Oregon PIP Insurance Explained

Personal Injury Protection — commonly called PIP — is one of the most important coverages on your Oregon auto insurance policy. Yet many Oregon drivers don't fully understand what it covers or how to use it after an accident.

Key Takeaways

• Oregon law requires minimum PIP coverage of $15,000 per person on all auto policies
• PIP pays your medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault
• PIP applies whether you're a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist
• You must file a PIP claim with your own insurer — not the at-fault driver's insurer
• PIP insurers can recover what they paid from the at-fault party (subrogation)

What Is PIP Insurance?

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is a type of "first-party" coverage that pays for medical expenses, lost wages, and related costs after an accident — regardless of who was at fault. PIP is available immediately through your own insurance policy, so you don't have to wait for fault to be determined before your bills are paid.

Oregon's Required Minimum PIP Coverage

Oregon law (ORS 742.520) requires all auto insurance policies to include minimum PIP coverage:

• Medical expenses: $15,000 per person
• Lost wages: 70% of gross wages, up to $3,000/month, for 52 weeks
• Essential services: $30/day for up to 52 weeks

• Funeral expenses: $5,000 per person
• Child care: $25/day when parent is incapacitated

Who Does PIP Cover?

Oregon PIP covers:

• You (the policyholder) as a driver or passenger
• Family members living in your household
• Anyone riding in your vehicle with your permission
• You as a pedestrian if struck by a vehicle
• You as a cyclist if struck by a vehicle

What Expenses Does PIP Cover?

PIP covers reasonable and necessary medical treatment including emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgery, doctor visits, chiropractic care, physical therapy, MRI and diagnostic imaging, prescription medications, and dental care (accident-related).

For lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, PIP pays 70% of your gross wages up to $3,000 per month for up to 52 weeks (after 14 consecutive days of inability to work).

How to File a PIP Claim in Oregon

1. Report your accident to your insurer immediately
2. Request a PIP claim form
3. Complete the PIP application with injury details and provider information
4. Authorize medical records release
5. Submit medical bills or have providers bill your PIP insurer directly

Your insurer must acknowledge your PIP claim within 10 days and pay or deny within 30 days of receiving required information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my PIP coverage apply if I was at fault? Yes. PIP is no-fault coverage. It pays regardless of who caused the accident.

What if my medical bills exceed my PIP limit? Once PIP is exhausted, your personal health insurance becomes the secondary payer. You can also pursue additional recovery from the at-fault driver's liability coverage.

Can I use PIP if I was hit as a pedestrian? Yes. Oregon PIP covers you as a pedestrian if struck by a vehicle.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Oregon PIP insurance and does not constitute legal or insurance advice.