What It Means to Seek Damages for Medical Expenses

After the screeching tires and the echoes of a car accident settle, the road to recovery often takes an unexpected turn, leading many to consider filing a personal injury lawsuit. In the aftermath of such incidents, seeking damages is a pivotal step, especially when it comes to covering medical expenses. These damages are not just about the immediate financial reimbursement for hospital bills, doctor fees, and prescription medications; they serve as a lifeline in reclaiming stability after the turmoil of an accident. Choosing to file a personal injury lawsuit is, in essence, a decision to assert one’s rights and seek rightful compensation, with medical expenses standing as a critical component in rebuilding both physical well-being and financial equilibrium.

What does medical expenses include?

When you’re dealing with a personal injury claim, medical expenses usually take center stage. Whether it’s the hospital bills, fees from doctors or specialists, physical therapy, costs of tests and exams, or the cost of those necessary prescription medications or mobility devices, it all adds up.

Medical expenses aren’t just about what’s already hit your wallet. They also factor in what’s expected down the road based on your ongoing medical needs. It’s not just about what you’ve paid; it’s about what you’re likely to pay in the future to get back on your feet.

Breaking down a medical bill can be like deciphering a secret code. And, to make it a bit more complicated, what you see on the bill isn’t always what you end up paying.

Most folks don’t pay the so-called “full rate” for medical treatment. When you get a hospital bill, it breaks down like a financial roadmap: you see the total cost, what your insurance or Medicare is covering, any adjustments or write-offs, and then the bottom line – what you’re on the hook for.

Now, if you don’t have health insurance or Medicare, you will likely be looking at a higher bill compared to those with coverage. Folks who use their car insurance instead of their health insurance may also end up paying more for their healthcare, because auto insurers don’t get the same rates as health insurers.

Who will pay for my medical expenses?

The responsibility for paying your medical expenses after a car accident can depend on various factors, including the insurance coverage in place and the at-fault party. Potential sources that may cover your medical expenses include:

• Auto insurance of the at-fault party: If another driver is determined to be at fault for the accident, their liability insurance should cover your medical expenses. However, this depends on the limits of their policy.
  • As per the Washington State Department of Licensing, all vehicle owners are required to maintain the following minimum insurance coverage:
    • $25,000 for bodily injury or death of a single person in a single accident
    • $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more individuals in a single accident
    • $10,000 for property damage
  • Health insurance: Your personal health insurance policy can cover medical expenses resulting from a car accident. This coverage typically includes hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and other necessary treatments.
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: If the at-fault party is uninsured or lacks sufficient insurance, your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help cover your medical costs.

It’s crucial to report the accident to your insurance company promptly (or empower us to do it for you, as your legal counsel) and provide all necessary information. Keep detailed records of your medical treatments, bills, and any other related expenses. We can help you understand your rights, navigate the complexities of insurance claims, and determine the best course of action to ensure your medical expenses are covered.

What is Personal Injury Protection insurance (PIP) and can I use it?

Let’s break down how Personal Injury Protection (PIP) can be a lifesaver when you’re dealing with medical damages in a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident. PIP is like your fast pass to getting some cash for medical costs, no matter who’s to blame for the crash.

PIP is a “no-fault” deal. In regular insurance setups, they often want to figure out who is at fault before handing out any money, but with PIP, you can usually get some money pretty quickly, no matter who is responsible for the accident. This means you can start dealing with medical bills as soon as possible, without waiting for the usual slow insurance process.

And PIP isn’t just about medical bills. It can also cover other things like lost wages if you can’t work while you’re recovering, help around the house if you can’t do your usual tasks, and even funeral expenses if things took a tragic turn.

When it comes to a personal injury lawsuit, having PIP is like having a financial safety net. It helps you handle those immediate medical costs and other money troubles while your lawsuit does its thing. This is useful especially if your lawsuit takes a bit of time or if there are delays in getting a settlement.

One thing to remember is that PIP does its own thing independently of the lawsuit, but the benefits you get from it can definitely influence how much compensation you’re aiming for in the legal process. In Washington state, PIP coverage must be offered by your insurance company, but you are not required to have it. It should also be noted that PIP in Washington state has its limits as far as how much it offers for certain expenses.

PIP coverage extends beyond just the person named on the policy. It covers the policyholder, household residents, step or foster children, and even non-family passengers and pedestrians involved in an accident. This means that if you’re hit by a car while riding your bicycle, you can use the driver’s PIP coverage for your medical bills. If the driver doesn’t have PIP, your own policy will be billed. Once PIP is exhausted, your medical insurance comes into play.

At Philbrook Law Office, our car accident attorneys in Vancouver and Battle Ground, WA, are well-versed in local, state, and federal laws. We’ve assisted numerous clients in seeking damages for medical expenses. While we recognize that PIP covers medical expenses, lost income, and funeral costs, it’s important for our clients to understand that this insurance add-on has limits. Your health and finances are our number one priority. You should not have to stress and struggle over the costs of your medical needs while trying to heal. To schedule a free consultation concerning your accident and your medical costs, feel free to reach out by calling our office or filling out our contact form to schedule a free consultation. Proudly serving Oregon, too.