I Don’t Have Health Insurance; How Can I Get Treated After an Accident?

Jun 13, 2022
McDonald Injury Law

Medical bills statement documents

Fortunately, many great doctors in Virginia will treat you even if you don’t have insurance. Usually, this involves some sort of lien. That means that they’ll agree not to get paid until the end of your case. When your case settles, you pay your medical bills using the money from your personal injury case or insurance claim.

What Is a Medical Lien?

A medical lien provides a doctor the flexibility to treat you despite you not having the funds on hand to pay them for the care. The doctor or medical center will place a lien on the money you will receive from your pending personal injury claim or litigation. 

Medical liens are legal contracts between you and the medical provider. The contract states that the healthcare provider will render services the patient needs. And in return, the patient will provide full compensation once their personal injury case closes or otherwise resolves.

The contract is essentially a healthcare organization offering medical services on credit. When the case closes, the medical provider will likely get their money even before you get any part of the settlement. If for any reason you do not move forward with your claim or lawsuit, you will be responsible for paying the bill with the doctor or medical center.

Common Personal Injury Damage Types

Wondering whether your case might be eligible for a personal injury lawsuit? Here’s a look at some of the most common sources of personal injuries.

  • Car accidents
  • Medical malpractice
  • Construction site accidents
  • Premises liability (such as unsafe conditions in a store)
  • Slip and fall or trip and fall accidents
  • Wrongful death

 

If you’re questioning whether you might have a personal injury case or you aren’t sure where to go for compensation after suffering an injury that was not your fault, it’s wise to schedule a free consultation with a Virginia personal injury attorney.

Most attorneys will review your case and complete an initial meeting with you for free and without restrictions or commitments on your part. There are no drawbacks to a free consultation, and it can help you protect your ability to pursue damages from the at-fault party.

Areas of Compensation You Can Pursue

As you evaluate the best way to get the necessary medical care despite not having medical insurance, consider the areas of compensation you might be eligible for with a personal injury claim or lawsuit. Many personal injury cases include the following types of damages:

  • Medical bills
  • Future medical care for ongoing injuries
  • Lost wages, including overtime, bonuses, missed promotions, etc.
  • Reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering

 

Negotiating for pain and suffering compensation can be challenging because it requires deep expertise that the average injury victim generally lacks. That’s where having a personal injury lawyer is especially helpful in negotiating the best settlement based on the evidence in your case.

Common Injuries in Personal Injury Cases

Injuries from a personal injury accident can vary from minor to severe. Here’s a look at some of the injuries some victims experience:

  • Neck injuries
  • Back injuries
  • Fractures
  • Burns
  • Damage to major organs, such as a ruptured spleen or punctured lung
  • Internal bleeding
  • Amputations
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • Spinal cord injury

 

Finding a Doctor Who Will Treat You on a Medical Lien

If you’re struggling to find a reputable doctor who will treat you on a medical lien, reach out to Geoff McDonald & Associates. We know many outstanding Virginia doctors who would be willing to work with your financial situation to ensure a positive outcome for your case.

Schedule a free consultation now to learn more about the benefits of working with a personal injury attorney.