Q: Why would a settlement from an auto accident, not caused by me, have the medical bills deducted from the amount?
It was a year ago. I had to hire an attorney after realizing this couldn't be handled with just insurance companies. My car was totalled, I haven't had a car since, for some reason my GAP Ins would pay in full so now I owe Ford more money each month, I have medical bills from the accident, and the attorney just gave me the final settlement of less than $6000 which also has the medical expenses deducted. I need help.
A:
You should contact your attorney to have him/her explain every settlement deduction, as deducting medical costs is normal practice in personal injury settlements. The medical bills were likely used to prove up your case and that is one of the types of damages that was recovered. The medical bills that you incurred may need to be paid out of your settlement because of insurance subrogation, liens, or agreements with your medical providers.
Disclaimer: this is not legal advice, and is meant for informational purposes only.
Tim Akpinar agrees with this answer
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