In Texas, your auto insurance policy may include bodily injury liability insurance and medical payments insurance (Medpay). Both of these types of coverage pay for medical expenses stemming from a car accident. However, they apply in different situations. Here, we explain the differences between them and what you should know when selecting your auto insurance coverage.
Bodily Injury Coverage vs. Medical Payments Insurance
Bodily injury coverage and medical payments insurance both provide auto insurance medical coverage. However, bodily injury coverage is part of your liability policy. It only pays for the medical expenses for the other driver and passengers who were harmed if you caused the accident. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, you must carry at least $30,000 of liability insurance for bodily injury per person and $60,000 of liability insurance for bodily injury per accident. Your liability policy also covers the victims’ long-term pain and suffering resulting from accident injuries.
Medical payments insurance pays for your and your passengers’ medical expenses, regardless of who is at fault. The Texas Department of Insurance says that this type of insurance also covers your medical expenses if you are hurt while riding in someone else’s vehicle or while walking or biking. MedPay is optional in Texas and your insurance provider doesn’t have to offer it.
To further complicate the matter, many insurance policies also contain personal injury protection (PIP). PIP is similar to Medpay in that it pays your medical expenses. However, it also pays for lost wages and replacement services for household contributions if you are injured in the accident. All auto insurance policies in Texas must include PIP coverage, but you can reject it in writing if you don’t want it.
Pros and Cons of Medical Payments Insurance
MedPay covers your medical expenses regardless of who is at fault. It is helpful to have this type of insurance if you cause an accident or the other driver’s insurance company is fighting your claim. MedPay can cover your copays, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket medical expenses your health insurance might not cover.
While your health insurance might cover some of your medical expenses if you are hurt in an accident, it won’t cover your passengers’ medical expenses. If you routinely carpool or have passengers in your vehicle, it can be beneficial to have MedPay coverage if you are ever in an accident.
MedPay tends to have low coverage limits, so you might want to ask your insurance provider about increasing the coverage. However, this will come at an extra cost. If you have health insurance and PIP insurance, MedPay may not be necessary.
How a Houston Car Accident Attorney Can Help
If you were injured in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, an experienced car accident lawyer in Houston from The Law Offices of Hilda Sibrian™ can help. One of our knowledgeable lawyers can review your case and all insurance policies that might apply to explain the coverage available. We can help file your claim and maximize your recovery. Contact us today for a free case review to learn more about your options.
