After a car or truck crash in Texas, one of the first questions injured victims ask is: “Who will pay my medical bills after a car accident?” Medical expenses can pile up quickly for
necessary treatment like emergency room visits, ambulance fees, surgery, imaging, and physical therapy. Many crash victims mistakenly believe the at-fault driver’s insurance automatically pays their medical bills. In Texas, that’s not how it works.
Texas Is an At-Fault State
Texas follows a fault-based insurance system, meaning the driver who caused the crash is financially responsible for damages. Those damages can include:
- Medical expenses from past treatment
- Future medical care expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Property damage
However, although the at-fault driver’s insurance is ultimately responsible, they do not pay your medical bills directly, or even as they are received. Instead, you may have to use your own insurance or other resources until a settlement with or verdict against the at-fault driver is reached.
Here’s a breakdown of who may pay for your medical bills after a crash while you litigate with the at-fault driver’s insurance company:
- Your Health Insurance
Health insurance may cover treatment upfront, even if you weren’t at fault. Later, they may seek reimbursement from your settlement (called subrogation). This applies to:
- Private health insurance
- Employer-sponsored plans
- Medicaid or Medicare
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Texas auto policies automatically include $2,500 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) unless you reject it in writing. PIP coverage in your automobile insurance policy may pay for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Non-medical accident costs
You can have $5,000 or $10,000+ in PIP if you purchased extra coverage.
- MedPay (Medical Payments Coverage)
MedPay is similar to PIP but only covers medical bills (no wage loss). It usually ranges from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Letters of Protection (LOP)
If you don’t have insurance or cannot afford treatment, a lawyer can issue a Letter of Protection, allowing you to receive much needed medical care now and pay the bills later from your settlement or judgment. In short, medical providers and attorneys experienced in personal injury law have systems to ensure you get treatment.
Do not avoid treatment because you’re worried about cost. Delaying medical care can hurt your health and your legal claim.
How an Injury Lawyer Helps with Medical Bills
An experienced Texas car crash attorney can:
- Determine available insurance coverage
- Help you find an appropriate medical provider
- Issue letters of protection, if needed
- Handle insurance companies and adjusters
- Negotiate medical bills and hospital liens
- Pursue maximum compensation for your injuries
Dealing with insurance companies alone often results in low settlements or denied claims. Having a trusted legal team levels the playing field.
Get Help from a Houston Car Accident Lawyer
If you’re searching for answers about who pays medical bills after a car accident in Texas or how to recover Texas car crash damages, you’re not alone. The Giron Kirby Law Group is here to fight for you.
We represent victims injured in:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle crashes
- Pedestrian accidents
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) collisions
You deserve experienced attorneys who will protect your rights and help you get the care and compensation you need.
Free Consultation; No Upfront Fees
At the Giron Kirby Law Group, we work on a contingency fee, meaning you don’t pay unless we win.
📞 Call us today: (713) 955-2065
💻 Request a consultation: www.gironkirbylaw.com
📍 Serving clients in Houston and throughout Texas