Paying Medical Bills After an Auto Accident

Riding a motorcycle is fun, but it can also be risky because of the actions of others on the road. Unlike other vehicles, you don't have much protection if you crash. Additionally, riding a motorcycle can be dangerous on roads with a lot of potholes or if you're riding in unsafe weather conditions. Below are some tips for staying safe while riding.

Staying Safe on a Motorcycle in Wisconsin

Take a Safety Course: Riding a motorcycle requires good judgment and skill, and a safety course will help you achieve that. A motorcycle safety course will teach you the rules of the road and what to do in unpredictable riding situations.

Wear Appropriate Gear: The right gear will protect you from debris, road rash, and the elements. Your gear should feature a helmet, leather jacket, eye protection, leather pants, over the ankle boots, and non-slip gloves. Appropriate protective gear can significantly reduce the risk of injuries or fatalities.

Keep Your Bike Maintained: Replace the air filter, change the oil regularly, and maintain your bike's tire pressure. Inspecting your motorcycle before you hit the road is also a good idea. Check your turn signals, headlights, taillights, fuel, brakes, handlebars, and mirrors.

Stay Alert: Being aware of your surroundings and riding defensively can prevent motorcycle accidents that could be caused by dangerous driving.

Maintain a Safe Distance: Riding too closely behind another vehicle is unsafe. It is advisable to stay a few seconds away from the car or motorcycle in front of you. This allows you enough space to stop during an emergency. Additionally, you should always have an escape route in mind if you cannot stop in time.

Be Visible: One of the most significant mistakes riders make is assuming they are visible to other motorists. Most motorcycle accidents are a result of drivers not seeing the motorcycle. You can stay visible by avoiding other motorists' blind spots, driving with a headlight, and wearing reflective clothing. Using your hand and turn signals can also help ensure you are visible.

Common Motorcycle Road Hazards

Distracted or Drunk Drivers: Although it may not be easy to identify if someone is drunk driving, it is wise to be attentive to your surroundings and take appropriate measures.

Rain or Snow: The hazardous weather can create slippery and unsafe road conditions. Avoid riding while it is raining or snowing.

Tar or Debris: Since tar has a different texture from asphalt, it can compromise traction. Additionally, parts of tire treads and other debris on the road can be hazardous to motorcycles.

Contact a Milwaukee Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today

If you or your loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Wisconsin, working with a Milwaukee motorcycle accident attorney is in your best interest.

At Natasha Misra Law, we are equipped to offer the guidance you need to know whether you are entitled to compensation. We will provide the representation you need to pursue compensation if you qualify. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

If you are involved in an automobile accident in Wisconsin, the at-fault or negligent driver is responsible for any damages or injuries. A personal injury claim will help you recover the related medical expenses, but these lawsuits can take time. Sometimes, accident victims will delay treatment for accident-related injuries until the case settles to avoid any out-of-pocket costs, but this can lead to aggravated injuries and unnecessary discomfort.

So, how can you pay for accident-related medical costs before you recover damages from a lawsuit? Here is what you need to know:

What is Medical Payments Coverage?

Your automobile insurance policy may come with medical payments coverage, also known as med pay. This insurance covers medical costs for you or a family member injured in an automobile accident or as a pedestrian injured by an automobile. Regardless of who is at fault, medical payments coverage pays for accident-related medical costs for any passengers in the policyholder’s vehicle, even if there is no familial relation.

Can You Bill Your Own Health Insurance Company?

Yes. In fact, submitting medical bills to your own health insurance company can save you from annoying bill collection calls, past due notices, and other headaches. Health insurance companies often pay medical providers at a discounted rate. This means your insurer will likely pay less than the amount you are billed. Ultimately, the at fault party will still be held accountable for your medical expenses, and your health insurance will be subrogated or paid back from the settlement with the at fault party.

How Can A Letter of Protection Sent to My Insurance Provider Help with Medical Payments?

A Letter of Protection notifies your medical provider that your medical bills are the subject of ongoing litigation and assures that upon resolution of the case, any outstanding medical debt will be satisfied. Typically, a Letter of Protection from your lawyer will result in an agreement from medical providers to cease collection efforts until the case is resolved.

How Can My Attorney Help Me Manage My Medical Bills Until My Case Settles?

If you have health insurance or auto insurance with medical payments coverage, an attorney can assist you in submitting your medical bills using your own insurance to manage your accident-related medical expenses. Once your accident case settles, both you and your insurance company will be repaid with settlement funds. However, if you do not have insurance, a Letter of Protection from your attorney may be enough to keep your provider from sending outstanding balances to collections until your case settles. Talk with your personal injury attorney to find out the best way to manage your accident-related medical expenses.

Natasha Misra

My law practice is dedicated to helping people who have suffered injuries in accidents which were not their fault. Born and raised in Milwaukee, I come from a family of medical professionals. My background and experience help me understand and represent individuals injured in accidents.