Who Pays For Medical Bills After a Car Accident?
June 5, 2025 Posted In Car Accidents
In California, the at-fault driver is ultimately responsible for your medical bills after a car accident. However, payment does not happen instantly.
California Is a Fault-Based State
California follows a fault-based system for car accidents. This means the driver who caused the accident is legally responsible for paying damages, including medical expenses. However, the at-fault driver’s insurance company does not pay bills automatically. You must first prove liability and the extent of your injuries. Until the claim settles, you may need to use your own coverage or pay expenses out of pocket.
Your Health Insurance Pays First
If you have health insurance, your provider will likely cover your medical treatment after a crash. This includes emergency room visits, follow-up appointments, and necessary procedures. However, you may need to meet your deductible or pay co-pays. Your insurer may later seek reimbursement from the at-fault party’s insurance through a process called subrogation.
Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay)
MedPay is optional in California but if you purchased Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay) as part of your auto insurance policy, it can help pay for accident-related medical bills, regardless of who caused the crash. MedPay typically covers hospital visits, ambulance fees, surgery, X-rays, and rehabilitation up to the limits of your policy. It also covers passengers injured in your vehicle.
The At-Fault Driver’s Liability Insurance
The at-fault driver’s bodily injury liability insurance should cover your medical expenses. California law requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of:
- $15,000 for injury or death to one person
- $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person
- $5,000 for property damage
If the at-fault driver has insufficient coverage or denies responsibility, you may need to use your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if you have it or take legal action to recover the full cost of your medical bills.
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)
If the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough to cover your losses, your UM/UIM coverage can provide additional compensation. This type of coverage is not mandatory in California, but many drivers carry it for added protection. It helps bridge the gap when the responsible party cannot pay.
Out-of-Pocket Costs and Medical Liens
Some medical providers in California will treat accident victims on a lien basis. This means they agree to wait for payment until you settle your personal injury claim. A lien gives the provider the legal right to recover their costs from your settlement or court award. This option allows you to receive necessary care without immediate payment, but you must notify your attorney and the insurance company about any medical liens.
Who Pays for Future Medical Expenses After a Car Accident?
If you suffer injuries that require ongoing or future medical care, you have the right to seek compensation for those future expenses as part of your personal injury claim. The at-fault party’s insurance company is responsible for paying these expenses as part of a settlement or court award. However, they often dispute or minimize the value of future medical needs. Because of this, it is important to work with a Perris car accident attorney who can present a comprehensive and evidence-backed claim.