Over 100 “5 Star Reviews”
Bernard Tully Personal Injury Lawyer. Phone: 412-281-8700
In the aftermath of a car accident, having knowledge of a few basic pieces of information will save you both hassle and money. Pittsburgh wrongful death and serious injury car accident attorney Bernie Tully is here to provide you with valuable FREE legal advice that could make a significant difference.
In Pennsylvania, following an accident one question that often comes up is, “Who pays my medical bills from the accident?” The answer lies in understanding the state’s no-fault status. Regardless of fault, your own auto insurance company is initially responsible for paying any of YOUR medical bills related to the car accident. This applies even if you were the one at fault—a distinctive feature of Pennsylvania’s no-fault system.
Now, let us talk about the real savings. If the accident was not your fault, your auto insurance company must foot the medical bills, and here is the kicker—they cannot raise your insurance rates for submitting these bills. It is a double win for you.
Car Accident Advice
Here’s where car accident advice becomes crucial in saving you money. If you were to submit your medical bills to your health insurance carrier without this knowledge, they might pay the bills but could seek reimbursement from you later—a process known as a lien. Private insurance companies often assert these liens if there is a settlement in your case.
Imagine your auto accident case settles for $100,000, and your private insurance company claims a lien for $10,000. This is where having your auto insurance company pay your medical bills comes in handy—they cannot demand reimbursement from you for these bills, up to the limits of your medical coverage.
But wait, there is more. Pennsylvania law requires an Act 6 reduction of all medical bills your auto insurance company receives. If a chiropractor bills $1,000 for treatment, your auto carrier might only pay $200 as full payment, and the chiropractor cannot legally seek the $800 balance from you. Up to the limits of your auto policy 1st party medical coverage, you pay nothing for your medical treatment.
Most people opt for the minimum $5,000 medical coverage, meaning you could have around $8,000 in actual medical bills without spending a dime of your own money. This provision was designed to manage the influx of medical bills following auto accidents.
Here is the takeaway car accident advice: After an auto accident, turn all your medical bills over to your own insurance company for payment. Avoid submitting your initial medical bills to your private health provider to steer clear of potential medical liens from any settlement in your car accident case. Play it smart, save money, and let your auto insurance work for you.
Our main focus is honesty. We always preach it. We are passionate about trying to help any injured person or family member with their case. Questions about the blog? CALL US!
Bernard Tully Allegheny County Car Accident Lawyer. Phone: 412-281-8700 and 1-800-518-0050
