Medical Expenses and your Personal Injury Claim
The scene of an accident can be chaotic, shocking, and confusing. Immediately after an accident, many things go through your mind. It is important to evaluate the situation to make the best decision regarding what steps to take next. If you, your passengers, or anyone involved has been severely injured, the most important step is for someone to call 911. If there is a serious injury, an emergency crew will take the injured directly to a hospital emergency room. Medical professionals deal with accident-related injuries on a regular basis, so they are prepared to take care of you. That is the good news. Unfortunately, most injuries require far more treatment and therapy than what is given in the ER. Injured parties can find the road to recovery long, painful and expensive.
Article: “Even With Private Insurance, Out-of-Pocket Costs for Hospital Visits Shot Up 37%”
Health Insurance and Out-Of-Pocket Expenses
In the event that you’re injured, focus on recovery, and manage medical bills the best you can until an attorney is hired, and a settlement can be reached. Insurance companies can be tricky. Don’t accept insurance company settlements right away as you may be cutting yourself short from bigger financial compensation later. Also, always try to use the benefits provided by your health insurance before paying out-of-pocket expenses. (Out-of-pocket expenses would include all charges not covered or reimbursed by your insurance such as co-payments, deductibles, coinsurance, etc.) Many health insurance plans have an “out-of-pocket” maximum on their policies. If you don’t have health insurance, everything would be considered out-of-pocket expenses. Keep in mind that, depending upon what kind of health insurance you have and other variables, you may be asked to provide compensation to your insurance after the injury claim is settled.
Document All Medical Expenses
One thing you can do to ensure that you get an appropriate payout for your claim is to document all medical expenses as they happen. (It is far more difficult to go back and retrieve them after the fact.) Some of the first expenses may be ambulance costs, emergency room visits, hospital stays and prescriptions. As therapy and treatments continue, jot down expenses such as physical therapy, over-the-counter medicines, doctor visits, transportation to and from your doctor appointments, and other out-of-pocket costs. Your personal injury lawyer may point out other eligible expenses while reviewing your case.
Find an Accident Lawyer Near You
A local personal injury firm such as Action Law Offices of Southeastern Wisconsin is familiar with the jurisdiction and offers other resources and community support that you may benefit from. The attorneys are also experienced in personal injury cases and can provide very helpful advice to ensure you receive all the compensation that you deserve for the injuries, expenses, pain and suffering you have been through. Contact us today for a free, no obligation case evaluation.
