You have probably up till now assumed that these two terms can be used interchangeably, and almost certainly have in common usage. It’s a mix-up that is frequently made.
Bodily Injury
Bodily injury is harm done to a person onto another. The simplest way to differentiate them is to think about bodily injury like insurance companies do: it pays for the harm you’ve done to another person, but it does not cover your own harm or injuries when you are at fault. This protects you if and when you are sued by someone you have injured.
Personal Injury
Personal injury is protection for you when talking about insurance policies, and are the damages you claim when you have been injured by another’s intent, recklessness, or negligence. Personal injury also includes slander and false arrest.
Remember that “personal injury” also refers to the general field, which includes dog bites, medical malpractice, injuries sustained on a cruise ship, etc. So you may have used this phrase in a wide variety of contexts. It’s important to check that the legal representation you are seeking is qualified to represent you in the specific area of personal injury law relevant to your case.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
This is an optional type of insurance you can add to your auto insurance policy. It will cover medical expenses, hospital bills, and funeral expenses if you. It also covers these expenses for your passengers. PIP will also cover the medical expenses if you struck a pedestrian. Unlike bodily injury, it will cover these costs whether you caused the accident or not.
Fault Vs. No-Fault
This distinction between fault, or tort states, and no-fault states is important in personal injury cases that resulted from an accident with a vehicle. In No-Fault states, the police do not determine who was at fault, or even what percentage each party is responsible for causing the accident. In a no-fault state, each of the parties involved in an accident will have their own injuries covered by their PIP insurance. There are 12 no-fault states in the U.S. Some of these states include Michigan, Utah, New York, Massachusetts, and North Dakota. In the state of Florida, which is also a no-fault state, the minimum PIP coverage level required is $10,000 per person.
Factors That Can Affect Your Personal Injury Case
No two personal injury cases are the same. Each one needs to be handled with an excellent attorney, such as the ones you’ll find at Friedland & Associates, who will fight to get the best settlement for you.
The Defendant Wasn’t Careless
If you believe you have been injured due to the recklessness, negligence, or intent of another, then you will have to prove that. Your attorney will look into the situation and investigate so that those who ought to face the consequences are held responsible.
Requiring Surgery
Anytime surgery or the need for extensive, long-term physical therapy arises as a result of the accident, it is likely that the victim will receive higher compensation.
Did You Seek Medical Help Right Away?
If you waited a long time before seeking medical help, you will be questioned about why. Always seek medical treatment as soon as you are injured or in an accident, even if it is minor.