09/21/2015. What is a PIP Denial? What can I do?

Understanding PIP Denials in Utah: Protecting Your Personal Injury Benefits

In Utah, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits are required in every car insurance policy. PIP benefits provide essential, no-fault coverage, meaning they pay out for injuries sustained in car accidents regardless of fault. Whether you caused the accident by running a red light or were rear-ended, PIP benefits from your own insurance are designed to help cover medical expenses and related costs.

Why Utah Insurance Companies Deny PIP Benefits

Unfortunately, even though PIP benefits are supposed to be straightforward, insurance companies often deny PIP claims, especially if they claim your injuries are not related to the car accident. Without an attorney to advocate for you, insurers might issue a quick denial. Often, they base this denial on an internal review by a contracted medical professional—essentially a “rubber stamp” process favoring the insurance company.

PIP Denial Utah car accident lawyer Jake Gunter. Call/TXT (801) 373-6345

 

What to Do When Your PIP Benefits Are Denied

Facing a PIP denial can be frustrating, but there are clear steps to take:

  1. Hire an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney: With an attorney’s support, you’re more likely to get the benefits you deserve. Insurance companies often handle cases differently when an attorney is involved.
  2. File a Claim in Utah Small Claims Court: Utah Code Ann. § 31A-22-309(5) allows you to seek attorney’s fees and a 1.5% monthly interest rate on the benefits if you win in Small Claims Court.
  3. Add the PIP Denial to an Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Claim: If you’re dealing with an underinsured situation, this denial can become an additional claim under your UIM policy.

Consult an Attorney for Personalized Guidance on PIP Denials

Having an attorney on your side not only provides inside knowledge of your rights but also strengthens your position against insurance companies. At Howard, Lewis & Petersen, P.C., our team has seen firsthand how effective legal action can compel insurance carriers to pay. In the last three PIP denial cases we handled, insurers reversed their stance upon receiving our lawsuit and promptly paid out.

Contact Personal Injury Attorney Jacob S. Gunter Today

For experienced guidance and dedicated representation in your PIP denial case, contact Jacob S. Gunter. Call (801) 373-6345 or email gunterj@provolawyers.com for a consultation, and let us help you navigate Utah’s insurance laws to secure the benefits you deserve.