Understanding Maryland car insurance and how that coverage could apply if you are ever involved in a car accident is essential.
Understanding Maryland car insurance and how that coverage could apply if you are ever involved in a car accident is essential. This is especially true if you are injured in a crash. When selecting your auto insurance, it’s essential to understand the different coverage options. There are generally Med Pay and Personal Injury Protection (PIP) options to choose from. These forms of insurance cover necessary medical services if you’re injured in a car accident. To understand which plan is right for you, let’s go over the differences between Med Pay and Personal Injury Protection in Maryland.
Explaining Personal Injury Protection
Personal Injury Protection, also known as PIP, is a no-fault insurance policy. This means that the coverage applies regardless of who is responsible for the accident. If you are involved in a car accident and have PIP coverage, you may file your claim against your PIP insurance policy even if the other driver caused the crash. PIP insurance generally covers the following areas:
- Medical Expenses – Such as medical treatment, medications, medical supplies, imaging, and laboratory testing
- Funeral Costs
- Lost Wages
- Household and childcare expenses: Includes home expenses (bills, groceries, etc.) or childcare expenses
- Survivors’ Loss – Surviving dependents can recover the breadwinner’s income if they were killed in an accident
What is MedPay?
In Maryland, MedPay coverage is optional. It covers medical expenses for the insured person, other drivers listed on the policy, members of the insured person’s household, and any passengers in the vehicle at the time of the accident.
Unlike PIP, MedPay only covers medical expenses related to the accident. Terms and conditions vary depending on the company and the insurance policy you purchase. For example, if your insurance company offers primary coverage, the insurance company should pay the medical bills once you submit them to the company. MedPay pays for your deductibles and any medical bills that your health insurance plan does not cover if you choose secondary coverage.
Differences Between PIP and MedPay
It’s important to understand the difference between MedPay and PIP benefits. They are similar in that neither takes fault into consideration and the insured’s company pays them.
PIP is required in 15 states, Maryland included. The injured person must pay any applicable deductibles and co-pays. Additionally, non-medical costs may be covered by PIP, such as lost wages. On the other hand. Med Pay is generally optional, there are no deductibles or co-pays, and medical costs are covered immediately.
If someone else has caused an accident that injured you or a loved one, you may be entitled to additional compensation for your expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other harm. Contact The Snyder Law Group today to request a free consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, or call us at 410-843-3476, for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.