When we meet with someone who has been seriously injured in an accident, one of the first questions they often ask is:
“I wasn’t at fault—so who’s going to pay my medical bills?”
It’s a fair question, but like many things in life, the answer isn’t simple.
Illinois Law on Medical Bills After a Car Accident
Under Illinois law, if a driver was negligent and caused your injuries, their insurance company is responsible for covering your reasonable and necessary medical treatment. This includes both current medical expenses and any future medical care related to the crash.
That might sound reassuring—but there’s a catch.
Insurance Won’t Pay Right Away
Unfortunately, insurers don’t pay medical bills as they come in. Instead, they usually pay after a settlement is reached or a jury awards compensation at trial. That process can take months or even years, leaving many truck accident victims scrambling to manage medical expenses in the meantime.
How to Pay Your Medical Bills While Your Case Is Pending
You typically have two options for covering your medical bills before your case resolves:
Option 1: Use Your Health Insurance
If you have health insurance, use it. That’s what it’s there for.
Most policies will cover your medical treatment regardless of who caused the accident. At the hospital or doctor’s office, provide your health insurance information and ask them to bill your insurance carrier directly. Your priority should be getting the care you need to recover.
Option 2: Use Medical Payment (Medpay) Coverage
If you have Medpay coverage on your auto insurance policy, it can also help. Medpay pays for medical expenses (up to the policy limits) regardless of fault. It often covers both you and any passengers in your vehicle.
Not sure if you have Medpay? Check your policy or talk to your insurance agent. If you don’t have it, we strongly recommend adding it—it’s typically inexpensive and can make a big difference when you’re facing unexpected medical bills after a crash.
Injured in a Truck Accident? We Can Help.
If you don’t have health insurance or Medpay, now is the time to look into those options. Many of our clients never expected to need them—but were relieved they had coverage when the unexpected happened.
If you’re struggling with medical bills after a truck crash, call our team at 312-578-9501 for a free consultation. You can also fill out our online contact form. We’re here to help you understand your rights and explore your options.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
Recent Blog Posts
How to File an HPV Vaccine Lawsuit in the VICP
By Jon Svitak |
Tetanus Shot Side Effects in Adults: What You Need to Know
By Jon Svitak |
