Confusion and stress over auto accident related medical bills can motivate folks to call an attorney for help. Even if a high cost surgery isn’t necessary, ambulance, emergency room and other bills can stack up. These medical bills may be partially or even fully covered by a few different sources. Staying on top of your medical bills is important. If they go unresolved or unaddressed for a while, then they might be sent to collections.
The first place to look for coverage 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 these 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 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 will with these issues as part of your settlement disbursement.
Cooney Law Offices can help you focus on getting your life back, instead of stressing over medical bills. Let our experienced injury attorneys guide you through the legal process and maximize your financial recovery. Cooney Law Offices. We can help!