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When a truck accident causes serious injuries, the medical expenses that follow can quickly become overwhelming. These bills may include emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. Determining who pays these costs and when depends on the type of insurance coverage involved, how fault is assigned, and the process used to resolve the injury claim.
Who Pays My Medical Bills After a Truck Accident?
In New Jersey, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage typically pays initial medical expenses, regardless of fault. PIP helps cover costs such as hospital visits and therapy. However, once PIP limits are reached, other parties, such as the at-fault truck driver or their employer, may be held financially responsible through a personal injury claim.
What Happens When My PIP Coverage Runs Out?
When PIP benefits are exhausted, you may use your health insurance to continue paying medical bills. Later, if a settlement or court award is obtained, your health insurer may seek reimbursement for what it paid. This process is called “subrogation” and helps prevent double recovery for the same expenses.
Can I Claim Future Medical Expenses?
Yes, a truck accident claim may include compensation for future medical care related to your injuries. These costs can include long-term treatment, rehabilitation, or medical equipment. Calculating future expenses often requires detailed documentation and expert medical opinions to demonstrate the claimant’s ongoing needs.
Does Fault Affect Who Pays My Medical Bills?
Initially, fault does not affect payment under PIP coverage since it operates on a no-fault basis. However, once fault is determined, the at-fault party and their insurance carrier may become responsible for reimbursing you or your insurer for medical costs exceeding your PIP limits.
Can I Include Emotional Distress From Medical Treatment?
Truck accident claims may include compensation for pain and suffering linked to medical treatment. This category reflects the physical and emotional strain caused by surgeries, recovery, and prolonged medical care after the accident.
Can I Recover Compensation for Out-of-Pocket Medical Costs?
Out-of-pocket costs, such as co-pays, prescription costs, and medical supplies, can be included in your truck accident claim. Keep detailed records of every medical expense and receipt to strengthen your ability to pursue full compensation later in the process.
What if I Do Not Have Health Insurance?
If you lack health insurance and your PIP benefits are insufficient, some medical providers may agree to treat you under a “medical lien.” This means they postpone billing until your claim resolves – once a settlement or judgment is reached, the provider is paid directly from the recovery.
How Are Medical Liens Handled in a Settlement?
Medical liens must be addressed before you receive settlement funds. A lawyer typically negotiates with healthcare providers to settle on the amount owed. Paying liens properly prevents further financial obligations and meets state and federal reimbursement regulations.
What Role Does the Trucking Company’s Insurance Play?
The trucking company’s insurance may cover medical costs if the driver or the company is found at fault. These policies often have high coverage limits due to the potential severity of injuries in truck accidents. Your lawyer may seek compensation from the trucking company’s insurer once liability is established.
What if My Medical Bills Are Sent to Collections?
If medical bills remain unpaid while your claim is pending, providers may forward them to collections. This can negatively affect your credit and increase financial pressure. Notifying providers that a claim is in progress may help pause collection activity. Your lawyer can also communicate with billing departments to confirm that payment will be issued once the case concludes.
Our Experienced Newark Truck Accident Lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP Help Clients Pursue Maximum Compensation
If you need legal guidance with getting compensation after a crash, contact our Newark truck accident lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP. For a free consultation, call today at 973-675-8277 or contact us online. Located in East Orange, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients throughout the state.
