That’s a tough lesson to learn firsthand. It’s easy to think you’re just trimming unnecessary costs, but insurance is one of those things where the value only really shows up when you need it—and by then, it’s too late to change your mind. I’ve always looked at that PIP line on my bill and wondered if it was just another way for companies to squeeze a bit more out of us, but your story highlights the practical side.
I do think there’s a balance, though. For folks who barely drive or have solid health coverage elsewhere, it can still feel redundant. But as you pointed out, the hassle of chasing down payments after an accident is no joke. I had a friend in a similar spot—she spent months sorting out bills after a crash, and honestly, the stress alone seemed worse than the money she would’ve paid for PIP.
It’s one of those things that feels unnecessary until you actually need it. Maybe not perfect, but I get why some states err on the side of caution.
Yeah, I totally get where you’re coming from. I used to grumble about that PIP charge too, especially when money was tight. But a few years back, my cousin got rear-ended and didn’t have PIP—she thought her regular health insurance would cover everything. Turns out, it didn’t, and she ended up with a pile of bills and a ton of headaches. It’s one of those things you hope you never need, but man, when you do, it’s a lifesaver. Still, I agree—it feels like overkill for folks who barely drive or have great coverage already. The system isn’t perfect, but I guess it’s trying to cover the “what ifs.”
It’s one of those things you hope you never need, but man, when you do, it’s a lifesaver.
Yeah, I hear that. I used to roll my eyes at PIP too—felt like just another line on the bill next to “luxury tax” for my car’s cupholders. But after seeing a buddy get stuck with a mountain of medical bills after a fender bender (and he drives a beater, not even a fancy ride), I kinda get why it’s there. Still, it’s wild how some states make it mandatory and others are like, “nah, you’re on your own.” Feels like playing insurance roulette every time I cross state lines.
I’ve always thought the patchwork of insurance laws is a bit like driving through a buffet—you never know what you’re getting until you’re already halfway through your plate. Some states push PIP because they want to make sure folks aren’t left hanging with medical bills, while others figure it’s your call if you want to roll the dice. Personally, I’d rather pay for PIP than gamble on my wallet surviving a trip to the ER, but I get why people grumble about the extra cost. It’s just one more thing to budget for... right up there with those “luxury” cupholders.
I get the logic behind wanting PIP as a safety net, but honestly, I see the other side pretty often. Here’s the thing:
- PIP isn’t always the magic fix people think it is. It’s capped, and once you hit that limit, you’re still on the hook for anything over.
- Some folks already have solid health insurance. For them, PIP can feel like double-dipping—paying for coverage they might not even use, just because the state says so.
- In states where it’s not required, I’ve seen people put that money toward higher liability or uninsured motorist coverage, which sometimes makes more sense depending on their risk.
I’ve handled claims where someone’s PIP runs out after one ambulance ride and a night in the hospital. Then they’re back to square one with bills anyway. Not saying PIP is useless, but it’s not a cure-all. The “extra cost” piece isn’t always minor, either. For some families, every dollar counts, and mandatory add-ons just feel like another way to squeeze the wallet.
Honestly, I’d rather see people have the choice. If you want the extra layer, pay for it. If you’re comfortable with your health plan or just want to roll the dice, that should be your call. I know that’s not a popular take in every state, but one-size-fits-all rules rarely work out for everyone.
And don’t get me started on those “luxury” cupholders... at least you can see what you’re paying for there.
