One of the most common things we hear from car accident patients is: “I didn’t know my insurance covered this.”
Many Oregonians are unaware that their auto insurance includes coverage specifically designed to pay for medical treatment after a car accident—including chiropractic care. This coverage is called Personal Injury Protection, or PIP, and it’s one of the most valuable benefits in your auto policy.
What Is PIP Insurance?
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is a type of auto insurance coverage that pays for medical expenses resulting from a car accident, regardless of who was at fault. Oregon is one of the states that requires all auto insurance policies to include PIP coverage. In Washington state, however, insurance companies are required to offer PIP coverage to consumers when you purchase or renew an auto insurance policy, but you can decline that portion of the policy.
The minimum PIP coverage in Oregon is $15,000 for medical expenses. Many policies include more—check your declarations page or call your insurance company to find out your specific coverage amount.
PIP is sometimes called “no-fault” coverage because it pays for your injuries even if:
- You caused the accident
- The other driver caused the accident
- Fault hasn’t been determined yet
- No one was clearly at fault
What Does PIP Cover?
Oregon PIP covers reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to injuries from a car accident, including:
- Chiropractic care – adjustments, spinal decompression, soft tissue therapy
- Medical doctor visits
- Physical therapy
- Massage therapy
- Diagnostic imaging – X-rays, MRIs, CT scans
- Prescription medications
- Ambulance transportation
In addition to medical expenses, Oregon PIP also typically includes:
- Lost wages – if you miss work due to your injuries
- Essential services – if you can’t do household tasks you normally do
- Child care – if you need help with childcare due to injuries
How PIP Works: Step by Step
Step 1: You’re in a Car Accident
Any accident involving a motor vehicle potentially qualifies—whether you were the driver, a passenger, a pedestrian hit by a car, or a cyclist struck by a vehicle.
Step 2: Report the Accident to Your Insurance
Contact your auto insurance company to report the accident. They’ll open a PIP claim and assign a claim number.
Step 3: Seek Treatment
Go to a chiropractor, doctor, or other healthcare provider for evaluation. You do not need a referral—you can go directly to a chiropractor.
Step 4: We Bill Your Auto Insurance
At Sisu Coastal Wellness, we bill your auto insurance directly. You typically pay nothing out of pocket.
Step 5: Get Better
Focus on your recovery. We continue treating you until you’ve reached maximum improvement.
Common Questions About Oregon PIP
“Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?”
No. Oregon law allows you to see a chiropractor directly without a referral.
“Will using PIP raise my insurance rates?”
Generally, no. PIP is a no-fault coverage, meaning using it typically doesn’t affect your rates. However, every insurance company is different. Its best to check your policy for confirmation.
“What if I have health insurance too?”
Auto insurance (PIP) is primary for car accident injuries, meaning it pays first. Your health insurance would potentially only come into play after PIP is exhausted. If it gets to that point, an attorney might be needed to help with your case, while your balance is held until case your case is resolved.
“How long do I have to use PIP benefits?”
Oregon PIP coverage is available for up to two years from the date of the accident, or until your benefits are exhausted. Begin treatment as soon as possible.
“What if I was a passenger, not the driver?”
You’re still covered. PIP covers the driver and all passengers in the vehicle.
“What if I was hit as a pedestrian or cyclist?”
You’re likely still covered. If you have auto insurance, your PIP would typically cover you.
Don’t Leave YOUR Health AT RISK
If you’ve been in a car accident in Oregon, you have insurance coverage specifically designed to pay for your treatment. Not using it doesn’t save you anything—you’ve already paid for this coverage through your premiums.
How to Get Started
- Call us at 503-739-2120
- Tell us you were in a car accident
- Give us your auto insurance information
- Come in for your evaluation
We’ll verify your coverage, handle all the billing, and focus on getting you better. Don’t let uncertainty about insurance keep you from getting the care you need.
Sisu Coastal Wellness is located at 818 Commercial Street, Suite 200, in Astoria, Oregon. We serve patients throughout Clatsop County, including Warrenton, Seaside, and Cannon Beach. Call 503-739-2120 to schedule your appointment.