If I Don’t Have Health Insurance, Can I Still Pursue a Personal Injury Claim?
Yes. Not having health insurance does not stop you from filing or pursuing a personal injury claim. Many people in this situation worry about how they will receive medical care when treatment is so expensive. Fortunately, there are options available that allow injured victims to get the care they need without paying upfront.
One of the most common solutions in Texas (and in many other states) is called a Letter of Protection (LOP). A Letter of Protection is essentially an agreement between your attorney and a medical provider. The provider agrees to treat you now, with the understanding that their bills will be paid later—directly out of your settlement or verdict. In other words, instead of paying as you go, the provider places a lien on your case, which ensures they will be compensated once your claim resolves.
The benefits of a Letter of Protection are clear. Without it, many clients who lack health insurance would be unable to afford even basic care, let alone the specialized treatment often required after serious injuries. With an LOP in place, you can access doctors, specialists, imaging, physical therapy, and even surgery if necessary—without paying anything out of pocket during the case. This means your recovery isn’t delayed simply because of financial barriers.
That said, it’s important to remember that medical providers are also taking on a risk when they agree to treat under a Letter of Protection. If your case does not result in a recovery, the provider may have to pursue payment from you directly, which can be difficult for many clients. For that reason, not every provider is willing to work under an LOP, and those who do usually require that you have an attorney involved to ensure the process is handled properly.
This is why speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney early on is so important. An attorney can:
Explain how Letters of Protection work and whether they are a good option for your situation.
Connect you with trusted medical providers who are willing to treat under an LOP.
Ensure that your medical bills are properly documented and included in your claim for damages.
Protect you from unfair collection efforts or billing issues while your case is pending.
At The Kaufman Law Firm, we regularly work with clients who don’t have health insurance. We understand the financial strain that comes with unexpected injuries, and we take steps to make sure your access to treatment is not blocked simply because you cannot pay upfront. Our goal is to put you in the best position to heal while we pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.
