In California, pain and suffering from a car accident may be compensated through the at-fault driver's insurance policy. Depending on the specifics of the accident, the injured party can file a claim under either their own personal injury protection (PIP) policy or under the other driver’s bodily injury (BI) liability coverage.
In addition to medical expenses, wages lost due to an inability to work during recovery, and other expenses related directly to the car accident, victims may be able to receive payment for pain and suffering. It is important to note that California is a no-fault state so drivers must turn first towards their own policies before seeking compensation from another party in an auto accident.