Q: If I Need Treatment For A Car Accident Injury, Do I Have To Pay For It Myself?
A: No, you do not need to pay it for yourself. Most car accident cases are covered 100% by the insurance company and you do not need pre-authorization from either the insurance company or your primary care doctor for treatments. Most car insurance policies in Maryland have what is called "Personal Injury Protection (PIP)." This means that medical bills will be paid at 100% up to a certain limit. My office can assist you in obtaining this information. Using your medical coverage should not raise your premiums.
Q: Should I See An Attorney Before I See My Chiropractor?
A: It is important to get checked out by the doctor first. That way, the findings from your exam will allow you the information you need in order to decide if an attorney is necessary. If necessary, we can refer you to a reputable and qualified attorney. After a car accident, it is a good idea to hire an attorney to work on your behalf with the insurance company. Otherwise, your insurance company may try to limit your recovery, including the benefits you are entitled to for payment of medical expenses.
Q: What If My Car Sustained Only Minor Damage?
A: Documented studies done by Charles Carroll, M.D., Paul McAtee, M.D. and Lee Riley, M.D. revealed that: "The amount of damage to the automobile bears little relation to the force applied to the cervical spine (neck) of the occupants." In other words, the damage to the passengers is not necessarily directly related to the damage to the vehicle.
Q: The Insurance Company Has Been Calling Me And Wants To Settle, What Should I Do?
A: Do not sign or settle until you have had us evaluate your injury for you. Once you settle your case, you lose the right to have your insurance company pay for treatment if you need it. They offer settlement because they know you need the money and you are vulnerable after the accident. They also want to get rid of your claim quickly, which they know they can do once you accept their offer and cash the check.
Q: I've Been To The Hospital And My Medical Doctor, Do I Really Need to See a Chiropractor?
A: Usually hospitals check vital signs, make sure there are no life-threatening conditions, and release the patient with pain relief medication. If you have been in a car accident, you need a doctor who is trained in the biomechanics of the human body and who treats these injuries every day. In addition, x-rays can be taken to find out if there has been any structural damage. In our office, we evaluate car accident victims and make any appropriate referrals to other health care providers if needed.
Q: Does Your Care Hurt?
A: Absolutely not. The care is very gentle, quiet, and soothing. Most patients can hardly wait to get their care.
Q: Is The Care Safe?
A: Yes, it is extremely safe, particularly when compared to the side effects from medication.
Q: How Long Does Car Accident Injury Take To Recover?
A: Recovery time depends on the nature of the injury. If you have a muscle strain, neck pain might only be a short-term problem. Strained ligaments or damaged nerves can mean long-term pain, and rehabilitating the neck to a normal healthy state will take longer. Each person's body is different and follows its own timetable in healing from trauma. Fully healing from a neck injury can take several weeks or several months, even with chiropractic care.
