A letter of protection (LOP) is a legal document issued by a personal injury attorney to healthcare providers on behalf of an injured client. The letter guarantees that the client’s medical bills will be paid from the proceeds of a future settlement or court award, allowing the client to receive necessary treatment even if they lack insurance or the ability to pay upfront.
LOPs are commonly used in personal injury cases where the plaintiff requires immediate medical care but does not have the financial resources to cover the costs. By issuing an LOP, attorneys help clients access treatment while the legal case is pending.
A letter of protection is important because it ensures that injured individuals can access necessary medical care without financial barriers, even before their personal injury claim is resolved. This is especially crucial in cases where timely treatment is required to prevent further complications or deterioration of the injury.
For healthcare providers, an LOP serves as a formal agreement that they will be compensated once the client’s case concludes. For plaintiffs, it alleviates financial stress and supports their recovery, which can also strengthen the overall personal injury claim by demonstrating the extent of medical treatment needed.
From a legal standpoint, LOPs are integral to bridging the gap between immediate medical needs and the resolution of a personal injury case.
When dealing with letters of protection in personal injury cases:
Letters of protection provide critical access to care, ensuring that personal injury victims receive the treatment they need while awaiting resolution of their claims.
