How Can I Pay for My Medical Bills and Other Expenses While My Personal Injury Case Is Pending?

If you’ve been in an accident that was caused by another person’s negligence, you can seek compensation to offset your losses. However, it takes several months or even a year for your final settlement to arrive. In the meantime, you have to pay your medical bills and other expenses. Read on to find out how to cover your medical costs while your lawsuit is pending.

How To Pay Your Medical Bills Before Your Settlement

There are several options for people who are struggling to pay medical bills while their lawsuit is pending. In Missouri, MedPay can help after a car accident. Victims can also get help from their health insurance company.

Some healthcare providers allow payments to be deferred. People on a low income can benefit from Medicaid or Medicare, but they first have to prove that they are eligible.

Use MedPay

In most states, you can use your PIP coverage for costs related to a car accident. Unfortunately, there is no PIP in Missouri. However, you might be covered by MedPay. This is very similar, but it covers a lower amount. Typically, drivers can claim $1,000 to $10,000 for their medical bills, depending on their policy limits.

Because MedPay isn’t a legal requirement, you might not be covered if you didn’t take out enough auto insurance. Speak to your personal injury attorney to find out whether you can benefit from this type of insurance coverage.

Speak to Your Health Insurance Company

Your health insurance company will pay medical bills related to your personal injury claim. They pay up to your coverage limits, but you still have to find the money for your deductibles and copays.

If you have a Health Savings Account, you can use this money to pay for your medical expenses. Remember, you won’t take a permanent financial hit because you’ll receive compensation that replaces your lost savings. Once you’ve received your settlement, you can replenish your Health Savings Account.

Use Medicaid or Medicare

Medicaid and Medicare are two programs designed for people on a low income. They can help patients to cover their medical bills while they wait for their settlement. However, there are limitations, and patients first have to prove that they are eligible. Those who have significant assets or a high income can’t use Medicaid and Medicare.

Defer Your Payments

Some healthcare providers allow accident victims with serious injuries to defer payment until they have received compensation. Often, an oral agreement isn’t enough. Instead, victims have to sign a letter of promise that documents their situation and details the terms of the agreement.

When you sign this letter, you agree to make the full medical payments once your case has been settled. If you fail to do so, you face collection activities. Always speak to an experienced attorney before agreeing to anything. They can let you know whether the agreement is fair and help you understand what payments you’re responsible for.

What If I Don’t Have Any Insurance?

If you don’t have health insurance coverage or MedPay, you might find it harder to pay your medical bills. In this case, you have to work closely with an attorney to find a suitable solution.

Negotiating with a hospital and signing a letter of promise might be your only option. Your lawyer can help you to draw up a suitable document and argue your case with your doctor. They will make sure that the agreement is fair and that you get the high-quality medical care you deserve.

How to Pay Other Bills

Unfortunately, your health insurance and auto insurance companies won’t pay for expenses other than your medical bills. This can be problematic if you’ve lost your job and are no longer able to pay your bills.

Your attorney will help you to analyze your financial situation to determine how you can pay your bills. If you have a good credit score, you might be able to use a zero-interest credit card or a cheap loan until you receive the settlement. You might also be able to borrow money from friends or family members.

Should I Go Into Debt?

Going into debt is never ideal, but it might be your only option if you have high medical bills and little income. It’s important to remember that this is a temporary measure. Once your funds are paid, you’ll have enough money to cover your past, present, and future medical bills.

Before you sign up for a loan, speak to your attorney. There might be government assistance programs or charities that can help you with your bills.

How Long Does a Personal Injury Claim Take?

The time it takes for a personal injury claim to settle depends on your situation. The responsible party might agree to a settlement more quickly if it’s clear that they are at fault. However, you have to prove that they caused an unsafe situation, this situation resulted in your injuries, and you are suffering as a result.

Most personal injury claims end in settlement, so the victim doesn’t have to go to court. They might take a few months. Around 5% of cases have to be taken to court. These lawsuits take much longer because there might be delays and long wait times.

What Evidence Do I Need?

Before your first consultation, collect as much proof as possible. Ask your health care providers to make a statement about your injuries, and provide your lawyer with your medical records and details of your treatment.

You might also want to show them details about your health insurance coverage and your car insurance. That way, they can help you find a solution until your personal injury case is resolved.

Information about Your Health

Bring general information about your condition before the accident. The guilty party’s insurance company might argue that you already had an injury or medical condition that is causing your current symptoms.

You’ll need to get statements from several doctors to back up your claims. The more proof you have of your previous medical situation, the easier it is for your attorney to show that your injury is a direct result of the accident.

Using Expert Witnesses

Your attorney will contact expert witnesses who can prove that the car accident resulted in serious damage. These medical professionals will confirm that your claims are valid and that you are suffering as a result of the accident. They will also evaluate the need for treatment and determine how much reimbursement you deserve.

Using Eyewitnesses

In most cases, the attorney also contacts eyewitnesses of the car accident. They can confirm that the other side was at fault. Get eyewitness statements as soon as possible because people’s memories start to fade after a few months. That’s why it’s best to contact an attorney within a month or two after an accident.

How Much Do Personal Injury Lawyers Charge if You’ve Been Injured?

People who have been injured in an accident are often hesitant to contact an attorney because they are afraid they won’t be able to afford the fees. This should not be a concern, however, because most personal injury attorneys will handle your case on a contingency fee basis.

A contingency fee is based on a percentage of the amount recovered in monetary damages. If the case is unsuccessful and there are no damages recovered, the attorney will receive no fee for his or her services. In Missouri, there is no limit on the percentage allowed as a contingency fee so long as it is reasonable, but make sure your attorney spells out all of the details in writing. Missouri Rule of Professional Conduct 4-1.5 specifically requires a written fee agreement in
contingency fee representations.

Contingency fees vary based on several factors including the difficulty of the case. Contact our Kansas City injury lawyers today to learn more and to discuss your case. The attorney will also cover the costs and expenses of the case and then deduct them from your share of the settlement. Costs and expenses can include:

• Police reports
• Medical records
• Doctor fees
• Expert witness fees
• Court and filing fees
• Trial exhibits
• Investigators
• Depositions
• Travel

Contingency fee arrangements allow injured parties with limited resources to hire experienced Kansas City accident lawyers to pursue the full financial compensation they deserve. If you have been injured, don’t let fear of attorney’s fees stand in the way of recovering your damages.

The attorneys at Wendt Law Firm, P.C. know what it takes to be successful in a personal injury lawsuit and will work tirelessly to earn you the settlement you deserve. Give our lawyers a call today to explore your options and see if we can help.

Schedule your free consultation to discuss your personal injury settlement in person today by contacting us toll-free at (816) 531-4415 or request an appointment online.