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 amounts actually paid or the amounts that health care coverage would pay, depending on the claimant's insurance status. Additionally, it mandates that claimants disclose certain information, including letters of protection and itemized billings, as a condition for asserting claims for medical expenses.
Furthermore, the bill establishes a cap on noneconomic damages in civil actions involving commercial motor vehicle carriers, setting the limit at one million dollars per plaintiff. This cap applies regardless of the number of claims or theories of liability presented. The bill also stipulates that if a jury trial occurs, the jury must first determine the amount of noneconomic damages without considering the cap, which will then be enforced by the court if necessary. Overall, the legislation aims to clarify the process for claiming medical expenses and to limit potential damages in specific civil actions.