If you’re hurt in a crash and lack health insurance, you still have several rights and options for receiving medical care and managing the financial impact of your injuries. Understanding these can help you navigate what might seem like an overwhelming situation.
Keep reading for more from our skilled Denver car accident lawyers. If you have any questions or are ready to start your claim, call us at (866) 823-8288 today.
First off, know your rights
| Right to receive emergency medical care – Under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) (also known as the “patient dumping statute”), hospitals with emergency departments that participate in Medicare are required to provide care to anyone needing emergency healthcare regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. You cannot be denied emergency treatment. |
| Right to legal assistance – Consulting with a personal injury attorney can be invaluable. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your rights, explore all avenues for compensation, and navigate the legal aspects of your situation to ensure that your rights are protected and you receive the financial support you need. |
| Right to compensation through personal injury claims – If another party’s negligence caused your injury, you have the right to pursue a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. This can be crucial for covering high medical costs and supporting recovery. |
Understanding your rights fully and exploring all available resources can alleviate some of the stress and financial burden of being injured without health insurance in Colorado.
Immediate steps after a car accident with no health insurance
1. Seek medical attention
Your health is the priority, even without insurance. Do not delay seeking medical help because injuries can become more severe or life-threatening.
- Visit the emergency room – Emergency rooms must treat all patients regardless of their ability to pay, especially in life-threatening situations.
- Look for community health clinics – Many areas have clinics that operate on a sliding scale based on your income. These can be a good resource for non-emergency care.
- Use Urgent Care centers – For less critical injuries, urgent care centers can provide treatment at a lower cost than emergency rooms.
2. Document your injuries and the accident
Proper documentation is crucial, especially when pursuing a personal injury claim.
- Take photos of your injuries – Document all visible injuries soon after the accident.
- File a police report – Ensure a police report is filed. This report will be an essential piece of evidence for any legal action or insurance claim.
- Gather evidence – Collect names and contact information of witnesses, and if possible, take pictures of the accident scene.
3. Understand your options for covering medical costs
When you’re involved in a car accident with no health insurance, there are several avenues you might explore to cover medical expenses:
- MedPay (Medical Payments Coverage) – If you have car insurance, check if your policy includes MedPay. This coverage can help pay for medical costs regardless of who is at fault.
- Payment plans – Many hospitals and providers offer payment plans that allow you to pay off your bills over time.
- State and local health programs – Research state and local government programs that offer medical aid to the uninsured.
Local resources
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4. Consult with a personal injury attorney
Discussing your case with a personal injury attorney can provide several benefits:
- Navigating claims – An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of filing a claim, especially when dealing with at-fault drivers’ insurance companies.
- Seeking compensation – A lawyer can assess other avenues for compensation, including suing the at-fault driver if applicable.
- Contingency basis – Zara Injury Law works on a contingency basis, meaning we only get paid if you receive compensation.
Why choose Zara Injury Law
At Zara Injury Law, our experienced team is committed to helping you navigate the legal process to ensure you get the medical care and compensation you deserve. We can assist in managing the claims process, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, litigating your case to fight for your rights.
Contact us for a comprehensive evaluation of your case and personalized legal guidance to navigate this challenging time.