Saw this article about how PIP (personal injury protection) is required in no-fault states, but not everywhere else. Apparently, it’s supposed to make things simpler after an accident, but I’ve heard people complain it just adds to their premiums. Anyone actually had to use their PIP after a crash? Did it help or just cause more headaches? Curious if folks think it’s worth it or just another insurance gimmick.
Apparently, it’s supposed to make things simpler after an accident, but I’ve heard people complain it just adds to their premiums. Anyone actually had to use their PIP after a crash?
I’ve actually had to use my PIP after a minor fender bender last year. Honestly, it did what it was supposed to—covered my ER visit and a couple follow-ups without me having to wait for the other driver’s insurance. But yeah, my premiums went up at renewal, which was annoying. I get why people say it feels like just another cost, but I’d rather have that safety net than risk getting stuck with bills. Has anyone else noticed if their rates jumped a lot after using PIP?
Honestly, I’m just now shopping for my first policy and the PIP thing is kind of confusing. I’ve read stories like yours where it helps out, but the premium hikes make me nervous. Is it always a guarantee that your rates go up after using PIP, or does it depend on the company or state? It feels like you’re paying for peace of mind, but at the same time, you’re sort of penalized for actually needing it. Just trying to figure out if there’s a way around that or if it’s just part of the deal...
I totally get where you’re coming from. When I first bought car insurance, PIP felt like this weird extra that I wasn’t sure I’d ever use—but then my cousin got rear-ended and ended up needing months of physical therapy. Her PIP covered the bills, but she did see a bump in her premium the next year. She called her agent and apparently, it wasn’t automatic—it depended on how much was paid out, who was at fault, and even the state rules. For her (in Florida), it was just a small increase, but she said a friend in another state barely noticed a change.
Honestly, it does feel kind of unfair sometimes, like you’re being punished for actually using what you paid for. But then again, if she hadn’t had PIP, she’d have been on the hook for thousands. Guess it’s one of those things where you hope you never need it, but if you do, you’re glad it’s there... even if your wallet takes a little hit later. Insurance is such a weird gamble sometimes.
I totally get where you’re coming from. When I first bought car insurance, PIP felt like this weird extra that I wasn’t sure I’d ever use—but then my cousin got rear-ended and ended up need...
Honestly, I think a lot of people underestimate how expensive even minor injuries can get. PIP feels like a pain when you’re looking at your bill, but skipping it just to save a few bucks seems shortsighted. I’d rather have the coverage and deal with a slightly higher premium than end up fighting with health insurance or paying out of pocket. Not saying it’s perfect, but in no-fault states, you kinda don’t have much choice anyway. It’s annoying, but I get why it’s there.
