If you’re injured in a car accident, you submit medical bills by first filing a claim with the appropriate auto insurance company and then sending in your treatment records and invoices to the assigned claims adjuster. Most auto insurers won’t pay medical providers directly — instead, they reimburse you (or your health insurer) as part of the claims process. It’s important to act quickly. Notify your insurer after the accident, follow their instructions for submitting documents, and keep copies of everything.
For guidance, contact Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060— we’ll help you understand your options.
Who Pays for My Medical Bills After a Car Accident?
In most cases, your health insurance or auto policy’s medical coverage (like MedPay or PIP) pays your bills first, even if someone else caused the crash. The at-fault driver’s insurance typically reimburses you later, once fault is confirmed and a settlement is reached.
Using your health insurance upfront ensures your bills are paid promptly. Later, you can recover those costs from the at-fault party’s insurer. While it may seem unfair, this strategy protects you from financial stress during treatment and often results in a higher net recovery because insurers pay discounted rates.
What About MedPay or PIP Coverage?
If your auto policy includes MedPay or PIP, those coverages can pay your medical bills right away, regardless of who was at fault. MedPay is common in many states and typically covers medical expenses without a deductible. PIP is required in no-fault states and may also cover lost wages.
These coverages are helpful because they provide fast relief from upfront bills. Once your MedPay or PIP limits are exhausted, you’ll rely on your health insurance or seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s liability insurance.
How Do I Submit Medical Bills to Auto Insurance?
Start by reporting the claim to your insurer and getting assigned a claim number. Then gather your bills, receipts, and medical records related to the accident. Itemized bills, provider invoices, and doctors’ reports are all essential for reimbursement.
Reach out to the claims adjuster to ask how they prefer to receive documentation — usually via email, secure upload, or postal mail. Include your claim number on every page, and ask for confirmation once they’ve received everything.
What Happens After You Submit Medical Bills?
Once submitted, the insurance adjuster reviews your bills and may request additional documentation. This includes medical records that prove the treatment was necessary and accident-related. Stay responsive and organized to avoid delays.
You can submit bills in batches if you’re still getting treatment. Final reimbursement usually happens after you’ve reached maximum medical improvement, which allows insurers to assess your total damages.
How Long Does It Take to Get Reimbursed?
Reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance often takes months, sometimes longer. Insurers typically wait until you’ve completed treatment and then issue a settlement. Until then, you’ll need to pay using your health coverage, MedPay, or out of pocket.
If you have MedPay or PIP, those coverages pay quickly. But for larger claims involving liability settlements, expect delays while the insurer investigates fault and negotiates final payments.
What If I Don’t Have Health Insurance?
If you’re uninsured, you’re responsible for paying medical bills upfront. You may be able to use MedPay or PIP if included in your policy. Otherwise, ask providers about payment plans or see if they’ll treat you on a lien basis — meaning they’ll wait for payment until your injury claim is resolved.
Without health coverage, it’s especially important to explore all available insurance benefits and legal options. Don’t skip care due to cost — getting treatment strengthens your injury claim and protects your long-term health.
What If I Caused the Accident?
If you were at fault, you can’t use your liability coverage for your own injuries. However, your MedPay or PIP can still cover your medical bills, even if you caused the crash. Health insurance is also available to cover treatment costs.
This is one reason to carry MedPay or PIP on your policy — it protects you regardless of fault and helps cover urgent care, ambulance fees, or ER visits after a crash.
Can I Submit Medical Bills Months After the Accident?
Yes, as long as your claim is still open and within the statute of limitations, you can submit medical bills several months after the accident. However, insurers may question delays if there’s a gap between the accident and treatment.
Submit bills promptly whenever possible, and let the adjuster know you’re still receiving care. The longer you wait, the harder it may be to prove that the treatment is directly related to the accident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do I have to submit medical bills after a car accident?
A: While there’s no fixed rule, notify your insurer and submit bills as soon as possible. Most states have a statute of limitations (often two years) to file injury claims, and insurers may deny late submissions.
Q: What is medical payments (MedPay) coverage, and should I use it?
A: MedPay is optional coverage that pays your medical bills regardless of fault. If you have it, use it — it’s quick, doesn’t require a deductible, and won’t raise your premium on its own.
Q: Who do I contact to submit my medical bills to the insurance?
A: Contact the claims adjuster assigned to your case. They’ll provide instructions for how to send bills, usually by email or an online portal. Always include your claim number.
Q: Will the auto insurance pay my doctor or hospital directly?
A: Usually no. Auto insurers reimburse you or your health insurer. In some cases, MedPay or PIP may pay providers directly, but this isn’t guaranteed. Clarify payment responsibilities with your adjuster.
Q: Do I have to repay my health insurance after I get an insurance settlement?
A: Often, yes. Your health insurer may request reimbursement through subrogation. However, they usually only recover what they paid, which is typically a discounted amount.
Q: What if my medical bills exceed the auto insurance policy limits?
A: If your bills exceed coverage limits, your health insurance or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage may help. You can also consult an attorney to explore additional legal options for recovery.
Your Trusted Auto Insurer
At Insure on the Spot, we help Illinois drivers navigate complicated claims and get the coverage they deserve. If you’ve been in an accident and aren’t sure how to handle medical bills, we’re here to help.
Call 773-202-5060 or get a free quote online. With the right insurance plan and support team, you can focus on healing, not paperwork.