One of the most common times people seek chiropractic treatment is after an auto accident. As a result of an auto accident the musculoskeletal system can become misaligned due to the force of the impact. This can then cause spinal pain and other ailments. An impact from behind could cause a whiplash injury: when the neck is jolted rapidly backward and forward causing strain and microscopic tearing of the soft tissue.
Chiropractic treatment addresses the underlying injury by relieving nerve pressure and aligning the spine. Even if you don’t think you have been injured after a car accident, you may start to experience discomfort or headaches several months after the fact. We highly recommend seeing a chiropractor as soon as possible after a motor vehicle accident. Therapeutic assessment and treatment are most effective if started immediately after the accident.
How do I know if I need treatment?
After a car accident, any type of body ache or pain is an indication that an area has suffered damage. Common symptoms after an auto or bicycle accident include but are not limited to:
Difficulty with concentration or memory
Depression
Dizziness / Light-headedness
Pain or numbness in the arm and/or hand
Ringing in the ears
Blurred vision
Neck / Shoulder pain and stiffness
Headaches
Low back pain
Sensations such as burning or “pins and needles”
Irritability
Poor sleep
Fatigue
How do I ensure I make a full recovery?
Make sure that you discuss all your injuries with each provider (even if they are outside your provider's scope of practice) - this includes emotional symptoms you may experience. A full recovery is important so make sure you follow the advice of your providers, especially when it comes to your treatment plan and home exercises. Keep your appointments and make sure they are scheduled according to your treatment plan.
What about the logistical stuff?
Who pays for my treatments when I get in an auto accident?
The state of Oregon requires all insured motorists to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. This coverage ensures that if you're ever in an auto accident, the insurance company for the car you were in will be paying the medical bills and for any lost wages. You are also covered if you were involved in an auto accident as a pedestrian or a bicyclist. Motorcycle insurance policies are not required to carry PIP coverage. Not only does PIP cover the cost of your treatment, but if it is determined that there are medically necessary supports that would facilitate your path to recovering from the trauma (such as herbal medicine, a cervical pillow, foam roller, etc.) they can be provided at no cost to you.
You will need to file a medical claim with the insurance of the vehicle you were in and sign a release to that insurance company to receive your medical records. You need to make sure to do this with your insurance company promptly after an accident if you are feeling any pain or repercussions from the collision.
Is there anything I need to avoid signing?
You should avoid signing a release for your medical information from the other driver's insurance company. Sometimes the other insurance company will try to use your medical records to dissuade your own insurance company from paying for treatment you need from the collision.
What do I tell the adjuster from the other driver's insurance company?
When you are first speaking with the other driver's insurance they will ask you questions about the collision and what happened. They will also ask about your injuries and if you've had prior similar issues. It's okay to answer questions about how the collision occurred but you should speak with a lawyer prior to answering questions about your injuries.
If you have additional questions, please give our office a call at 503.228.5000 or visit our MVA FAQs on our website.