How Do Health Insurance Companies Pay for Car Accident Injuries?

Almost every state in this country requires a motor vehicle driver to carry insurance, except for New Hampshire and Virginia. Whenever you need to go to the hospital, you expect to utilize the services you pay for to cover your care. But what happens when you seek medical treatment as a result of a car accident? Does your medical insurance still cover this bill, or do you turn to your car insurance for assistance?

While it may be wise to speak with a local attorney for more specific information pertaining to your own situation, here’s a quick look at the basics:

Underinsured Drivers and Uninsured Drivers

For situations where the at-fault party has little to no auto coverage, carrying an insurance policy known as uninsured or underinsured motorists coverage can help alleviate the stress of mounting medical bills. This coverage can allow your motor vehicle insurance to cover the medical portion of whatever the at-fault drivers could not. This can be especially important if injuries have lasting or permanent effects.

Which Insurance Company Pays an Injury Claim?

This question is really quite detailed, and many factors come into play. In most cases, whoever is at fault is responsible for the medical bills. If someone else hits you and is cited for the accident, it is likely that their insurance provider would be responsible for paying for your medical bills. Ultimately, the insurer who is responsible for covering an injury claim will depend on the specific laws of your state.

Remember: Initial Medical Costs Are Not Always Final

When it comes to a car accident and medical costs, the initial costs of treatment may not be the final total on care. Oftentimes, people do not realize how severely injured they are until days or even weeks after the incident. Severe injuries may require extensive medical care, such as physical therapy.

Furthermore, if you have had to take time off of work due to your injuries, or have a possibly disabling condition; you may be entitled to further compensation for those damages as well. A car accident lawyer Memphis TN may stand beside you and fight for a compensation package that accounts for all medical costs, including those that you may incur in the future.

When To Contact a Car Accident Lawyer for Counsel 

The typical insurance company wants to settle the claim as quickly and as quietly as possible. They do not want to go to court, and do not want to pay a dime more than they have to. Your best interest is not their priority; their main focus is to protect their bottom line.

An attorney may be able to help combat attempts to settle your claim with a low-ball offer, expedite the settlement award process, and offer peace of mind by professionally managing all of the complexities of your case.

An experienced attorney should be able to examine your potential case and determine the path to compensation. They may also be able to assist in determining who is responsible for the medical bills based on your unique situation. There are always loopholes and all sorts of red tape when it comes to an auto accident; which is why having legal counsel can be so beneficial.


Thanks to our friends and contributors from Wiseman Bray PLLC for their insight into insurance involved in car accidents.