Do I really need unlimited PIP coverage in Michigan? While not legally required, unlimited personal injury protection (PIP) coverage is considered the gold standard amongst Michigan drivers.
If you have been injured in a car accident, a Lansing car accident lawyer can work to get you the highest payout available, regardless of your coverage level.
Understanding Personal Injury Protection Coverage in Michigan
Personal injury protection coverage is typically a mandatory portion of your own auto insurance designed to help you quickly cover medical-related expenses. These can include:
- Current medical expenses
- Future medical procedures
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Lost wages due to injuries
- Attendant care to assist with daily tasks
Michigan is a no-fault state, so personal injury protection coverage ensures that you are able to be reimbursed for expenses after an accident. Although you do not need unlimited PIP coverage, the higher your coverage level, the higher your available reimbursement.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
The Different PIP Coverage Options Available to Michigan Drivers
Choosing the type of PIP coverage that suits your needs can be confusing and can leave you wondering if you really need unlimited PIP coverage. There are six levels available when choosing PIP medical coverage. These include:
- Unlimited coverage
- Up to $500,000 in coverage
- Up to $250,000 in coverage
- Up to $250,000 in coverage with medical exclusions. This excludes named drivers who have sufficient, non-Medicare medical coverage through health insurance, so PIP coverage only covers non-medical items
- Up to $50,000 in coverage. This is for drivers who are enrolled in Medicaid
- PIP medical opt-out. This is for named drivers who have Medicare Parts A and B
When deciding which option to choose, you must weigh the pros and cons. The higher the coverage, the higher the cost, but in the event of an accident, you have more protection.
What Unlimited PIP Coverage Actually Provides
When deciding if you really need unlimited PIP coverage, it is crucial that you understand all that it covers. Since Michigan is a no-fault state, your own insurance covers the majority of expenses regardless of who was responsible. This means you want to have as much protection as possible.
Let’s say, for example, you experience a catastrophic injury such as spinal cord damage or a traumatic brain injury. You may have life-altering disabilities that affect you for years to come and may become permanent. In this case, expenses may be high and long-lasting, so you’ll want to ensure that your coverage will not run out. This is where unlimited coverage can help.
If you were the victim of a life-altering accident, a Lansing catastrophic injury lawyer can work with you to ensure you are receiving all benefits you are entitled to and pursue additional compensation if warranted.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
Medical Costs After Serious Car Accidents Can Add Up
Some accidents are minor and may not require much in the way of medical treatment, but in the event your injuries are severe, medical costs can stack up quickly. If you don’t have the proper coverage, you may be left in a situation where you cannot afford the medical care you need.
Even with health insurance, medical expenses can add up. From follow-up visits to necessary treatments, procedures, screenings, and medications, out-of-pocket expenses can add up. This is when many realize they need unlimited PIP coverage.
This is especially true if your injuries prevent you from returning to work. While you may have short- or long-term disability insurance through other means, those often do not pay high enough to cover living expenses, putting excessive financial strain on victims. At a time when you should be recovering, the last thing you need is financial stress.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
Lower PIP Coverage May Be an Option for Some Drivers
There are some scenarios in which lower PIP coverage may be acceptable for some. These can include individuals with sufficient health insurance or careers that don’t involve physical labor. As mentioned earlier, there are also exemptions for lower levels of coverage or the ability to opt out completely if you meet certain requirements.
While this still carries risk, as you would not have, or would have greatly reduced, lost-wage coverage or other benefits included in PIP coverage, some choose to go this direction. In this scenario, it is important to weigh the risks of reduced coverage against the benefits of lower insurance premiums.
When determining if you really need unlimited PIP coverage in Michigan, it is important to look at the worst-case scenario and how much risk you are willing to accept. According to the Insurance Alliance of Michigan, while more Michigan drivers are choosing PIP levels below unlimited, the majority of drivers, roughly 72%, are still opting for unlimited coverage.
Proper Legal Guidance Can Help Your Case, Regardless of Your Coverage Amount
While you may not need to consult an attorney whenever you are deciding if you need unlimited PIP coverage and what insurance plan to choose, having a qualified lawyer advocating for you after an accident can be the difference between receiving a low payment from your insurance company or the full amount you deserve.
The role of an insurance adjuster is to minimize the amount the insurance company pays. A skilled lawyer understands how to work around their tactics to ensure you receive the full benefits that you have paid for. They can help collect evidence, build your case, negotiate with insurance, and represent you in court if needed.
After an accident, you deserve time to focus on healing. Having a qualified lawyer working on your behalf gives you confidence that they will handle the details so you can prioritize your recovery.
White Law PLLC Is By Your Side
At White Law PLLC, we are here for you, regardless of the level of PIP insurance you choose. If you have been involved in an accident, we believe you deserve justice and the maximum compensation allowed. Contact us today for your free consultation to see what your case may be worth.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
