Canadian's traveling to the United States often have travel health insurance in the event of an injury.  Sometimes, after discharge from the hospital, and once you return home to Canada, you may find that the medical bills have not been paid by your insurance provider.  Maybe you got a bill from the Hospital or other healthcare provider or were even put into collections for an unpaid medical bill.  If this situation happens, it is important to understand your rights and what other options may be available to you.

Travel health insurance plans are contracts and will be governed by the policy.  An experienced insurance lawyer may be able to assist you in obtaining payment of your medical bills from your travel health insurance plan. In some situations, there may be other solutions where there is a shortfall or denial of reimbursement or payment from a travel health insurance plan,  For instance, if the injury arises because of a motor vehicle accident in the United States, as a Canadian you may have rights to advance your healthcare expenses against the insurance company for the at-fault party.  Many Canadians also have underinsured motorist coverage and first-party no-fault insurance through their own motor vehicle insurance policy.  These coverages can also be sources of payment for medical expenses incurred in the United States because of an accident.  

It is also important to know that, if your travel health insurance has paid some or all of your medical bills in the United States, they will seek reminbursement or subrogation against the party that caused your injury.  You may be required to advance a claim on behalf of the travel insurance carrier if you decide to bring a claim against the at-fault party.

If you or a loved one has been injured in the United States and have incurred medical bills, contact us to learn more about your rights to have these expenses covered. 

Andrew Iacobelli is an experienced personal injury lawyer who established Iacobelli Law Firm with offices located in Ontario, Canada and Florida, U.S.A. Andrew is a licensed attorney in Florida, Texas, Michigan and Ontario.  He restricts his practice to the representation of personal injury victims in claims involving serious injuries and wrongful death in Canada and the United States.  Andrew is the author of "Are You a Canadian Injured in the United States? Claim the Damages and Insurance Coverage the Right Way". 

Canadian motorcycle riders often enjoy motorcycle roadtrips throughout the United States.  From Bike Week in Daytona to trips through the Western United States from Washington to Arizona, there's something for everyone.    While these rides offer stunning views and endless roads, sometimes accidents can and do happen.  For Canadian motorcycle riders injured in the United States, the aftermath can be overwhelming and confusing.  Canadian motorcycle accident victims will need to deal with healthcare and insurance claims while away from home.  The costs following a motorcycle crash can be enormous.  From expenses, losses, and pain and suffering, motorcycle riders injured in the USA will need someone on their side to help navigate the complex cross-border claims.  

We have represented many Canadian riders injured in the USA and we can help you understand your rights following a crash.  Let's cover some of the basics. 

First, medical treatment.   The most important thing after a motorcycle crash is to obtain immediate medical treatment.  Take care of yourself above all else by getting the necessary treatment.  Healthcare in the United States is among the best in the world, but it comes at a cost.  If you have travel health insurance, this should cover at least a portion of your immediate emergency expenses.  There can also be coverage avaialble from your motorcycle insurance policy.  In addition, if another vehicle was at fault for causing the crash, you may be able to advance your claims against the at-fault driver's insurance.  Navigating this can be overwhelming, but we do this everyday and can help you get your medical expenses covered.  If you received bills from US medical providers, do not be alarmed.  Call us and we can help you.  

Apart from medical treatment and associated bills, you may be wondering how you can be compensated for your injuries and expenses.  In most cases, Canadian motorcycle riders will be able to advance claims on both sides of the border.  These are insurance claims that allow you to recover your losses.  Canadians enjoy some of the best motorcycle insurance coverage available in North America.  As a result, there is a good chance that much of your claim will be covered by your Canadian insurance policy.  This is not as simple as it sounds.  Even if you have good insurance, you still need to advance a claim.  Canadian policies often include coverage for no-fault benefits and a separate coverage called underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage.  Both of these coverages are extremely important following a motorcycle crash in the United States.  We can help you determine what coverages you have and weather you can advance claims in Canada.  

In addition to your Canadian insurance claims, motorcycle riders injured in the USA will often be able to advance a claim against the at-fault driver.  These claims will be covered by the insurance company for the car and driver that caused your crash.  Insurance policy limits in the United States may be far less than those available in Canada, so it's important to have an experienced cross-border accident lawyer help you investigate the amount of coverage available.  Claims by Canadians injured in the United States will typically require coordinating the insurance claims both in Canada and the USA.  There are important steps that need to be taken to preserve your rights to claim on both sides of the border.

If you or a loved one was involved in a motorcycle crash while traveling in the United States, reach out to us for a Free Consultation.  We can help you understand your rights and there is no fee or obligation for the consultation.  Call us day or night to learn more.  

Andrew Iacobelli is an experienced personal injury lawyer who established Iacobelli Law Firm with offices located in Ontario, Canada and Florida, U.S.A. Andrew is a licensed attorney in Florida, Texas, Michigan and Ontario.  He restricts his practice to the representation of personal injury victims in claims involving serious injuries and wrongful death in Canada and the United States.  Andrew is the author of "Are You a Canadian Injured in the United States? Claim the Damages and Insurance Coverage the Right Way". ​

Traveling to the United States as a Canadian offers exciting opportunities for exploration and relaxation. However, an unexpected accident can turn a dream vacation into a financial nightmare, especially when faced with high U.S. medical bills. If you find yourself injured in the U.S., understanding your options for covering these expenses is crucial. The Snowbird Attorney is here to assist Canadians injured in cross-border accidents and help relieve the stress of expensive U.S. hospital and medical bills.

Navigating Medical Bills in the U.S.
After an accident, U.S. hospitals and medical providers often demand immediate payment or assurance of coverage. Here’s a step-by-step guide to handling high medical bills:

1. Contact Your Travel Insurance Provider
If you purchased travel insurance before your trip, contact your provider immediately. Travel insurance often covers emergency medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, and medication. Keep all medical records and invoices to facilitate the claims process.

2. Review Your Canadian Health Insurance
Canadian provincial health insurance typically does not cover the full cost of medical treatment outside of Canada. However, it may reimburse some expenses. Check with your provincial health plan to determine what is covered and submit any necessary claims.

3. Explore Your Auto Insurance Policy
If your injury resulted from a car accident, your Canadian auto insurance policy might provide some coverage for medical expenses incurred in the U.S. Contact your insurance provider to understand the extent of your coverage and initiate a claim.

4. Negotiate with Medical Providers
If your insurance does not cover all expenses, negotiate a payment plan with the U.S. medical providers. Many hospitals offer flexible payment arrangements to alleviate immediate financial pressure.

5. Pursue a Claim Against the At-Fault Party
If another party is responsible for the accident, you may be able to seek reimbursement for your medical bills through their insurance policy. This process involves filing a claim against the at-fault party, which can be complex and requires legal expertise.

6. Seek Legal Assistance
Navigating cross-border medical expenses and insurance claims can be complicated. Seeking legal assistance can be invaluable in managing these complexities and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

How the Snowbird Attorney Can Help
At the Snowbird Attorney, we specialize in representing Canadians injured in cross-border accidents. Our expertise can help you navigate the complexities of U.S. medical bills and insurance claims, providing peace of mind during a stressful time.

Comprehensive Case Evaluation
We offer a thorough evaluation of your case to identify all potential sources of compensation, including U.S. insurance claims and Canadian benefits.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Our team negotiates with U.S. and Canadian insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and medical expenses.

Legal Representation for Personal Injury Claims
If your injury resulted from someone else’s negligence, we can represent you in a personal injury claim, seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Reducing Medical Expenses
We work with U.S. medical providers to negotiate reductions in your medical bills, potentially saving you thousands of dollars.

Facing high U.S. medical bills after an accident can be daunting, but you don’t have to navigate this challenge alone. The Snowbird Attorney is here to help Canadians injured in cross-border accidents, offering experience, support, and effective legal representation. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in relieving the stress of expensive U.S. medical bills and securing the compensation you deserve.

Andrew Iacobelli is an experienced personal injury lawyer who established Iacobelli Law Firm with offices located in Ontario, Canada and Florida, U.S.A. Andrew is a licensed attorney in Florida, Texas, Michigan and Ontario.  He restricts his practice to the representation of personal injury victims in claims involving serious injuries and wrongful death in Canada and the United States.  Andrew is the author of "Are You a Canadian Injured in the United States? Claim the Damages and Insurance Coverage the Right Way". ​

By Colton M. Leung

As a Canadian resident from British Columbia, traveling to the United States can be an exciting adventure. However, accidents can happen, and when they do, understanding your rights and insurance coverage is crucial, especially if you are injured by an underinsured motorist. The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) offers Underinsured Motorist Protection (UMP) to help protect you in these situations. Here, we will explore what UMP coverage entails, how jurisdictional laws affect your claims, and essential steps to ensure you maximize your protection.

Understanding Underinsured Motorist Protection (UMP)
ICBC provides Underinsured Motorist Protection, offering up to $1,000,000 in coverage for British Columbia residents injured by inadequately insured motorists in the United States. This coverage is designed to bridge the gap when the at-fault driver's insurance is insufficient to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident.

Key Conditions for UMP CoverageOne critical condition of UMP coverage is the requirement to consult with and obtain written agreement from ICBC before settling with an underinsured driver or owner in another jurisdiction. This step is crucial to preserve your right to UMP benefits and ensure you do not inadvertently waive any potential claims.

Jurisdictional Laws and Their Impact
When an accident occurs in the United States, the laws of the jurisdiction where the accident happened will control your rights and may impact your claims with ICBC. Each state in the U.S. has its own set of laws regarding traffic accidents, insurance claims, and liability. These laws will determine how your claim is processed, including:

• Statute of Limitations: The time frame within which you must file a claim can vary by state. It is essential to be aware of these deadlines to avoid losing your right to compensation.
• Comparative or Contributory Negligence: Some states may reduce your compensation based on your level of fault in the accident, while others may bar recovery altogether if you are found to be partially at fault.
• Damage Caps: Certain jurisdictions may have limits on the amount of compensation you can receive for specific types of damages, such as pain and suffering.

Steps to Protect Your Rights

1. Report the Accident Immediately: Notify ICBC as soon as possible after the accident to initiate the claims process and understand your coverage options.
2. Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer: Given the complexities of cross-border accidents, consulting a personal injury lawyer experienced in both Canadian and U.S. laws can help you navigate the legal landscape and maximize your compensation.
3. Gather Documentation: Collect all necessary documents related to the accident, including police reports, medical records, and any correspondence with the at-fault driver's insurance company.
4. Follow ICBC Guidelines: Ensure that you adhere to all ICBC requirements, including obtaining their written agreement before settling any claims with the underinsured motorist.

Being injured in a motor vehicle accident in the United States as a British Columbia resident can be a challenging experience. However, understanding your rights under ICBC's Underinsured Motorist Protection and the impact of jurisdictional laws can help you navigate the claims process more effectively. By taking the necessary steps to protect your rights and seeking professional legal advice, you can ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

If you are a British Columbia resident injured in the United States, contact us to learn more about your rights by calling us toll free at 866-234-6093.  

Colton M. Leung is an experienced personal injury lawyer with Iacobelli Law Firm in their Canadian offices. Colton is licensed to practice law in British Columbia and Ontario, and he regularly works with attorneys in the United States to coordinate and access benefits and claims for Canadians Injured in the United States.  

Seeking Medical Treatment in the United States: Why Canadians Turn to American Healthcare for Back Pain Following an Injury or Accident

Back pain is a common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide, including a significant number of Canadians.  Back pain can range from mild discomfort to debilitating chronic conditions. It often involves various parts of the spine and can result from different causes such as injury, degenerative disc disease, or nerve compression. While Canada offers universal healthcare, many Canadians choose to seek medical treatment in the United States for back pain. Here’s why and how they do it.

Reasons for Canadian Seeking Treatment in the United States
1. Access to Specialized Care
The United States is home to some of the world’s leading specialists in spinal care and neurology. For Canadians experiencing complex back pain, accessing highly specialized care can be a significant motivator. U.S. healthcare facilities often have advanced technologies and innovative treatments that may not be readily available in Canada.

2. Shorter Wait Times
One of the primary reasons Canadians seek medical care in the United States is to avoid lengthy wait times. The Canadian healthcare system, while comprehensive, can involve long delays for specialist consultations, diagnostic imaging, and elective surgeries. In contrast, U.S. facilities typically offer quicker access to these services, enabling patients to receive timely diagnosis and treatment.

3. Comprehensive Diagnostic Services
For those suffering from chronic back pain, precise and early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. The United States offers a wide range of diagnostic services, including MRI, CT scans, and electromyography (EMG), often with faster turnaround times. This allows patients to begin appropriate treatment sooner, potentially improving outcomes.

4. Innovative Treatment Options
U.S. healthcare providers often have access to the latest medical research and cutting-edge treatments for back pain. This includes minimally invasive surgical techniques, advanced pain management strategies, and physical therapy programs tailored to individual needs. For Canadians seeking the most current treatment options, the U.S. can be an attractive destination.

Advanced Techniques Available in the United States
Disc Replacement Surgery
Disc replacement surgery is an innovative procedure used to treat conditions like degenerative disc disease and herniated discs. This surgery involves replacing a damaged spinal disc with an artificial one, preserving motion in the spine and offering an alternative to spinal fusion. In the United States, many surgeons specialize in this procedure, using the latest technologies to ensure optimal outcomes.

Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery (MISS)
MISS techniques involve smaller incisions and the use of specialized instruments, resulting in less tissue damage, reduced pain, and quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgeries. This approach is commonly used for treating herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and sciatica.

Laser Spine Surgery
Laser spine surgery is a minimally invasive technique that uses focused laser beams to remove portions of soft tissue or bone compressing nerves. This technique is praised for its precision and is used in procedures like discectomy and foraminotomy.

Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)
SCS involves implanting a device that delivers electrical impulses to the spinal cord, blocking pain signals from reaching the brain. It is often used for chronic pain conditions, including radiculopathy, when other treatments have failed.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
RFA is a technique used to treat chronic back pain by using heat generated by radio waves to destroy specific nerve fibers, interrupting pain transmission. It is a minimally invasive option for patients with facet joint pain or sacroiliitis.

Advanced Pain Management Techniques
U.S. healthcare providers often utilize a multidisciplinary approach to pain management, including targeted injections, physical therapy, and innovative medications. This comprehensive approach can help manage pain more effectively and improve overall quality of life.

Benefits of Advanced Treatment Options

• Preservation of Mobility: Techniques like disc replacement and minimally invasive surgery often preserve the natural movement of the spine, allowing patients to maintain a higher quality of life.
• Faster Recovery: Minimally invasive procedures typically result in less postoperative pain and shorter recovery times, enabling patients to return to their normal activities sooner.
• Improved Outcomes: Access to the latest technologies and surgical techniques can lead to better long-term outcomes, reducing the risk of recurrence and improving overall health.

How Canadians Access Medical Treatment in the U.S
.1. Cross-Border Healthcare Facilities
Several healthcare facilities near the U.S.-Canada border cater specifically to Canadian patients. These facilities often assist with logistics, such as coordinating appointments and handling insurance or payment matters, making it easier for Canadians to access care.

2. Medical Tourism Agencies
Some Canadians turn to medical tourism agencies to facilitate their treatment in the United States. These agencies specialize in arranging healthcare services abroad, handling everything from booking consultations to arranging travel and accommodations.

3. Direct Hospital Arrangements
Canadians may also contact U.S. hospitals directly to arrange for consultations and treatments. Many American hospitals have international patient departments that provide support in navigating the U.S. healthcare system, including assistance with financial arrangements and language barriers.

For Canadians dealing with debilitating back pain, seeking medical treatment in the United States offers the promise of specialized care, shorter wait times, and access to advanced treatments. While there are challenges to consider, the benefits of receiving timely and comprehensive care can make a significant difference in the lives of those suffering from these conditions.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, and are experiencing back pain, consider treatment options in the United States.  The Snowbird Attorney may be able to assist with coordinating your insurance benefits so that your medical treatment in the United States is covered.  

An experienced cross-border injury attorney can be invaluable in navigating the complexities of insurance claims for Canadian clients seeking medical treatment in the United States following a motor vehicle accident. We can help ensure that all necessary documentation and medical records are accurately prepared and submitted to support your claim. We assist in negotiating with insurance companies to secure the maximum coverage possible for your U.S. medical expenses, ensuring that you receive the necessary treatment without undue financial burden. Additionally, we can provide guidance on cross-border legal issues, such as jurisdictional challenges and coordinating benefits between Canadian and U.S. insurers, to help streamline the process and protect your rights. By working with a cross-border injury attorney, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities of your case.

Andrew Iacobelli is an experienced personal injury lawyer who established Iacobelli Law Firm with offices located in Ontario, Canada and Florida, U.S.A. Andrew is a licensed attorney in Florida, Texas, Michigan and Ontario.  He restricts his practice to the representation of personal injury victims in claims involving serious injuries and wrongful death in Canada and the United States.  Andrew is the author of "Are You a Canadian Injured in the United States? Claim the Damages and Insurance Coverage the Right Way".