Why Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance is Essential in Texas — Even if You Have Health Insurance
As Texas drivers, we’re required to carry a minimum amount of auto liability insurance to cover damage we may cause to others. But many drivers overlook a key component of optional coverage that could protect them and their families after a crash: Personal Injury Protection, or PIP.
PIP coverage is one of the smartest additions you can make to your auto insurance policy—and here’s why.
What Is PIP Insurance in Texas?
In Texas, auto insurance companies are required to offer PIP coverage, but you’re allowed to reject it if you choose not to purchase it. Many people reject it to save a few bucks, but that small savings could cost you big in the event of an accident.
PIP pays regardless of who is at fault in a crash and covers:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Essential services (such as hiring help for household chores if you’re unable to do them due to your injuries)
Texas drivers can typically purchase PIP coverage in amounts of $2,500, $5,000, or even more depending on the insurer.
Why Is PIP Important Even If You Have Health Insurance?
Health insurance might cover some of your medical bills, but it won’t cover lost wages or non-medical essential services. And with deductibles, co-pays, and network limitations, your out-of-pocket costs after an accident can still be significant.
PIP pays fast, with fewer delays than liability claims, and it can fill critical financial gaps right when you need the help most.
Hypothetical Scenario: How PIP Can Save the Day
Let’s say Amanda, a Houston schoolteacher, is on her way to work when she gets rear-ended at a stoplight. She suffers whiplash and a concussion, requiring emergency room care and a few days off work. The person that hit her has no insurance.
Here’s how PIP helps Amanda:
- Her ER visit costs $3,200. Her health insurance covers 80%, but she’s still left with $640 in out-of-pocket costs.
- She misses four days of work and loses $900 in wages.
- Due to her concussion, her doctor advises her to rest, so she hires help for childcare and basic housework, costing her another $400.
Because Amanda opted for $5,000 in PIP coverage, she’s reimbursed for:
- $640 in medical out-of-pocket expenses
- $900 in lost income
- $400 for essential services
In total, Amanda receives $1,940 from her PIP coverage—money that arrives much faster than any liability settlement and without the stress of proving fault.
PIP vs. MedPay: Know the Difference
Some people confuse PIP with Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage. Both cover medical expenses, but only PIP covers lost wages and essential services. Plus, PIP doesn’t require reimbursement if you later get a settlement from another driver (unlike MedPay in many situations).
Final Thoughts: Protect Yourself and Your Family
As a Texas personal injury lawyer, I’ve seen too many clients suffer financially while waiting for claims to be resolved—especially when they didn’t realize they had declined PIP coverage.
For just a few extra dollars a month, PIP can offer thousands in coverage and peace of mind. It’s one of the few insurance products that truly works for you—not the other driver, not the hospital, but you.
Before your next renewal, talk to your insurance agent and make sure you have PIP. And if you’ve been in an accident and have questions about how to use it or whether your insurer is handling your claim fairly, don’t hesitate to call West & West, LLP. We’re here to help.
West & West, LLP
Attorneys at Law
Experienced. Trusted. On Your Side.
📞 Call us at (713) 222-WEST [9378]
📍 Serving the greater Houston, Texas area
🌐 Visit us at www.westandwest.com
