Quick answer: Personal injury protection, or PIP, is part of every Texas auto policy unless you turned it down in writing. The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) says PIP pays your and your passengers’ medical bills, and also pays for things like lost wages and other nonmedical costs. Your own policy’s limits and terms decide what is covered, so check with your insurance company or agent.
What is PIP?
TDI’s auto insurance guide describes personal injury protection as coverage that “pays your and your passengers’ medical bills. But it also pays for things like lost wages and other nonmedical costs.” It is similar to medical payments coverage, with that wider reach.
Does every Texas policy include PIP?
TDI says: “All auto policies in Texas include PIP coverage. If you don’t want it, you must tell the company in writing.” So unless you signed a rejection, your policy likely includes it. Your declarations page shows your coverage and limits.
How is PIP different from medical payments coverage?
| Coverage | What TDI says it pays |
|---|---|
| Personal injury protection (PIP) | Your and your passengers’ medical bills, plus things like lost wages and other nonmedical costs |
| Medical payments | Your and your passengers’ medical bills, including when you’re hurt in someone else’s car or while walking or biking |
| Uninsured/underinsured motorist | Costs when the other driver had no insurance or not enough, including hit-and-run crashes |
TDI notes that insurance companies must offer uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and you must reject it in writing if you don’t want it.
How do you file a claim after a crash?
TDI’s guide says to tell the company if you were injured, and if you went to the emergency room or to a doctor, to give the company copies of the medical reports and doctors’ bills. Getting the officer’s name and badge number at the scene helps you follow up on the police report. TxDOT sells copies of the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (CR-3) through its online system.
How long does an insurer have to decide?
TDI explains that Texas law sets deadlines. A company must accept or reject your claim within 15 business days of getting all the information it needs. A company that needs more time can take 45 days, and it must tell you the reason for the delay. If it denies your claim, it must tell you why in writing.
What happens after the insurer agrees to pay?
TDI’s guide says that once a company agrees to pay your claim, it must send you a check within five business days. It also notes that the prompt payment law doesn’t apply if another driver’s insurance company is paying the claim, but that the company must still act in good faith and try to settle your claim quickly and fairly.
What if you disagree with your insurance company?
TDI lists a few options. You can complain to TDI in writing, including through its Online Complaint Portal, though TDI says its ability to help might be limited: it can’t decide who was at fault in an accident or determine damage amounts. Some disputes end up in court. For questions about your own situation, talk with your insurance company or agent first.
What records help with a PIP claim?
- Your claim number and policy number
- The crash report number and the officer’s name
- Copies of medical visit notes and bills
- Records of missed work, if you are claiming lost wages
For the full checklist, see what to do after a car accident in Texas.
Where does chiropractic care fit in?
Once emergencies are ruled out, a chiropractor can check neck pain, back pain and stiffness after a wreck. Dr. Ali Chiropractic and Wellness Center at its McKinney office lists auto accidents and personal injury among the conditions it helps with. More guides are on the patient resources page. Ask the front desk about payment options before your visit; payment plans are available through Cherry. Read about car accident injury care, whiplash symptoms that show up later, or contact the office.
