Car accident injuries can significantly impact your physical and mental well-being, preventing you from enjoying daily activities. On top of that, emergency treatment costs and ongoing physical therapy expenses can add to your existing stress, burying you in medical bills.
In this guide, we’ll explore who covers medical bills in a car accident and examine types of health insurance and auto insurance coverage. Keep reading for advice on filing claims so you can make the most informed legal decisions and receive maximum compensation.
To speak with an experienced car accident lawyer about your injury claim, contact Cousin Benny today.
Typical Medical Bills Following a Car Accident
If you’ve sustained injuries in a car accident, you likely have medical bills to pay. When working with an attorney, you may be eligible to recover the following damages:
- Ambulance fees
- Physical therapy
- Medical professional consultations
- Medical devices like walkers and wheelchairs
- Permanent disability
- Home care and treatment services
- Disfigurement
Auto Insurance Coverage
Auto insurance policies typically include coverage for medical expenses related to your car accident injury treatment. Depending on your policy, this coverage can help pay for hospital visits, surgeries, and other medical treatments.
Medical Payment Coverage (MedPay)
Medical Payment Coverage, commonly known as MedPay, is an optional add-on to your auto insurance. MedPay covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of who was at fault for an accident.
This coverage can be used for car accident medical bills, including hospital visits, surgeries, and even funeral expenses. It acts as supplementary insurance, covering out-of-pocket costs not paid by your primary health insurance.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Personal Injury Protection, or PIP, is often mandatory in no-fault insurance states and covers medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses. This coverage extends to you, your passengers, and even pedestrians injured in the accident. PIP ensures that you receive prompt medical care without waiting for a determination of fault.
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If you are injured in a car accident caused by a driver with insufficient insurance, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can help pay for your medical expenses. This type of insurance is crucial for financial protection in cases where the at-fault driver cannot cover the costs associated with your injuries.
Health Insurance Coverage
Your health insurance provider may cover various medical treatments, from emergency care to rehabilitation. It’s essential to understand your policy’s copayments, deductibles, and limitations in order to prepare for any out-of-pocket expenses you might incur after a car accident.
Primary vs. Secondary Coverage
In the event of a car accident, auto insurance is typically considered primary coverage for medical bills, while health insurance functions as secondary coverage. This means that your auto insurance will pay first, and any remaining costs should be submitted to your healthcare provider.
Coordinating between these two types of coverage ensures that you maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Coordination Between Auto and Health Insurance
Proper coordination between your auto and health insurance company is essential to avoid denied claims and ensure smooth processing of your medical bills. Informing both insurance companies about the accident can streamline this process.
Your auto insurance may require documentation of health insurance payments and vice versa. Clear communication with both insurers can ensure that your claims are processed efficiently.
Limitations and Exclusions in Health Insurance Policies
Health insurance policies often implement limitations and exclusions that can affect coverage for car accident injuries. Certain policies may not cover certain types of treatments or may impose limits on the amount payable for specific services.
It’s important to review your policy to understand the possible impact of these limitations on your medical care and health insurance plan for any additional expenses.
Medicare and Medicaid
For drivers insured under Medicare or Medicaid, these programs may cover medical expenses resulting from a car crash. It’s important to understand your eligibility and the extent of your coverage in order to effectively manage your medical bills.
Eligibility and Coverage Details
Eligibility for Medicare and Medicaid varies based on factors such as age, disability, and income. For qualifying individuals, these programs offer substantial assistance with medical bills.
It’s important to research specific program coverage and associated costs, such as copayments and deductibles, to ensure you receive adequate coverage for your medical expenses.
At-Fault Driver’s Insurance
If another driver is at fault for an accident, their insurance company should cover your medical treatment. After filing a claim, the at-fault driver’s liability insurance may compensate for your medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses. Understanding this process can help you make informed legal decisions and receive the compensation you are entitled to.
Filing a Claim Against the At-Fault Driver
When filing a claim against the at-fault driver, it’s important to gather police reports and medical records to support your case. This evidence demonstrates the extent of your injuries and any associated medical costs. An experienced attorney can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, simplifying this process and improving your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Legal Processes and Potential Outcomes
Navigating legal processes after a car accident may involve negotiations, settlements, or even court proceedings if a fair settlement cannot be reached. The outcome of your claim may vary based on evidence, the severity of your injuries, and the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage.
An experienced lawyer can advocate for your rights and pursue the best course of action to achieve an ideal settlement.
Contact Cousin Benny if You or a Loved One Was Injured in a Car Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash, the Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Cousin Benny can help. Our experienced attorneys will advocate for your rights as a driver and negotiate with insurance companies to win you the compensation you deserve.
Contact Cousin Benny today and get the car accident settlement you need to recover from your car accident injuries.
