Who Pays Medical Bills After a Car Accident in California?

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Who Pays Medical Bills After a Car Accident in California?

Car accidents can result in costly medical bills for all parties involved. But who pays medical bills after an accident in California? Here’s your guide to understanding liability for medical expenses if you’ve been in an accident in California. 

Determining Who Pays Medical Bills in a Car Accident in California

A stethoscope is sitting on top of a pile of money.

When you receive an injury from a car accident in California, the party responsible for paying your medical bills is typically the at-fault driver. However, getting these expenses covered isn’t always straightforward. Before you receive any compensation from the at-fault driver or their insurance provider for your medical expenses, you might have to use your health insurance, MedPay, or another form of coverage to pay your bills.


If you pay for your own immediate medical costs, such as through your insurance, be sure to keep detailed records of the expenses and treatments so that the at-fault driver’s insurance can reimburse you later. If the at-fault driver is uninsured, your uninsured motorist coverage can help cover medical bills.

What If My Medical Bills Are More Than My Settlement in California?

If your medical bills are higher than your offered settlement, you have options. One option is to negotiate with your medical providers, as they might agree to reduce your bills. Another option is to set up a payment plan to manage the remaining balance. A third option is to use medical liens. Hospitals and doctors might agree to place a lien on your settlement, ensuring you pay them from your compensation.

Does Health Insurance Cover Car Accidents in California?

Yes, your health insurance generally covers injuries from car accidents. However, they may seek reimbursement from the at-fault party’s insurance.


If you are not at fault for the accident, your insurance company may seek to recover costs from the at-fault driver’s insurance through a process called subrogation. Your auto insurance company may also coordinate with your health insurance provider to determine who the primary payer of your medical bills will be.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in California

A woman is kneeling down next to a damaged car.

To build your case for compensation and ensure your medical bills are handled properly, seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident. You should also notify your insurance company right away and collect evidence at the scene. As you receive medical attention, be sure to keep detailed records of all treatments and medical expenses. Additionally, you should consult with an experienced attorney who can help you receive the compensation you deserve.

Get Help Knowing Who Pays the Medical Bills Following a Car Accident in CA

If you’ve been in an accident and are wondering who pays medical bills in a car accident in California, the answer is the at-fault driver and their insurance company are generally responsible. If you need legal assistance after an accident, contact Sargon Law Group for a free consultation with one of our accident attorneys in Phoenix. Our Phoenix injury lawyers use our experience to help California accident victims receive the care and compensation they deserve.

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