Confusion and stress over medical bills, especially if a high cost surgery is involved, is one of the biggest reasons folks call an attorney after the initial shock of an auto accident has subsided. These medical bills may be partially or even fully covered by a few different sources. It is important to keep track of these medical bills so they don’t go unpaid very long, since that can lead to them being sent to collections.
The first place to seek coverage for these bills is through your own auto insurance in the form of Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Med Pay. In Washington State, your own PIP coverage will pay the full cost of your medical bills (i.e. no deductibles, co-pays, etc.) up to your coverage limit. PIP coverage might also cover some lost wages, loss of services (household chores) and funeral expenses.
The next option to help pay accident-related medical bills is your own health insurance. Medical expenses paid by your own health insurance are still subject to the plan’s deductible, co-payment, and out-of-pocket max requirements. Your health insurer will likely require proof that you don’t have PIP or that all of your PIP coverage has already been paid out. Once they have that verification, your health insurance should start paying your accident-related medical bills.
Remember that whoever pays your medical bills might need to be reimbursed out of the proceeds of any settlement or recovery. If this process isn’t done correctly, they can deny coverage and seek reimbursement from you personally. An experienced injury attorney should be able to assist with these possible issues.
Cooney Law Offices can help you focus on getting your health back, instead of stressing over who should be paying your medical bills. Let our experienced injury attorneys guide you through the legal process and maximize your financial recovery. Cooney Law Offices. We can help!