How PIP works in Utah, in plain words
What PIP insurance covers in Utah under the law, the minimum it pays, what happens when it runs out and when you can claim against the at-fault driver.
“Who pays for my doctor?” is almost always the first question after a crash. In Utah, the answer starts with three letters: PIP. Here is what it is, how much it covers under the law and what happens when it is not enough.
What PIP is
PIP stands for Personal Injury Protection. It is a required part of auto policies in Utah, and it pays certain expenses for people injured in an accident regardless of who was at fault. That is why Utah is called a no-fault state.
In practice, it means you do not have to wait for anyone to decide who caused the crash before you start getting care.
What it covers at a minimum
Utah law (Utah Code section 31A-22-307) sets the minimum PIP must cover per person:
- Medical expenses: at least $3,000. This includes medical, surgical, X-ray, dental, rehabilitation, ambulance, hospital and nursing services.
- Lost income: 85% of what you are unable to earn, capped at $250 per week, for up to 52 weeks.
- Help at home: up to $20 per day, for up to 365 days, for household tasks the injury keeps you from doing.
- Funeral expenses: up to $1,500, plus $3,000 in compensation to the heirs in case of death.
The same law does not allow deductibles on these minimum coverages. Your policy may cover more than this, never less; it is worth checking how much PIP you bought.
What happens when $3,000 is not enough
For many injuries, $3,000 runs out quickly. This is where section 31A-22-309 of the same law comes in. In general, the no-fault system limits lawsuits against the at-fault driver, except when the injured person has one of these:
- Medical expenses of more than $3,000.
- A broken bone.
- A permanent disability or impairment based on objective findings.
- Permanent disfigurement.
- Dismemberment, or death.
When one of these applies, a claim can be made against the at-fault driver for the damages PIP does not cover. How and when to do that is a question for a personal-injury attorney, not for the clinic.
Why the medical records matter
Both PIP and any later claim rest on the same thing: the records of your care. An early evaluation, a clear diagnosis and treatment documented from start to finish are what your insurer and your attorney will look at.
How we handle it at the clinic
We review your PIP coverage with you before treatment starts and, when your policy allows it, we bill your insurer directly. If you have an attorney, we share your records and documentation with them so you do not have to chase them down. All in English or Spanish.
Sources
- Utah State Legislature. Utah Code §31A-22-307, Personal injury protection coverages and benefits.
- Utah State Legislature. Utah Code §31A-22-309, Limitations, exclusions, and conditions to personal injury protection.
This article is general information about our clinic and about how PIP works in Utah. It is not medical or legal advice and does not replace a consultation with an attorney or a health professional. The figures are the minimums under current law; your policy may differ. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.