Car crashes are a daily occurrence. Even safe drivers could still end up in a very serious accident. The most recent comprehensive data from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) shows that 269,031 people were hurt in motorcycle collisions in the state in 2019 alone. Following a crash, car accident victims need high quality medical care.
MedPay coverage is an optional type of automobile insurance coverage in California that is designed to cover a driver’s initial medical bills—regardless of who was at fault for the accident. Within this article, our Stockton car crash lawyers explain the key things that you should know about MedPay insurance coverage in California.
An Overview of MedPay Coverage in California
Medical payments (MedPay) coverage is a type of insurance that is available to motorists in California. It is a specific type of insurance to help cover medical expenses incurred as a result of an automobile accident. MedPay provides prompt financial assistance to injured parties, regardless of who is at fault for the accident. Indeed, MedPay is a no-fault insurance policy. In other words, the benefits are available to the policyholder and any passengers in the insured vehicle no matter who caused the collision.
Note: MedPay insurance in California does not require the policyholder to pay any deductibles or copays. It is full coverage for medical bills up to the policy limit.
The Primary Advantage of MedPay Coverage: Immediate Payment of Medical Expenses
Why do people get MedPay coverage in California? The primary advantage of MedPay coverage is the immediate payment of medical expenses. After a car accident in Stockton, medical bills can quickly start piling up. Indeed, a person hurt in a crash may need medical care before a fault determination is made and well before a personal injury claim is resolved. With MedPay coverage, policyholders can have their medical expenses paid promptly. It can reduce an immediate financial burden, as well as the stress and confusion.
MedPay is Optional Insurance Coverage in California
In California, MedPay coverage is not mandatory. Put another way, drivers have the option to purchase it as part of their auto insurance policy. While it is not required by law, having MedPay coverage can provide valuable financial assistance in the event of an accident. When selecting an auto insurance policy, it’s essential to carefully consider whether MedPay coverage would be a beneficial addition based on your individual circumstances, such as your existing health insurance coverage and personal financial situation
The Types of Expenses Covered By MedPay in California
MedPay coverage in California covers a wide range of medical expenses related to an auto accident. Hurt in a crash in Stockton? Your MedPay insurance may provide coverage for the following:
- Ambulance and emergency medical services;
- Hospital stays and surgeries;
- Diagnostic tests, such as X-rays and MRIs;
- Dental treatment required as a result of the accident;
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation;
- Prosthetic devices and necessary medical equipment.
It is important to note that MedPay coverage does not compensate for pain and suffering, lost wages, or other non-medical damages that may result from an auto accident.
Policy Limits for MedPay Coverage in California Vary
MedPay coverage limits in California can vary depending on the policy purchased. Typical policy limits range from $1,000 to $25,000 or more. When selecting the appropriate coverage limit, consider factors such as the cost of potential medical treatment and your existing health insurance coverage. It’s important to remember that MedPay benefits are paid in addition to any other applicable insurance coverages, such as health insurance or other auto insurance policies.
You Can Still Bring a Fault-Based Auto Accident Injury Claim
While MedPay coverage offers immediate financial assistance for medical expenses, it is crucial to understand that it does not preclude you from pursuing a fault-based auto accident injury claim. If another driver is found to be at fault for the accident, you may still seek compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages not covered by MedPay. As stated clearly in the Judicial Council of California Civil Jury Instructions, fault for a car crash in the state is based on negligence.
All car accidents in Stockton should be carefully investigated and evaluated by an experienced attorney. Your lawyer will be able to help you gather, prepare, and organize all of the evidence that you need to bring a claim—such as an at-fault personal injury case against a negligent driver, negligent truck company, or other at-fault party. Through a fault-based claim, you can seek compensation for the entire extent of your damages, including non-economic losses.
A MedPay Offset May Apply: In some cases, the benefits received from MedPay may be offset against the compensation awarded in a fault-based claim, depending on the specific circumstances of the case and the insurance policies involved.
We Help Injured Car Accident Victims in California Maximize their Financial Compensation
MedPay insurance can help to provide immediate coverage for initial medical bills. Of course, a person seriously hurt in a car accident in Stockton can have far more significant damages. Through a claim, you can pursue compensation for the full extent of your economic and non-economic losses from the at-fault party. At Redkey Gordon Law Corp, our Stockton car accident attorneys go the extra mile to help injured victims maximize their financial recovery. Damages may include:
- Automobile repairs or replacement;
- Emergency room treatment;
- Hospital bills/medical bills;
- Physical therapy;
- Lost wages;
- Loss of long-term earning potential;
- Pain and suffering;
- Mental anguish;
- Disability;
- Disfigurement; and
- Wrongful death.
Set Up a Free Consultation With a top Stockton Auto Accident Lawyer
At Redkey Gordon Law Corp, our Stockton car accident attorney fights aggressively to help victims secure every dollar of compensation that they need to pay bills and support their families. If you have any questions about MedPay coverage, we can help. Contact us now for a free consultation. Our firm handles car accident injury claims in Stockton and throughout the San Joaquin Valley.