When a person is injured in an accident caused by another party, they are entitled by law to pursue a personal injury claim to recover the losses their injuries cause them, including all of their medical expenses. Some clients believe they can only collect the co-pay amount or whatever other amount their health insurance didn’t cover, but your personal injury lawyer can explain all the expenses that can be recovered and how the interplay between health insurance, Medicare, and your personal injury claim works.

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, our law firm can help you get financial compensation for all your losses. At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we can help you assess your claim and guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 833-997-1774 for a free consultation.

What Types of Medical Expenses are Included in a Personal Injury Claim?

In a personal injury claim, a wide range of medical expenses can be included, provided they are necessary and directly related to the injuries sustained in the accident. These expenses typically fall into several categories:

  • Emergency medical care: Costs for ambulance rides, emergency room visits, and immediate care provided at the scene of the accident or in the hospital.
  • Hospitalization: Charges for inpatient care, including room and board, surgical procedures, and any extended stays at the hospital.
  • Surgery and medical procedures: Costs for surgeries or specialized medical procedures required due to the injury, such as orthopedic surgery, reconstructive surgery, or spinal cord treatments.
  • Rehabilitation and physical therapy: Expenses for rehabilitative treatments like physical therapy, occupational therapy, and any other treatments that help a person recover function after the accident.
  • Prescription medications: Costs of any medications prescribed by a doctor to manage pain or treat injuries.
  • Medical equipment and assistive devices: Costs related to medical supplies and devices such as crutches, braces, wheelchairs, prosthetics, or other items required during recovery.
  • Follow-up care: Ongoing treatment after the initial injury, including visits to specialists, ongoing therapy, or routine check-ups that are necessary for full recovery.

Can I Recover Medical Expenses for Future Treatment?

Yes, you can recover medical expenses for future treatment in a personal injury claim, though it may require more detailed evidence. In addition to current medical bills, you can claim expenses for anticipated future treatments that are directly related to your injury. For example, if you will need long-term physical therapy or future surgeries, these costs can be factored into your claim.

To prove these expenses, your personal injury lawyer will typically work with medical experts who can provide estimates for the cost of future treatment. They may assess the long-term impacts of your injuries and predict any medical needs you are likely to have based on your prognosis. The goal is to cover not only what you’ve already incurred but also what you will incur as part of your recovery.

What if My Injury Requires Specialized Care or Treatment? Can I Recover These Costs?

Yes, specialized care or treatments required as a result of the injury can be recovered in a personal injury claim. If your injury requires seeing a specialist, such as a neurosurgeon, orthopedist, chiropractor, or pain management specialist, the costs associated with these visits are typically covered. The expenses for specialized treatments like spinal injections, nerve block treatments, or surgeries from specialized professionals can also be claimed.

If your injury leads to the need for psychological treatment or therapy (such as counseling for trauma or emotional distress), these costs can also be included in your personal injury claim. This ensures that all necessary treatments, including mental health care, are accounted for.

How Do I Prove All of My Medical Expenses?

It’s important to keep detailed records of all medical treatments received from the time of the accident, including bills, receipts, and any notes from healthcare providers. These records serve as proof of the expenses you’ve incurred and will be used as evidence in your claim.

If you have already paid for medical services out-of-pocket before filing your claim, you can seek reimbursement for those expenses. Even if you have already paid for treatments, you have the right to recover these costs from the at-fault party or their insurance company, depending on the circumstances of the accident.

What Should I Do If I’ve Been Injured in an Accident?

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, the first step is to seek medical treatment. Once your immediate needs are addressed, contact an attorney who specializes in personal injury cases to discuss your options.

At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we have decades of experience handling personal injury claims. We understand how to navigate the legal process and work with you to maximize the value of your case. Call us at 833-997-1774 to schedule a free consultation and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.