It was a solo crash. Just me, some loose gravel, and a shattered clavicle. The ambulance ride and surgery cost $12,000 out of pocket because I have a high-deductible health plan. I tried to claim “Medical Payments” on my homeowners insurance, but they shut me down instantly.
Key Takeaways
- MedPay is for Guests: “Medical Payments to Others” on a homeowners policy covers other people who get hurt on your property. It never covers you or your family.
- Health Insurance is Primary: Your standard health insurance is the only way to pay these bills unless you have specific accident insurance.
- Auto Insurance PIP: If a car was involved (even if it didn’t hit you, but caused you to crash), your Auto PIP (Personal Injury Protection) might cover you.
- Supplemental Accident Plans: Some e-bike policies offer small medical limits (e.g., $1,000) to cover your health insurance deductible.
The “Why” (First Party vs. Third Party)
Liability and Medical Payments on home/renters policies are Third-Party Coverages. They protect your assets when you hurt someone else. They are not health insurance for you.
The Investigation: Seeking Coverage
I looked for ways to get bills paid after a bike crash.
1. Health Insurance
- The Reality: They pay, but you owe the deductible and copays.
2. Spot Injury Insurance (often sold with lift tickets/memberships)
- The Reality: This is becoming popular in 2026. You can buy “on-demand” injury insurance for outdoor sports. It pays cash to cover your deductible.
3. Velosurance / Oyster
- The Reality: Some policies offer optional “Medical Payments” coverage. Usually capped at $5,000 or $10,000. It acts as a gap filler for your health insurance deductible.
Comparison Table
| Coverage Source | Who it Covers | Limit |
| Homeowners MedPay | Guests Only | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Health Insurance | You | Unlimited (minus deductible) |
| Standalone Bike MedPay | You | $1,000 – $10,000 (Optional) |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Check Your Health Deductible: If it’s high ($5k+), consider adding MedPay to your standalone bike policy. It costs a few dollars a month but covers that gap.
- Aflac / Accident Policies: If you ride aggressively, a general accident policy is often cheaper and better than attaching it to the bike.
- Keep the Helmet: If you crash and break your helmet, some insurance policies (and helmet manufacturers) will replace the helmet for free or cheap.
FAQ
If I crash on my way to work, is it Workers Comp?
Generally no, unless you are a bike messenger actively working. Commuting is not covered by Workers Comp.
[IMAGE: Screenshot of a “Medical Payments to Others” clause in a policy]