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One of the biggest concerns after an accident is how to pay your medical bills. The other driver’s insurance company won’t pay your bills as they come in. Instead, you’ll get one large lump sum payment when your case is settled. What do you when your healthcare providers want to be paid? The hospital and doctors hold you responsible for your medical bills, regardless who was at fault for the accident. It’s you the creditors will call when your bills aren’t paid. You have some options, depending on your situation.
If You Have Health Insurance
Your personal health insurance policy is one of the best ways to make sure your bills get paid after an accident. This doesn’t let the other driver off the hook. It just makes sure that your medical bills aren’t sent to collections while you’re waiting for the insurance company to settle your claim. Your insurance company may want to be paid back for the bills they paid. It’s likely that your health insurance company may put a lien on your potential settlement to get their money before you receive the proceeds. You will be responsible for your co-pays if you use your private health insurance. Keep all billing documents showing what you paid.
Work With the Providers
If you don’t have health insurance, you may need to talk to the doctors and hospital about setting up a payment plan or waiting until the settlement comes through. There’s no guarantee that they will work with you, but it is a possibility. Some medical providers operate on a contingency fee for accident patients. You will have to ask what the policies are.
See If Your Auto Insurance Has a Med-Pay Option
Some insurance plans have an option that will pay your medical bills while you’re waiting for your settlement. You have to ask your insurance agent if your policy allows for this. If the other driver was un- or under-insured, and you have uninsured motorist insurance, that part of your policy may pick up your medical bills.
Talk to Your Lawyer
You are responsible for your medical bills to the healthcare provider. That doesn’t necessarily mean you were responsible for the accident. You have to find a source of payment to get your bills paid. Although it might be tempting to settle your case quickly, you should make sure that you receive enough to pay for future bills. You may want to contact an auto accident lawyer in Scottsdale, AZ who can help you through the process to protect your rights and get the best possible outcome.
Thanks to Yearin Law Office for their insight into personal injury claims and how to pay your medical bills.