Each year, many Americans find themselves injured as a result of someone else’s negligence. A recurring question is whether the innocent party’s injury or claims are covered under their “full coverage” automobile policy. What people generally refer to as a “full coverage” insurance policy consists of liability coverage (which covers the other driver if you are at fault) and collision coverage (which covers your damaged vehicle should you be involved in an accident). So, in short, the innocent party’s injury or claims may not be entirely covered under their insurance policy. This is likely surprising to hear for many; however, there are two endorsements that may be added to your insurance policy to have your injuries covered, especially when you are not at fault for the accident: 1) Medical Payments or Personal Injury Protection Coverage; and 2) Underinsured or Uninsured Bodily Injury Coverage.

First, Medical Payments or Personal Injury Protection Coverage covers your medical bills up to an amount chosen by you when you purchase the endorsement. The amounts generally start at low as $500 and can increase to as high as $100,000. This coverage is per person, per accident. Importantly, once the coverage is exhausted, there are no additional funds left for your medical bills. If you are not at fault for an accident, you often need to use this coverage before going to the responsible party’s insurance. Thereafter, the other party’s insurance company will reimburse your carrier.

Second, Underinsured or Uninsured Bodily Injury Coverage protects you if you are involved in an automobile accident which is not your fault and the other negligent party has no insurance coverage or inadequate insurance coverage. This endorsement will cover your injuries above and beyond your Medical Payments or Personal Injury Protection coverage. It also covers bills, pain and suffering and lost wages.

Personal injury matters are often complicated, involving medical reports, contractual terms and specific timelines. This is not an area of the law to rely solely on self-help because the negligent party’s insurance adjusters will not protect your interests. You should seek legal counsel to protect you rights. Please call the attorneys at Patel & Williams for a free initial consultation.