Do I have to pay my insurance company back for bills they’ve paid?

Your insurance policy almost always has a process called “subrogation.” This means that if you receive a settlement for your injuries, the company has a right to be reimbursed for the bills they’ve paid, as this is (in theory) part of your settlement.

However, when you hire an attorney to help resolve your case, Washington law can require insurance companies to contribute toward your legal fees and costs in pursuing your claim for damages. For example, your PIP insurance company may accept a reduction in the amount of money they get back.  These rules may apply to your health insurance company as well, with some exceptions that your attorney can explain to you.