I was recently rear-ended and I’m feeling anxious about the potential costs involved in my settlement. I’ve come across the term “running up costs” and I’m curious about its meaning.
Does it refer to unethical lawyers sending us to doctors to inflate medical bills, eventually nearing the policy limits? For instance, if the at-fault driver’s policy limit is $30,000, could they run my medical bills up to $28,000, leaving me with only $2,000? If that’s the case, where would the lawyer take their cut from that amount?
I was hit while driving my Tesla Model Y out of state. My lawyer is currently trying to find a doctor who will treat me on a lien basis, but it’s challenging because I’m in a different state than my home. On the bright side, it might mean I won’t have to deal with any questionable doctors who could be colluding with my attorney to inflate costs.
I’m unsure of how to proceed. Should I reach out to find a doctor myself? Is it better to see a pain management specialist than a traditional MD? Can I skip chiropractic care and focus solely on physical therapy? Would massage therapy be covered as well? The lawyers don’t seem to be able to assist much due to the out-of-state aspect, and I also don’t have health insurance. Any advice would be appreciated.
It sounds like you’re navigating a complex situation after being rear-ended, and it’s understandable to feel confused about the process. Let’s break down your concerns.
Running Up Medical Bills: Yes, the term usually refers to a potential scenario where a lawyer and medical providers may work together to maximize medical costs to reach the policy limit of the at-fault party’s insurance. In your example, if the at-fault person’s policy limit is $30k and your medical bills reach $28k, then only $2k would be left for you after your lawyer takes their fee. Generally, lawyers take a percentage of the settlement (often around 33-40%).
Finding an On-Lien Doctor: Since you’re in a different state, it can be challenging to find a doctor willing to treat you on a lien basis (meaning they’ll get paid from your settlement rather than upfront). It might be worth calling around to find out if any local clinics treat accident victims on a lien basis.
Types of Care: Regarding your treatment options, pain management specialists often focus on finding ways to alleviate chronic pain, while MDs might offer a broader scope of care. Physical therapy (PT) is often recommended for recovery, and you can certainly prioritize that over chiropractic care if it feels more suitable for your needs. As for massage therapy, it can be covered under some plans, but it generally depends on your specific case and the recommendations of your care providers.
Next Steps: If you’re feeling stuck, consider reaching out to local resources or support groups for advice on finding medical care after an accident. Additionally, some lawyers or personal injury firms may have partnerships with medical providers and may be able to assist you despite the state difference.
Insurance and Costs: Since you don’t have health insurance, be sure to discuss this with your lawyer, as they may have specific recommendations or providers they can refer you to who understand the situation.
Overall, advocating for your health and understanding your rights is key during this process. Don’t hesitate to seek help from others who have gone through similar experiences. Good luck!