Getting into a car accident can be a traumatic experience, and paying for the necessary medical treatments can be just as overwhelming. It is important to know your options when you are not at fault for an accident and require medical treatment.
Health Insurance
Using private health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, or TRICARE coverage is one option to ensure medical treatment is paid for. Although health insurance can cover the bulk of medical charges, you may still be responsible for copays, deductibles, or out-of-network charges.
Additionally, health insurance companies are entitled to subrogation. Subrogation is when one party (like a health insurance company) takes over the legal right to recover money from someone else after paying a claim to prevent you from being compensated twice. This is common and legal, but the amount can sometimes be negotiated, especially if your compensation was limited.
MedPay
In Colorado, drivers have the option to purchase MedPay coverage on their auto policy to cover their medical expenses after an accident. When establishing an auto policy, the insurance company will offer $5,000 in MedPay coverage. A person can either reject the coverage, increase the amount, or proceed with the minimum coverage of $5,000.
MedPay is extremely beneficial, covering emergency transport, hospital stays, doctor visits, imaging, even surgeries. There are no deductibles or copays associated with MedPay coverage, and it is not subject to subrogation.
Liens and Payment Agreements
In situations where a provider does not accept your health insurance or you do not have health insurance or MedPay, you can explore alternative options with the provider.
A lien is an agreement between the patient and provider where the provider agrees to get paid later from any settlement or court award.
Some providers are willing to work with their patients on payment plans. You can discuss this option with the billing department to try to come to an agreement on a payment plan.
Paying for medical treatment after a car accident can involve a combination of auto insurance, health insurance, and legal support. While the process can be complex, understanding your options helps ensure you receive the care you need without bearing an undue financial burden.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, consider speaking to a legal professional at Malnar Injury Law to help protect your interests and manage the cost of care.
Danielle Crotser
Paralegal
Malnar Injury Law
