Could a lien affect my credit score?
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Could a lien affect my credit score?
I got rear-ended (other driver at fault). I have been going to a chiropractor and now physical therapy. The chiropractor’s office put out a lien last week with my name and my insurer (in case the responsible party’s insurance company does not pay). I have a great credit score and guard it carefully. Is there any possibility that this medical lien will effect my credit score?
Asked on September 24, 2011 under Bankruptcy Law, Oklahoma
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
This lien will not affect your credit score. This lien is so that the doctor is paid out of the settlement of your case. This lien allows you to receive medical treatment and when you complete your treatment, the doctor will be paid out of the settlement of the case.
When you complete your medical treatment and are released by the doctor, obtain your medical bills, medical reports and documentation of wage loss. Your personal injury claim filed with the other driver's insurance carrier will consist of these items. Compensation for the medical bills is straight reimbursement. Compensation for wage loss is straight reimbursement. The medical reports will document the nature and extent of your injury and will be used to determine compensation for pain and suffering. Compensation for pain and suffering is an amount in addition to the medical bills. If you are dissatisfied with settlement offers from the insurance company, reject the settlement offers and sue the other driver for negligence. If the case is settled with the insurance company, NO lawsuit is filed. If the case is NOT settled, you will need to file your lawsuit for negligence against the other driver prior to the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations or you will lose your rights forever in the matter.
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