Dolores: Hi Jason, my husband was in a car accident. He was hurt pretty bad, and an ambulance had to take him to the ER. He’s doing better but I’m really worried about these medical bills.
Jason: Dolores, I’m sorry to hear about your husband’s accident and I understand that you want him to get the medical care he needs.
Dolores: Yes, I want him to keep seeing his doctors and to get better. He was the one who made most of the money at our house. I don’t know how I can pay this myself. What should I do?
Jason: Well, I’d need to know more details of the case to give you specifics, Dolores. However, I can tell you what typically happens. Texas is considered a “fault” state, which means that drivers are required to carry minimum amounts of insurance. When an accident occurs, liability insurance pays the victim’s medical costs and property damage.
Dolores: But if we sue, won’t it take a while to get the money we need for medical bills?
Jason: Yes, it can take some time before you get the money from a lawsuit. However, your husband can still get the treatment he needs. If he has health insurance, it should cover the upfront costs. And even if he doesn’t, hospitals cannot turn down uninsured patients.
Dolores: Oh this is good news. I didn’t think that his health insurance would cover it. I thought the auto insurance did.
Jason: I understand how this can be confusing. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the at-fault party’s insurance to pay the medical expenses, so his health insurance may need to be reimbursed once he receives a settlement or jury award.
Dolores: So what happens for people who don’t have health insurance? I mean, I understand that they have to been seen in an emergency, but what if they need to keep going to the doctor for therapy or treatment?
Jason: When I’ve have clients in this situation, I assist them in obtaining health insurance to help cover the gap until the claim is settled. Has the other driver’s insurance company contacted you yet?
Dolores: I got a voicemail, but I haven’t called back yet. I wanted to talk to you first.
Jason: I’m glad you did, Dolores. And I’m happy to take a look at this case. Insurance companies are out to pay as little as they can get away with. If you had spoken with them, it’s very possible that they would have tried to make an offer to settle the case quickly – and for less than what you deserve – knowing you were worried about paying the bills.
Dolores: I might have accepted it if I thought it would help my husband.
Jason: It’s understandable. You are under a lot of stress. Let’s setup a meeting and discuss the details of your case. I’ll handle the insurance and the doctors.
Dolores: Thank you, Jason!
DeSouza Injury Lawyers is a leading personal injury firm representing accident victims throughout Texas.
If you’ve been injured by a car, truck, 18-wheeler, company vehicle, or in the oilfield, call Jason DeSouza personally today at 210-591-9777 or 361-799-2222 or visit the firm online at https://jfdlawfirm.com