Does my health insurance or the at-fault driver’s insurance pay first?

In most cases, your own health insurance (or auto insurance if you have “medical payments” coverage) will pay your initial medical expenses. The at-fault driver’s insurance is typically responsible for reimbursing these costs later, as part of a settlement or verdict.

What if I don’t have health insurance?

If you don’t have health insurance, hospitals and doctors may still treat you, but they may place a medical lien on your case.

Do I have to pay medical liens out of my settlement?

Yes. If your health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, or a medical provider paid for your treatment, they may have a legal right to reimbursement once your case is resolved. However, an experienced personal injury lawyer can often negotiate reductions to these liens, leaving you with more money after your case is settled.

Can I be reimbursed for future medical costs?

Yes. If your injuries require ongoing treatment — such as surgeries, physical therapy, or long-term care — you can seek compensation for future medical expenses. Your personal injury lawyer will work with your medical professionals to estimate the cost of your care over time.

What about lost wages during recovery?

In addition to medical bills, you can also claim lost income if your injuries prevent you from working. If your ability to work is permanently reduced, you may also recover damages for loss of future wages (also known as: loss of earning capacity).

Should I hire an attorney after an accident?

Yes. Dealing with medical bills after an accident can be overwhelming — especially when you’re also focused on recovery. Insurance companies often delay or dispute payment, leaving you stuck in the middle. You only have one opportunity to prove your injuries. Once you accept a settlement, that decision is final and you lose your rights to ever file another claim again – even if you discover your injuries are far worse than you originally thought and you notice problems down the road.

Halloween Public Safety Announcement for Rhode Islanders

Ann Sheeley
13 minutes ago
4 min read

Sheeley Law Issues Halloween Safety PSA for Rhode Island

Halloween is much-anticipated holiday for both children and adults, alike. Picking out a costume, trick-or-treating, visiting haunted houses and attending parties – what’s not fun about that?! Unfortunately, each year, accidents cast a dark shadow on the celebration — especially when pedestrians, drivers, and trick-or-treaters share the roads after dark.

While we don’t mean to spook you, your safety matters to all of us at Sheeley Law. As excitement builds across Rhode Island, here’s what you should know about the biggest halloween-public-safety-announcement-for-rhode-islandersrisks — and how to keep your loved ones safe this Halloween. Need immediate help? Call Sheeley Law 24/7 at (401) 619-5555 for a free consultation.

❓Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is Halloween so dangerous for pedestrians?

A: Darkness, costumes with limited visibility, distracted driving, alcohol and increased foot traffic make Halloween one the deadliest holidays, especially for children.

Q: Are homeowners liable if someone gets hurt on their property on Halloween?

A: Possibly. Property owners have a duty to keep walkways and stairs well-lit and free of hazards. If a visitor is injured due to unsafe conditions, it could lead to a premises liability claim.

Q: What should parents do to keep kids safe while trick-or-treating?

A: Make sure costumes fit properly, add reflective elements, supervise children, and use flashlights or glow sticks for visibility.

Q: What are the penalties for DUI in Rhode Island?

A: A first-offense DUI can lead to license suspension, fines up to $500, community service, mandatory education, and possible jail time — penalties increase sharply for repeat offenses or crashes involving injuries. The bottom line is NEVER drink and drive. If you are arrested for a DUI, contact Sheeley Law to help you navigate the process.

Q: What should I do if I, or my child, is hit by a car?

A: Call 911, seek medical attention, document the scene, and contact Sheeley Law to guide you and protect your rights.

Halloween Scary Stats:

1) Children at the Highest Risk for Pedestrian Accidents

A long-term study found that the relative risk of a pedestrian being fatally struck is ~43% higher on Halloween between 5 p.m. and midnight. That research also found that children ages 4 to 8 are roughly 10 times more likely to be killed on Halloween during those evening hours than on comparable nights. [i]

2) Vehicle Crashes

Halloween weekend consistently sees an increase in drunk-driving crashes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 37% of all fatal accidents during Halloween weekend involve an intoxicated driver — far above the national average for other times of year.[ii]

Police departments across Rhode Island typically increase patrols to deter drunk driving, but prevention starts with planning ahead. Never drink and drive. Designate a sober driver, use a rideshare app, or stay the night where you celebrate.

Remember: one wrong decision behind the wheel can change lives forever.

3) Slip-and-Fall Injuries

While pedestrian and traffic crashes capture most headlines, slip-and-fall incidents are a risk and can cause significant injuries. Contributing factors include masks or costumes that limit vision or mobility, dimly lit pathways, dark porches/stairs, uneven sidewalks, wet leaves, or debris on walkways.

Pedestrian Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treaters & Families

Light up your look. Add reflective tape, glow sticks, or LED lights to costumes and treat bags.
Walk, don’t run. Always cross at corners or crosswalks — never between parked cars.
Go in groups. There’s safety in numbers and higher visibility for drivers.
Stay on sidewalks. If none are available, walk facing traffic on the left side of the road.
Avoid taking photos and selfies until you are in a safe area – phones are one of the biggest causes of distracted walking.

Halloween Safety Tips for Rhode Island Drivers

Slow down. Reduce speed in residential areas — especially between 4:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. when trick-or-treating peaks.
Avoid distractions. Keep your phone down and eyes up — children can appear suddenly.
Watch for driveways and crosswalks. Expect pedestrians in places you wouldn’t normally see them.
Never pass stopped vehicles. A child might be crossing in front of them.
Don’t drink and drive. Nearly half of all fatal Halloween crashes involve alcohol. Plan ahead with a rideshare or designated driver.

Sheeley Law encourages responsible driving every day of the year, and especially this Halloween as costumed children fill the streets. If you or a loved one are injured this Halloween, contact Sheeley Law, 24/7, at 401-619-5555. Attorney Ann Sheeley has over 30 years of experience and a proven track record of helping pedestrian, car/truck, motorcycle and bicycle accident victims obtain maximum compensation for their losses and suffering. We’ll answer your questions, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way with care and compassion until you get the settlement you are entitled to receive.