Everything You Need to Know About Injury Billing, Insurance, and Payment at ProCare
Getting into an auto accident is often a life-altering experience, the aftermath of which can be incredibly overwhelming. Beyond the injury itself, you face a complex process: locating a qualified car accident doctor, navigating Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance claims, and communicating with attorneys. At ProCare Injury Specialists, we aim to alleviate that stress and provide comprehensive, evidence-based care while also handling insurance claims on your behalf. Our team manages everything from claims documentation to attorney coordination, so you can focus on your healing.
FAQs About Billing, Insurance, & Payment
FAQs About Insurance Coverage and Payments
Who pays medical bills after a car accident?
It is up to the injured patient on how they want to handle their bills. They may use their own auto insurance injury coverage (PIP, Med Pay, UM/UIM coverages), bill directly against the liable party (aka Third Party billing), hire an attorney to cover all of the above, or pay for their own treatment at each visit, handling any reimbursement options themselves.
How does insurance work for a car accident injury?
For any auto insurance coverage afforded, it is important that the injured party(ies) file or open a claim first. This can be against their own auto insurance accident injury coverage or the liable party’s auto insurance liability coverage.
Once a claim has been open or filed, the injured parties are given a claim #, adjustor name/contact info assigned, and other billing instructions. Patients would then bring this info with them at their first visit with ProCare.
📂 Documentation tip: Bring your claim number and adjuster details to your first appointment to avoid delays in billing.
What is PIP insurance? What does it cover?
Personal Injury Protection – aka, “optional coverage on the patient’s auto insurance policy”.
PIP pays for medical bills, lost wages (up to 80%), and other expenses for you and your passengers after a car accident, regardless of who was at fault.
💡 Good to know: PIP is often the fastest way to start treatment after a car accident.
Should I use PIP coverage or my personal medical insurance for my car accident injuries?
It depends, but PIP coverage is specifically for car accident injuries.
Personal medical (or health) insurance coverage can assist, especially if PIP is not available, or for other issues subsequent to an auto accident, but it will only cover those insured on your insurance plan, not necessarily unrelated passengers in your car.
Is there a difference between billing my health insurance or car insurance for car accident injury treatment?
Yes. Health insurance plans may be mandated by networked provider select, pre-authorization or referrals, as well as deductibles or copays at time of service. It will only cover those insured in your household.
PIP or car insurance coverage usually does not have deductibles or out-of-pocket expense up front, has no network issues (for ProCare) and is ready to immediately use for you and each passenger in your vehicle once a claim has been opened.
Does my insurance cover follow-up treatments or rehabilitation?
For PIP or auto insurance policies, there is usually one lump sum to cover all medically necessary treatment related to that injury.
Does insurance cover the costs of diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRIs, etc.)?
It may, depending on medical necessity and the facility restrictions. Some Imaging facilities do not accept PIP or Third Party insurance, but may accept health insurance instead.
ProCare takes x-rays in house, and those are usually covered when billed to PIP or Third party auto insurance coverage.
💡 Good to know: In-house imaging can reduce delays and out-of-pocket costs.
Does health insurance cover car accident injuries?
Depending on the health coverage plan, this will only take effect if no other carrier can cover this type of injury – ie patient or other party’s auto insurance. This may involve a written form or notice from the patient/insured to their insurance carrier, confirming no other coverage can be afforded for this injury.
Unfortunately, you must see an in-network provider for the majority of health insurance plans. Many of our specialists are not in network with health insurance plans due to these restrictions, so ProCare would not be able to submit claims to a health insurance payer on the patient’s behalf.
The patient can, however, submit their own bills to their carrier to see if they can be reimbursed for treatment received and paid out-of-pocket.
FAQs About Billing Challenges
What if I don’t have insurance?
You still have options. You can pay our Self-Pay rates at time of service for each treatment visit.
However, due to the financial burden some may experience due to a car accident, you may choose to obtain legal representation to help divert out-of-pocket costs until settlement against the liable party is reached.
What if my insurance denies my claim?
Our in-house billing department will dispute any insurance claims received. Most are resolved after the first dispute.
Does ProCare offer direct billing to insurance companies?
Yes! Our in-house Billing Department has over 15 years experience with multiple types of insurance carriers and billing, including dispute resolution and payment negotiation.
💡 Good to know: Direct billing minimizes paperwork and stress for patients.
FAQs About Seeking Medical Treatment After a Car Accident
Do I need to have health insurance to see a car accident doctor?
No! We encourage you to come in and see what we have to offer you as your patient experience, as well as discuss payment options for those that do not have insurance.
What kind of car accident injuries should I see an auto accident doctor for?
Common car accident injuries to see an auto accident doctor for include:
- Head and neck injuries(whiplash, concussions, traumatic brain injuries)
- Back and spinal injuries (herniated discs, nerve damage, spinal column injuries)
- Soft tissue injuries (muscle strains, ligament or tendon tears)
- Broken bones and fractures (ribs, arms, legs, wrists, ankles, facial bones)
- Knee and joint injuries (often from dashboard or impact trauma)
- Internal injuries (internal bleeding or organ damage)
- Cuts, bruises, and swelling that persist or worsen
- Ongoing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, numbness, stiffness, or limited mobility
⭐ Important for your health: Some injuries don’t show symptoms immediately, making early evaluation extremely important.
What is the recommended timeframe for seeking medical attention after an accident?
We strongly encourage you to see a doctor as soon as possible, ideally within 24 to 72 hours after a car accident. Early evaluation helps identify hidden injuries and provides critical medical documentation.
⭐ Important for insurance claims: Delays beyond 72 hours may impact claim approval or compensation.
What do I bring to my first appointment?
Bring a valid photo ID and insurance card (if applicable) to your first appointment. We also recommend completing our new patient paperwork online before the appointment and arriving 10-15 minutes early so we can start your visit on time.
Choose ProCare for your car accident care
When it comes to car accident care, having the right medical team makes all the difference. ProCare Injury Specialists combine expert, evidence-based treatment with hands-on support for insurance, billing, and claims coordination, so nothing falls through the cracks.
Whether you’re using PIP insurance, working with an attorney, or paying out of pocket, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t wait to get the care and answers you need. Schedule your appointment with ProCare today and take the first step toward a smoother recovery.