A common abbreviated insurance term is PLPD. In many instances, the term is used without the knowledge of what the coverage really is and how it pertains to the insured. PLPD is an important part of every drivable vehicle's insurance coverage. Knowing what PLPD is can save you a lot of confusion and hassle if you are ever in an accident. A better understanding of coverage can also save you money on insurance.
PLPD is broken down into two categories of coverage. PL refers to personal liability while PD refers to property damage. Deductibles do not apply to either personal liability or property damage; however, usually for the coverage to apply you would be determined at fault in the accident. If you are at fault in an accident, your insurance rates are sure to go up. At least you will not have to worry about a deductible in a liability or property damage type of claim.
PL = Personal Liability Being negligent or at fault in an accident involving a vehicle makes you liable. Personal liability can cover the other person's injuries, pain, and suffering, if you are found to be at fault. Liability is written as a fraction, 20,000/40,000, on your insurance policy and is also referred to as Bodily Injury. The first number in the fraction is the maximum amount to be paid out per person. The second number in the fraction is the maximum to be paid out per accident. If multiple people are injured in an accident, it is first come first serve; meaning whoever files a claim first has first opportunity at the stated limits.
Example: John is texting and driving, and he does not realize the light turned red. He rear ends another vehicle with four passengers. All four passengers sustain minor injuries. John's personal liability limits are 100,000/300,000. Each passenger goes after John's insurance company for $20,000 a piece for pain and suffering. Each are awarded a settlement because John was found to be at fault and the amount pursued falls within the guidelines of less than 100,000 per person and not more than 300,000 per accident. If the limits are exceeded, the claimants can go after John personally.
Personal Liability Key Points:- Coverage is for the other party.
- State minimum limits vary, check with your insurance representative.
- Standard limits are 100,000/300,000.
- Michigan has different rules regarding injuries.
PD = Property Damage If you cause damage to property with your vehicle, such as another vehicle, street sign, mailbox, or anything else for that matter coverage is provided under property damage. Accidents do happen so property damage is included in all vehicle insurance policies. The coverage is typically displayed right along with personal liability 100,000/300,000/100,000. The last 100,000 is the property damage limit.
Example: John hits a patch of ice and slides into a parked vehicle on the side of the road. Damage to the parked vehicle will be covered under the property damage coverage on his car insurance policy. The vehicle will be repaired with no deductible.
Property Damage Key Points:- Covers property to others damaged by your vehicle
- State minimum limits vary, check with your insurance representative.
- Standard limit 100,000
Additional Coverage (not for all states)
Anyone taking the time to actually read through their insurance policy is at risk of getting a head ache. Industry jargon and complicated phrasing makes looking through a policy nearly impossible for an average driver. If you are not dealing with insurance terminology on a daily basis, it is extremely tough to stay on top of the legalese. Next time you hear the phrase PLPD, you'll know exactly what the coverage is and how it protects you.
