Q. Often a client comes to an attorney following an automobile collision with questions about medical bills. Frequently the insurance company for the person responsible for the collision has advised the client that it will not pay medical bills until the case can be completely settled. The client asks: How will the bills get paid so that my credit is not affected?

A. Most health insurance policies provide for payment of medical bills even if the injuries are the result of another's negligence. If there is a settlement or jury award, typically the health insurance carrier would have the right to get its money back with certain deductions for attorney fees and costs associated with the recovery of those funds.

Additionally, if you are injured in a car accident and have automobile insurance or if there is insurance on the car in which you are riding, there will likely be medical payments coverage under that insurance. Medical payments coverage pays for medical bills resulting from a crash up to the limits of coverage purchased regardless of fault. Typically, this coverage also allows the insurance company that makes the payment to be reimbursed, after attorney fees and costs, from the settlement proceeds obtained from the insurance company of the negligent person.

Getting the medical bills paid in a prompt manner will allow you to both obtain the medical care needed and keep your good credit rating.