What Happens If Medical Bills Exceed Policy Limits in Florida?
Written by the Hughes and Barnard Law Firm, PA marketing team and reviewed by Attorney Howard Hughes to ensure quality and accuracy.
After a serious accident, one of the most stressful questions many people face is: what happens if medical bills exceed policy limits? Unfortunately, this is a common situation for Florida accident victims, especially when injuries are severe and require extensive treatment.
Medical care costs in Florida can quickly escalate after an accident. Emergency room visits, surgeries, diagnostic testing, physical therapy, and follow-up care often add up to tens of thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of dollars. When the at-fault party’s insurance coverage is not enough to pay for your full damages, victims are often left wondering how they will pay their medical bills and move forward.
At Hughes and Barnard Law Firm, PA, we specialize in helping injured Floridians navigate these difficult circumstances. With over 75 years of combined legal experience and more than $150 million recovered for our clients, our attorneys know how to maximize compensation—even when insurance limits are not enough.
Understanding Policy Limits in Florida
Florida requires drivers to carry certain minimum insurance coverage. However, these minimums are often too low to cover the real costs of an accident. For instance:
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Florida drivers are required to carry $10,000 in PIP coverage. This coverage helps pay for medical expenses regardless of fault, but $10,000 does not go far when facing hospital bills.
Bodily Injury Liability (BIL)
Not all drivers carry BIL coverage, and even when they do, it may be as low as $10,000 or $20,000.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)
This optional coverage protects you if the at-fault driver has little or no insurance.
When medical bills exceed these limits, you may feel trapped. But you do have options, and working with an experienced attorney can make all the difference.
What Happens If Medical Bills Exceed Policy Limits?
If your medical expenses surpass the insurance coverage available, the next steps depend on the specifics of your case. Common options include:
1. Filing a Claim Against the At-Fault Party Personally
If the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage is insufficient, you may pursue compensation directly from their personal assets. However, not every driver has assets worth pursuing, and collecting on such judgments can be challenging.
2. Using Your Own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If you have UM/UIM coverage on your policy, this can help cover expenses beyond the at-fault driver’s limits. Many Floridians do not realize they have this coverage until an attorney reviews their policy.
3. Exploring Other Liable Parties
Sometimes additional parties may share liability. For example, if a defective vehicle component contributed to your injuries, the manufacturer could be held accountable. If the driver was working at the time of the accident, their employer may share liability.
4. Negotiating Medical Bills
Hospitals and medical providers may be willing to negotiate or reduce your bills if it becomes clear that the available insurance coverage will not cover them. A skilled attorney can handle these negotiations on your behalf.
5. Filing a Lawsuit for Full Compensation
If settlement offers are inadequate, filing a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary. This allows you to seek compensation for the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Why Working With Hughes and Barnard Law Firm, PA Matters
At Hughes and Barnard Law Firm, PA, we understand that no two cases are alike. Every accident and every injury tells a different story, and we take the time to listen and develop a legal strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Here’s why accident victims across Florida trust us:
| Over 75 Years of Combined Experience: | Our attorneys bring decades of legal knowledge to every case. |
| More Than $150 Million Recovered: | We have a proven record of securing significant settlements and verdicts. |
| Aggressive Representation: | Insurance companies often try to settle for the lowest possible amount. We fight to ensure our clients receive the maximum compensation available. |
| Free Consultations: | We believe accident victims deserve answers without added financial pressure. That’s why we offer free consultations to anyone injured in an accident. |
| No Fee Unless We Win: | We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover money for you. |
Steps to Take If Your Medical Bills Exceed Policy Limits
If you are facing overwhelming medical bills after an accident in Florida, here are steps to protect yourself:
-
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health is the priority. Delaying care can make your injuries worse and weaken your legal claim. -
2. Do Not Accept a Quick Settlement
Insurance companies often pressure victims into settling quickly. Once you accept, you cannot go back for more compensation, even if your bills continue to rise.
-
3. Consult an Experienced Attorney
A lawyer can evaluate all potential sources of recovery, negotiate with insurers, and handle communications so you can focus on healing. -
4. Gather Documentation
Keep copies of all medical bills, doctor’s notes, accident reports, and communications with insurance companies. This evidence strengthens your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the at-fault driver only has minimum insurance?
If the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient, you may need to rely on your own UM/UIM coverage or pursue a claim directly against the driver. Our attorneys can investigate all potential sources of compensation.
Can I be stuck with unpaid medical bills after an accident?
Unfortunately, yes—if you do not take action. That’s why working with a skilled attorney is crucial. We fight to ensure victims are not left bearing the burden of someone else’s negligence.
What if I don’t have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage?
Even without UM/UIM coverage, there may be other avenues for compensation, including pursuing claims against additional responsible parties or negotiating medical bills.
How much does it cost to hire Hughes and Barnard Law Firm, PA?
There are no upfront costs. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay if we win your case.
How soon should I contact a lawyer after an accident?
The sooner the better. Evidence can disappear quickly, and insurance companies begin building their defense immediately. Contact us right away to protect your rights.
Take Control of Your Recovery
When medical bills exceed policy limits, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. At Hughes and Barnard Law Firm, PA, we stand by accident victims throughout Florida to ensure they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, call us today for a free consultation. Let our experience, proven results, and dedication work for you.
