Letters of Protection, Explained for Arlington Crash Victims
Short answer: A letter of protection (LOP) is a letter from your lawyer to a provider. It says the provider will be paid out of your settlement, so you can be treated without paying first. It is not a guarantee: if the case doesn't recover money, you usually still owe the bill.
Who it helps
An LOP is most useful when you have no PIP or MedPay, your PIP is used up, or your health plan has a large deductible. It requires a lawyer, because the letter comes from the law firm.
The four steps
- You hire an injury lawyer.
- The firm sends the LOP to your provider.
- You're treated without paying upfront.
- When the case resolves, the provider is paid from the recovery.
Questions to ask before you start
- What happens to my bill if the case is lost or recovers less than expected?
- Will the bill be reduced at the end, and who negotiates that?
- Can I still use PIP or health insurance for part of my care?
LOP or PIP?
PIP comes from your own insurer, pays as claims are processed, and doesn't depend on fault or on winning anything. An LOP comes from your law firm and depends entirely on the outcome of your case. Many people use PIP first and an LOP after. Compare with PIP and MedPay, or read do I need a lawyer? Back to all insurance guides.
Hurt in an Arlington crash?
Send a short request and a participating injury law firm will contact you for a free review. Crashes anywhere in Texas are welcome.