Who Pays Medical Bills After a Car Accident in Utah?

When an unexpected car accident happens, the confusion and stress are often compounded by financial worries. How are you going to get your car repaired? How will you pay your bills when you can’t work? And most importantly, how are you going to afford your medical care?

In Utah, the answer is not always straightforward, as it depends on factors like your insurance coverage, the cause of the accident, and the severity of the crash. A St. George auto accident attorney can help you identify all of the potential sources of compensation to help pay your medical bills. 

Utah’s No-Fault Insurance Laws Explained

Utah follows a no-fault car insurance system, which means your own insurance covers your initial medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident. Under this system, your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage kicks in first to handle immediate medical costs and other out-of-pocket losses.

Utah law requires all drivers to carry at least $3,000 in PIP coverage. Your benefits typically include the payment of medical bills from accident-related injuries, compensation for lost income, assistance for tasks you can’t perform due to your injuries, and death benefits if the accident is fatal. This coverage has limits, and once you exhaust your PIP benefits, you will need to look elsewhere for additional compensation.

When the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Applies

While Utah’s no-fault system handles your initial expenses, you can step outside this framework and pursue compensation from the at-fault driver under certain circumstances. You can file a third-party claim if:

• Your medical bills exceed $3,000.
• You have suffered serious injuries, including permanent disability, permanent impairment, permanent disfigurement, or dismemberment.

When your case meets these thresholds, you can hold the at-fault driver responsible through their insurance company or by filing a personal injury lawsuit. This also opens the door to compensation for damages not available through no-fault claims, like pain and suffering and lost wages beyond PIP limits.

Using Your Health Insurance for Accident-Related Bills

Third-party claims can take several months or even years to resolve, but you may need immediate coverage for your ongoing medical care. Once your PIP coverage is exhausted, your health insurance is often the next line of defense against medical bills. Whether you have private health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid, these policies will typically cover continued medical treatment related to your accident injuries.

When your health insurer pays for accident-related treatment, they may place a lien on any future settlement or court award you receive. This means they have a legal right to recover the money they spent on your medical care from any compensation you obtain from the at-fault driver. Your attorney can help you navigate these requirements and fight for a settlement that covers the full extent of your medical bills. 

Speak to a Utah Car Accident Attorney Today

After a car accident, figuring out how to pay for your medical bills can be a confusing process. The intersection of PIP coverage, health insurance, and potential third-party liability creates a complex web that requires careful handling to maximize your recovery and minimize out-of-pocket expenses. 

A St. George personal injury attorney can review your insurance policies, coordinate with medical providers, and aggressively pursue compensation from the appropriate parties. Schedule a free legal consultation today and get professional guidance to protect your financial future.