If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Rhode Island, one of your first concerns is likely, “Who’s going to pay for my medical bills?” Between emergency care, follow-up treatment, physical therapy, and lost income, the costs can quickly become overwhelming.
The answer isn’t always simple. Depending on the situation, multiple parties and insurance policies could be responsible for covering your medical expenses. In this blog, we break down how Rhode Island law handles medical bills after a crash — and how a Rhode Island personal injury lawyer can help protect your financial recovery.
Rhode Island Is an “At-Fault” State
Rhode Island follows a fault-based insurance system, which means the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for resulting damages — including your medical bills.
However, that doesn’t mean their insurance company will pay immediately. You’ll often need to cover medical costs up front, and then pursue reimbursement through a claim or lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
This is one of the many reasons it’s critical to contact an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Who Pays First: Your Options After a Crash
Depending on your situation, here’s how your medical expenses may be initially covered:
1. Your Health Insurance
If you have private health insurance or Medicaid, it will often cover your treatment first. But keep in mind:
Your insurer may later seek reimbursement (a “lien”) from your car accident settlement.
- You may still owe copays or deductibles upfront.
2. Medical Payments (MedPay) Coverage
If your auto policy includes MedPay, this optional coverage can pay your medical bills regardless of who was at fault. However:
- Coverage limits are often low ($1,000–$10,000)
- It does not cover lost wages or long-term costs
3. Out-of-Pocket
Without MedPay or active health insurance, you may be forced to pay bills out of pocket — or defer payment with a lien agreement until your injury claim is resolved.
The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance
Ultimately, the at-fault driver’s liability insurance is expected to cover your medical bills, but this typically happens at the end of your case — after:
Your treatment is complete
Fault has been established
- Your total losses are calculated
In the meantime, your attorney may work with providers to pause billing or negotiate liens while your claim is pending.
What If the At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured?
If the other driver lacks insurance or has insufficient coverage, you may need to rely on:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage on your policy
A personal injury lawsuit against the individual
Secondary claims, such as civil litigation
Our team will examine all possible sources of compensation — including your own insurer’s obligations under Rhode Island law.
What About PIP? (Personal Injury Protection)
Unlike some other states, Rhode Island does not require or offer mandatory PIP coverage. If you’ve moved here from a no-fault state, this may be surprising. In Rhode Island, you must prove the other driver was at fault to receive compensation through their insurer.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Helps With Medical Bills
A seasoned Rhode Island injury attorney can:
Identify all insurance policies that may apply
Handle communication with providers and insurers
Delay billing through attorney lien agreements
Maximize your final recovery by negotiating lien reductions
File lawsuits if the insurer delays or denies payment
At Almagno Law, we work closely with medical professionals, negotiate with insurance companies, and help our clients avoid financial strain while their case is pending.
Real People. Real Results.
Don’t just take our word for it — read our client testimonials and see our case results to learn how we’ve helped others recover compensation and peace of mind after serious car accidents in Rhode Island.
Need Answers About Medical Bills After a Crash?
If you’re facing rising medical bills after a car accident, don’t wait. Our team at Almagno Law is here to protect your rights, explain your options, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Visit our FAQs for quick answers or contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
To stay informed, explore our legal blog for more guidance on car accidents, liability, insurance, and Rhode Island law.
Legal Disclaimer
This blog and the information contained on this website are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Reading this blog does not create an attorney-client relationship with Almagno Law or any of its attorneys. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney licensed to practice in your jurisdiction.
