Who Pays My Medical Bills After a Car Accident in Georgia?
By Skip McManes – October 23, 2025 – Personal Injury
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, one of your first questions is likely: “Who’s going to pay for all these medical bills?” Emergency room visits, follow-ups, physical therapy, and ongoing care can add up quickly. And in Georgia, where car insurance laws can be confusing, it’s not always clear who’s responsible for covering those costs.
This guide explains how medical bills are handled in Georgia after an accident, what coverage may apply, and why having the right legal support can make a huge difference in your recovery and financial future.
Georgia Is an At-Fault State – Here’s What That Means
In Georgia, the driver who caused the accident (the “at-fault” party) is legally responsible for covering the damages—including your medical expenses. This is different from “no-fault” states where your own insurance pays first, no matter who caused the accident.
Under Georgia law, you can pursue compensation through:
- The at-fault driver’s insurance company
- Your own insurance policy (in certain situations)
- A personal injury lawsuit if necessary
Reference: O.C.G.A. § 33-7-11 (Uninsured Motorist Coverage)
Your Medical Bills Start Immediately—Even Before Fault Is Proven
Right after a crash, medical providers will treat you regardless of fault. But they will expect to be paid. Here’s how your initial bills may get handled:
- ER & Ambulance: Typically billed directly to you or your health insurance.
- Follow-Up Care: Orthopedists, imaging centers, and physical therapy costs can build up before any insurance payment is made.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Copays, deductibles, and denied claims can quickly add up.
That’s why it’s critical to keep track of every bill, invoice, and medical record—they’ll all be needed for your injury claim.
Who Pays My Medical Bills After the Accident?
Your Auto Insurance – Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay)
If you purchased Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay), your auto insurer will pay your medical expenses up to the policy limit, regardless of fault.
- Typical limits: $1,000–$10,000
- Covers you and your passengers
- Pays quickly—often within days
The At-Fault Driver’s Insurance
This is the primary source of compensation in most cases, but it only pays once fault is established. Insurance companies often delay or dispute payments, so having legal representation ensures fair recovery.
Your Health Insurance
Your health insurance may pay for your treatment while your case is pending. However:
- You’re still responsible for copays and deductibles
- Your insurer may place a lien on your settlement
- You must notify them of your personal injury claim
Medical Liens or Out-of-Pocket Costs
If you don’t have MedPay or health insurance, some providers may treat you on a lien basis—they get paid from your settlement later. But if you don’t recover money, you’re still responsible for these bills.
What If the Other Driver Has No Insurance?
Unfortunately, some Georgia drivers are uninsured or underinsured. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM) can help cover your expenses.
- Covers your medical bills if the other driver has no or low coverage
- Optional but highly recommended
- Included in your policy unless you declined in writing
What If I Was Partially At Fault?
Georgia follows a modified comparative fault rule. If you’re less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages—reduced by your percentage of fault.
Example: If you’re 20% at fault in a $100,000 case, you can still recover $80,000.
Can a Lawyer Help Me Reduce My Medical Bills?
Yes. An experienced personal injury lawyer can:
- Negotiate with healthcare providers and lien holders
- Coordinate payments through MedPay or health insurance
- Ensure every expense is properly documented and reimbursed
Legal representation often results in significantly higher net recovery after medical costs are settled.
Steps to Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident
- Seek Medical Attention: Always get checked by a doctor, even if symptoms are minor.
- Use Health Insurance or MedPay: Keep copies of every bill and medical record.
- Don’t Speak to the Other Driver’s Insurer: Their goal is to minimize your claim.
- Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Atlanta: The sooner you do, the better your outcome.
Statute of Limitations in Georgia
You have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Georgia. Missing this deadline could prevent you from recovering any compensation. Act quickly to protect your rights.
Get Help from McManes Law
At McManes Law, we help Atlanta and Alpharetta accident victims recover medical costs and fair settlements. Our team handles negotiations, manages medical liens, and fights for the compensation you deserve.
Call (678) 892-7157 or contact us online today for a free consultation. You don’t pay unless we win your case.
Related Articles
- Car Accident Lawyer Alpharetta: What to Do After a Crash
- Who’s Liable for an Injury on Private Property in Georgia?
- What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in Atlanta
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays medical bills after a car accident in Georgia?
In Georgia, the at-fault driver is ultimately responsible. However, while your claim is pending, your MedPay, health insurance, or personal funds may cover medical costs temporarily.
What if I can’t afford my medical bills after a car accident?
Many medical providers work on a lien basis, meaning payment is delayed until your case settles. Your lawyer can also negotiate bill reductions to help maximize your recovery.
How long does it take to get medical bills paid after an accident?
It varies. Some cases resolve in a few weeks; others can take months. Working with an experienced attorney helps ensure faster resolutions and fewer insurance delays.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For help with your specific case, contact us and we will talk about your case with one of our attorneys.
