Who Pays Your Medical Bills After Being Rear-Ended in Illinois?

 Posted on November 16, 2023 in Car Accidents

Getting hit from behind in a rear-end collision can cause severe injuries and lead to substantial medical expenses. Unfortunately, in Illinois, who ends up paying your post-accident medical bills depends on several factors. An Illinois attorney can help you figure out who is the responsible party for your medical bills for your specific situation.

The Other Driver’s Auto Insurance

If the driver who hit your vehicle carries the state minimum liability coverage, their insurer should pay up to $25,000 total for all medical expenses stemming from the accident. This assumes their policy covers the at-fault driver.

Your Own Auto Insurance

Under your own policy’s medical payments (MedPay) or personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, your insurer will also pay approved medical costs related to the accident up to your selected limits (typically $5,000-$10,000).

Your Health Insurance

Provided in-network healthcare providers are utilized, your health insurance will cover medical bills per your normal plan benefits. You must repay any deductibles, copays, or coinsurance.

Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist Coverage

If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance or any coverage, turn to your own UM/UIM policy, which can pay medical expenses up to the chosen limits after the other driver’s policy max is exhausted.

Out-of-Pocket

Any medical costs not covered by the above sources will remain your personal responsibility to pay directly. These out-of-pocket costs could include plan deductibles, copays, excluded services, denied claims due to visiting out-of-network providers, or expenses exceeding the total available coverage.

Through a Personal Injury Settlement

To fully recover all medical costs, your best option is likely to pursue an injury settlement or court award from the at-fault driver. An experienced attorney can seek fair compensation for all accident-related expenses.

Steps to Take

• Follow all recommended treatment plans
• Ask providers to bill insurers directly
• Keep thorough records of all medical costs
• Avoid gaps in car insurance coverage
• Consult an attorney ASAP to protect your rights

Contact a Barrington, IL Personal Injury Attorney

Getting in an accident from someone else’s negligence and having someone crash into the back of your vehicle can be devastating if the damage is severe. Ensure you receive proper care and know your rights to be compensated. You do not deserve to be left with any of the expenses. Work with a Cook County, IL personal injury lawyer to get the best potential outcome. Call Barrington Injury Attorneys at 224-900-HURT for a free consultation.