In Massachusetts, we have certain auto insurance coverages that are required by the state, known as “compulsory” insurance coverage. The reason they called it “compulsory” is that you are compelled by the state to buy it. Under M.G.L. c. 90 s. 34M, otherwise known as the “PIP Statute,” we have required Personal Injury Protection coverage, otherwise known as “PIP.” If you have private (non-ERISA) health insurance, PIP covers up to $2,000 in medical bills and/or up to $8,000 in lost wages. If you have a public health insurance plan (think MassHealth or Medicare), PIP covers up to $8,000 in medical bills and lost wages.
Regardless of your health insurance, PIP coverage applies to injuries resulting from a motor vehicle collision without regard to “fault.” This is called “no-fault” coverage. The PIP statute does allow you to “opt-out” of PIP or to add a deductible to your PIP coverage, but we STRONGLY recommend that you refrain from opting out. PIP coverage is so valuable when you or a loved one is injured in a motor vehicle collision.
You can (and should) also buy optional coverage for medical bills called “med pay” coverage. It works similar to PIP and acts as supplemental coverage to PIP. So, if you get in an accident and take a $2,000 ambulance ride to the ER, followed by a $3,000 ER visit, you won’t have to figure out how to pay for it when your health insurance denies payment, because it was some other persons’ fault.
Prepare for the worst and hope for the best. There is almost no benefit to opting out of PIP and the is a huge benefit to buying extra med pay coverage. It’s cheap and protects you and your loved ones. If you want any guidance on what coverages you should buy and/or you want an attorney to coordinate your benefits after you get into a accident, call Orlando & Associates, P.C., your Massachusetts personal injury attorneys. We tip the scales of justice in your favor!
