After a serious injury, expenses add up fast—emergency care, surgeries, medication, therapy—all while your personal injury claim may take months (or even years) to resolve. So how do you manage the financial stress while waiting for your case to settle?

Here’s what you need to know:

💡 Who Pays Medical Bills Before Settlement?

Even if someone else caused your injury, you are legally responsible for your medical bills until your case is resolved. However, there are several smart strategies to manage costs during this period.

✅ Common Ways to Handle Medical Bills During Your Case

• Health Insurance
  Use your insurance (private, Medicaid, or Medicare) to cover immediate costs. Be aware: insurers may seek reimbursement from your settlement later.

• Medical Liens
  Some providers accept delayed payment through liens. They get paid once your case settles but may reduce your final compensation.

• Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay)
  Check your auto policy—MedPay can cover early costs like ambulance fees, no matter who caused the accident.

• Payment Plans
  Ask providers for a monthly plan or income-based assistance if other options aren’t viable.

👨‍⚖️ How a Birmingham Personal Injury Attorney Can Help

• Communicate with your doctors and billing departments

• Challenge duplicate or excessive charges

• Negotiate lower lien paybacks

• Prioritize medical bills during settlement structuring

💳 Worried About Credit Damage?

• Medical debt under $500 won’t appear on credit reports

• You have a 12-month grace period before most debts impact credit

• Paid medical collections are now removed from credit history

🔁 Final Tips to Stay on Track

• Keep all medical receipts and billing documents

• Don’t ignore bills—speak with your attorney or providers

• Avoid accepting early settlements that don’t cover long-term costs

Need Help Navigating Medical Costs After an Injury?
At Southern Med Law, our team helps you manage your bills and protect your case value. Reach out today for a consultation and regain financial peace of mind.