Many Hawaii drivers understand that when they are injured in a car accident, some type of insurance will be available to help with their crash-related expenses. However, many motorists do not know who pays what — their auto insurer or health insurance company? A Honolulu car accident attorney at Recovery Law Center can explain what type of insurance you should use after a crash and how those expenses will be covered.
Maximizing the amount of insurance compensation that you can recover will depend on building a strong case that shows all of your losses and their impact on your life. Recovery Law Center to help you do that.
If you’ve been in a Honolulu car accident, don’t wait to get your claim underway. The time to act is now. Contact us right away for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal rights, and develop an action plan to fight for full and fair compensation for you.
How Does Hawaii’s No-Fault Insurance System Affect Medical Coverage After a Car Accident?
Hawaii is a no-fault state, which means your own car insurance pays for your medical expenses after a car accident, no matter who caused it. This includes coverage for hospital bills, doctor visits, and even physical therapy. The coverage falls under Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, part of your motor vehicle insurance policy.
Because of this system, you typically can’t immediately sue the other driver unless your injuries are severe or your medical bills pass a certain amount. This system is designed to speed up payment for treatment and reduce lawsuits.
Will My Health Insurance Cover Medical Bills From a Car Accident in Hawaii?
Yes, but not right away. Under Hawaii state law, your car insurance — specifically, your PIP coverage — is used first. Your health insurance can step in only after your PIP benefits run out or if something isn’t covered.
If you use your health insurance, your provider may seek reimbursement from your car insurance company. Always check with both your insurance agent and your health plan to understand what’s covered.
What Is The Minimum Required PIP Coverage in Hawaii?
Hawaii requires a minimum of $10,000 in PIP coverage per person, per accident. This is meant to pay for medical expenses related to the injury.
You can buy higher limits if you want more protection, which can be a good idea since serious injuries can easily exceed the $10,000 minimum.
Can I Sue The At-Fault Driver For Additional Damages in Hawaii?
Yes, but only under certain conditions. In Hawaii, you can sue the at-fault driver if:
- Your medical expenses exceed $5,000
- You suffer serious or permanent injuries, such as disfigurement or loss of a body part
Once those thresholds are met, you can file a personal injury lawsuit to recover additional money for things like pain and suffering or lost income beyond what PIP covers.
What Happens If My Medical Expenses Exceed My PIP Coverage?
If your PIP coverage runs out, your health insurance can step in to cover the rest — if your policy allows it. If you don’t have health insurance, you might be responsible for the remaining medical bills, or you could try to seek reimbursement through a personal injury claim if the other driver was at fault.
You may also consider filing a claim under your underinsured motorist coverage or medical payments coverage, if you have it.
Does PIP Coverage in Hawaii Include Lost Wages?
Yes. PIP benefits in Hawaii can include lost wages, but you must provide proof of income and a doctor’s note confirming that the injury prevented you from working. PIP may pay up to $1,200 per month for lost revenue, but there’s a limit to how long it will pay and how much it covers.
Are There Penalties For Not Having PIP Coverage in Hawaii?
Yes, the penalties are serious. Driving without PIP coverage is illegal in Hawaii. If you’re caught, you may face:
- A fine of up to $500 for the first offense
- A license suspension of up to 3 months
- Higher fines and longer suspensions for repeat offenses
Also, if you’re in an accident without insurance, you’ll be on the hook for all damages and medical bills — yours and possibly the other person’s too.
How Can Recovery Law Center Help Me?
Acting quickly makes a difference after a car accident. Strong claims depend upon strong evidence — something that can easily get lost, destroyed, or forgotten in the aftermath of the wreck. Contacting a lawyer right away can help you protect and preserve such valuable information, which can deeply impact the outcome of your case.
At Recovery Law Center, Honolulu car accident lawyer Glenn Honda can help you with every aspect of your claim, including negotiating with your health insurance and auto insurance companies during the settlement process. We know how important your settlement is to you, and we’ll do everything possible to obtain the compensation that will support your long-term health and wellbeing.
Let’s begin building a better future for you now. If you’ve been in an Oahu car accident, do not hesitate to contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
