Getting injured in an accident is stressful enough—but dealing with the medical bills that follow can feel overwhelming. Who’s responsible for paying them? Will insurance cover everything? And what if you cannot afford treatment while waiting for a settlement?
If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence in Missouri, understanding how medical expenses are handled is crucial. In this blog, we’ll break down who pays for your medical bills, how insurance factors in, and what options you have while your case is pending.
Who Is Responsible for Covering Your Medical Bills?
Unfortunately, if you were injured in a personal injury accident, the burden of payment typically falls on you. Medical providers expect you to pay your bills directly, even if someone else is responsible for the injuries.
Health Insurance
In many cases, your health insurance company may help cover the medical expenses incurred due to a personal injury or accident. However, if you obtain compensation from a settlement or personal injury lawsuit, your health insurance provider may, in certain situations, be entitled to reimbursement for medical expenses they cover. To determine if this would apply in your case, it is important to speak with an experienced Missouri personal injury attorney.
MedPay
In Missouri, medical payment coverage (commonly known as MedPay) is an optional component of auto insurance. This means that it is not mandated by law for drivers. However, due to its benefits, many consider adding MedPay to their auto insurance policies.
This coverage can help pay for a variety of medical expenses incurred by you and your passengers in the event of an accident, regardless of who is at fault. This includes costs such as hospital bills, doctor visits, and rehabilitation services.
Car Insurance
In Missouri, car insurance operates on a traditional at-fault basis system. After an accident, the victim files a claim with the insurance of the at-fault driver, which is responsible for covering the victim’s losses, such as medical bills, up to the policy limits. However, these limits may not fully cover all costs, especially in severe injury cases.
Medical Lien
Another option to consider is a medical lien, which some medical providers may accept. A medical lien allows you to receive necessary treatment immediately, deferring payment until you obtain a settlement or verdict in a personal injury case. This agreement ensures that you can access immediate healthcare without the financial burden upfront, but it is crucial to be aware that any lien must be resolved before you receive your settlement funds.
This means that a portion of your compensation will go directly to settling your medical provider’s lien before you receive any remaining amount. However, Missouri law stipulates that the total amount of all medical liens cannot exceed 50% of your net recovery after attorney’s fees and expenses are deducted.
Pursuing Compensation Through a Personal Injury Lawsuit
Depending on the situation, filing a personal injury suit against the liable party or their insurance company can be another way to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries. Obtaining a court verdict or reaching a favorable settlement can provide financial support for medical costs and other losses and damages, such as lost wages and pain and suffering.
Take Control of Your Medical Expenses – Contact Us Today
Dealing with medical bills after a personal injury can be overwhelming, but you do not have to face it alone. Understanding your rights and options can make all the difference in ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in Missouri and have questions about your medical bills or personal injury claim, do not wait—contact Wegmann Law Firm today for a free consultation.
