Who Pays Medical Bills After a Car Accident in Tyler, TX?
One of the most common questions after a car accident is, “Who is responsible for my medical bills?” In Tyler, Texas, the answer depends on several factors — including fault, insurance coverage, and whether you pursue a personal injury claim.
This post explains how medical expenses are handled after a crash in Texas, especially in Smith County, and how a personal injury attorney can help you recover the full cost of your treatment.
Texas Is an At-Fault State
Texas follows a fault-based insurance system, meaning the person who caused the accident is legally responsible for the damages — including your medical bills.
However, that doesn’t mean their insurance pays your hospital bill right away.
Here’s how the process typically works:
1. Your Health Insurance May Pay First
Most hospitals and clinics will bill your health insurance or require out-of-pocket payment immediately after treatment. This doesn’t mean you’re giving up your legal rights — your health insurer may later be reimbursed from a settlement or judgment.
Common Providers That May Cover Initial Bills:
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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas
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Medicare / Medicaid
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Private employer-sponsored plans
2. You May Use Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
If you have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage on your auto insurance policy, it can cover:
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Medical bills
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Lost wages
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Replacement services (like household help)
PIP is not mandatory in Texas, but insurers must offer it. If you didn’t reject it in writing, you may have up to $2,500 – $10,000 in coverage available.
3. The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Pays Last — But Most
If the other driver caused the crash, their liability insurance is ultimately responsible for reimbursing you for:
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Medical bills
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Future treatment
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Pain and suffering
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Lost income
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Property damage
But you won’t receive that money until you settle the case or win at trial — which may take months or more. That’s why health insurance or PIP often pay first.
4. Hospitals May File a Medical Lien
In Tyler and Smith County, hospitals and trauma centers often file a lien under Texas Property Code §55.002 for accident-related treatment. This ensures they’re paid out of any settlement before you receive funds.
If a lien is filed:
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It must be filed in the county where treatment occurred
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It must include the patient’s name, date of treatment, and service details
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Your attorney may be able to negotiate or reduce the lien amount before payout
What If You Don’t Have Health Insurance?
If you lack health coverage, a car accident attorney may arrange “letter of protection” (LOP) agreements with medical providers in Tyler. This allows you to get treatment now, with payment deferred until your case resolves.
LOPs are commonly used with:
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Orthopedic clinics
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Chiropractors
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Imaging centers (X-rays, MRIs)
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Pain management specialists
Why You Shouldn’t Rely on the Insurance Company
Never assume the other driver’s insurer will pay your ER bills upfront. Insurance companies in Texas only pay a single settlement at the end — and they’ll do everything possible to reduce what they owe.
That’s why it’s important to speak to a lawyer early, especially if you’re facing:
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Ambulance and ER costs
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Surgery or physical therapy
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Long-term care or follow-up appointments
Injured in a Car Accident in Tyler, TX? Get Help Recovering Medical Expenses
Cheryl is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Related Pages:
Cheryl A. Wulf, Attorney at Law
Office: 11702 State Hwy 64 E, Tyler, TX 75707
Call: (903) 525-9869
Fax: (866) 824-4469.
