What is the Limit of Liability that Applies to Bodily Injury?

After an accident, understanding the nuances of liability and compensation can be crucial for victims seeking justice and recovery. A key component in this complex legal landscape is the limit of liability that applies to bodily injury claims. At Marvin A. Cooper, P.C., we specialize in personal injury law and offer an insightful exploration into the concept of liability limits and their implications for bodily injury cases.

The Concept of Liability Limits

Liability limits refer to the maximum amount of money an insurance company is obligated to pay under an insurance policy for a claim. These limits are a fundamental aspect of insurance policies, setting the boundaries for coverage in the event of an accident that results in bodily injuries. Liability limits are crucial in determining how much compensation an injured party can receive from an insurer following an accident.

Types of Liability Coverage

In the context of automobile insurance, there are typically two main types of liability coverage: Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) and Property Damage Liability (PDL). BIL covers the costs associated with the injuries the policyholder is legally responsible for causing to others, while PDL covers the damage to someone else’s property. This article focuses on BIL and the limits that apply to these types of claims.

What are Bodily Injury Liability Limits?

Bodily Injury Liability limits are usually expressed in terms of a split limit or a combined single limit (CSL). A split limit indicates two separate amounts: one that applies per person injured in an accident and another that applies per accident, regardless of the number of people injured. For example, a typical split limit might be expressed as $25,000/$50,000, meaning $25,000 is the maximum coverage for injuries per person, and $50,000 is the maximum coverage for all injuries in a single accident.

A Combined Single Limit, on the other hand, does not have separate limits for each person and per accident. Instead, it offers a single amount that covers all bodily injuries and property damage resulting from an accident. For instance, a $100,000 CSL policy would provide up to $100,000 in coverage for all injuries and damages from a single accident, without per-person limitations.

State Minimums and Requirements

Each state has its own requirements for minimum liability coverage that drivers must carry. These minimums are set to ensure that individuals have a basic level of protection in the event of an accident. However, it’s important to note that state minimums may not always provide sufficient coverage in serious accidents involving significant injuries. Victims may face challenges in obtaining adequate compensation if the at-fault party’s insurance limits are too low to cover the full extent of damages.

Exceeding Liability Limits

When the costs associated with a bodily injury claim exceed the at-fault party’s liability limits, the injured party may encounter difficulties in recovering the difference. In such cases, victims may have to explore alternative avenues for compensation, such as filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party or tapping into their own underinsured motorist coverage, if available.

Navigating the intricacies of liability limits and securing fair compensation for bodily injuries demands a thorough understanding of personal injury law and insurance regulations. This is where the expertise of personal injury attorneys becomes invaluable. Law firms like Marvin A. Cooper, P.C. specialize in advocating for the rights of injury victims, ensuring they are fully aware of the liability limits in play and exploring all possible sources of compensation.

Contact Marvin A. Cooper, P.C. Today 

The experienced team at Marvin A. Cooper, P.C. provides comprehensive legal services to clients facing bodily injury claims, including:

• Evaluating Claims: Assessing the specifics of your case to determine the extent of liability and potential sources of compensation.
• Navigating Insurance Policies: Helping clients understand the liability limits of relevant insurance policies and the implications for their claims.
• Maximizing Compensation: Aggressively negotiating with insurance companies to ensure clients receive the maximum compensation possible within the limits of the policy.
• Exploring Legal Options: If necessary, pursuing legal action to seek compensation beyond the at-fault party’s insurance limits, including litigation against individuals or entities with legal liability for the accident.

The limit of liability for bodily injury is a critical factor in determining the compensation available to victims of accidents. Understanding these limits and their impact on personal injury claims is essential for anyone seeking to navigate the aftermath of an accident. 

With the guidance and support of Marvin A. Cooper, P.C., victims can gain a clearer understanding of their rights and options, ensuring they are positioned to secure the compensation they deserve. In a legal landscape where knowledge and expertise are paramount, partnering with seasoned personal injury attorneys can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Call us now at 914-809-9945 or schedule a consultation online to learn more.