If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Chicago or anywhere in Illinois, one of your first questions may be: Does health insurance cover car accident injuries? The short answer is yes—but only after all other forms of insurance have been exhausted. Even then, the coverage depends on complex policy terms, coordination of benefits, and subrogation rights.
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In Illinois, car accident medical bills are typically covered first by auto insurance, including the at-fault driver’s liability coverage and any MedPay coverage you may carry. Only after those resources are used up will your health insurance step in to pay some of your remaining expenses. However, this is rarely a simple process. Between deductibles, co-pays, claim denials, and reimbursement demands, many accident victims find themselves stuck with unpaid bills or aggressive collection calls—despite having insurance.
At Ankin Law in Chicago, our car accident attorneys understand the financial stress and confusion this creates. We’ve helped thousands of Illinois injury victims fight back against insurance runarounds. If you’re unsure who’s responsible for your medical costs, or you’re overwhelmed by conflicting insurance rules, we’ll take the pressure off you and go after the coverage and compensation you deserve.
Call Ankin Law today at 312-600-0000 for a free consultation. We’ll break down your insurance options, stop the billing chaos, and help you focus on healing.
Which Insurance Pays First After a Car Accident?
After a crash, auto insurance is generally the first in line to pay medical bills. Since Illinois is an at-fault state, you’ll need to gather evidence to determine who is liable. The at-fault driver’s liability insurance must pay for damages, including your medical expenses, up to the policy limits. If you have added medical payments coverage (MedPay), your own auto insurer may also cover your bills before your health insurance is tapped.
What Is MedPay, and How Does It Work in Illinois?
MedPay is optional coverage in Illinois that pays for medical expenses after a crash, regardless of who caused the accident. Unlike health insurance, MedPay does not require a deductible or co-pays. It can cover:
- Emergency room visits
- Ambulance transport
- Follow-up treatment
Illinois does not offer PIP (Personal Injury Protection), which is available only in no-fault states. If you live in one of those states and have PIP, it will typically pay first before your health insurance is tapped.
When Does Health Insurance Pay After a Car Accident?
In Illinois, once all auto insurance options (including MedPay and liability insurance) have been exhausted, your health insurance can step in.
However, your provider may require reimbursement if you receive a settlement or insurance payout later. This process is known as subrogation. Consult a Chicago car accident attorney before signing paperwork or negotiating with insurers to make sure your rights are protected, and you’re not locked-in on accepting a low settlement.
Who Pays for Emergency Medical Treatment After a Crash?
Hospitals and first responders typically provide treatment immediately without requiring upfront payment after a motor vehicle accident. They will, however, request:
- Auto insurance info
- Health insurance details
- Contact information for your injury lawyer
If you’ve been seriously injured, the hospital may bill your auto and health insurance carriers directly or work with your attorney to secure future payment through a claim or lawsuit.
What Happens If Insurance Doesn’t Cover All My Bills?
If your medical costs exceed policy limits, or if insurance companies delay or deny claims, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. A Chicago car accident lawyer at Ankin Law can help you:
- Identify all liable parties
- Negotiate with insurers
- Pursue full compensation through a claim or court case
Why Talk to a Lawyer About Insurance After a Car Accident?
Understanding who pays—and when—after a car accident isn’t always simple. With overlapping coverage, policy loopholes, and strict reimbursement rules, mistakes can be costly. Our attorneys can help you avoid paying out-of-pocket for someone else’s negligence, protect your settlement from subrogation claims, and maximize your recovery.
FAQ: Health Insurance and Car Accident Injuries
Does health insurance cover emergency room visits after a car crash?
Yes, but auto insurance and MedPay must be billed first. Health insurance typically covers remaining balances.
Can I choose to use my health insurance instead of auto insurance?
Not usually. Insurers will coordinate benefits, and auto coverage typically must be used first. If the other driver is uninsured and no other coverage is available, your health insurance will usually kick in.
Will I have to repay my health insurance if I get a settlement?
Possibly. If your health insurer covers your medical bills that stem from your accident, it may pursue reimbursement from your settlement.
Do I need a lawyer to handle medical bills after a car accident?
Absolutely. A Chicago car accident attorney can negotiate with insurers and help protect your rights.
Injured in a Car Crash? Call Ankin Law Today
If you’re struggling with medical bills after a car accident, don’t wait for the insurance companies to sort it out. Let Ankin Law handle the claims and negotiations while you focus on recovery. Call 312-600-0000 now for a FREE consultation with our motor vehicle accident lawyers.
