In the United States, one of the things we have to worry about after being injured in a car accident is the cost of medical care. Paying medical bills after car accident can be a big financial strain, especially if you lack health insurance or you’re unable to work because of the severity of your injuries. As car accident attorneys, we help injury victims document their diagnoses, treatment plans, and medical expenses to accurately calculate the compensation for medical bills and expenses they’re entitled to in an injury settlement.
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident and are in the process of receiving medical care for those injuries, it is a good idea to seek a consultation with an experienced, local car accident lawyer who can ensure you are receiving all appropriate care, calculate the full cost of your current and future medical bills, and defer payment on medical bills until a settlement is received.
What is the Definition of Medical Bills?
Even if your injuries seem minor at first, the full scope of treatment can add up quickly. Common costs include:
- Ambulance or helicopter transportation
- Emergency room visits
- X-rays, CT scans, MRIs
- Surgery and hospital stays
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy and long-term rehabilitation
- Follow-up appointments with specialists
- Mental health support, including therapy for PTSD
According to injuryfacts.org, medical bills are defined as total doctor fees, hospital charges, the cost of medicines, future medical costs, and ambulance, helicopter and other emergency medical services. So, what is the average medical bill after car accident?
What is the Average Medical Bill After Car Accident?
As car accident attorneys, one of the most common concerns we hear from clients is what if a settlement does not cover medical bills. The answer is that a full and fair settlement covers all medical bills and future medical expenses related to the accident and an experienced and caring personal injury attorney will fight to ensure the maximum settlement or jury award is received.
Average Medical Costs by Severity of the Injury
Medical costs vary greatly by the severity of the injury. Here’s a general breakdown of average costs for medical care in the U.S. following a car accident:
- Minor injuries (like whiplash, headaches, minor sprains, small cuts, or bruises): $3,000 to $10,000
- Moderate injuries (such as broken bones, concussions, or torn ligaments): $10,000 to $50,000
- Severe injuries (including traumatic brain injuries or internal damage): $50,000 to $100,000+
- Catastrophic injuries (such as permanent disabilities or long-term hospitalization): $250,000 to several million dollars over a lifetime
How Much Will Insurance Cover for Medical Bills Caused by a Car Accident?
The average bodily injury liability claim is about $20,000, but the amount that insurance will cover for medical bills caused by a car accident depends on the individual’s health insurance policy.
Keep in mind that these numbers are averages and will vary based on the extent of care required. The exact amount that each person will pay for the same treatment depends on their insurance coverage. When insurance doesn’t fully cover your losses, you may be left paying the difference out of pocket.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, it’s important to understand the full financial impact of your medical care. That includes current bills, but also bills that will be upcoming in the months and even years to come. Accident lawyers help clients track and document every medical expense, from the ER visit to ongoing rehab, so they can fight for the compensation their clients need and deserve.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or exact medical figures. Every case is unique. To get advice tailored to your specific situation, please contact your health provider and injury attorney.
Seek the Help of a Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision because of the negligence of another, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Let an experienced car accident attorney fight for the full compensation that you deserve. It is not uncommon to receive a settlement from the insurance company that is five to ten times larger with the help of a lawyer. Call the personal injury lawyers at Tario & Associates, P.S. in Bellingham, WA today for a FREE consultation! Since 1979, our personal injury law firm, Tario & Associates, P.S., has been dedicated to fighting for the rights of people injured throughout Washington State, with local offices in Bellingham and Mount Vernon to serve residents of Whatcom, Skagit, Island, and Snohomish counties. You will pay nothing up front and no attorney fees at all unless we recover damages for you.
