type of auto insurance that can provide compensation for a range of economic damages after an accident. It’s also referred to as “no-fault” insurance because it provides coverage regardless of who is at fault for the accident. This means your insurer will pay out benefits even if you were partially or fully at fault for the collision.
PIP is mandatory in some states and optional in other states. While PIP is not required by law in South Carolina, motorists can choose to purchase PIP coverage through their insurance company. Instead of PIP, South Carolina offers motorists Medical Payment Coverage (MedPay). This is similar to PIP as it can help pay for medical expenses after a collision. PIP usually doesn’t cover non-economic damages like pain and suffering. However, it can provide compensation for ambulance fees, surgical costs, rehabilitation services, lost wages, and other reasonable expenses related to your injury.
Can I File a Personal Injury Lawsuit After Being Compensated Through PIP?
As mentioned above, PIP offers limited coverage. If your damages exceed your insurance coverage, you may be entitled to pursue a personal injury lawsuit to help you recover the full extent of your losses. If you have accumulated substantial expenses related to your injury, a personal injury lawsuit could be necessary to recover the compensation you need to get your life back on track.
You should note that if you collect compensation through a personal injury settlement, you may have to reimburse your insurer. However, you may not need to pay back the insurance company if you are only awarded compensation for vehicle repairs, non-economic losses, or other expenses that you were not previously paid for. You usually only need to reimburse PIP insurance if you are awarded compensation for your medical expenses that were already covered by your provider.
If you have been injured in a car accident due to another party’s negligence, it’s advisable to consult with a Chesterfield County car accident lawyer from the Cockrell Law Firm, P.C. to understand your options and determine the best courses of action given the unique circumstances of your case. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can fight for the maximum compensation you are entitled to for your damages.
