Question 1

Does Medical Payments Coverage cover me if I don't have health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, MedPay pays for accident-related medical expenses regardless of whether you have health insurance. In fact, drivers without health coverage should prioritize MedPay since a $10,000 policy typically costs under $120 annually but provides immediate accident medical protection. Without either coverage, you'd be personally responsible for all emergency room, hospital, and treatment costs, which can easily exceed $20,000 for moderate injuries.

Question 2

Will using Medical Payments Coverage raise my insurance rates?

Accepted Answer

Using MedPay can increase your rates at renewal, though the impact is typically smaller than liability or collision claims since MedPay involves lower dollar amounts and no fault assessment. Many insurers treat small MedPay claims under $1,000 with minimal or no rate impact, especially if you weren't at fault. The rate increase varies by insurer and state, but generally ranges from 0% to 15% for a single MedPay claim.

Question 3

Can I use Medical Payments Coverage and health insurance for the same accident?

Accepted Answer

Yes, MedPay typically pays first as primary coverage, then your health insurance covers remaining expenses as secondary. This coordination of benefits means you can use both to minimize out-of-pocket costs. However, most health insurers include subrogation rights requiring MedPay proceeds to reimburse them for payments they made, so you may not double-collect for the same expense.

Question 4

What's the difference between Medical Payments Coverage and Personal Injury Protection?

Accepted Answer

MedPay only covers medical and funeral expenses, while Personal Injury Protection (PIP) includes medical costs plus lost wages, replacement services like childcare, and sometimes funeral expenses. PIP is mandatory in no-fault states and typically offers higher limits starting at $10,000, while MedPay is optional in most states with limits commonly between $1,000 and $10,000. MedPay is generally less expensive because it covers fewer categories of expenses.

Question 5

Does Medical Payments Coverage have a deductible?

Accepted Answer

No, MedPay pays from the first dollar of medical expenses with no deductible. This immediate, no-deductible benefit makes it particularly valuable for covering health insurance deductibles after an accident. A $5,000 MedPay policy pays the full amount toward medical bills up to the limit, unlike collision or comprehensive coverage which require you to pay a deductible before the policy pays.

Question 6

How much Medical Payments Coverage should I buy?

Accepted Answer

Choose a MedPay limit that matches your health insurance deductible and maximum out-of-pocket costs, typically between $2,000 and $10,000 for most drivers. If you have a $5,000 health deductible, a $5,000 MedPay policy ensures accident medical bills won't trigger out-of-pocket health costs. Drivers without health insurance should consider the maximum available limit, often $10,000, as basic protection against emergency medical expenses that commonly exceed this amount.

Question 7

Does Medical Payments Coverage apply if I'm hit as a pedestrian?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your auto policy's MedPay covers your medical expenses if you're struck by a vehicle while walking, biking, or even riding in someone else's car. This extended coverage applies to all named insureds on the policy and typically their family members. The coverage pays regardless of which vehicle was involved, making MedPay broader than just occupant protection in your own car.

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