Medical Payment Coverage for Auto Insurance in Washington
Reader’s Question:
My auto insurance in Washington has a reference to medical payment coverage. It seems like this should already be covered within the personal injury rider. What is the difference?
Matthew
Cottage Lake, WA
Good question Matthew,
There are similarities. Personal injury coverage within an auto policy varies from state to state. Auto policies offer medical payment coverage for treatment all injuries to parties in auto accidents, regardless of blame. If you or the operator of your insured vehicle caused the accident, all this rider will help pay for treatment to all parties.
Medical payment insurance covers ambulances, x-rays, extended care, surgery, follow-up visits and physician care. You can only imagine what these might cost today. An important feature of this auto insurance provision is that it goes with the vehicle. So, whether you or another licensed operator is driving your vehicle, this rider is in place.
In a worst case scenario, the medical payment auto insurance rider also covers funeral expenses. That is an unpleasant reality to think about. Motorists who purchase this option are aware of the impact a serious accident can have. If you are considering adding this to your policy, you should talk with your auto insruance agent in Washington because auto insurance does vary by locale. Good luck, Matthew.