What is the statute of limitations on medical providers collecting their fees that were part of a personal injury/automobile accident lawsuit?

I was awarded an amount as part of a lawsuit filed due to an automobile accident in which I was injured. We have tried to reach a settlement with the medical providers in order for me to get any of the reward money. My medical expenses are pretty high and we lost our case against the driver of the 2nd driver that hit me so we kindof shot ourselves in the foot by settling for the amount we did with the 1st driver. I've heard there is a statute of limitations from the time the lawsuit is filed for them to collect/settle/file for payment? Is that correct? And if so, how long is that statute of limitations?