Ask a Lawyer: Who Pays My Medical Bills After a Car Accident?

One of the first questions we hear after someone has been injured in a car accident is, “Who is going to pay these medical bills?” It’s a reasonable concern. Between ambulance charges, a life flight, emergency room visits, imaging, follow-up appointments, physical therapy, and prescription medications, the costs can add up quickly.

 The at-fault driver’s insurance usually does not pay your bills as they come in.

This comes as a surprise to many folks.  Indeed, people often assume the insurance company for the driver who caused the accident will simply pay each medical bill as it arrives.  Unfortunately, that is rarely how the process works.

Instead, the insurance company typically evaluates the entire claim after you have completed your medical treatment or reached maximum medical improvement. At that point, the claim is resolved through a settlement that includes compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

 This means you must find other ways to have your medical paid for while the case is pending.  The good news is that there are often several options available. Understanding how the process works can relieve some of the stress while you focus on recovering.  

YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE MAY PAY FIRST

If you have health insurance, it will often cover your medical treatment just as it would for any other illness or injury. You may still be responsible for deductibles or co-pays, but using your health insurance can help ensure your providers are paid while your claim is pending.

YOUR OWN CAR INSURANCE MAY HAVE MEDICAL PAYMENTS ( MEDPAY) COVERAGE, WHICH CAN HELP.

Some automobile insurance policies include Medical Payments coverage, commonly called MedPay. This coverage can pay medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident. Not every policy includes MedPay, but if you have it, it can be an excellent resource for covering out-of-pocket medical costs.

WHAT IF MY DOCTOR AGREES TO WAIT?

In some cases, medical providers may agree to delay collection until your case is resolved. This arrangement can allow you to receive necessary treatment without paying everything up front. Not every provider offers this option, but it may be available depending on the circumstances.

Be aware of medical liens and subrogation claims.

If your health or car insurance pays your medical expenses or a provider agrees to wait for payment, they may have the right to be reimbursed from any settlement you receive. These reimbursement claims, often called liens, are an important part of resolving a personal injury case and should be carefully reviewed before any settlement is finalized.

Don’t delay medical treatment.

Some people postpone seeing a doctor because they are worried about the cost. That can be a mistake for both your health and your legal claim. Prompt medical evaluation helps identify injuries early, improves your chances for recovery, and creates important documentation connecting your injuries to the accident.

Every case is different.

The way medical bills are handled depends on several factors, including the type of insurance available, the severity of the injuries, and the specific facts of the accident. Because every situation is unique, it is important to understand your options before making decisions that could affect your recovery.

If you have questions after being injured in a car accident, don’t wait until the bills begin piling up. An experienced personal injury attorney can explain your rights, help you navigate the insurance process, and work to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.