Yes — health insurance could cover car accident injuries in Texas, but that all depends on how your policy was written. Medical bills could pile up quickly after a collision, even if you only had a couple of appointments, and these expenses could cause financial hardships. While the at-fault driver is supposed to pay these costs, an accident claim could take years to settle. You need to pay the doctor now, and your health insurance policy is looking like an attractive option. Learn how this coverage could come into play.
General Medical Coverage
If you get injured in a car accident, the general medical coverage section of your health insurance policy would cover related expenses, like hospitalization, surgery, medications, and rehabilitation. It is perfectly legal to provide the hospital or any medical specialist with your health insurance card when you seek treatment. However, the extent of this coverage varies depending on your policy and Texas laws, and you would likely have to pay applicable deductibles and co-payments.
What is Subrogation?
Subrogation is a legal process that allows your health insurance provider to recover the costs of your medical care from the at-fault party. When you receive compensation from the negligent driver, usually through a personal injury lawsuit, your health insurance policy holder would be entitled to a portion of your settlement equal to your outstanding bills. However, your insurer may be willing to negotiate with your attorney to reduce the amount you may have to pay.
Personal Injury Protection
Personal Injury Protection is a component of your auto insurance policy and in most cases you must use this coverage to pay for your medical expenses before turning to health insurance. This optional no-fault coverage is typically added on to your Texas car insurance policy and it could help pay for your lost wages in addition to hospital bills, regardless of who caused the accident.
Talk With Our Team About Using Health Insurance to Cover Your Car Accident Injuries
The experienced lawyers at Schechter, Shaffer & Harris could answer all your questions about whether or not your car accident injuries could be covered by health insurance. We would review your policy, explain your coverage, and offer advice on how to handle the expenses you incur after a crash. Contact us now to learn more.