What Is Medical Payment Coverage in my Auto Insurance Policy?

When someone has been injured in a car accident, a common question we hear is: “Will my automobile insurance policy pay my medical bills?”

Most automobile policies contain a provision for medical payments, which we crafty lawyers refer to as “Med Pay.”  Med Pay covers most reasonable medical bills that you incur within one year of the date of the car accident (although some policies cover shorter and/or longer time periods).  What this means is that no matter who is at fault for the car accident (including you) your automobile insurance company will pay for your medical bills – even if you have a separate health insurance policy.

If the other driver was at fault for your accident and you received Med Pay coverage from your insurance company, you may need to reimburse your insurance company for what they paid you or your medical providers.  Some policies, however, do not require you to reimburse them for Med Pay, even if the other driver is at fault for the accident.

Typically, Med Pay covers up to $5,000 worth of medical bills.  Med Pay coverage is relatively inexpensive and if you are unsure whether your policy includes it, call your agent and ask him/her.  If you do not have Med Pay coverage, ask your agent about its costs and add it the next time your policy is up for renewal.