When you are injured in an accident, the expenses aren’t just limited to medical bills. Many individuals overlook the fact that the travel costs, like gas mileage, parking fees, tolls, and public transportation and rideshare fares for their medical appointments, can accumulate rapidly, resulting in financial difficulties. Please continue reading as we explore whether travel expenses to medical appointments are covered in a Maryland personal injury claim and how our determined Prince George’s County Personal Injury Lawyers can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.
Can I Be Compensated for Travel Expenses to Medical Appointments?
Generally, in a Maryland personal injury claim, you can seek compensation for both your economic damages, which are quantifiable financial losses like medical bills and lost wages, and non-economic damages, which cover intangible losses such as pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment of life. It should be noted that there is a cap on non-economic damages, the amount of which depends on the type of claim filed.
In a personal injury claim, you can generally recover travel expenses for medical appointments as economic damages. This applies when the travel is essential for treating an injury sustained in the accident. For example, the costs of traveling to physical therapy, follow-up doctor visits, or specialist appointments recommended by your physician can be included in your claim.
However, meticulous record-keeping is crucial. You will need detailed documentation, like receipts and mileage logs, to substantiate your claim for reimbursement. The insurance company might dispute these costs if they determine your trips were unnecessary to your injury or if they appear excessive, such as choosing a healthcare provider significantly outside your local area without a justifiable reason.
Should I Consult an Attorney?
Following an accident, an experienced Prince George’s County lawyer understands the importance of documenting all expenses related to your injury, including those often overlooked travel costs. They can play a crucial role in ensuring these expenses are properly recorded in your claim.
Furthermore, an attorney can help demonstrate that your trips were integral to your recovery. When insurance companies attempt to deny or reduce reimbursement for relevant expenses, an attorney can push back and advocate on your behalf. They will challenge the denial and negotiate a fair settlement for these legitimate costs. Having a dedicated attorney on your side can provide peace of mind that even seemingly minor but significant costs are not overlooked.
As you can see, if you are unable to drive due to your injuries or your vehicle is being repaired, you may seek compensation for transportation to medical appointments. At Timian & Fawcett, LLC, we are prepared to help you fight for maximum compensation to which you are entitled.
