What If I Was Hurt in an Accident but Don’t Have Health Insurance?

If you’ve been injured in a car accident but don’t have health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid, there are still a few ways to get medical treatment at no out-of-pocket cost.

1. A Letter of Protection (LOP) — With the assistance of an attorney, you can find medical providers who are willing to treat you at no out of pocket cost, with the understanding that they will be compensated if and when your case is settled.
2. A Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Claim — PIP claims are filed through your own auto insurance policy, are considered no-fault, and can provide you with anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000 in compensation to cover your medical bills and lost wages.

Even in accidents that weren’t your fault, the other driver’s insurance company is under no obligation to cover your medical bills as they come in. Car accident claims often take several months to resolve, but you can’t let this discourage you from seeking treatment.

Failure to seek medical treatment immediately after an accident (as well as any gaps in treatment thereafter) will be used by the insurance company to contest the injury portion of your claim. If you don’t have health insurance or PIP coverage but would still like to be seen by a doctor at no out of pocket cost, discuss your options with an accident injury attorney.

• What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
• Whose Car Insurance Company Should I File a Claim With?
• What If the Driver Who Hit Me Doesn’t Have Insurance?