In response to questions about insurance coverage, clients often tell us, “I am fully covered – I have full coverage.” Then we ask, “Do you have med/pay?” And we see a blank stare. Med pay coverage should be part of your automobile insurance plan. Med pay coverage is generally inexpensive and always helpful when you are getting treated for injuries sustained in auto accidents.
WHAT IS MED PAY INSURANCE?
Medical Payment coverage helps pay for medical expenses associated with auto accidents. It covers medical expenses for the policy holder, passengers and family members driving the insured’s vehicle at the time of the accident. The policy may extend coverage to injuries sustained outside the vehicle, if walking or using public transportation. The coverage applies regardless of who was at fault. Med Pay is a specific part of an automobile policy which you must purchase in addition to liability and property damage coverage. Insurance companies often do not point out the availability of med/pay coverage. If it is not obvious to you, ask the agent or search the Insurance Company’s website.
HOW DOES MED/PAY WORK?
When Med/Pay is available, medical bills, x-rays, dental procedures, ambulance fees and many other medical services, will be covered under the med/pay provision. Those costs can be paid up front by you, and reimbursed upon receipt dollar for dollar up to the limits of coverage. That means you will be able to pay your medical bills despite delays imposed by the other person’s insurance company. Alternatively, your healthcare provider can submit billings. Very often a healthcare provider will agree to send the billing directly to your med/pay insurance company. The money will be paid directly to that healthcare provider.
HOW MUCH DOES MEDICAL PAYMENTS COVERAGE ADD TO YOUR INSURANCE COST?
Relatively speaking, med/pay coverage is cheap. You can choose a limit, or maximum dollar amount. Of course, the higher the limit the more it costs. Each carrier is unique but I am sure you will find it is not significant. The benefit of obtaining med/pay coverage will almost certainly be a benefit. Strick Injury Law and Mediation recommends you purchase med/pay coverage. Should you have any questions please call.