No one can be 100% prepared for the after effects of a major car accident, especially if suffering from severe injuries. Between extensive medical assistance and lawyer fees, how can an injured victim be expected to pay off the bills? Although the funds may not be readily available, most victims are fighting for a settlement to cover the financial damages caused by the accident. Unfortunately, car accident victims are routinely harassed for immediate payment from doctors upon treatment and auto insurance companies will not pay as the bills accumulate.
Letter of Protection
If a car accident victim immediately hires a personal injury lawyer to assist in fighting for an injury settlement, there is a possibility that medical payments can be delayed until a settlement has gone through. A personal injury attorney can file a “Letter of Protection” to the doctor’s asking to delay the expectation of payment until both the insurance company and the court decide on a settlement. In plain terms, the letter of protection asks doctors to perform medical treatment of injured victims on credit until the settlement is made. At that time, an allocated amount will be distributed straight to the doctors. Upon losing a case and receiving no settlement, the victim agrees to pay the medical bills in full or the doctors can force payment through more legal action.
Who Qualifies for a Letter of Protection?
Any victim of a personal injury case, whether it was caused by a severe car accident or slip-and-fall injury, can file for a letter of protection. A letter of protection is used by those who have health and auto insurance policies that rely on the one to pay out. For instance, a health insurance company pays for medical bills unless the injuries were caused by a car accident, in which case they would claim it is up to the auto insurance company to pay out - leaving the victim with no resources.
Even those who have acquired medical bills prior to hiring a personal injury lawyer can use a letter of protection to postpone payment until a settlement is made. For example, if the victim was immediately rushed to the ER after an accident but lacks the funds to cover this charge, a personal injury lawyer can send a retroactive letter of protection to cover previous charges as well.
Do Not Fear the Insurance Company
Unfortunately in many situations, the insurance company lawyer will claim doctor bias in court. Doing this tells the jury that the doctor witness is only defending the injured party because they are waiting for the medical bill payments from the letter of protection. This is a common attempt by the insurance company to deny paying the injured victim. Do not fret. This argument can be easily combatted with the right personal injury lawyers who understand the nature of these cases and have a winning record.
The attorneys at Colley & Colley law firm know the ins and outs of personal injury law and are prepared to find you the best settlement available. If you or someone you know is suffering from a personal injury accident and cannot pay medical bills up front, call Colley & Colley law firm in Tyler, Texas for a free consultation.
15511 W Highway 71
Suite 110-142
Austin, TX 78738
(512) 477-2001
512-477-3335
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