If you've been involved in an auto accident, you probably have a lot of questions. If you've been told you need to file a no-fault claim, you may be wondering how it differs from other auto accident claims. If you would like to learn more about no-fault claims and why you may need to file one, check out these three commonly asked questions.

1. What Is a No-Fault Claim?

In many states, if you are involved in a car accident that the other driver caused, you file a claim with their insurance company. Depending on the type of coverage you have, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance carrier if you caused the accident. 

In some states, however, drivers are required to have no-fault auto insurance or personal protection insurance (PIP). In these states, regardless of who caused the accident, you file a claim with your own insurance carrier. A small handful of states follow an optional no-fault system. In these states, the drivers can choose to follow the no-fault system or not.  

2. What Are the Advantages of No-Fault Insurance?

There are two major advantages to no-fault insurance. The first is fast payouts. In most states, if you are involved in an accident, you must prove who caused the accident, which can take a long time. With no-fault insurance, it doesn't matter who caused the accident, so the process is faster, making it easier to pay your medical bills.

The other advantage is there are fewer lawsuits because you can only sue the other driver if you were seriously injured. Not only does this help you save money, but it also helps the insurance carrier save money, which they can pass on to their customers.

3. What Does No-Fault Car Insurance Cover?

No-fault car insurance covers medical bills and lost income related to your injuries. It typically also covers many services for tasks you cannot perform because of the accident, such as cleaning your home. If the accident resulted in the loss of life, you could also get money for the cost of the funeral and burial.

Typically, you cannot get money for pain and suffering from the insurance carrier. If your injuries are severe enough to sue the other driver, however, you can sue for pain and suffering.

Regardless of where you live, you want auto insurance, but some states follow different rules. Understanding the rules in your area is the best way to protect yourself. If you've been involved in an accident in a no-fault state and you're having a hard time getting the settlement you deserve, contact an attorney in your area today.

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