If you sustain serious injuries in a crash, your medical bills and lost wages may exceed the limits on a single policy. Multi-policy claims often take longer to resolve, requiring that you analyze the policy terms, claims deadlines, and coordinate between insurers. Multi-policy claims may involve claim disputes, taking longer to resolve your case. If you have recently been involved in a serious injury collision, our Franklin County car accident attorneys at Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP, are available to discuss your matter.
When Would a Multi-Policy Claim Apply in Franklin County, PA?
Multi-policy or multi-carrier claims are not just confined to serious injury cases. Other circumstances that may warrant a multi-policy claim include when:
- Multiple parties are involved
- The other driver was in a rental car, not the vehicle owner
- The other driver was driving a company-owned or commercial vehicle
- The other driver was driving a delivery vehicle
- The other motorist was driving for Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare service
- The other driver is driving uninsured or with insufficient coverage
- A government or business entity is involved
What to Know About Multi-Policy Claims in PA
In any multi-carrier claim, one policy will be designated as the primary insurance and another as secondary insurance. Primary insurance will pay first, then the secondary insurance will pay once the policy limits are exhausted. In Pennsylvania, you will first file claims to recoup medical expenses and lost wages through your personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. Minimum PIP coverage is $5,000, generally covering 80% of your gross income and a portion of your medical bills. If your injuries are more severe, then you may need to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance.
What if the Other Driver is Uninsured or Underinsured?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, then you may need to file a claim through your uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) motorist coverage. If you do choose to purchase UM/UIM insurance, you must carry at least $15,000 in bodily injury coverage per person and $30,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident.
Under Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes §1738, the Commonwealth defaults to “stacking” UM/UIM coverage. Stacking allows an injured party to combine UM/UIM coverage of different vehicles, providing greater benefits. Generally, stacking is permitted between multiple vehicles on the same policy or between separate vehicle policies of household members.
However, “stacking” will complicate your claim, forcing you to wait longer to receive your settlement check. Stacking provides a greater level of financial security to drivers, although the state does allow you to waive coverage. While stacking has many advantages, you will have to pay higher premiums.
Why Would I Need a Lawyer for a Multi-Policy Claim?
. Following an accident, the last thing that you should be concerned about is filling out claims paperwork and communicating with multiple insurance companies. Our Franklin County car accident lawyers at Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP, have as our main priority helping you recoup 100% of your accident-incurred expenses. If this means filing a multi-carrier claim, then we will gather the necessary evidence and information to resolve your claim quickly and efficiently.
Speak with Our Franklin County Car Accident Lawyers Today
A multi-policy claim involves managing different claims deadlines. This is no simple task when you are trying to recuperate from a serious injury crash. At Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, LLP, our legal team is here to analyze your auto policy to determine the best course of action. To arrange a free consultation with one of our Franklin County car accident attorneys, contact us online or by calling (717) 229-6580 at your earliest convenience.