Choosing Bodily Injury Coverage

The new law requires that auto insurance companies or licensed agents give drivers forms that describe the benefits and risks of the coverage options. Drivers may want to consult their auto insurance company or licensed agent to discuss their personal auto insurance needs.

Here is a sample of the bodily injury liability coverage form.

The law limits the damages that can be claimed against drivers as the result of an automobile accident, except in certain situations. The residual bodily injury portion of an automobile insurance policy will pay up to a policyholder’s coverage limit amounts if they are found legally responsible for damages in these situations. These amounts have been increased under the new law.

The new default BI/PD coverage limits are:

• Up to $250,000 for a person who is hurt or killed in an accident.
• Up to $500,000 for each accident if several people are hurt or killed.
• Up to $10,000 for property damage in another state.

Drivers may have the option of purchasing other BI/PD coverage limits. However, the lowest limit they may purchase is:

• Up to $50,000 for a person who is hurt or killed in an accident.
• Up to $100,000 for each accident if several people are hurt or killed.
• Up to $10,000 for property damage in another state.

Drivers may consider speaking with their licensed insurance agent on the options available.