Many people experience lengthy physical recoveries after a personal injury. The recovery often begins with staying in a hospital for several days, then recovering at home, followed by repeated visits for physical therapy and checkups.
Typically the doctor’s bills don’t take long to start piling up. After some time, however, the bills begin taking a significant psychological and financial toll. To make matters worse, patients across Missouri and the country have found that many health care facilities participate in a sneaky practice called “balance billing.”
In an effort to recoup the difference in cost between the lower negotiated insurance quote and the higher non-negotiated charge, hospitals and doctor’s offices attempt to charge the patient the difference. “Balance billing” is illegal in many states (though not in Missouri) and should always be appealed with the health care facility.
For some, the idea of initially filing a personal injury lawsuit after suffering a personal injury seems like more trouble than it’s worth. The prospect of litigation– everything from finding and consulting a personal injury attorney, collecting evidence, and developing a timeline for the process– appear as an insurmountable hurdle. But even the most stalwart and independent victim of personal injury can reach a point when the lost time from work, mounting medical bills and possible harassment from billing agencies, and ongoing pain and suffering become too much to handle alone.
An initial consultation with a competent and compassionate personal injury attorney only costs you some of your time. After the time of receiving no help, this investment of time produces results and information.
In Missouri, a personal injury claim can be filed up to five years after the incident. Still, don’t wait to discuss your situation with a personal injury attorney. You should not have to wait until your finances and health are completely depleted before seeking to hold parties responsible for their negligent and harmful acts.