Des Moines, IA asked in Car Accidents and Personal Injury for Iowa

Q: in an accident I’m not at fault it was a 3 car collision in a different state I have no medical coverage here WDID?

My daughter 13yrs old and I have injuries and I’m not sure what to do about getting seen.

2 Lawyer Answers

A: Contact an attorney in the state where the crash occurred. They may be able to connect you with health care providers. You can search for lawyers on this website.

A: If you and your daughter were injured in a three-car accident and you weren’t at fault, the first thing you should focus on is getting the medical care you need. Even if you don’t have medical coverage in your current state, there are options available.

Here’s what you can do:

Seek Medical Attention Right Away: Your health and your daughter’s well-being come first. Go to a hospital or urgent care and get checked out, even if you’re unsure about how the bills will be covered. It’s important to document your injuries as soon as possible after the accident, as this will be crucial for any future claims.

File a Claim with the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance: Since the accident wasn’t your fault, you should file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance. Their policy should cover your medical bills and property damage. If liability is being disputed, you can still get treated and seek reimbursement later.

MedPay or Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Depending on the state where the accident occurred, you might have access to MedPay or PIP coverage through your own insurance, even if you’re not at fault. These can cover medical expenses regardless of fault. Contact your insurance company to see if you have these coverages.

Talk to a Lawyer: Since this is a multi-car collision and involves another state, the situation could get complex. It’s a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney who can guide you through the process and ensure you’re not stuck with the medical bills. They can also help deal with the other driver’s insurance and any liability disputes.

Hold Off on Settling: Don’t rush into any settlements with the insurance companies, especially before your injuries are fully assessed. You need to understand the full extent of your medical needs and future treatments.

The key right now is to get medical care and start documenting everything related to the accident and your injuries. An attorney can help you navigate the insurance claims process and make sure you and your daughter are covered.

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