This bill introduces new requirements for the admissibility of evidence related to damages for past and future medical expenses in civil actions, particularly in personal injury and wrongful death cases. It defines key terms such as "claimant," "factoring company," and "health care provider," and outlines the types of evidence that can be presented to prove medical expenses. Specifically, it limits admissible evidence to the actual amounts paid for past medical treatment and sets specific criteria for future medical expenses based on the claimant's health care coverage. Additionally, it mandates that claimants disclose certain information regarding their medical expenses, including any letters of protection and the identity of health care coverage.
Furthermore, the bill establishes a cap on noneconomic damages in civil actions involving commercial motor vehicle carriers, limiting recoverable damages to one million dollars per plaintiff, regardless of the number of claims. It stipulates that juries or courts must first determine the amount of noneconomic damages without regard to this cap, and if the amount exceeds the limit, the court will reduce the award accordingly. Overall, the bill aims to create a more structured approach to handling medical expense claims and damages in civil litigation.