Why Insurance Should Pay Your Medical Bills After a Car Accident
In Pennsylvania, your personal auto insurance policy will usually pay your medical bills first after a car accident, regardless of who caused the crash, and your health insurance will cover any remaining costs once your first-party benefits run out.
Under 75 Pa. C.S.A. §1711, the state requires all motor vehicle insurance policies to include at least $5,000 in PIP medical insurance. You can also choose extended coverage limits of up to $100,000, depending on your needs and preferences.
First-Party Medical Benefits and Health Insurance
Once you exceed your policy’s first-party benefits (also known as Personal Injury Protection or PIP) limit, your health insurance becomes the primary payer for ongoing medical expenses. You may also be able to pursue the at-fault driver to recover any remaining expenses, as well as non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
It’s important to understand that the driver who caused your crash won’t necessarily pay every medical provider as your bills are issued. Instead, you would need to file a claim against the responsible party and recover the damages through a settlement or litigation.
Remember to keep copies of all your medical bills, letters outlining your benefits, correspondence with insurers, and records of payment. These will help to resolve any billing errors or disputes efficiently and provide valuable evidence should you choose to file a lawsuit.
Reimbursement Rights and Your Legal Obligations
Should your health insurance need to cover some of your expenses, bear in mind that every insurer has specific rules regarding coverage and reimbursement. Many insurers will also assert their right of subrogation if you receive a settlement from the at-fault driver. This means that they will expect reimbursement from the sum awarded to you.
An experienced Pennsylvania car accident lawyer can clarify any potential or outstanding legal obligations you may have. To ensure that your medical expenses are fully compensated after your accident, they can also:
- Evaluate the relevant policies and their coverage limits;
- Handle complex insurer disputes;
- Determine which losses may form part of a personal injury claim