Car accidents can quickly turn into a maze of legal and insurance complexities, with compensation depending on the specific rules of the state’s insurance system. The US has two main systems: No-Fault and At-fault. Washington, D.C. observes a modified no-fault insurance system. No matter who caused the collision, drivers rely on insurance for medical bills and lost pay. However, as you read this post from Marks & Harrison, there are some situations in which aggrieved parties are entitled to sue the negligent driver.
No-Fault Auto Insurance Features
In no-fault insurance, Personal Injury Protection is something that all drivers must acquire. PIP covers the driver’s medical and lost income, regardless of who caused the crash. In states without a blame system, you will file an initial compensation claim with your insurance company if you are injured.
Nonetheless, no-fault systems have their disadvantages. In the District of Columbia, an injured party may step outside the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver if their medical expenses or lost wages exceed their PIP coverage or if they suffer serious injuries, such as permanent scarring or impairment.
Understanding At-Fault Insurance Coverage
States observing the at-fault system require the driver who caused the accident to pay for injuries and damages. Victims may file for damages and medical expenses with the insurance company of the negligent person immediately after the accident rather than suffering the losses and seeking compensation later.
Washington, D.C.’s No-Fault Rules
There are specific restrictions that allow victims to present liability claims against a faulted party. These exceptions include situations where the amount of the incurred medical bills or wages lost exceeds the PIP limitations or when the injury is catastrophic. Accident victims also have 60 days to decide if they want to get PIP payments from their insurance company.
Course of Action
If you want responsible parties to compensate you after a car accident in Washington, D.C., you must do the following:
- As an earlier step, inform your insurance about the accident so that they can assist you with filing a complaint and advise you on the next steps to help you formulate your action plan in relation to the risks.
- It would help if you would evaluate within 60 days whether to select any PIP coverage or to give it up as the same might affect the possibilities for coverage and compensation.
- You should also follow the detailed plan for recovery as given, including all the medical advice to obtain the best chances of success without the risk of complications or prolonged healing time.
- You should obtain a record of the medical provisions during the treatment, the bills, and any expenses which may assist in making insurance claims.
- The involvement of the police helps. Obtain police reports since they are very useful when filing insurance claims or in court proceedings.
- Patients must file documentation of lost wages for potential compensation, keeping each hour worked, paychecks, sick leave, or others relating to absence from performing them.
Knowing the unique features of no-fault insurance in Washington, D.C., and the particular actions needed can help you to be in the best position to pursue compensation after an automobile accident.
