Nobody sets out to get into a car accident, but they do happen, and when accidents happen, they can turn your entire life upside down. You have mounting medical bills and need help paying them. Understanding how to handle medical expenses while waiting for compensation is an essential part of your recovery. Read on to learn how medical bills are paid after a car accident and how Tom Ueberschaer can help.
Overview of Compensation for Car Accident Victims
Damages for car accidents are divided into economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are easy to value and include medical bills, lost wages and the value of replacement services. Non-economic damages are subjective and include things like pain and suffering, loss of consortium and loss of enjoyment of life.
Florida is a no-fault state for car accidents. This means you must first file a claim with your own insurance company responsible for paying economic damages. Settlements are paid in one of two ways: a lump sum or a structured settlement. Structured settlements are rarer, and you get your settlement in installments.
Insurance Coverage for Medical Expenses
In Florida, all drivers are required to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. This covers your medical expenses, up to 60% of your lost wages with a top limit of $10,000, and replacement services. It does not cover non-economic damages. To recover those, you will need to sue the at-fault driver.
Payment Plans and Medical Liens
If you owe a lot in medical bills, paying them can be tricky while waiting for your injury settlement. It is important to contact your medical provider about potential payment plans that will allow you to make regular payments over time to catch up. Alternatively, a medical lien allows the medical provider to hold your compensation until your medical bills are paid off. Your settlement will go to the medical provider until your bills are paid, and you get the remainder.
Negotiating With Medical Providers and Insurance Companies
Negotiating with your medical providers is an important step in reducing the cost of your care and setting up an affordable payment plan. Ask if they can offer a lien or payment plan option, and inform them of your ongoing case.
It is also important to negotiate with insurance companies to get the most possible coverage and ensure that your bills are paid in a timely manner. Usually, this begins with a demand letter outlining the severity of your injuries. The insurance company may deny or offer a lowball counter. From there, it’s a back-and-forth until you reach an acceptable settlement.
You should always seek help from a qualified personal injury and auto accident lawyer like Tom Ueberschaer, P.A. Tom fights to win and can take over the negotiations for you so you can focus on getting better again.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
Ask Tom Today!Legal Options for Handling Medical Expenses
Florida has strict rules for filing a PIP claim. You must obtain treatment for your injuries within two weeks of the car accident. It is important to get medical attention as soon as possible after the accident. Your insurer then has 60 days to investigate your claim but must pay the damages within 30 days regardless.
You must sue the other driver and their insurance company for pain and suffering and other non-economic damages. To do this, you must file your lawsuit within Florida’s two-year statute of limitations. Having a lawyer in your corner can be vital to maximizing your compensation.
Get Help Handling Medical Expenses After a Car Accident
Handling medical expenses after a car accident can be confusing, and seeking guidance and support from medical professionals, insurance agents and a personal injury lawyer can help address your concerns. If you have been in a car wreck, call Tom. He can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, protect your rights and help you build a case for compensation.
Tom will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and fight to maximize your compensation. He will provide the guidance and support you need and, if necessary, represent you in court to ensure you get fair compensation. Above all else, he will provide peace of mind. Tom works on contingency, so if you do not win your case, you owe nothing in legal fees. If you have been in a car accident, contact Tom Ueberschaer, P.A., at 850-434-8778 or online to schedule a free consultation on your case.