Personal Injury Protection in Missouri: Do You Need It?

What is Personal Injury Protection (PIP)?

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is a type of auto insurance coverage that helps pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other accident-related costs, regardless of who was at fault. PIP is commonly associated with no-fault states, where drivers file claims with their own insurance regardless of fault. However, Missouri operates under a fault-based insurance system, meaning the at-fault driver’s insurance is typically responsible for covering accident-related damages.

While Missouri law does not require PIP coverage, drivers can still purchase MedPay (Medical Payments Coverage), which functions similarly by covering medical expenses for the policyholder and passengers after an accident, regardless of fault. (Missouri Revised Statutes §384.015)

Does Missouri Require Personal Injury Protection?

Unlike some states that mandate PIP coverage, Missouri does not require PIP. Instead, Missouri law mandates the following minimum liability insurance coverage for all drivers:

• $25,000 per person for bodily injury
• $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
• $25,000 for property damage
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage: $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident

These minimums ensure that at-fault drivers can cover damages but do not provide first-party medical benefits like PIP. Drivers seeking additional coverage can purchase Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay) as an optional add-on to their policy. (Missouri Department of Insurance)

PIP vs. MedPay: What’s the Difference?

Since Missouri does not require PIP, many drivers opt for MedPay, which provides similar benefits but with key differences:

Feature	PIP (Not Required in MO)	MedPay (Available in MO)
Covers medical expenses	✅	✅
Covers lost wages	✅	❌
Covers funeral costs	✅	✅
Pays regardless of fault	✅	✅
Covers non-medical expenses (e.g., childcare)	✅	❌

PIP is broader and includes lost wages and essential services, whereas MedPay strictly covers medical expenses and funeral costs. (Missouri Revised Statutes §384.015)

Who Should Consider Additional Coverage Like MedPay?

While PIP isn’t required in Missouri, you may still want to consider MedPay or other optional coverages if you:

• Don’t have health insurance or have high deductibles.
• Frequently drive with passengers who could be injured in an accident.
• Want additional peace of mind knowing medical bills are covered upfront.
• Are concerned about uninsured drivers, as Missouri has a significant number of uninsured motorists on the road. (Insurance Information Institute)

Should You Buy PIP or MedPay in Missouri?

While PIP is not required in Missouri, purchasing MedPay can be a smart financial move, especially if you don’t have robust health insurance. MedPay ensures that your medical bills get paid quickly, without waiting for a liability claim to settle. Plus, it’s typically an affordable add-on to your existing auto insurance policy.

If you’re unsure about your coverage options, it’s best to consult with an experienced Missouri personal injury attorney who can help you navigate insurance claims and ensure you receive fair compensation. At The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C., we’ve helped thousands of accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. If you have questions about insurance coverage or injury claims, call us today for a free consultation!