Like medical payments coverage, personal injury protection (PIP) helps pay for your or your passengers’ medical expenses after a car accident, regardless of who caused the accident.

But, there are three main differences between PIP and medical payments coverage:

1. PIP is available in “no-fault” states. Medical payments coverage is offered in states that aren’t “no-fault.” (Medical payments coverage is only available in states that do not have PIP.)  Often time you are able to select the amount of Med Pay coverage you want.
2. PIP is sometimes required, and sometimes optional, depending on state law. Medical payments insurance is always an optional coverage.
3. PIP helps cover expenses such as lost wages or childcare if you’re unable to perform essential services due to injuries after a car accident. Medical payments insurance does not cover essential services.