While most drivers follow traffic laws and practice cautious driving on the road, they are still not immune to the possibility of being involved in an accident.
If you or your family have been hurt by a recent car crash, it is crucial to seek medical care as soon as possible and take proactive measures that can help protect your rights.
How does Hawaii’s no-fault insurance system work?
Under Hawaii’s ‘no-fault’ insurance laws, drivers who have been injured in a motor vehicle accident can file for a personal injury protection (PIP) benefit regardless of fault. This auto insurance system helps ensure crash victims can receive prompt access to medical treatments and speed up their claims process.
What type of damage does Hawaii PIP insurance cover?
All registered vehicles in Hawaii must carry a minimum of $10,000 in PIP insurance and a valid motor vehicle insurance identification card. This means that your mandatory PIP benefits can pay for your crash-related medical expenses, as well as any rehabilitation costs — up to policy limits.
The mandatory coverage also includes:
- A $20,000 per person or a $40,000 per accident bodily injury liability
- A $10,000 per occurrence property damage liability
However, your insurance provider may pay you less if they think your medical costs are unreasonable. To help ensure that they will not be able to take advantage of your legal rights, consult with a lawyer as soon as possible.
How do I file my PIP claim?
To file your PIP benefits application, you must call your insurance company and inform them about your accident. Your report should include key details about the crash, including the location, time and any injuries you have suffered from.
To help strengthen your PIP claim, you must also submit supporting evidence such as your car’s dashcam footage, your medical records and your hospital billing invoice/s.
What happens after I file my PIP claim?
Once your auto insurer receives the details of your PIP claim, they will have a 30-day period to accept or deny your claim. If they accept your claim, you will start receiving payments of your PIP benefits.
It is okay to ask for help
Managing your PIP insurance’s claims procedure while you are recovering from your injuries can feel overwhelming. If you need guidance on the process, a car accident lawyer can assist in your case and help ensure that you can receive the compensation that you deserve.