Who Pays For The Ambulance in Car Accident?

September 15, 2022 Car Accident

If you’ve been in a California car accident, one of the first things you may think about is who will pay for the ambulance. After all, medical bills can be expensive, and you may already be dealing with other damages from the accident.

This article will explore who pays for ambulance services after an auto crash in California and your options if you cannot afford to pay.

What is Included in an Ambulance Bill?

An ambulance bill will typically include the cost of the ride, as well as any medical services that were provided during the ride. This may include oxygen, IV fluids, and other basic life support measures.

Who Pays For The Ambulance in a California Car Accident

Your Health Insurance

If you have health insurance, your policy will likely cover some or all of the cost of your ambulance ride. However, you may still be responsible for a deductible or copayment. If you’re unsure what your policy covers, checking with your insurer before getting in the ambulance is a good idea.

The Other Driver’s Insurance

If the other driver was at fault for the accident, their insurance company might be responsible for paying for your ambulance ride. However, they may only pay if you file a claim with their insurance company and they approve the claim.

If you’re unsure whether you should file a claim with the other driver’s insurance, you can always speak to an experienced car accident injury attorney. They can help you understand your rights and options.

Your Own Auto Insurance

Your auto insurance may cover the cost of your ambulance ride, even if you were not at fault for the accident. This is because most auto insurance policies include medical payments coverage, which can help pay for your ambulance ride and other medical expenses.

Remember that there is usually a limit to how much medical payments coverage will pay, so you may still be responsible for some of the cost.

Payment Plans or Financial Assistance

If you cannot afford to pay for your ambulance ride, you may be able to set up a payment plan with the ambulance company. Some companies also offer financial assistance for those who cannot afford to pay.

The Roles of Medicare and Medicaid

Medicare and Medicaid are both government-funded health insurance programs. They will typically cover the cost of an ambulance ride if it is considered medically necessary.

However, there may be some restrictions on what is covered, so it’s always a good idea to check with your Medicare or Medicaid provider before getting in the ambulance.

What if the Other Driver Was at Fault and Had No Insurance?

If the other driver was at fault for the accident and they do not have insurance, you may be able to file a claim with your own auto insurance company. Most policies include uninsured motorist coverage, which can help pay for your damages.

You may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the other driver. An experienced California car accident attorney can help you understand your rights and options.