Who Pays My Medical Bills After a Car Accident in South Carolina?

One of the first questions many accident victims ask is: “Who will pay my medical bills after a car accident?” The answer isn’t always simple. Between hospital visits, diagnostic testing, surgeries, and physical therapy, medical expenses can add up quickly — often long before your case settles.

At Davis & Snyder, our Greenville car accident lawyers help clients across South Carolina understand their options for covering these costs and pursuing full compensation. Here’s what you should know.

Your Health Insurance May Pay First

In many cases, your health insurance will cover medical treatment after a car accident, even if another driver was at fault. However:

• You may still be responsible for deductibles and co-pays.

• Your insurer may later seek reimbursement (a process called subrogation) if you receive a settlement from the at-fault driver’s insurance.

  
  

The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance

South Carolina is an at-fault state, which means the driver responsible for causing the crash is ultimately liable for your damages — including medical expenses. Their liability insurance is typically the main source of recovery, but keep in mind:

• Insurance companies often delay payment until fault is established.

• They may dispute the extent or cost of your medical treatment.

• You won’t see this compensation until your claim or lawsuit is resolved.

  
  

MedPay Coverage in South Carolina

Some drivers carry Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage, an optional add-on to auto insurance policies. MedPay can help pay for medical bills immediately after a crash, regardless of who was at fault. Coverage limits vary, but it can be a helpful source of early financial relief.

Personal Injury Protection in South Carolina

Some drivers carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, an optional add-on to auto insurance policies. In addition to medical bills, PIP can help cover lost wages and essential services, such as household help. This coverage is often not extensive, but can also help with early financial relief.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)

If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough coverage to pay your medical bills, your own UM/UIM coverage can step in. In South Carolina, UM coverage is required, and UIM coverage is strongly recommended.

Why Medical Bills Become a Legal Issue

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by claiming certain treatments were unnecessary or unrelated to the crash. That’s why working with an experienced South Carolina car accident attorney is so important — we make sure all your damages, including future medical needs, are accounted for in your claim.

Davis & Snyder: Greenville Car Accident Lawyers You Can Trust

At Davis & Snyder we know how overwhelming medical bills can be after a car accident. Our attorneys are committed to helping clients recover compensation for all accident-related expenses, from emergency room visits to long-term care.

Call us today for a free consultation with a Greenville car accident lawyer. Let us handle the insurance companies while you focus on healing.