If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Saratoga Springs, New York, one of your first questions is likely: “Who is going to pay my medical bills?” This is one of the most common concerns we hear from clients, especially when ambulance rides, emergency room visits, orthopedic treatment, and ongoing therapy start to add up quickly.
Here’s the good news: There are several ways your medical expenses can be covered in New York.
1. No-Fault Insurance (Personal Injury Protection – PIP)
New York is a no-fault state, which means that your own car insurance policy will typically cover your medical expenses—regardless of who caused the accident. This is called Personal Injury Protection (PIP), and it generally covers up to $50,000 in medical bills, lost wages, and other necessary expenses.
This coverage kicks in automatically after a crash, so you don’t need to wait for the insurance companies to figure out who was at fault.
2. Private Health Insurance
If your medical costs exceed the no-fault coverage limit, your private health insurance may cover the remaining balance. However, there are often co-pays, deductibles, or out-of-network charges to consider.
3. Medicare or Medicaid
If you’re enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid, these programs can also cover your accident-related medical bills. But here’s something crucial to know: Medicare and Medicaid may place a lien on your case. That means if you receive a settlement or financial award from the accident, they have a legal right to be reimbursed for the medical expenses they paid on your behalf.
4. Do Private Health Insurance Companies Have Lien Rights in New York?
Generally, New York law does not allow private health insurance companies to seek reimbursement (a lien) from your settlement. However, there are some exceptions, especially in cases involving self-funded ERISA plans (often through large employers), so it’s important to have an experienced attorney review your specific situation.
What If You’re Being Asked to Pay Bills After a Settlement?
Sometimes, medical providers or insurance programs will reach out for repayment after you’ve received a settlement. Don’t panic—this is where having a personal injury attorney can really help. We often negotiate liens to reduce what you have to repay, helping you keep more of your settlement money.
Bottom Line:
If you were injured in a Saratoga Springs car accident, your medical bills will usually be covered by a combination of no-fault insurance, private health insurance, or government programs like Medicare and Medicaid. But it’s important to understand that some providers may seek reimbursement from your settlement or award.
If you have questions about how your bills will be handled—or you’re being asked to pay money back after a car accident—reach out for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights, reduce medical liens, and make sure you get the maximum compensation possible.