Who Covers Medical Bills After a Car Accident in Texas?

Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who caused the accident is legally responsible for covering damages, including medical expenses. However, determining liability and receiving compensation can take time, especially when dealing with insurance companies or legal claims.

Distraught woman using mobile phone after a car accident and calling for help — Image by drazenzigic on Freepik

If you're injured in a car accident, you may need to rely on your health insurance, personal injury protection (PIP), or MedPay to cover immediate medical costs. If another driver is at fault, their liability insurance should reimburse you for medical expenses, but settlements or lawsuits often take months to resolve. If the at-fault driver lacks insurance, recovering medical costs becomes even more challenging. In such cases, uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can help pay for medical expenses when the responsible party cannot.

Understanding Insurance Coverage for Medical Expenses

Paying for medical bills after a car accident depends on the type of insurance coverage available. Texas law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance, but additional coverage options can help cover medical expenses, even if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. Understanding the different policies available can help you determine how your medical costs will be handled.

The following insurance options may cover medical bills after an accident:

Liability insurance – The at-fault driver’s policy covers medical expenses up to policy limits.
Personal injury protection (PIP) – Texas insurers must offer at least $2,500 in PIP coverage, which pays medical costs regardless of fault.
Medical payments coverage (MedPay) – Similar to PIP but does not cover lost wages.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage – Helps if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance.
Health insurance – Can cover remaining costs but may require reimbursement if a settlement is reached.

Selecting the right insurance coverage can make a significant difference in how quickly medical bills are paid. If you do not have PIP or MedPay, you may need to pay out-of-pocket for medical expenses while waiting for a settlement. Reviewing your policy before an accident occurs can help you avoid unexpected financial burdens.

Types of Medical Bills Covered After a Car Accident

Medical expenses after a car accident can add up quickly, depending on the severity of injuries and necessary treatments. Some costs may be covered by insurance, while others might require out-of-pocket payments until a settlement is reached. Understanding the types of medical bills you may face can help you plan financially and ensure you receive the necessary care.

The following medical expenses are commonly associated with car accidents:

Emergency room visits and hospital stays;
Doctor consultations and follow-ups;
Surgical procedures;
Physical therapy and rehabilitation;
Prescription medications;
Diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans);
Chiropractic care and pain management.

Keeping track of all medical expenses is essential for reimbursement claims. Insurance companies and courts will require detailed records of your treatments, bills, and payment history to determine compensation. If possible, save copies of all invoices, receipts, and doctor’s notes related to your injury treatment.

Filing a Compensation Claim for Medical Expenses

If another party is responsible for the accident, you may be able to recover your medical expenses by filing a compensation claim. The process involves working with insurance companies, negotiating settlements, and, in some cases, pursuing legal action to secure fair compensation.

The following steps outline how to file a claim for medical expense reimbursement:

Filing an insurance claim – Submit a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Be sure to include medical records, bills, and accident reports to support your case.
Negotiating a settlement – Insurance companies often dispute claims or offer low settlements. You may need to negotiate for fair compensation.
Filing a lawsuit – If the insurer refuses to pay a reasonable amount, you may need to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Texas law allows you to file a lawsuit within two years of the accident date.

Keeping detailed medical records, maintaining communication with your insurance company, and seeking legal advice when necessary can improve your chances of receiving full compensation. Understanding the claims process ahead of time can also help you avoid delays and common pitfalls when pursuing reimbursement for medical expenses.

Negotiating Medical Bills with Healthcare Providers

Medical bills after an accident can be overwhelming, but there are ways to manage expenses while waiting for a settlement. If you cannot pay upfront, some healthcare providers may offer options to ease the financial burden and prevent bills from going to collections.

The following strategies can help lower your medical expenses:

Requesting payment plans – Many hospitals and medical providers allow monthly payments, making it easier to manage expenses over time.
Negotiating reduced rates – Some providers offer discounts for uninsured patients or those experiencing financial hardship.
Applying for financial assistance – Nonprofit hospitals may have programs that provide aid for qualifying individuals.
Delaying payments through a medical lien – Some doctors and medical facilities agree to wait for settlement funds before requiring payment.

Communicating with healthcare providers early can help prevent billing issues and give you more time to explore your options. Keeping written records of agreements and verifying terms before committing to payment arrangements can protect you from unexpected charges.

Factors That Impact Compensation Amounts

The amount of compensation you receive for medical expenses depends on several key factors. Insurance companies, courts, and attorneys evaluate multiple aspects of your case before determining how much you may recover. Understanding these factors can help you set realistic expectations for your claim.

The following elements influence the compensation amount:

Severity of injuries – More serious injuries typically lead to higher medical costs and longer recovery periods.
Insurance policy limits – The at-fault driver’s insurance may have a maximum payout amount, which can cap your compensation.
Comparative fault rules – If you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced under Texas' modified comparative negligence rule.
Medical documentation – Detailed records of your treatment and expenses strengthen your claim and support reimbursement requests.

Keeping accurate records and understanding how fault affects your claim can help you build a stronger case. Reviewing insurance policy limits helps you understand payout restrictions. If your injuries are severe or liability is disputed, consulting an attorney may improve your chances of securing fair compensation.

Steps to Take Following an Accident to Secure Compensation

Taking the right steps after a car accident can help protect your health and strengthen your compensation claim. Insurance companies and courts rely on evidence, medical documentation, and timely reporting when determining payouts.

The following steps can help secure compensation:

Filing an insurance claim – Submit a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Be sure to include medical records, bills, and accident reports to support your case.
Seeking medical attention immediately – Delayed treatment can weaken your claim and give insurers a reason to dispute your injuries.
Collecting evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, obtain a police report, and keep detailed medical records.
Notifying insurers – Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process.
Consulting an attorney – If your medical expenses are significant or liability is unclear, legal guidance may help maximize your compensation.

Following these steps ensures that your claim is well-documented and supported by strong evidence. Keeping organized records and staying proactive can prevent unnecessary delays or disputes with insurance providers, helping you avoid common mistakes and secure fair compensation.

Know Your Rights in Texas

If you're injured in a car accident, Texas law provides options to help you recover medical expenses. Understanding insurance policies, state laws, and available options ensures that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Texas follows an at-fault system, meaning the driver responsible for the accident is liable for damages, including medical bills. However, the process of obtaining compensation can be complex. Insurance companies may dispute liability, offer low settlements, or delay payments. If an insurer denies a valid claim, you may have the right to take legal action under Texas law.

Understanding the statute of limitations is also essential. Texas law allows you two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit for compensation. Missing this deadline could prevent you from recovering damages.

Knowing your rights empowers you to make informed decisions throughout the claims process. If you encounter challenges with insurance companies or liability disputes, seeking legal guidance can help ensure you receive fair compensation.