An unexpected injury can put you under financial pressure before you even know how long recovery will take. Medical appointments, prescriptions and treatment costs can quickly add up, especially when you’re also missing work or earning less than usual. Even if someone else caused your injury, you might wonder how you’re supposed to keep up with these expenses while waiting for your claim to resolve.
Here are some ways to manage these costs while your injury claim remains pending.
Health insurance and other available coverage
You generally remain responsible for your medical bills while your injury claim moves forward, but other insurance coverage may help pay for treatment. Your health insurance may cover eligible expenses, although you might still owe deductibles, copayments or other costs.
If your injuries came from a car accident, check whether your auto policy includes medical payments coverage, also called MedPay. West Virginia does not require drivers to purchase this optional coverage, but it can help pay certain medical expenses after an accident, regardless of who caused it.
Medical bills and your eventual settlement
You generally receive compensation for medical expenses through a settlement or court award rather than direct payments from the at-fault driver’s insurer as each bill arrives. Your claim may include reasonable medical costs related to your injuries, including treatment you have already received.
However, some insurance programs have a right to recover money from your settlement if they paid for your care. For example, West Virginia Code §9-5-11 allows Medicaid to seek repayment for covered medical expenses from a third-party recovery. You must also notify the state and set aside the amount of its claimed reimbursement while it reviews the settlement.
Payment arrangements while your claim is pending
If you cannot afford your medical bills, ask your medical providers about payment plans or delayed payment arrangements. Some providers may agree to wait for payment until your case settles, but you should understand the terms before accepting.
You might also ask whether a provider will accept a medical lien, which allows you to receive treatment now and pay the bill from a future settlement. Keep in mind that this arrangement does not erase the debt if your claim does not result in enough money to cover it.
Protect your recovery and your finances
Keeping track of your medical bills, insurance statements, receipts and payments helps you account for treatment costs and outstanding balances. An attorney can review these records, explain which parties may seek repayment and help you understand how much of a settlement you might actually keep. Getting legal advice early can help you address unpaid bills without losing sight of your recovery.
