After a car accident, the insurance company may come back with a settlement offer. It might be tempting to take it right away — after all, bills are piling up and cash sounds good. But here’s the question: Can you refuse a settlement offer? The answer is yes — and in many cases, you probably should.

Car accidents can leave you with more than just vehicle damage — medical bills often pile up quickly. From emergency room visits to follow-up care, the costs can be overwhelming. So, who actually pays those bills? The answer depends on your state, your insurance coverage, and who’s found at fault. Here’s how it works.