If you get injured in a slip and fall accident, should you have to pay for the resulting medical bills yourself? You may not have to. If someone else was negligent and that created a dangerous situation, then that party should pay your bills for you. Our Westchester County sidewalk accident attorneys can help you build a case and seek out compensation.
Should I Use My Own Insurance to Pay My Medical Bills?
A slip and fall can cause serious injuries, ranging from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. You can use your own health insurance to pay the medical bills resulting from such an accident, but the costs can quickly add up even if you have a good insurance plan. If you believe that someone else is responsible for your injuries, you should at least explore the possibility of pursuing a personal injury claim.
Can I Sue For Damages?
You can sue for damages if you believe someone else caused your slip and fall though. Someone who doesn’t take care of their property and keep it safe for guests or customers should be held accountable. If you fell due to a wet floor, exposed wiring, a dangerous stairway, or any other condition that should have been addressed by a property owner, you may have a valid personal injury claim to make.
Your compensation can pay for more than your medical bills. If you had to miss work while you were recovering, your settlement can help make up for your lost wages. It’s also important to think about whether your injuries are going to leave long-lasting or permanent effects that will affect your ability to work or enjoy leisure time. If this is the case, your compensation can also help make up for things like lost earning potential and loss of enjoyment.
Should I Still Sue If My Insurance Pays My Medical Bills?
Even if your health insurance has helped you cover your medical bills, you can still sue for damages. Compensation from a personal injury case can help you cover expenses that insurance might not pay for. This can include:
- Certain medical devices, like wheelchairs or crutches
- Household or childcare services you need while recovering
- The cost of replacing damaged or destroyed property
- The expense of adding accessibility upgrades to your home
As we already mentioned, damages can also help with things like lost wages and lost earning potential. Just keep in mind that your health insurer may try to claim a part of your settlement if they paid for your care. This is known as “subrogation.”
Contact Our Legal Team
When you’re ready to explore your legal options, contact Hausman & Pendzick. We can schedule a case consultation and tell you more about how our lawyers can be of assistance. Reach out to our legal team today.