Comprehensive Guide to Utah Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Applications
In Utah, PIP applications are a vital step to secure benefits after a car accident. Under Utah Code 31A-22-306 to 309, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits provide immediate financial relief, regardless of who is at fault. Here’s what you need to know about applying for and maximizing PIP benefits to ensure your recovery and financial stability.
What Are PIP Benefits?
PIP benefits cover immediate accident-related expenses such as medical bills, lost wages, and household services. These benefits are required in all Utah car insurance policies but can be excluded for motorcycles, ATVs, and scooters.
Your PIP application is the key to unlocking these benefits, and working with a personal injury attorney ensures you navigate the process correctly.
Breakdown of Utah PIP Benefits
1. Household Services
- Benefit: $20 per day for up to 365 days.
- Details: Covers services you can’t perform due to your injury, such as cooking or cleaning. Starts after the third day post-injury and applies only if your inability lasts over two weeks.
- Statutory Reference: Utah Code 31A-22-307(b).
2. Medical Payments
- Minimum Coverage: $3,000, with optional higher limits.
- What’s Covered: Medical, surgical, X-ray, dental, ambulance, and other accident-related expenses.
- Statutory Reference: Utah Code 31A-22-307(a)(i).
3. Lost Wages
- Benefit: Lesser of $250 per week or 85% of lost income, for up to 52 weeks.
- Waiting Period: Benefits start after three days unless the inability to work exceeds two weeks.
- Statutory Reference: Utah Code 31A-22-307(b).
4. Funeral Benefits
- Coverage: Up to $1,500 toward funeral expenses.
5. Heirs Payment (Wrongful Death)
- Benefit: $3,000 payable to the deceased’s heirs, regardless of fault.
How to Trigger PIP Benefits
To activate PIP benefits, you’ll need two key documents:
1. Doctor’s Note
This letter should include:
- A detailed description of your injuries.
- Confirmation that the accident caused your injuries.
- Your inability to work or perform daily tasks.
- The estimated recovery period.
2. Wage Loss Documentation
Provide evidence like pay stubs, W-2s, or tax returns to prove your lost income. The $250-per-week cap makes it easy to meet the threshold with any standard documentation.
Completing Your PIP Application: Best Practices
Your PIP application should be submitted promptly and reviewed carefully with an attorney.
- Be concise: Avoid including unnecessary injury details that could be used against you during depositions or trials.
- Early submission matters: Processing can take up to 30 days, so filing your application quickly is essential.
Special Cases for Catastrophic Injuries
For severe injuries requiring hospitalization or extended bed rest, ER discharge records may suffice to trigger PIP benefits. If your claim is denied, despite adequate documentation, you may need to pursue legal action for breach of contract.
Stacking PIP Benefits
In some cases, PIP benefits can be “stacked,” meaning secondary PIP coverage kicks in after the primary policy’s benefits are exhausted. Although insurers often resist, a skilled attorney can help you secure stacked benefits when applicable.
Priority of PIP Providers: Real-World Scenarios
- Rear-End Collision: Your car’s insurance provides primary PIP benefits, even for passengers.
- Passenger Accident: The car owner’s insurance is primary; your own insurance is secondary.
- Bicycle Accident: The at-fault driver’s insurance is the primary PIP provider.
- Pedestrian Incident: The vehicle’s insurance pays as the primary provider, even if you are at fault.
What If Your PIP Application Is Denied?
If your PIP application is denied, Utah law allows you to sue for reasonable attorney fees if you prevail in a lawsuit against the insurer. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help you recover the compensation you’re entitled to.
Contact Utah Car Accident Attorney Jake Gunter
Navigating PIP applications can be overwhelming. With decades of experience, Jake Gunter can help you secure the benefits you deserve and guide you through the process. Don’t go it alone—hire an attorney who understands PIP benefits and Utah’s car accident laws.
Call or Text: (801) 373-6345
Email: [email protected]
Get a free consultation to ensure your PIP benefits are fully protected.
Learn More About Utah Accident Lawyer Jake Gunter 
For additional insights on Utah personal injury law and to get to know Jake Gunter better, check out these helpful videos:
- Meet Jake Gunter – Learn more about Jake Gunter’s background, experience, and dedication to helping clients throughout Utah.
- How to Choose a Utah Personal Injury Attorney – This video offers guidance on selecting the right personal injury attorney to ensure you receive effective representation.
- What Jake Gunter Does and Who He Represents – Discover the types of cases Jake Gunter handles and how he advocates for the rights of injured individuals statewide.
These resources will provide you with valuable information as you consider your legal options. For any questions or to schedule a free consultation, feel free to reach out to us directly.