When you get injured in an accident, you will require medical attention. This is important for both your health and personal injury claim. However, accessing medical treatment can prove difficult if you can’t pay for the expenses out-of-pocket, don’t have medical insurance, or the policy you carry is insufficient. This is where a letter of protection could come in handy.
A letter of protection for personal injury is a legally binding agreement between you, your attorney, and your doctors. It is drafted by your attorney to show that you will settle your medical bills after receiving damages from your claim. Essentially, it allows you to get the help you need, while your case is ongoing.
Have you been injured in an accident and can’t afford treatment? Discuss a letter of protection with expert Personal Injury Attorneys in Los Angeles at El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers.
Why Do You Need a Letter of Protection?
Your health insurance provider can refuse to pay for your treatment after an accident. This is usually the case when they believe the at-fault party should cover your medical costs. On the other hand, the at-fault party could also deny liability for your injuries, making it difficult to get the treatment you need.
A letter of protection allows you to get treated as you sort out your insurance issues. It also provides time to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party for damages, if you wish to.
Essentially, a letter of protection for personal injury lets you focus on your recovery as your attorney works on getting you compensated.
What Are the Stipulations in a Letter of Protection?
The exact language used in a letter of protection will usually vary from case to case. Your attorney will evaluate your injuries, personal injury case, and insurance status to draft an agreement that suits your needs. That said, a standard letter of protection will indicate that:
- The medical provider will treat your injuries while your personal injury case is pending.
- As long as the protection is in effect, they will not demand immediate payment or damage your credit by turning your account over to collections.
- Once your attorney receives your personal injury settlement, they will pay your medical provider directly.
Remember, some doctors can choose not to enter into such an agreement. You and your attorney can work to find a solution to this by talking to several doctors.
Letter of Protection and Settlement Distribution
When your attorney receives your settlement check, they have to settle any outstanding bills or liens, including their attorney fees before sending you the balance check. If you have a letter of protection, they will send a check to your medical provider to cover your medical bills.
A letter or protection doesn’t exempt you from your medical bills. If you do not receive a settlement, you have to pay for them out-of-pocket.
Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Medical services are expensive. They are also crucial to your health after an accident. If you have been injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, don’t let the pressure of medical bills make you settle for less than you deserve.
The attorneys at El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers are well-versed in the preparation and execution of a letter of protection for personal injury. We can ensure you get the treatment you need as we focus on your personal injury claim.
If you need help with this matter, contact us to schedule a consultation with our top Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorneys with El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers at 888-540-0325.