Who’s Responsible for Medical Bills in a Pennsylvania Personal Injury Case?
If you’ve been injured in Pennsylvania due to someone else’s negligence, one of the first questions you may have is: Who pays for my medical bills? Between emergency care, specialist visits, physical therapy, and medication, costs can add up quickly. Unfortunately, getting hurt doesn’t pause the bills — but understanding how liability and insurance work in Pennsylvania can help you protect your rights and your financial well-being.
At Gay Chacker & Ginsburg, we’ve been helping injured Pennsylvanians recover compensation for decades. Here’s what you should know about who pays for medical care after an injury — and how we help you get the support you need.
First Things First: Your Own Insurance Often Pays Initially
Pennsylvania is a “no-fault” state for many types of personal injury claims, especially when it comes to car accidents. That means your own insurance often covers your initial medical expenses — regardless of who caused the injury.
If you were injured in a car crash, your auto insurance likely includes Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Medical Benefits (MedPay). This coverage typically kicks in first to pay:
- Hospital bills
- Doctor visits
- Physical therapy
- Prescriptions
If the injury happened on someone else’s property or due to negligence in another setting (like a business or public place), your health insurance may cover initial medical treatment.
In either case, these insurers may seek reimbursement later — especially if you recover damages from a lawsuit.
When the At-Fault Party Becomes Responsible
If another person or company caused your injuries — whether in a car accident, slip and fall, or another type of negligence — they (or their insurer) may ultimately be responsible for reimbursing your medical costs.
This typically happens in two ways:
- Through a Settlement or Verdict – When we negotiate a settlement or win your case at trial, we include your past and anticipated future medical expenses as part of your damages.
- Via Subrogation – If your health or car insurance paid some bills already, they may seek reimbursement from your settlement.
We help ensure these claims are fair — and that you’re not left with surprise bills.
How Medical Bills Are Paid After a Car Accident in PA
In Pennsylvania car accident cases, PIP or MedPay coverage usually pays medical bills first. The minimum required coverage is $5,000 — but you may have more.
Here’s how it typically works:
- Step 1: Your own PIP coverage pays medical bills up to the policy limit.
- Step 2: If PIP is exhausted, your health insurance may step in.
- Step 3: Any remaining expenses may be sought from the at-fault driver’s liability insurance as part of your personal injury claim.
If you don’t have health insurance or your treatment costs exceed available coverage, we work with providers to delay collections and include these costs in your claim.
Limited Tort vs. Full Tort
Pennsylvania drivers choose between limited tort and full tort coverage. Limited tort restricts your ability to recover pain and suffering unless your injury meets a “serious injury” threshold — but medical bills can still be recovered under both options.
What If I Was a Passenger or Pedestrian?
Even if you weren’t driving, you may still be entitled to medical coverage through your own car insurance, a household member’s policy, or the driver’s insurance. We investigate every possible coverage option to make sure your bills are paid.
What If I Can’t Afford My Medical Bills Right Now?
At Gay Chacker & Ginsburg, we understand that medical debt can quickly become overwhelming. We can help you:
- Work with providers to delay billing during your case
- Find medical professionals who accept lien agreements (paid after the case is resolved)
- Ensure all current and future medical costs are factored into your claim
Get Help From a Pennsylvania Personal Injury Lawyer
Navigating medical bills after an injury can be confusing, especially when insurance companies try to shift blame or offer low settlements. We’re here to take that burden off your shoulders. Our team will fight for full compensation for your medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering.
📞 Ready to talk? Call 215-567-7955 or contact us online for a free consultation.
