Oftentimes when clients come into our office as a result of a motor vehicle collision in which they have sustained serious injury, our first question is, “What do you have for automobile insurance coverage that protects you in the event that the wrongdoer has inadequate insurance?”
The response is nearly universal: “I have full coverage.” Unfortunately, very few realize that insurance agents keep insurance rates to a minimum at your expense by failing to recommend insurance coverage that will protect you in the event of serious or catastrophic and permanent injuries.
If you look at your insurance coverage selection page, you will find that the mandatory coverage is 20/40. This means that in the event that the wrongdoer is insured for only $20,000, your maximum recovery is only $20,000. It makes no difference how serious your injuries are; the $20,000 maximum will apply.
We recommend that you consult with your insurance agent and obtain quotes for a minimum of $100,000 for the following:
#3 Uninsured Coverage
#12 Underinsured Coverage
#5 Optional Bodily Injury to Others
#6 Medical Payments
With reference to medical coverage, most people believe that $8,000 in Personal Injury Protection Benefits (PIP) is adequate. Today, if you miss work and you have medical bills and lost wages that exceed $8,000, your coverage ends. Even if your health insurance pays your bills, the insurer will have a lien on your case and must be paid back out of your recovery. By having the extra coverage (#6 – Medical Payments), your bills and medical liens will likely be paid in full.
If you have any questions or require any assistance in determining the appropriate insurance coverage to protect yourself, please feel free to call us for help.
Ianello & Brittain P.C. located in Western Massachusetts, with offices in Springfield, represent you in personal injury and criminal cases.
