Key Points of this Article
- Medical bills after a car accident injury can add up quickly.
- If you were injured due to someone else’s negligent actions, you may be entitled to compensation to cover your medical expenses.
- An experienced car accident injury attorney can help you prove fault in your accident case and help you win an injury claim.
Medical bills can be a significant concern for individuals injured in car accidents in Kentucky, especially those without health insurance. However, not having health insurance does not necessarily mean you’ll be responsible for paying your medical bills alone. Kentucky is a “no-fault” state, which means that your personal auto insurance will cover at least part of your medical treatment, regardless of who caused the accident. Basic coverage is $10,000, but some policies can provide more coverage.
Usually, the insurance company of the driver who caused the accident will ultimately be responsible for covering your additional medical bills. However, after your ”no fault” or “Personal Injury Protection” (PIP) coverage of $10,000 has been paid out then your health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid should begin paying the remaining bills. After these bills are put in line for payment, we will make claims against the at-fault driver’s auto insurance to address your damages, including reimbursement of your medical expenses.
But if the at-fault driver does not have insurance or their policy doesn’t cover all of your expenses, who will then reimburse the cost of medical bills after a car accident? Either way, you might have to take legal action and file a lawsuit to seek compensation for your damages.
What is the Average Cost of Medical Bills After a Car Accident?
The average cost of medical bills after a car accident varies depending on the severity of the injuries. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average cost of bodily injury claims in 2019 was $18,417, which includes medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. However, please note that this is an average, meaning that the actual cost of medical bills can vary widely depending on the type and extent of the injuries sustained in the accident. For example, a serious injury such as a traumatic brain or spinal cord injury can result in medical bills exceeding hundreds of thousands of dollars over a lifetime.
What Should You Do After a Car Accident?
First and foremost, seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t feel any pain or discomfort. Some injuries may not manifest until later, and delaying treatment can worsen your condition. Once you’ve received medical treatment, gather all documentation, such as medical bills, prescription receipts, and other related expenses.
In Kentucky, the Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance policy covers medical bills up to $10,000, regardless of who is at fault. PIP can also cover other related expenses, such as lost wages and the cost of hiring someone to take care of household tasks that you cannot perform due to your injuries. However, keep in mind that PIP does not cover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
Even if your medical expenses do not exceed $10,000, you may need to file a lawsuit to recover the remaining damages. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you assess the value of your case and determine the best course of action. They can also gather evidence to support your claim and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
How are medical bills paid after a car accident? You must prove that the other driver was at fault for the accident and that their negligence caused your injuries. Your attorney will gather evidence to support your claim, including police reports, witness statements, and medical records.
Can You Sue Another Driver in Kentucky?
The answer to this question is yes, but with a caveat.
In Kentucky, car accident victims can file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. However, there is a requirement that the injured person must have medical expenses over $1,000 or your injuries result in a broken bone, permanent injuries, permanent disfigurement, or death.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Kentucky, the at-fault driver’s insurance company is typically responsible for paying your medical bills. However, if the at-fault driver does not have insurance or even if your health insurance or the at-fault liability automobile insurance company does cover your medical expenses, you may need to file a lawsuit. The cost of medical bills alone can be substantial, so it is essential to seek legal assistance immediately and keep all documentation of your medical expenses.
Kentucky Car Accident Lawyers – Rhoads & Rhoads
At Rhoads & Rhoads, our Kentucky car accident attorneys understand the challenges you face after a car accident and are here to help. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you navigate the legal process and recover the compensation you deserve. We will work tirelessly to gather evidence to support your claim, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure that your medical bills and related expenses are fully compensated.
Don’t wait to take action. Contact us today or call us at 888-709-9329 for a free consultation and take the first step towards recovering from your car accident.