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Are "crash taxes" next?

If you are in a crash, you may be surprised a few weeks later when a bill arrives from the fire and police departments for their coming to the scene -- even if you didn't call them!

According to a recent report, towns and cities across the nation are sending such bills for these services that we all thought were supported through our taxes.  The other bad news is that your insurance may not cover the bills.  Medical services (including ambulance transportation) have traditionally been covered by various kinds of insurance, but not emergency response services. 

If this concept catches on, your insurance premiums will go up, and no one yet knows by how much.

What should you do if you get such a bill? 
1.  Most importantly, don't ignore it, because your credit rating could be affected.  
2.  Contact your insurance company.
3.  Get a record from the fire and police departments about what medical treatment was provided at the scene.
4.  Contact your state's governmental agency if you believe the charges are unwarranted.
5.  Consider contacting the credit reporting agency if you believe the charges were unfairly reported.

Also, consider contacting a personal injury lawyer who is experienced in dealing with insurance that provides coverage in car accident cases.