Hospital Liens Lawyers
Texas law provides hospitals with a legal mechanism known as a lien that allows them to stake a claim against personal injury settlements or judgments. This hospital lien is specifically designed to protect the hospital’s right to payment when a patient receives treatment for injuries resulting from an accident caused by another party. Victims facing hospital liens should take immediate action by contacting their health insurance company, submitting hospital bills directly to their insurance provider, and seeking consultation with a personal injury attorney to understand and protect their legal rights.
How Hospital Liens Work
The lien is filed in the property records of the county where medical treatment was received and attaches exclusively to the personal injury settlement or judgment. Importantly, this lien does not extend to your home or other personal property, providing some protection for the injury victim.
Key Requirements for a Valid Hospital Lien
To establish a valid hospital lien, several requirements must be met:
- Treatment must be sought within 72 hours of the accident
- Lien covers only the first 100 days of hospital treatment
- Written notice of the lien must be filed before settlement funds are received
Types of Accidents Covered
Hospital liens can be applied to various types of personal injury cases, including:
- Construction accidents
- Rear-end car wrecks
- Motorcycle accidents
- Car crashes
The Financial Impact
Hospitals often employ strategic billing practices that can significantly impact injury victims:
- Avoid billing health insurance companies
- Charge rates 2-3 times higher than insurance negotiated rates
- Create potential financial burdens for injured parties
The Role of Personal Injury Attorneys
An experienced lawyer can help by:
- Verifying the lien’s validity
- Disputing the lien or its amount
- Negotiating lien reductions
- Ensuring fair treatment throughout the settlement process
Protecting Your Interests
If you have received notice of a hospital lien or are dealing with a personal injury settlement, professional legal guidance is crucial. An experienced Austin injury attorney can help you understand your rights and navigate the complex legal process of hospital liens.
For personalized assistance with hospital liens and personal injury claims, contact our Austin injury attorneys today.
