Sorting through the days and weeks following an auto collision can be overwhelming and frustrating. In addition to struggling with your physical recovery, you are likely concerned about the medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses piling up after the accident. While you may recognize your right to pursue compensation to help cover these costs, you may wonder how your insurance coverage and policies affect the auto accident claims process. Below is a brief overview of Oregon’s insurance requirements, including personal injury protection (PIP), to help you understand the most strategic path towards obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Oregon’s Minimum Insurance Requirements
Under Oregon law, it is illegal to drive or operate a motor vehicle without liability coverage. All Oregon drivers must have basic liability coverage, including bodily injury and property damage liability ($25,000 per person; $50,000 per crash for bodily injury to others; and $20,000 per crash for property damage), a minimum of $15,000 per person of personal injury protection (PIP), and uninsured motorist coverage ($25,000 per person and $50,000 per crash for bodily injury).
What Does PIP Insurance Cover?
In Oregon, your PIP insurance pays for the injuries you sustain, no matter who was at fault for the accident. PIP insurance covers medical costs, lost income, and other qualifying expenses resulting from the auto accident injury. While Oregon law requires you to carry at least $15,000 of PIP coverage, many insurance carriers allow you to purchase a policy with higher limits. However, some policyholders find that their insurance company will attempt to deny or refuse to pay for medical bills, claiming that your treatment is unnecessary. The insurer may even require you to attend a doctor of their choosing for an “independent evaluation.” Obstacles to obtaining your PIP benefits can arise at any point, so enlist the guidance of a trusted personal injury attorney to ensure the process moves forward productively.
How a Skilled Portland and Vancouver Attorney Can Help
As you struggle to put your life back together after an auto accident injury, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. However, you do not have to go through this challenging time on your own. Working with a compassionate and experienced personal injury lawyer can give you the clarity and confidence you need to move forward and focus on your recovery. Let your attorney negotiate a fair and favorable settlement to help you get your life back on track.
Call Henderson Taylor Law Firm today at (360) 737-1478 to get started with a trusted and compassionate Vancouver personal injury attorney.
