Did you know that in Connecticut, when you purchase automobile insurance, you have the option to add medical payment coverage to your policy. Known as “Medpay”, this benefit covers the cost of medical treatment resulting from injuries suffered in a car accident regardless of who caused the crash. While Medpay is an optional add-on in Connecticut, policies in other states have similar no-fault benefits, often referred to as “personal injury protection (PIP)”, which can be mandatory. If you live in a state like Connecticut where the coverage is optional, why buy it? A Milford, CT car accident lawyer can help you understand how MedPay and other insurance benefits may apply after a crash, protect your rights, and pursue compensation for your injuries and losses.
Many of our clients are shocked to learn that the insurance company for the person who caused the collision does not not pay their medical bills up front. Unlike property damage which is paid right away, resolution of claims for personal injuries, including medical bills, takes time – months to years to resolve. This is frustrating, and often devastating when an injured person is faced with mounting medical bills. This is especially true when you have a high deductible health insurance plan. The costs for ambulance, hospital care, x-rays, doctor visits and physical therapy can quickly run into thousands of dollars. Medpay coverage offers peace of mind so you can get the care you need while your claim against the at fault party is pending. It is also available to you if you suffer injuries as a result of a collision you cause.
So how does it work? Whether you work with an insurance broker, buy your car insurance online or call the insurance company directly, you should ask about Medpay coverage. While this is an optional add-on in Connecticut, in today’s insurance environment it can be a very good deal. It covers the policy holder, family members and any passengers in your car at the time of the crash. It also covers you and your family members if you are injured while riding in someone else’s car. You can use this benefit if you are hit by a car while walking or riding a bike. Should you need to use the coverage, there is no deductible and no co-pays. And, whether there is one occupant or more, each injured party gets the same benefit. For example, if you have $5,000 in Medpay coverage and your family of four is injured in a collision, each member has $5,000 in benefits, usually covering expenses incurred within the first year after the collision. Equally important, unlike many health insurance plans, there is no requirement to reimburse your insurance company from any settlement you obtain from an at-fault party.
Just like choosing your liability and underinsured limits, you can choose the amount of Medpay coverage you would like to add to your policy. Of course, the higher the coverage, the higher the premium, but we have found Medpay premiums to be reasonable. We highly recommend you consider adding this coverage to your auto insurance policy.
If you have questions about insurance coverage following a car accident or need help pursuing compensation for your injuries, the attorneys at Nugent & Bryant can evaluate the circumstances of your case, explain your legal options, and help you navigate the claims process.
