Can I Recover Compensation from PIP and a Personal Injury Lawsuit?

If you have been injured in a car accident and you were compensated through your PIP, you still may be able to pursue additional compensation. While PIP insurance covers some economic damages, it usually doesn’t cover non-economic damages. A personal injury lawsuit can help you recover damages beyond your PIP coverage. Please continue reading as we explore the type of damages available in a personal injury lawsuit and how a determined Morris County Car Accident Attorney can assist you.

What is PIP?

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is a type of car insurance that can cover medical expenses and lost wages if you are injured in a car accident. PIP is often referred to as “no-fault” insurance because it protects you regardless of who is at fault. New Jersey requires all motorists to carry PIP insurance. The minimum coverage every motorist must purchase is at least  $15,000, but motorists can choose to increase their coverage limits. If you are involved in a car accident, you can turn to your own PIP insurance for compensation.

Can I File a Personal Injury Claim After Being Compensated Through PIP?

If your damages are significant and exceed your PIP coverage limits, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit. This can help you recover the full extent of your losses. PIP doesn’t provide compensation beyond your economic damages. This refers to your tangible, out-of-pocket losses, such as your medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation services, and other reasonable expenses related to your injury. Therefore, if your damages exceed your policy, you can file a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation for your non-economic damages. This refers to your intangible losses, such as pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and more.

Do I Have to Pay My Insurance Provider Back?

It’s important to understand that if you receive compensation from your PIP, your insurer may have the right to recover some of that amount from the settlement of your personal injury lawsuit. The insurance company can seek reimbursement due to subrogation rights. Essentially, they can claim any compensation the insured receives from the at-fault party after paying a covered claim.

In the unfortunate event that you have been injured in a car accident due to another party’s negligence, please don’t hesitate to contact an experienced Morris County car accident attorney from Lutz Injury Law. Our legal team is prepared to do everything in our power to help you get the justice you deserve. Connect with our firm today to learn more about how we can help you navigate your legal options and pursue additional compensation.