Short Answer

In North Carolina, the fastest way to confirm medical benefits on an auto policy is to get the Declarations Page and the full policy with endorsements from your insurer or agent. If “Medical Payments” (MedPay) is not listed with a premium on the Declarations Page, you likely do not have it; any other limited “auto protection” benefits are controlled by your policy’s specific terms and deadlines.

Understanding the Problem

In North Carolina, how do I confirm whether my auto insurance includes medical payments coverage I can use for crash-related medical bills? Here, your attorney already called your insurer and was told there is no standalone MedPay, but your policy includes a very limited auto protection plan. You want to verify what, if anything, you can use for medical costs and how to read your policy to know for sure.

Apply the Law

Under North Carolina law, medical payments coverage (often called “MedPay”) on auto policies is optional and contractual—if it is not shown on your Declarations Page with a premium, it is typically not part of your coverage. Your own insurer’s policy language controls what medical benefits exist, who is covered (you, family, or occupants), what expenses qualify, and any claim deadlines. If information is unclear or withheld, you can request the Declarations Page and a certified copy of your policy from your insurer or agent, and you may seek help from the North Carolina Department of Insurance if needed.

Key Requirements

• Find it on the Declarations Page: MedPay appears as a separate line with a limit and a premium; if it’s missing, you likely do not have it.
• Read the full policy and endorsements: The definitions, exclusions, and any “auto protection” riders control what medical-type benefits exist and their limits.
• Confirm who is covered: Policies may cover the named insured, resident family, and vehicle occupants differently.
• Check what expenses qualify: Covered “reasonable and necessary” medical bills may include EMT, hospital, therapy—only if the policy says so.
• Know the deadlines: Policies often require prompt notice and submission of bills within a set time (sometimes as short as 12 months); check your policy language.

What the Statutes Say

• N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-279.21 (Motor vehicle liability policies and required coverages) - Sets required auto coverages and UM/UIM; MedPay is optional and governed by the policy.
• N.C. Gen. Stat. § 58-63-15(11) (Unfair claim settlement practices) - Outlines standards insurers must follow when handling claims and providing information.

Analysis

Apply the Rule to the Facts: Your insurer told your attorney there is no standalone MedPay, which aligns with the rule: if MedPay is not listed with a premium on the Declarations Page, it isn’t included. The “very limited auto protection plan” could contain narrow accident-related benefits, but only the policy and endorsements define those benefits, eligibility, and deadlines. The next step is to obtain and review the Declarations Page and the full policy to verify any medical-type benefits and how to claim them.

Process & Timing

1. Who files: You or your attorney. Where: Your auto insurer’s claims department or your insurance agent in North Carolina. What: Request your current Declarations Page and a certified copy of your policy and all endorsements; ask specifically about “Medical Payments” and any “auto protection/accident benefits.” When: Make the request promptly after a crash; policies may have short notice and proof-of-loss deadlines.
2. If the insurer’s response is unclear, request written confirmation stating whether MedPay is included and, if not, whether any other medical-type benefits apply; expect a written response within a reasonable time, but timing can vary by insurer.
3. If you cannot get the documents or clear answers, contact the North Carolina Department of Insurance Consumer Services Division to file a complaint or assistance request; they typically respond within weeks.

Exceptions & Pitfalls

• “Auto protection” or “accident benefits” are not the same as MedPay; they may have lower limits, stricter triggers, or cover only specific expenses.
• Do not assume the at-fault driver’s insurer will pay bills as you go; liability carriers usually reimburse later, not upfront.
• If you had multiple vehicles or policies, confirm whether any other policy includes MedPay; each policy’s Declarations Page controls.
• Missing policy deadlines can forfeit benefits even if coverage exists; calendar the notice and proof-of-loss dates as soon as you receive the policy.

Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney

If you need to confirm whether your auto policy includes medical benefits and how to use them after a crash, our firm has experienced attorneys who can help you understand your options and timelines. Call us today.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about North Carolina law based on the single question stated above. It is not legal advice for your specific situation and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws, procedures, and local practice can change and may vary by county. If you have a deadline, act promptly and speak with a licensed North Carolina attorney.