Do I need a lawyer to file a PIP claim in Utah? While you do not need a lawyer to file a PIP claim in Utah, working with an attorney can help make the process smoother and give you a better chance at a higher payout.
That said, if a claim is denied, you will absolutely want a Salt Lake City car accident lawyer working on your behalf.
What is PIP?
Personal injury protection, or PIP insurance, is a form of protection provided by your auto insurance that is designed to provide fast payment for medical bills, lost wages, and other immediate needs following an accident.
Since Utah is a no-fault state, meaning the insurance system allows accident victims to access PIP benefits regardless of who caused the crash, many often wonder if they actually need representation. PIP claims can still be denied if the insurance adjuster believes the injury is unrelated, the paperwork is filed incorrectly, or the policy coverage is limited.
In some cases, filing a PIP claim without legal help works fine. In others, insurance disputes and serious injuries make legal representation extremely valuable. Understanding when a lawyer is optional and when one becomes essential can protect your recovery and finances.
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Filing a PIP Claim in Utah is Often Simple at the Beginning
For many accident victims, the initial PIP claim process is fairly straightforward. Utah law requires auto insurance policies to include PIP coverage, which pays medical expenses and limited lost wages regardless of fault (Utah Code Section 31A-22-309). Due to this, claims are typically processed quickly.
If injuries are minor and treatment is short-term, a lawyer may not be required. However, this can change quickly if complications arise, requiring you to hire a lawyer to file a PIP claim. The hope is that these cases settle quickly, but if there is pushback on behalf of the insurance company, it is better to have a lawyer ready.
To avoid scrambling or making a mistake that could cost you your case, it is best to work with an attorney from the very beginning. They will ensure paperwork is filed correctly, protocols are followed, and they will work with the insurance company on your behalf. In these scenarios, the experience a lawyer can bring to the table is essential.
Legal Help Becomes Important When PIP Claims are Denied or Limited
Insurance companies may deny or reduce PIP benefits for several reasons. When this happens, the claims process becomes more difficult to manage alone. This is one of the many times you need a lawyer to file a PIP claim in Utah. Common reasons PIP claims are denied or limited include:
- Claims that treatment was unnecessary
- Allegations that the injuries were pre-existing
- Disputes over accident-related causation
- Claims that the treatment lasted too long
If a denial occurs, an attorney can step in to challenge the insurer and protect your benefits and your rights. Your attorney can help you when insurance doesn’t help after a Utah car crash.
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PIP Coverage Limits Often Make Legal Guidance Necessary
Utah PIP benefits are capped, and serious injuries can be costly, causing the limits to be met quickly. When medical bills pile up, accident victims may need to pursue additional compensation from the at-fault driver. These cases are much more complex and typically require the assistance of an experienced lawyer.
Transitioning Beyond No-Fault Coverage
Moving from a PIP claim to a fault-based injury claim requires meeting Utah’s legal thresholds. This includes proving negligence and damages. In these situations, your attorney will work to gather evidence such as witness statements, medical documentation, and police reports to start building your case.
Coordinating Multiple Claims
A lawyer can coordinate PIP benefits with a liability claim to prevent overlap or mistakes that could reduce compensation. Incorrectly filing a claim or providing the wrong documentation can delay or even nullify your case, so it is essential that you have a lawyer with experience working on your behalf.
While many PIP cases are cut and dry, it is a best practice to have a lawyer on your team to help walk you through the process, along with dealing with the insurance company, so you can focus on healing and recovery.
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Insurance Adjusters Control the Process Without Legal Representation
PIP insurance adjusters are responsible for reviewing medical bills, approving treatment, and issuing payments. While they may seem cooperative, their primary responsibility is to look out for the insurance company by minimizing payments to you. Without legal guidance, you could face:
- Requests for recorded statements
- Pressure to end treatment early
- Delayed or partial payments
- Increased scrutiny of medical records
These are all common tactics used by insurance companies to coerce you into accepting less than you are owed. Having a lawyer file your PIP claim can help eliminate these high-pressure tactics, as they act as a buffer between you and the insurance company and are an advocate for your best interests.
Maximizing PIP Benefits Often Requires Advocacy
Insurance companies may question whether ongoing care is “reasonable and necessary.” These determinations directly affect how much PIP coverage is paid. Having a lawyer when you file a PIP claim can help you receive maximum benefits out of your plan. Commonly disputed items can include:
- Physical therapy duration
- Chiropractic treatment
- Diagnostic testing
- Specialist referrals
Although many people think they can take on this process solo, having a licensed attorney who has experience can ease the process. While insurance companies would like to pay out the minimum amount possible, your attorney can advocate on your behalf to ensure this does not happen.
Legal Representation is Not Legally Required but Often Beneficial
Utah law does not require a lawyer to file a PIP claim. However, disputes, coverage limits, and serious injuries often make legal representation a necessity to ensure you receive fair treatment and the proper compensation for your injuries.
Speaking with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and options. Knowing when to involve legal help can make a meaningful difference in your recovery. Despite it not being legally required, many victims choose to involve an attorney from the beginning to ensure they are being treated fairly.
Policies are often written in language that is complex and not easy for the average consumer to understand. Having a lawyer in your corner means that you have someone who has a deep understanding of the law and how to read insurance jargon to help represent you.
Siegfried & Jensen is Ready to Fight for You
After an automobile accident, you may be at a loss for what to do next. At Siegfried & Jensen, we believe that you are entitled to full transparency and are here to help you receive it.
If you believe your claim has been wrongfully denied, contact us today for a free consultation to see what your case may be worth.
Call or text (801) 266-0999 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form