Story City Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Unexpected accidents and injuries can disrupt lives in an instant. During these difficult moments, car accident injury lawyers become indispensable allies. They support those harmed by others' negligence, ensuring fair compensation. This piece highlights the important function these lawyers serve in helping people navigate their claims and rebuild normalcy.

How to Handle Medical Bills While Awaiting a Car Accident Settlement

When you've been injured in a car accident, one of the immediate concerns is how to pay for medical bills while waiting for your settlement. The defendant or their insurance provider is not obligated to cover your damages until the case is resolved, leaving you to find interim solutions. Here are some strategies to manage your medical expenses during this period.

Using Insurance to Pay Medical Bills

Medical bills can quickly become overwhelming, and most victims rely on various types of insurance to cover their injuries. Here are the primary sources you might consider:

- Employer Health Insurance: If you have health insurance through your employer, it should be the first line of defense in covering your medical expenses.
- Personal Health Insurance: Similar to employer-provided insurance, your personal health insurance can cover your medical bills.
- Medicare or Medicaid: These government programs can provide essential coverage if you qualify.
- Insurance of the Driver at Fault: If you were a passenger, you might be able to use the policy of the driver of the vehicle you were in.
- Medical Payments Coverage: If you have this coverage under your auto insurance policy, it can help pay for medical expenses regardless of who was at fault.

Subrogation and Reimbursement

It's important to remember that many insurance companies will expect reimbursement once you receive your settlement. This process, known as subrogation, allows insurers to recover the costs they initially covered. The specifics depend on your insurance contract, so consult your provider or attorney for clarity.

Managing Other Bills During Recovery

While health insurance might cover your medical bills, you still need to manage other expenses, especially if you're unable to work. Here are some strategies:

- Savings and Family Assistance: Utilize any savings or financial help from family members.
- Pre-Settlement Funding: This option provides a cash advance based on the expected outcome of your case. However, these advances often come with high fees, so it's wise to discuss this with your attorney or financial advisor.

Knee Injuries and Total Knee Replacement (TKR) Surgery from Car Accidents

Car accidents can cause long-term injuries, such as severe knee damage that may necessitate total knee replacement (TKR) surgery. Understanding your rights and potential compensation for these injuries is crucial.

Total Knee Replacement Surgery Overview

TKR is often required when the knee suffers significant damage, leading to pain and loss of function. During the surgery, non-functioning parts of the knee are replaced with synthetic materials. While TKR can alleviate pain, it often means giving up high-impact activities like running or certain sports.

Knee Injuries Leading to TKR

Several knee injuries from car accidents can lead to the need for TKR, including:

- Post Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injuries
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries
- Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injuries
- Knee Sprains and Dislocations
- Knee Fractures

These injuries might not immediately require TKR but can lead to chronic issues necessitating surgery later.

Seeking Compensation for TKR

When filing for a car accident settlement, it’s crucial to account for all future medical costs, including potential TKR surgery. Your attorney will help ensure that the settlement covers long-term medical expenses and not just immediate costs.

Navigating Insurance Companies Post-Accident

One of the most common issues after a car accident is determining who pays your medical bills. Here’s what you need to know about dealing with insurance companies.

Misconceptions and Realities

Insurance adjusters may ask for your medical bills but often delay payments, hoping to pressure you into a quick, low settlement. Rarely will the other driver's insurance company pay for your medical bills upfront. 

Best Sources for Covering Medical Bills

1. Health Insurance: Ensure that your medical providers submit bills to your health insurance.
2. Medical Payments Coverage: Utilize this under your auto insurance to cover co-pays and deductibles.
3. Alternative Assistance: If you lack health insurance, seek help from hospitals (many have write-off policies), local charities, or family.

Seeking Legal Assistance

Seeking legal counsel from experienced Iowa car accident attorneys such as those at Walker, Billingsley & Bair can provide invaluable support in filing insurance claims or pursuing personal injury lawsuits. With a comprehensive understanding of Iowa law, their team can help gather evidence, establish liability, and secure the compensation deserved by accident victims.

Suffering from the aftermath of a car accident shouldn't impede your pursuit of justice and fair compensation. The Iowa injury lawyers at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies.

That's why we provide this FREE book; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 641-792-3595 to order your free accident book today.