Can I Use My Own Doctor After a Car Wreck?

One of the most common questions we get after a car wreck is: “Can I use my own doctor?” The answer is yes, and in many cases, you should.

You’re In Control of Your Own Medical Care After an accident, you don’t have to wait on the insurance company to tell you where to go. In fact, most of the time, they won’t. They’ll say something like, “Just get whatever medical treatment you think you need,” which sounds helpful, but really just puts the burden on you.

You’re in charge of your medical care. If you have a primary care physician, chiropractor, or specialist you already trust, you absolutely can and should see them.

Why Using Your Own Doctor Might Be Better

• They know your medical history, which helps when comparing your condition before and after the wreck.
• You trust them to look out for you—not the insurance company.
• They’re often more thorough with documentation, which is important for your injury claim.

Who Pays the Bills?

This is where people get caught off guard: The at-fault driver’s insurance company will not pay your medical bills as they come in. That’s right—even if the other driver admits fault and their insurance accepts liability, they don’t pay your doctors directly. Instead, you are still responsible for your medical bills as they are incurred.

That’s why it’s important to use your health insurance whenever possible. It can drastically reduce your out-of-pocket costs and help avoid medical collections. Later, if your health insurer has a right to reimbursement (called subrogation), we’ll work to make sure they’re repaid fairly out of the settlement—not out of your pocket.

If you don’t have health insurance, that’s okay.  We can work with you on a treatment plan that works for you.

Have You Been In A Car Wreck and Unsure What To Do Next?

If you’ve were injured in a car wreck and aren’t sure where to turn for medical care, contact us online or call our Covington office directly at 985.590.6182 to schedule your free consultation today

Flattmann Law serves clients on the Northshore, including Covington, Mandeville, Abita Springs, Bogalusa, Franklinton, Folsom, Madisonville, Goodbee, Hammond, Lacombe, Pearl River, and Slidell.