How Do I Use My Auto Insurance Medical Payment Benefits After a North Carolina Car Accident?

In North Carolina, medical payment benefits (“MedPay”) extend coverage regardless of fault. If you carry MedPay on your auto policy, you can submit your medical bills up to the policy limit. These benefits often cover ambulance fees, emergency room care, doctor visits, physical therapy and other accident‐related treatment. First, review your declarations page to confirm you purchased MedPay. Typical limits range from $1,000 to $10,000. Once you confirm eligibility, notify your insurer immediately, ideally within 30 days of the crash. Provide the claim number, date of loss, policy number and a description of injuries. Next, gather all medical invoices, itemized bills and records. Send these directly to your insurer or to your medical provider’s billing department if they will pursue MedPay on your behalf. In most cases, your provider can forward bills to the insurer once they have your auto policy details. If your care provider requests insurance details, share the carrier name, policy number, claim number and your contact information. Keep copies of every submission. Request written acknowledgment of receipt. If the insurer denies coverage or underpays, review the denial letter. You may pursue an internal appeal by providing additional documentation, a statement of medical necessity or a peer review summary from your treating doctors. You can also ask your provider to assist with the appeal.

Key Action Steps

• Confirm your MedPay coverage and limit on the declarations page.
• Notify your insurer in writing within 30 days of the accident.
• Collect and organize itemized medical bills and treatment records.
• Provide your insurer or medical provider with policy, claim number and date of loss.
• Request acknowledgement and track all communications.
• Review denial letters and prepare an internal appeal if needed.

FAQ 2: What Practical Steps Should I Take to Handle My Own Car Accident Case in North Carolina?

Detailed Answer

Handling your own claim after a wreck can save legal fees but requires diligence. In North Carolina, drivers share fault under the contributory negligence rule. If you bear any fault, you may lose the right to recover. Act promptly to preserve evidence, meet deadlines and protect your rights. Immediately after the crash (if you’re healthy and safe), take clear photos of all vehicles, license plates, skid marks, traffic signals and road conditions. Get contact information for all drivers, passengers and witnesses. File an official police report, which often becomes key evidence. Seek medical attention for any injury, however minor. Document every treatment and expense. Keep a journal of symptoms, doctor visits and out‑of‑pocket costs. These records will support your damages claim. Next, notify the at‑fault driver’s insurance company. Give a basic statement—date, time, location and a brief description of the accident. Do not admit fault or speculate. Ask for the claim number and adjuster contact information. Gather your policy’s coverage details and obtain a copy of the adjuster’s notes. Follow up in writing. If negotiations stall, consider mediation or filing a civil suit. North Carolina allows three years from the crash date to file suit for personal injury. When you’re ready, demand a fair settlement. Present all medical records, wage loss documentation and repair estimates. Offer a clear, itemized claim packet to the adjuster. If the insurer undervalues your claim, you can bring the matter to small claims court (up to $10,000) or superior court for higher amounts.

Key Action Steps

• Document the scene: photos, witness contacts, police report.
• Obtain and keep all medical records and bills.
• Notify the at‑fault insurer: provide date, policy and claim details.
• Avoid admitting fault; stick to facts when speaking to insurance.
• Send written follow‑ups and keep copies of every letter or email.
• Evaluate settlement offers and be ready to file suit before the 3‑year deadline.