Who Pays Your Medical Bills in an Auto Accident?
Pennsylvania operates under a "no-fault" insurance system, which is designed to reduce the need for lawsuits and expedite the process of receiving medical treatment. In this system, each driver's own insurance coverage pays for their medical expenses, regardless of who was at fault in the accident. This means that when you're injured in an auto accident, your first point of contact for medical bills will usually be your own insurance company.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Under Pennsylvania law, drivers are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. PIP helps cover the following expenses:
Medical Bills: Hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation services, and any other costs associated with your injuries.
Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, PIP can provide compensation for a portion of your lost income.
Other Expenses: This may include rehabilitation services or home care costs.
It's essential to review your own insurance policy to know the limits of your PIP coverage. In Pennsylvania, the minimum PIP coverage is $5,000, but many individuals opt for higher limits to ensure adequate coverage. You are able to select up to $1.1 million in medical benefits coverage. This is some of the least expensive health insurance available. This type of coverage also has no copay or deductible.
Health Insurance
If you have health insurance, it may also come into play when determining who pays your medical bills. Once your medical benefits under your auto insurance are exhausted your health insurance will pay your bills. However, it's crucial to notify your health insurance provider about the auto accident as they may have specific procedures to follow. It's worth noting that in some situations, your health insurance may seek reimbursement from your auto insurance if you pursue a personal injury claim later on.
If you are unable to work after a car accident, you might lose access to your employer-based health insurance. Having adequate medical benefits on your auto insurance policy is an easy way to protect your wallet AND your access to care after a serious injury.
File a Claim Against the At-Fault Driver
In cases where the injuries are severe and you exceed the limits of your PIP, or if your accident meets a specific threshold for serious injury, you may have the option to file a claim against the at-fault driver. This claim can cover additional medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Having an experienced personal injury attorney from Fiffik Law Group can be invaluable here. We can help you navigate the complexities of Pennsylvania's insurance laws, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
The Importance of Documentation
Regardless of which avenue you pursue to pay your medical bills, thorough documentation is essential. Here’s what you should keep track of:
Medical Records: All documents related to your treatment, including bills, prescriptions, and doctor’s notes.
Accident Report: Obtain a copy of the police report and any other evidence from the scene of the accident.
Communications: Note any correspondence with insurance companies and health care providers.
These records will not only assist you in dealing with medical expenses but can also be critical if you decide to pursue a claim against the at-fault driver.
Consider Consulting an Attorney
Navigating the aftermath of an auto accident can be tricky, especially when it comes to understanding who pays your medical bills. Consulting with the experienced attorneys at Fiffik Law Group, who regularly help victims of auto accidents in Pennsylvania, can provide clarity. We can assist with everything from negotiating with insurers to filing a lawsuit if needed.
Remember to check your policy to ensure you have Full Tort Insurance so that you can make a claim for pain and suffering should you or a family member become injured in an auto accident.