Figuring out how to pay for medical treatment after a car accident in Washington, D.C., can be a stressful process. If you have suffered injuries, you likely face substantial medical expenses, and it may not be clear where you should turn. Who pays for medical bills after a car accident depends on a number of factors, including the circumstances of the accident, the available insurance coverage, and the severity of your injuries.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance
Personal injury protection (PIP) insurance is designed to cover medical expenses, regardless of who is at fault in an accident. Under the Washington, D.C., code, PIP coverage is mandatory, but in Maryland and Virginia it is optional and auto insurers must offer it to drivers as an add-on. One must be careful, however, because in the District of Columbia you may lose your right to pursue a claim against any at-fault party if you take your PIP benefits. Maryland and Virginia have different laws regarding the use of PIP.
PIP can cover medical bills for you and your passengers up to the limits of your policy. This includes hospital visits, surgeries, and rehabilitation. It may also cover a portion of lost wages and other accident-related costs, such as transportation to medical appointments. You must file a claim with your insurance company to access PIP benefits. It’s essential to act quickly, as there are time limits for making a PIP claim.
Health Insurance
Your health insurance coverage can be a primary resource for covering medical expenses after a car accident. Health insurance can be used in addition to or in place of PIP coverage.
Health insurance is particularly useful for covering long-term medical care that may result from serious injuries. Be aware that using your health insurance may involve co-payments, deductibles, and possibly out-of-network charges, depending on your plan.
Medical Payments Coverage
Medical payments coverage, or MedPay, is another optional coverage in auto insurance policies that helps pay for medical expenses after an accident, regardless of fault. It works similarly to PIP.
MedPay can be used in conjunction with PIP or health insurance to cover out-of-pocket expenses, such as deductibles and co-pays. It can provide quick financial relief for immediate medical expenses, allowing for faster access to necessary treatments. Coordination between different types of coverage can help maximize your benefits.
The At-Fault Driver’s Liability Insurance
Under Washington, D.C. law, you must prove that the other driver was negligent before you can recover your damages from them. In addition, in limited instances, you may also be able to use your PIP benefits. Maryland and Virginia follow a similar legal process for personal injury claims, but they always allow you to use your PIP benefits when making a claim against another driver.
Proving that the other driver was at fault for the accident involves gathering evidence, such as accident scene photos, police reports, medical records, and witness statements. If the other driver’s insurance does not agree to compensate you or disputes the claim, you may need to file a lawsuit to seek compensation.
Contact Our Experienced Washington, D.C., Car Accident Attorney
Given the potential options available, seeking compensation for your medical bills after a car accident can be confusing. Plus, you deserve time and space to heal after an accident. Instead of attempting to handle these claims on your own, contact a knowledgeable car accident lawyer to review your options. At Simeone & Miller, LLP, we take the time to learn about your situation and thoughtfully devise a strategy to pursue the compensation you need and deserve. Contact us today to get started with a free consultation.
