When you’re injured in an auto accident that wasn’t your fault, the other driver’s insurance company is responsible for your medical bills. Unfortunately, the other insurance company won’t directly pay your medical bills after each visit. Typically, the insurance company will wait until your treatment is finished before settling with you. Healthcare providers will hold you liable for your medical bills, regardless of who was at fault for the injuries. While you’re waiting to get payment from the insurance company, your bills still need to get paid. What can you do to prevent your bills from going on your credit report?
Use Your Own Insurance Policy
First, you may be able to pay your medical bills through your own health insurance policy. Keep track of all co-pays and invoices to give to the other driver’s insurance company. Your health insurer may expect to be repaid for their portion of the bill but using your health insurance keeps your bills paid.
If you live in a no-fault state, your auto insurance covers your medical bills up to the limits of your coverage, regardless of which driver was at fault. This means you can use your auto insurance to get your bills paid. You may also have a “med pay policy” under your auto insurance. Your auto insurance might cover your medical bills up to a certain limit, usually $10,000. If your medical bills exceed your own coverage, you’ll be responsible for paying the overage.
Make Arrangements with the Healthcare Provider
If you can’t use your own insurance, your other option is to find a way to hold off your bills from going to collections. Some providers might make hardship arrangements with you. You may be able to make payment arrangements with the provider through a medical credit card or by paying a certain amount each month. Your healthcare provider may also file a lien against any potential settlement to ensure that they get paid if and when you do get paid.
How Long Will It Take to Settle Your Claim?
Personal injury cases can take a long time to settle. This can be in your favor, depending on the severity of your injuries. Once you settle with the insurance company, you can’t go back and ask for more money to cover future expenses. It makes sense to wait to settle your case to make sure you won’t have more expenses. If you are wondering about who is the best car accident lawyer to speak with, who can help you out with your case.