What Is Oregon PIP Insurance?
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, also called "no-fault" insurance, is one of Oregon's most important protections for drivers. Unlike liability insurance, which covers damage you cause to others, PIP covers your own medical expenses and related costs after a car accident, regardless of who was at fault.
Oregon law requires all auto insurance policies to include PIP coverage with a minimum benefit of $15,000. Many drivers have higher limits, sometimes $100,000 or more. This means if you're injured in a car accident in Oregon, you have immediate access to thousands of dollars in medical benefits—and this includes chiropractic care.
Oregon's Minimum PIP Coverage
Oregon's mandatory minimum PIP coverage is $15,000 per person per accident. This comprehensive benefit covers:
- Medical expenses (including chiropractic)
- Rehabilitation services
- Therapeutic care (physical therapy, massage, etc.)
- Reasonable and necessary services
- Lost wages (up to 60% for up to 3 years)
If your policy has higher limits, you have access to even more benefits. It's worth checking your insurance documents to know your exact coverage amount.
What PIP Covers
Medical Expenses
This includes all reasonable and necessary medical treatment for injuries sustained in the accident. Chiropractic care is specifically covered. At Sisu Coastal Wellness, we can bill your PIP insurance directly, and you typically won't need to pay out of pocket.
Chiropractic Care
PIP covers chiropractic adjustments, spinal manipulations, soft tissue therapy, therapeutic exercises, and related care. This is one of the key benefits for accident victims because chiropractic care is often the most effective treatment for whiplash and soft tissue injuries.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
If your chiropractor recommends physical therapy or other rehabilitation services, these are covered under PIP.
Lost Wages
If your injuries prevent you from working, PIP covers up to 60% of lost wages for up to 3 years. This is particularly important if you need time off during recovery.
Other Reasonable and Necessary Services
This can include transportation to medical appointments, medical equipment, and other services determined to be necessary for your recovery.
How to Use Your PIP Benefits
Step 1: Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your auto insurance company immediately after the accident. Let them know you're filing a PIP claim. They'll provide you with claim forms and explain your coverage details. Keep documentation of all communications.
Step 2: Seek Medical Evaluation
Within 24-72 hours of the accident, schedule an evaluation with a healthcare provider who accepts PIP insurance. For accident injuries, chiropractic care is often the best first step. Call Sisu Coastal Wellness at 503-739-2120 to schedule your appointment.
Step 3: Provide Insurance Information
When you come to our clinic, bring your insurance card and information about the accident. Dr. Probasco will work directly with your insurance company to submit the PIP claim. You typically won't need to handle paperwork or pay upfront.
Step 4: Follow Your Treatment Plan
Stick with the recommended treatment plan. Consistent care produces better outcomes and helps ensure your insurance covers the full course of treatment.
Step 5: Keep Records
We'll provide you with documentation of all treatments, including itemized bills. Keep these records for your personal file.
PIP Is One of the Few Insurance Types We Accept
Important note: As of January 31, 2026, Sisu Coastal Wellness no longer accepts direct billing from most health insurance plans. However, we continue to accept and process Oregon PIP (Personal Injury Protection) claims directly, and we also accept Workers' Compensation claims. This means accident victims have immediate access to the medical care they need without worrying about out-of-pocket costs.
Common Questions About Oregon PIP
Q: Can I use PIP even if the accident was my fault?
A: Yes. That's the beauty of no-fault insurance. PIP covers your injuries regardless of who caused the accident. This protects you regardless of fault determination.
Q: How much does chiropractic care cost under PIP?
A: Costs vary, but our office can discuss typical treatment costs during your initial consultation. PIP covers medically necessary care, and we'll help maximize your benefits.
Q: What if my injuries exceed the $15,000 PIP limit?
A: If the other driver was at fault and caused your injuries, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit for amounts exceeding your PIP coverage. This is a separate process from your PIP claim.
Q: Can I choose my own healthcare provider?
A: Yes. You have the right to choose your own healthcare providers. You don't need permission from your insurance company to seek chiropractic care. However, inform your insurance that you're receiving care, and the provider should accept PIP insurance.
Q: How long does PIP coverage last?
A: PIP must be used within a certain timeframe from the accident. This varies, but generally you should begin treatment within a reasonable time after the accident and complete it within a reasonable period.
Q: What if my insurance company denies my PIP claim?
A: While rare, denials can happen. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. We can help you document the medical necessity of your treatment to support an appeal.
Q: Do I need to pay a deductible for PIP?
A: Oregon PIP doesn't typically have a deductible, making it more accessible than other insurance coverage. This is another reason it's so valuable.
Q: What if I'm a passenger in someone else's vehicle?
A: PIP from the vehicle's insurance coverage applies to all occupants, including passengers. If injured as a passenger, you can use the vehicle's PIP benefits.
Q: Can I receive PIP benefits for a motorcycle accident?
A: Oregon law requires PIP on motorcycles as well. If you're injured in a motorcycle accident, your PIP benefits apply.
Q: What about pedestrians or cyclists hit by cars?
A: If a pedestrian or cyclist is hit by a vehicle, they can typically claim PIP benefits from the vehicle's insurance. Oregon law extends PIP protection to pedestrians and cyclists as well.
Why Chiropractic Care for Auto Injuries
Auto accidents, even minor ones, commonly cause soft tissue injuries like whiplash. These injuries respond exceptionally well to chiropractic care. Chiropractors can:
- Identify spinal misalignments (subluxations) that X-rays might miss
- Provide gentle adjustments to restore proper alignment
- Reduce inflammation and pain naturally
- Prescribe therapeutic exercises to restore strength and flexibility
- Help prevent chronic pain that develops when injuries aren't properly treated
Many patients are surprised at how effective chiropractic care is for accident injuries. The key is starting early—within 24-72 hours of the accident—when insurance benefits are newest and your body's natural healing processes are most active.
What to Do If You're in an Oregon Car Accident
If you're injured in a car accident in Oregon:
- Call 911 if anyone is seriously injured
- Get the other driver's information (name, phone, insurance details)
- Contact your insurance company within 24 hours to file your PIP claim
- Call Sisu Coastal Wellness at 503-739-2120 to schedule a chiropractic evaluation within 24-72 hours
- Bring your insurance information to your first appointment
- Follow your treatment plan for optimal recovery
Get Your PIP Benefits Working for You
Oregon's PIP insurance exists to protect accident victims like you. Take advantage of these benefits by seeking prompt chiropractic evaluation. At Sisu Coastal Wellness, Dr. Jordan Probasco specializes in treating auto accident injuries and working with PIP insurance. We'll handle the insurance paperwork so you can focus on recovery.
Don't delay. Call us at 503-739-2120 to schedule your evaluation. Your health and recovery are too important to wait.