One of the first worries after a car wreck is how to pay for the ambulance, the ER and follow-up care. In Texas, several types of insurance may help, and they work differently.

1. Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

Texas auto insurers must include at least $2,500 in PIP coverage unless you rejected it in writing. PIP pays medical bills and a portion of lost income no matter who caused the wreck. It is usually the fastest money available.

2. Your Health Insurance

Health insurance, Medicare or Medicaid can pay medical providers while your injury claim is pending. These payers may have a right to be reimbursed from a later settlement, which is something a lawyer can often negotiate down.

3. The At-Fault Driver's Liability Insurance

Texas is an at-fault state. The driver who caused the crash is responsible for your damages, usually through liability insurance. Texas minimum limits are $30,000 per injured person and $60,000 per crash. The at-fault insurer generally does not pay bills as they come in. It pays through a settlement or judgment at the end of the claim.

4. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)

If the other driver had no insurance, too little insurance, or drove away, your own UM/UIM coverage may pay. Many serious injury claims in the Valley depend on this coverage.

Tips

• Give your PIP and health insurance information to every provider.
• Keep copies of every bill and explanation of benefits.
• Do not sign a settlement until you know your total medical costs and any reimbursement claims.

Learn more on our car accident lawyer page, or call 956-630-LAWS (5297) for a free consultation. Se habla español.

This post is general information, not legal advice. Attorney responsible: Oscar Lee Longoria Jr., Law Office of Oscar Longoria, PLLC, Mission, Texas.