Car accidents can turn your world upside down in an instant. Beyond the pain of injuries and the stress of recovery, one of the most pressing concerns many people face is the flood of medical bills that follow. Emergency room visits, ambulance rides, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment—all of these costs can add up quickly, leaving accident victims wondering: Who is going to pay for all of this?
If you’ve been injured in a car crash in Nebraska, it’s important to understand that you have several potential avenues for covering medical expenses. Depending on the details of your case, your bills might be paid by your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, your health insurance provider, government programs like Medicare or Medicaid, or even the at-fault driver’s liability insurance. In some cases, you may also need to pursue a legal claim to recover the full cost of your treatment and care.
Unfortunately, the insurance process is rarely simple. Coverage limits, policy exclusions, subrogation claims, and confusing paperwork can make it difficult to know your rights—or to protect them. That’s why this guide was created: to help you clearly understand how medical bills are paid after a car accident, avoid common mistakes that could hurt your claim, and recognize when it’s time to contact an experienced car accident lawyer in Omaha for help.
Whether you’re dealing with out-of-pocket costs or facing aggressive insurance adjusters, knowing your options is the first step toward financial recovery. Let’s break down the process step by step so you can focus on healing—without the added stress of unexpected medical debt.
In Nebraska, medical expenses after a car crash can be covered through several sources:
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance
Health insurance
Medicare or Medicaid
The at-fault driver’s liability insurance
Personal injury claims or settlements
Let’s break down how each of these works.
Nebraska follows a no-fault insurance system, which means your own insurance policy will pay for certain expenses, regardless of who caused the accident. This is where PIP coverage comes in.
What PIP Covers:
Hospital and doctor bills
Physical therapy and rehabilitation
Lost wages (up to 85%)
Funeral expenses (if applicable)
Typical Coverage Limit: $25,000 per person (may vary by policy)
Important: Once your PIP coverage is exhausted, you’ll need to rely on other insurance options.
If your PIP doesn’t fully cover your medical costs, your health insurance can step in. However, be aware of a few key issues:
Subrogation: Your health insurer may seek reimbursement from your eventual settlement.
Coordination of Benefits: Some insurers require that PIP is fully used before they begin covering treatment.
Pro Tip: An experienced accident lawyer can often negotiate with health insurers to reduce the amount they take from your settlement.
For those who qualify, Medicare and Medicaid can cover accident-related care—but these programs also have the right to recover what they pay.
Medicare: Requires accident reporting and may place a lien on your settlement.
Medicaid: May also assert reimbursement rights via lien or subrogation.
If another driver caused your accident, you can file a claim against their liability insurance.
Minimum liability limits in Nebraska:
$25,000 for bodily injury (per person)
$50,000 for bodily injury (per accident)
$25,000 for property damage
Your attorney can help prove negligence and fight for fair compensation from the at-fault party’s insurer.
If insurance coverage isn’t enough, pursuing a personal injury lawsuit can help you recover compensation for:
Current and future medical bills
Lost income
Pain and suffering
Permanent disability or long-term care
A personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and guide you through this process.
If you can’t pay for treatment upfront, medical providers may agree to treat you on a lien basis—meaning they’ll get paid from your eventual settlement.
What Is a Medical Lien?
A medical lien is a legal claim that allows doctors, hospitals, or insurers to collect directly from your personal injury compensation.
Who Can File a Lien?
Hospitals and emergency rooms
Chiropractors or physical therapists
Surgeons and specialists
Insurance companies (via subrogation)
Government health programs (Medicare/Medicaid)
Medical liens must be paid before you receive any money from your settlement. For example, if your case settles for $50,000 and you have $10,000 in medical liens, that amount is deducted from your share.
That’s why it’s crucial to have an attorney review, dispute, or negotiate liens to ensure you keep more of what you’re awarded.
Even innocent missteps can cost you thousands in lost compensation. Here’s what to avoid:
Mistake #1: Delaying Medical Treatment
Why it matters: Insurers may argue that delays mean your injuries weren’t serious.
What to do: Always seek care immediately—even for minor symptoms.
Mistake #2: Not Documenting Your Injuries
Why it matters: Lack of documentation weakens your case.
What to do: Keep all medical records, bills, and treatment notes.
Mistake #3: Accepting a Quick Settlement
Why it matters: You may settle before knowing the full extent of your injuries.
What to do: Consult a lawyer before agreeing to anything.
Mistake #4: Giving Recorded Statements to Insurers
Why it matters: Your words can be used to deny or devalue your claim.
What to do: Let your attorney handle all insurer communication.
Mistake #5: Not Hiring a Lawyer
Why it matters: You may overlook key rights or settle for less than you deserve.
What to do: Get a free consultation with an experienced attorney.
Working with a skilled personal injury attorney can greatly improve your chances of securing full compensation. Here’s how:
Investigate the accident and gather evidence
Negotiate with insurers for fair compensation
Calculate full damages (medical bills, lost wages, future care)
Handle deadlines (Nebraska’s statute of limitations is 4 years)
Represent you in court if necessary
You should speak to a car accident lawyer if:
Your injuries are serious or require long-term care
The other driver denies fault
The insurance offer is too low
You’re dealing with confusing medical liens
Don’t wait—the earlier you get legal help, the stronger your case.
Q: Will my health insurance cover my injuries?
A: Yes, but they may claim part of your settlement through subrogation. A lawyer can often reduce this amount.
Q: What if the at-fault driver is uninsured?
A: Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage can help. A lawyer can assist with the claims process.
Q: How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Nebraska?
A: Typically, four years from the date of the accident.
Q: Can I sue for pain and suffering?
A: Yes—if your injuries are serious, you can pursue compensation for non-economic damages.
At Inkelaar Law, we’ve helped countless car accident victims in Omaha and across Nebraska recover the compensation they deserve.
Here’s why clients trust us:
Medical bills shouldn’t define your recovery. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, let our team fight for you.
Call Inkelaar Law at 1-800-890-2801
Or book your free consultation online
We’ll help you understand your options, navigate the claims process, and work toward the settlement you deserve.
Final Thought:
You don’t have to go through this alone. With the right legal support, you can face the aftermath of a car accident with confidence and clarity. Reach out today—and take the first step toward recovery.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational purposes only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation. For specific legal advice, please consult with an attorney who is qualified to handle your case.
Español
