Suffering an injury as a result of a car accident can lead to very challenging times in a patient’s life. Common injuries sustained in auto collisions include concussion, whiplash, muscle strains, ligament sprains, disc herniations or tears and joint injuries to the spine. Even minor accidents can cause injuries that can take days and even weeks to show up. A delay in receiving treatment for those injuries can often lead to increased pain and a loss of function. Receiving care quickly in the days following an accident will help you recover more quickly and prevent long term problems and chronic pain.
WHAT DO I DO AFTER AN AUTO ACCIDENT?
The most important thing to do following a car accident is to see a doctor who can properly assess the severity of your injuries. Sometimes x-rays, CT scans or an MRI may be necessary. Once the doctor has diagnosed your condition and determined that you are safe for treatment, care can begin.
HOW DOES CHIROPRACTIC CARE HELP WITH MY INJURIES?
Chiropractors are trained to treat all injuries to the body by using non-invasive methods. This means no needles, no medication and no surgery. These treatments help to decrease pain and muscle spasm, reduce inflammation and prevent excess scar tissue development that can occur as a result of injury. Joint manipulation (or adjustments), stretching and exercise will help to restore normal motion and flexibility to your spine and allow you to quickly return to your prior activity level.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT WITH CARE?
Most patients notice tremendous improvement in their symptoms within the first few treatments. Other, more severe injuries can take longer to heal and may require additional treatment beyond chiropractic care. In those situations, you will be referred to a specialist to ensure you receive the best course of care to resolve your pain.
HOW DO I PAY FOR CARE WHEN I AM INJURED?
Health Insurance
Most insurance companies will cover the cost of an initial visit to your doctor for evaluation following an injury. However, long term care for treatment of those injuries will often not be covered. With all the changes to health care in recent times, if care is covered, you will be responsible for any co-pays or deductibles that your insurance company requires. The number of visits per year may be limited, preventing you from using those benefits later on in the year should you need them.
Auto Insurance
Auto insurance companies offer a separate coverage on your policy which is there for exactly these types of situations. It is called Med Pay. It can be used to pay for medical expenses resulting from a car accident. Don’t worry, using this coverage does not affect your coverage or your premiums. This information can be found on the Declaration Page of your car insurance policy. Ranges usually begin at $1000 and move up depending on coverage.
Third Party Lien
This is when the person who caused the accident has insurance that has agreed to cover your medical expenses. They are considered the “at fault or adverse party”. At Nicola Chiropractic we can help walk you through the process to ensure your care is paid for. Our office will provide documentation and bills to the insurance company regarding your care.
Attorney Lien
An attorney lien is an agreement made between your attorney and a health care facility to cover your medical expenses. Your attorney will negotiate a settlement on your behalf with the at fault party. This settlement will cover property damages, medical expenses and other expenses resulting from your injury.