What Is Bodily Injury Insurance and How Does It Help Protect Motor Vehicle Accident Victims in Georgia? Explained by the Atlanta Car Accident Attorneys at the Perazzo Law Firm
Bodily Injury (BI) Insurance is an essential type of liability coverage in Georgia that helps protect drivers financially if they are found at fault in a car accident that causes injuries to other people. It covers medical expenses, legal fees, and potential lost wages for the injured party, up to the policy limits. Georgia requires drivers to carry a minimum of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for Bodily Injury coverage.
Comparing Bodily Injury (BI) and Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Though Bodily Injury (BI) and Personal Injury Protection (PIP) are both vital insurance policies, they serve different purposes. Here’s a breakdown of how they differ:
- Bodily Injury Insurance (BI):
- Who It Covers: Covers injuries to other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians if you’re at fault in the accident.
- Expenses Covered: Medical bills, rehabilitation, and lost wages of the other party, as well as legal defense costs if you’re sued.
- Fault-Based: Georgia is an “at-fault” state, meaning the driver found responsible for causing the accident is liable for damages.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP):
- Who It Covers: Covers your own medical expenses, regardless of fault.
- Expenses Covered: Medical expenses, lost wages, and sometimes funeral costs.
- No-Fault Coverage: PIP pays for your injuries whether you caused the accident or not, and is often part of a broader “no-fault” insurance system.
Benefits of Bodily Injury Insurance for Motor Vehicle Accident Victims
Having BI insurance can offer several important benefits, especially in the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident:
- Financial Protection: Covers the injured party’s medical bills and lost wages, which can prevent you from paying these costs out of pocket.
- Legal Defense: If you’re sued, BI coverage can help pay for your legal defense and any court judgments, up to your policy’s limits.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re protected if you cause an accident ensures you aren’t facing overwhelming financial hardship.
Average Cost of Bodily Injury Insurance in Georgia
The cost of BI insurance can vary significantly depending on factors like age, vehicle type, driving history, and coverage limits. Here’s a general estimate of the average monthly premium for BI insurance based on age and vehicle:
- 18-24 years old: $250 – $450 per month (due to less driving experience and higher risk).
- 25-34 years old: $120 – $300 per month.
- 35-44 years old: $110 – $250 per month.
- 45-64 years old: $90 – $220 per month.
- 65+ years old: $100 – $260 per month.
Vehicle Type:
- Economy cars: Lower premiums due to affordable repairs and safety ratings ($90 – $150/month).
- Luxury cars: Higher premiums due to costly repairs and parts ($200 – $450/month).
- SUVs/Trucks: Mid-range premiums due to size and safety features ($120 – $300/month).
For those in Georgia, especially around major cities like Atlanta, it’s critical to consider sufficient BI coverage due to higher accident rates in urban areas.
Why Consult an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer?
After a motor vehicle accident, navigating insurance claims can be stressful and confusing. An experienced Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer at the Perazzo Law Firm can help you maximize your claim, ensure fair compensation for medical expenses and lost wages, and provide legal representation if you’re sued. They’ll also make sure your insurance company pays out the right amount under your Bodily Injury coverage, protecting your financial future. Ensuring proper BI coverage and seeking legal guidance after an accident can make a significant difference in both financial security and peace of mind.
Striving to be the best car accident lawyer in Atlanta, Jonathan Perazzo, personal injury attorney in Georgia and founder of the Perazzo Law Firm, understands that the moments after a car accident that leads to injury, can be daunting for car accident victims. That is why, it is fundamentally important to contact a trusted and dedicated Atlanta car accident lawyer following an accident.
Contact us ONLINE or CALL 888-PERAZZO
GOOGLE REVIEWS FOR THE PERAZZO LAW
WHAT IS AN INSURANCE CLAIM AFTER AN ACCIDENT?