How Do I Handle Medical Bills Related to My Injury?

November 19, 2024

In the aftermath of an accident, it can be hard to know what issues to address first. Between medical expenses, lost wages, and home modifications, accident-related costs may be enough to make your head spin. 

Thankfully, at Bamieh & De Smeth, PLLC, our Santa Barbara personal injury attorneys are happy to discuss how your medical bills will be covered. In this blog, we discuss the options available to you following an accident or personal injury.

Health Insurance

Often, while waiting for your case to be settled, you may need to rely on your health insurance to cover the cost of any medical bills. Health insurance will recoup your costs while waiting for a lump sum payment from the liable party’s insurance. If you have health services under Medicare or Medi-Cal (California’s Medicaid program), these options can pay for your medical treatment while awaiting your settlement.

Automobile Insurance

California is an at-fault state regarding car insurance claims, meaning that the liable motorist in an accident will be responsible for covering any costs incurred by the injured party. California Vehicle Code §16056(b) requires motorists to carry the following minimum liability limits:

However, the legislator has increased the policy limits for private passenger vehicles, effective as of January 1, 2025, to the following:

These liability limits apply if a motorist is found negligent in the accident. Determining liability is a long process, requiring that video footage, photographs, and physical evidence be gathered, and eyewitness testimony be taken down. If liability is disputed, your claim will be delayed, meaning you will need to rely on different sources for compensation.

Medical Contingency

For clients with no or limited medical insurance coverage, our Santa Barbara personal injury lawyers may arrange for the hospital or medical facility to provide you with care at no cost. Once a settlement is reached, the hospital or medical facility can recover these losses.

Benefits of Working with a Santa Barbara Personal Injury Attorney

Our Santa Barbara personal injury attorneys can help you organize your bills so that you can stay on time with payments. If all else fails, you do have the option to negotiate lower medical bills with the facility and request a payment plan that is affordable for you. At Bamieh & De Smeth, PLLC, we strive to do everything we can to get you the care you need while awaiting your settlement. 

Reach Out to Our Santa Barbara Personal Injury Lawyers Today

A personal injury or accident can leave you with serious injuries, requiring that you receive consistent physical therapy and specialist follow-ups to heal completely. If you have been injured, do not hesitate to contact the Santa Barbara personal injury lawyers at Bamieh & De Smeth, PLLC. To schedule your complimentary consultation, contact us online or by phone today.