Imagine this scenario: you are walking down the street, minding your business. But in an instant, everything changes. A car comes out of nowhere, slamming into you and leaving you injured and bewildered. As if dealing with the pain and trauma of a pedestrian accident in Tampa wasn’t enough, now you’re faced with mounting medical bills that threaten to drain your bank account.
In this blog post, we’ll explore who pays for your medical expenses after a pedestrian accident. From insurance coverage to legal options, you will find all the information you need. However, remember to discuss the particulars of your case with an experienced Tampa pedestrian accident lawyer.
A Pedestrian Accident Results in Expensive Medical Care Bills
A pedestrian accident can have far-reaching consequences, both physically and financially. The resulting injuries can be severe and require extensive medical care. From emergency room visits to surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments, the bills can quickly add up.
Since you were the victim in this situation, should you have to bear this financial burden? Or is someone else responsible for paying those overwhelming expenses? Here is what you need to know.
Initially, Your Health Insurance Will Cover the Costs
When you’re involved in a pedestrian accident in Tampa, one of the first concerns that may come to mind is how you will pay for your medical bills. Fortunately, if you have health insurance, it will likely cover your initial medical care costs.
Whether it’s hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy sessions, or other forms of medical care, your health insurance policy should provide coverage for these services. However, it’s important to keep in mind that there may be deductibles or copayments required by your plan.
Your PIP Insurance Also Covers a Pedestrian Accident
Even if you suffered a pedestrian accident in Tampa, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance can help cover medical care costs.
PIP insurance is required by law in Florida and provides coverage for injuries sustained in an accident regardless of who was at fault. This means that if you are hit by a car while walking or crossing the street, your PIP insurance will kick in to cover your medical bills.
The coverage provided by PIP insurance typically includes medical expenses, lost wages, and even some household services that you may need assistance with during your recovery.
However, PIP insurance will pay out up to 80% of the medical expenses related to a pedestrian accident. If you want compensation beyond this limit or if you seek compensation for pain and suffering, you need to explore other options, such as filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
Navigating through legal procedures can be complex and overwhelming after being injured in a pedestrian accident. That’s why it is crucial to consult with an experienced Tampa personal injury attorney who specializes in handling these types of cases.
If Your Insurance Coverage Is Insufficient, You Can Sue the At-Fault Driver
After a pedestrian accident in Tampa, your damages may exceed the coverage offered by your health insurance and personal injury protection (PIP).
In such situations, you can pursue legal action against the at-fault driver responsible for the accident. By filing a personal injury lawsuit, you can seek additional compensation to cover any remaining medical bills and other related costs.
Suing the at-fault driver requires proving their negligence or wrongful actions that led to your injuries. This can be complex and time-consuming, so it’s crucial to seek guidance from an experienced Tampa personal injury lawyer. They will assess your case and help determine if pursuing a lawsuit is appropriate.
Keep in mind that Florida follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning any compensation awarded may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. Therefore, it’s essential to gather evidence supporting your claim and present a strong case with the assistance of skilled legal representation.
Unfortunately, Many Florida Drivers Are Uninsured
The bad news is that many Florida drivers are uninsured, which can create complications when it comes to paying medical bills after a pedestrian accident in Tampa. According to recent statistics, up to 20% of Floridians drive without valid liability coverage. This means that one out of five drivers lacks liability coverage!
It is unlikely that an uninsured driver would be able to pay for your damages out of pocket. This is why having uninsured motorist coverage is so important.
Talk to an Experienced Tampa Personal Injury Lawyer to Understand Your Legal Options!
In the aftermath of a pedestrian accident in Tampa, the financial burden of medical bills can be overwhelming. To navigate through these complex legal matters and ensure you understand all your options, it is crucial to consult with an experienced Tampa personal injury attorney at our firm.
We will guide you through the process and fight tirelessly on your behalf to help you recover the maximum amount possible.
Don’t let mounting medical bills weigh you down. We offer new clients a free case review, so don’t hesitate to call 954-448-7355 and schedule an appointment with us!
