How At-Fault Claims Work in a No-Fault State

Utah is one of only a few states that follow the practice of no-fault. However, drivers must carry car insurance in Salt Lake City and the rest of the state to protect them in case of an accident. It often seems complicated and confusing for a person who moves here to file a claim, but it’s quite simple once you understand how these no-fault claims work.

The Coverage You Need

First, you should know what coverage you need to have in Utah as required by law. You still must carry liability insurance of at least $25,000 per person and $65,000 per accident as well as $15,000 for property damage. Because it’s a no-fault state, you’ll also need to carry personal injury protection or PIP of at least $3000.

This is the least amount of coverage you can have with your auto insurance policy. However, you can carry more and probably should since accidents often result in damages well over these amounts. If you’re involved in an accident and the damages are more than what you’re covered for, you may have to pay the rest out of pocket.

How to File

In most instances, you’ll need to file with your own insurance company. Regardless of who is at fault, you’ll use your PIP coverage to pay for your own medical expenses from any injuries you receive.

Once you’ve used up your coverage from the PIP, you may be able to file a claim against the other person’s liability insurance for any additional expenses you have. This only works if the other person was at fault. Otherwise, you’ll have to go through your health insurance or pay the costs yourself for your own injuries if you’re the person at fault.

If you’re the person responsible for the accident, the other person may file a claim against your insurance company if the damages are above their PIP.

While all of this sounds rather complicated, it really isn’t all that complex on your end. Your job is to file a claim with your own insurance company, and they can determine what will be paid and who is responsible for what costs.

What You Need to Know

You should always get good details and information from the other parties involved and any witnesses even if you will be filing with your own insurance provider. It’s a good idea to contact the police and have them file a report that the insurance carrier can use in the claims process.

Do not admit fault at the scene even if you think the claim will be handled under the no-fault portion of the policy. Make sure you call your insurance provider as quickly as possible after the accident. Delays in reporting can result in delays for your claim or even denials.

Handling a claim in an accident for a no-fault state isn’t that different from any other claim. Just make sure to get all necessary information and contact your insurance provider to guide you through the process.

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