By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill which raises from $20,000 to $100,000 the minimum amount of “bodily injury” insurance coverage that must be purchased by drivers to compensate the families of those killed in automobile accidents.

Supporters said the current $20,000 minimum is insufficient to help support surviving family members after all the legal and medical fees are paid following the death.

“It is imperative that we ensure that families of those who are tragically taken from us or injured in motor vehicle accidents have the ability to seek compensation,” said sponsor Rep. Alice Peisch (D-Wellesley). “This legislation will not make whole what was lost – rather, it gives victims the ability to seek some peace of mind during the most challenging moments of their lives.”