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Medical Payments Coverage in Missouri

Accidents happen in the blink of an eye, and the aftermath can leave you feeling helpless. Medical bills, even for minor injuries, add up quickly and create unnecessary stress. At Sotiriou Wilmowski, we believe you should never have to choose between getting care and protecting your finances. 

Medical payment coverage, or “MedPay,” is a valuable tool for accident victims. This optional auto insurance coverage helps cover medical expenses, regardless of fault. For Missouri drivers, it’s an affordable way to add peace of mind to their insurance plan.

In this guide, we’ll explore how MedPay works, its benefits, and how to choose the right coverage. If you want to focus on healing instead of worrying about bills or fighting for the compensation to which you are entitled, our personal injury lawyers are here to help. 

What Is Medical Payment Coverage?

Medical payment coverage, often called MedPay, helps pay for accident-related medical expenses. This type of insurance covers costs like doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency care. MedPay is available regardless of who caused the accident.

  • Fact: In 2020-2022, the frequency of MedPay claims was 10.0 claims per 1,000 insured vehicle years, according to a report by the Highway Loss Data Institute

Think about how helpful it would be to avoid surprise medical bills after an accident. MedPay can also cover passengers, family members, and you as a pedestrian or cyclist. The coverage is flexible and applies in many situations involving vehicles. It even helps with funeral expenses in tragic cases. Wouldn’t you feel more secure knowing medical costs won’t drain your savings?

How Medical Payments Coverage Works

MedPay helps pay medical costs after a car accident. This coverage applies regardless of who caused the crash. It reimburses you for expenses like hospital visits, ambulance rides, and X-rays.

When you use medical payment coverage, your insurance company handles payment for approved medical expenses. The process usually starts with filing a claim and providing proof of your costs. This quick reimbursement ensures you can focus on recovery instead of financial stress.

MedPay also protects passengers and family members injured in your vehicle. It even covers you as a pedestrian or cyclist struck by a car. This flexibility makes it a valuable part of any auto insurance policy.

MedPay doesn’t just cover immediate costs—it can also help strengthen your legal claim. If your case involves a personal injury lawsuit, the documentation from MedPay claims can serve as evidence of your injuries and expenses. These records can support your demand for compensation from the at-fault party.

Medical Payments Coverage vs. Other Types of Insurance

MedPay is different from liability insurance and health insurance. Liability insurance pays for injuries or damages you cause to others. MedPay, on the other hand, covers medical costs for you and your passengers, no matter who caused the accident.

Unlike health insurance, MedPay doesn’t require co-pays, deductibles, or approvals. It works immediately to cover accident-related medical expenses. MedPay can also fill gaps that health insurance might not, like ambulance rides or chiropractic care.

Personal injury protection (PIP) is another type of coverage, but it’s broader than MedPay. PIP covers medical costs, lost wages, and other expenses, but it’s not required in Missouri. Medical payments coverage is simpler and often more affordable than PIP.

Choosing Your Medical Payments Coverage Limits

Selecting the right medical payments coverage limit depends on your needs and financial situation. Coverage options typically range from $1,000 to $10,000. A higher limit offers more protection but increases your premium slightly.

If you have good health insurance, a lower MedPay limit might work for you. However, health insurance often doesn’t cover all accident-related costs, like deductibles or co-pays. Choosing a higher MedPay limit can fill those gaps and give extra peace of mind.

Think about your family’s needs and potential medical costs after an accident. Would a lower limit leave you vulnerable to out-of-pocket expenses? Balancing affordability and protection is key to making the right choice.

The Cost of Medical Payments Coverage

Medical payments coverage is an affordable addition to your auto insurance policy. Premiums for MedPay typically range from $10 to $50 per month, depending on the coverage limit. Choosing higher limits may increase costs but provides greater financial protection.

Factors like your driving record, vehicle type, and insurance provider affect MedPay costs. Despite these variations, MedPay remains one of the most cost-effective ways to safeguard against medical expenses. Many drivers find the peace of mind worth the small price.

Filing a Claim for Medical Payments Coverage

Filing a claim for medical payments coverage is a straightforward process. Start by notifying your insurance company as soon as possible after an accident. Provide all necessary documents, including medical bills, receipts, and proof of the accident.

Your insurer will review your claim to confirm the expenses are covered under MedPay. Keep copies of every document you submit to avoid delays or misunderstandings. Staying organized helps ensure a smooth claims process.

Do you worry about handling paperwork? Our lawyers at Sotiriou Wilmowski can guide you through the steps. Filing a claim doesn’t have to be stressful when you’re prepared and informed. Wouldn’t you feel better knowing help is just a call away? 

Missouri Laws and Regulations

Missouri law does not require drivers to carry medical payments coverage. However, all drivers must have liability insurance to cover damages caused to others, according to the state’s Department of Revenue. MedPay is an optional add-on that provides extra protection for you and your passengers.

Missouri is an at-fault state, meaning the driver responsible for an accident pays for damages. While liability insurance covers others, MedPay ensures your medical expenses are handled quickly. This can prevent delays caused by waiting for a fault determination or reimbursement. For this reason, adding MedPay to your auto policy gives you control over accident-related medical costs. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

At Sotiriou Wilmowski, we know that insurance terms can be confusing. To make it easier, we’ve answered common questions about MedPay in this FAQ section. 

1. Does medical payments coverage apply if I wasn’t driving?

Yes, MedPay covers you as a passenger in another car or as a pedestrian. It also applies if you are struck by a vehicle while cycling or walking.

2. Can I use medical payments coverage with health insurance?

Yes, MedPay works alongside health insurance to cover accident-related costs. It can pay for deductibles, co-pays, and services not covered by your health plan.

3. Does medical payments coverage cover lost wages?

No, MedPay only covers medical and funeral expenses. For lost wages, you may need personal injury protection (PIP) or a liability claim.

4. Is medical payments coverage mandatory in Missouri?

No, Missouri drivers are not required to carry MedPay. However, it is a valuable optional coverage for added protection.

5. How do I choose the right MedPay limit?

Choose a limit based on your potential medical costs and budget. Higher limits provide more protection but slightly increase your premium.

6. Does medical payments coverage cover chiropractic care or physical therapy?

Yes, MedPay often covers chiropractic treatments and physical therapy related to accident injuries. Be sure to check your policy details to confirm.

7. Can I use MedPay if I’m at fault for the accident?

Yes, MedPay pays for medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident. This makes it especially valuable for at-fault drivers who need immediate financial assistance.

8. How does MedPay differ from uninsured motorist coverage?

MedPay covers medical expenses for you and your passengers after an accident. Uninsured motorist coverage protects you if the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance to pay your damages. Both offer different types of protection and can work together.

9. Can I add MedPay to an existing policy?

Yes, many insurance providers allow you to add MedPay at any time. Contact your insurer to review options and choose a coverage limit that suits your needs.

10. Does MedPay cover funeral expenses?

Yes, medical payments coverage often includes funeral costs resulting from a car accident. This can provide financial relief during an emotionally difficult time.

11. Will using MedPay affect my premiums?

Using MedPay typically does not raise your premiums. MedPay claims are treated differently than liability claims, making it a cost-effective option for covering medical expenses.

Have more concerns or questions about obtaining medical payments coverage after an accident in Missouri? Contact our attorneys at Sotiriou Wilmowski to get the help you need. Call 314-925-1000 or send us a message online to schedule your free case evaluation. 

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At Sotiriou Wilmowski, we're dedicated to standing up for people who've been hurt. Let us fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation — it's the first step toward the justice you need.

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