Should I Take an Ambulance After a Car Accident?

Most people don’t spend much time considering whether they’d call an ambulance after a car accident. For severe accidents, the decision is often made for you as emergency responders take immediate action. 

However, if you’re conscious, EMTs might ask if you want to take an ambulance to the ER. While many refuse due to cost concerns, you shouldn’t be quick to deny an ambulance ride, as it can hurt your chances of recovering compensation.  

Trust the expertise of emergency medical services; if they recommend an ambulance, it’s often best to follow their advice. For more advice on what to do after a car accident, call our law firm at (844) 573-0470 for a free consultation. 

Who Pays For the Ambulance in a Car Accident? 

One of the main reasons people do not take an ambulance after a car crash is the cost. Ambulance costs are notoriously expensive, with the average ride costing between $940 and $3,000. 

If the accident wasn’t your fault, the responsible party’s insurance should cover the ambulance bill as part of recoverable damages when you file a claim against them. Their insurance will also cover other related medical costs, such as hospital bills, medical treatment, and medication. 

If you were at fault, your health insurance or auto insurance may cover the ambulance ride. You can also cover the cost if you have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) if you live in a no-fault state. 

Ambulance transportation is often covered by car insurance if deemed “medically necessary.” However, insurance companies frequently try to limit payouts or deny claims entirely. 

What If the Insurance Company Denies Your Claim?

It’s not uncommon for insurance companies to argue that ambulance transport wasn’t necessary. With a personal injury lawyer, you’ll have the support to prove otherwise. If your body tells you it’s unsafe to drive, taking the ambulance is the right choice. 

At our firm, we will work diligently to demonstrate the necessity of the ambulance and ensure the defendant’s insurance pays the bill. 

Frequently Asked Questions

When Is Taking an Ambulance Necessary?

Taking an ambulance is necessary if you suffer from any of the following life-threatening injuries:

• Severe bleeding
• Difficulty breathing
• Chest pain
• Unconsciousness
• Head injuries

Even if you feel okay or have no visible injuries, if medical personnel recommend transportation to a hospital, you should say yes. Injuries can be masked with shock, so getting checked out right away can mean an early diagnosis and peace of mind. 

Why Should I Take An Ambulance?

Prompt medical attention not only aids your recovery but also strengthens your injury claim, showing insurance companies the seriousness of your condition.

Not taking one can signal you were not injured, which can hinder your chances of recovering financial compensation from the other party if you were not at fault for the accident. 

Why Are Ambulance Costs So High?

Most ambulance services are operated by private, for-profit companies under contracts with local governments. Costs are influenced by mileage, services provided (e.g., oxygen, shots), and the type of medical personnel involved. Additionally, ambulances must be available 24/7, a costly requirement that drives up prices.

With legal representation, you have options for paying your ambulance bill. If another party is involved, your lawyer can give the ambulance company a Letter of Protection, which promises to pay the bill once your settlement is received. Without this letter, the ambulance company may charge late fees or send the bill to collections.

When Does the Ambulance Bill Need to Be Paid?

While waiting for the at-fault driver’s insurance to cover your medical bills, keeping communication open with medical providers is essential. Don’t ignore your ambulance bill, as it can lead to late fees and collections.

Talk to a Personal Injury Lawyer 

Whether you’ve been injured or not, knowing when to take an ambulance is crucial. If you or a loved one suffered injuries due to negligence and took an ambulance, you may be feeling overwhelmed. 

Our attorneys can help you through this difficult time by guiding you through the insurance claims process. At-fault parties are responsible for covering your medical expenses after an accident – as a car accident victim, you should never be stuck with a bill that wasn’t your fault. We will help you recover financial compensation from the at-fault driver’s auto insurance policy.

Hiring a skilled personal injury attorney ensures bills are managed proactively while your claim is processed. For a free consultation, call DK Law today or send us a message online. We’re here to help.