After a motor vehicle crash, a car accident lawyer may be able to help you pursue compensation, especially if another driver is at fault. In the meantime, your medical expenses can start to pile up while you treat your injuries. Who pays for medical bills after a car accident?
Learn more about key factors that affect medical payment coverage below.
Exploring Common Car Accident Medical Bills
Before victims ever file an auto insurance claim, they should seek prompt medical treatment for any injuries. Even if you don’t think you’re hurt after an accident, shock and adrenaline could be masking some symptoms, such as muscle soreness or stiff joints, that may not appear until days after the crash.
It’s wise to consult a doctor as soon as possible to diagnose and treat any injuries. Circumstances vary, but you may find yourself facing steep healthcare costs, including bills for:
- Ambulance rides
- Hospital stays
- Urgent care visits
- Doctor’s appointments
- Physical therapy or injury rehabilitation programs
- Prescription medications
Some crash victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder and seek mental health support to manage their symptoms, leading to therapy costs.
How To Receive Medical Payment Coverage After a Motor Vehicle Accident
Prioritize your health and seek treatment for any injuries you sustain. You may not want to be stuck with the bills for treatment, but thankfully, there are ways to minimize the financial burden. Here are some options to explore.
Use Your Health Insurance Coverage
Rather than paying out of pocket for every doctor’s visit or physical therapy appointment, take advantage of your health insurance. Providers may offer services at a discounted rate, depending on the details of your policy’s coverage. Please note that you may be required to make a copayment or pay a specified amount to meet your deductible.
Contact Your Auto Insurer About Personal Injury Protection Coverage
Who pays for medical bills after an accident you caused? Auto insurance companies offer Personal Injury Protection coverage that drivers can add to their policies. This means that drivers who carry PIP insurance can recoup some of their medical expenses, lost wages, and other accident-related costs, regardless of who is at fault.
For instance, if you’re experiencing whiplash symptoms after rear-ending someone, you won’t be on the hook for your treatment costs. Rely on your PIP coverage to take care of the bill even if the accident was your fault.
File a Claim Against an At-Fault Driver
What about collisions that aren’t your fault? In that case, you’ll want to file a claim with the other motorist’s insurance company. Claims citing the at-fault driver’s liability may help victims cover damages such as property loss, medical care, and lost wages.
Be mindful that the claims process can be complex, especially if disputes arise. Ensure you begin with ample evidence supporting your claim and a qualified legal professional on your side.
How a Personal Injury Attorney May Be Able To Help
Suppose you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident. You’re unable to find the at-fault driver and track down their insurance information, nor do you have sufficient coverage. Who pays for medical bills after a car accident in a situation like this?
Pursuing compensation for an accident due to someone else’s negligence can seem daunting. Partner with an experienced personal injury lawyer who will advocate for you. Legal professionals assist victims in collecting evidence, such as nearby surveillance footage that may help identify the driver of the at-fault vehicle.
Attorneys who handle car crash cases understand how insurance companies operate and may communicate with them on your behalf. They will assess both economic and non-economic damages to calculate an amount that fairly represents one’s losses, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Vehicle damage
- Emotional distress
- Overall pain and suffering
If an insurance company approves a claim and offers a settlement, attorneys evaluate the offer and may even negotiate for a higher amount.
Consult a Car Accident Attorney To Discuss Your Options
Who pays for medical bills after a car accident? Will Personal Injury Protection insurance cover lost wages and emotional distress? How can you gather evidence supporting your claim?
These are just some of the many questions we receive. At Flesch Law Denver Injury Accident Lawyers, our legal team handles complex car accident cases. We have years of experience and don’t charge any fees unless you reach a settlement or win your case.
Connect with our firm today to discuss your case with a legal professional. Call (303) 218-9394 to schedule a free consultation.