Types of Benefits For Most People Injured in a Car Accident

Types of Benefits For Most People Injured in a Car Accident

Injuries caused by a car accident can have a tremendous affect on a person’s life, beyond the physical injuries. For some people, receiving needed medical care becomes a challenge, especially with limited personal medical insurance coverage. Others who might be able to afford medical care have to miss time from work for treatments and doctor’s appointments.

Fortunately, there are car insurance companies that provide accident benefits to victims. The actual amount of coverage may vary among insurance companies; however, many offer the same types of benefits to an injured person. State and local requirements might also affect the type and amount of benefit coverage available to accident victims.

Insurance benefits are also available for family members whose loved one dies after an auto accident. A common insurance term for this benefit is death and dismemberment coverage. Often, family members might file a third party claim. This claim is usually filed in court where a ruling against the at-fault driver results in financial compensation.

The common auto accident benefits include reimbursement for lost wages; medical expense payments and replacement services.

Lost Wages

Depending on the policy provisions, an injured person could receive 85 percent of his or her employment salary. Some insurance policies allow collection of these benefits for up to three years. To receive this benefit, the attending physician must authorize that because of injuries sustained in the accident, the person is unable to work.

Most state laws incorporate a limit on how much an accident victim may collect in lost wage payments. Some laws include an exception to receiving benefits beyond the maximum period or amount. If the job is no longer available – unless it is because of an economic turndown – the injured person could receive additional benefits.

Another reason for receiving the lost wage benefit is when injuries disable the person further.

Medical Expenses

Medical expense benefits cover the treatment and care a person needs to recover from injuries. This is another benefit coverage that varies among insurance companies, but typically includes two types. One type is commonly called coordinated benefits. This type covers any medical expense not included in the personal health insurance plan.

The second type is full medical expense benefits. With this type of coverage, the insurance company pays for all medical expenses. This benefit is paid even if the personal health insurance pays the expenses.

Replacement Services

As with the previously discussed auto accident benefits, replacement services could also vary. This is commonly based on state provisions. Most benefits pay the injured person a specific dollar amount per day. This payment is for any type of household service the person can no longer perform due to physical injuries.

Some benefit plans will pay $20 per day or more for various services. Most plans provide payments for three years after the car accident. This additional income can alleviate financial concerns most people have after an accident.

The provision for replacement services could include household chores, transportation for family members, vehicle or lawn maintenance, babysitting services and food preparation. Of course, the need for these services will vary based on individual needs.

Important Things to Remember

Receiving some or all of these auto accident benefits are often contingent upon following essential steps soon after an injury.

Most states and insurance companies set time limits for filing an insurance claim to receive benefits. Failing to file within the allotted time period could result in a loss of benefits.

Insurance companies must also adhere to certain conditions. Once a claim is filed, the insurance company is required to reimburse the injured person within one year. This timeframe could be sooner in some states. If the injured person does not receive a reimbursement, he or she could have the right to file a lawsuit against the insurance company.